WANGIRI

What Does WANGIRI Mean?

WANGIRI means "One (Ring) and Cut." It is a phone scam.

WANGIRI is a Japanese word which literally translates as "One (Ring) and Cut." A WANGIRI call is an automated call that cuts off after (usually) only one ring, leaving a missed call message from an international, or unusual number. When the unsuspecting victim returns the call, they are routed to an expensive, premium rate service that earns the scammer a fortune in commissions.

Why do we use the Japanese word WANGIRI? The WANGIRI scam originated in Japan and someone in the Western media, or a social media influencer, must have thought it sounded cool.

How can you protect yourself against WANGIRI calls? Until the phone companies develop the technology to protect consumers, you can avoid becoming a victim of a WANGIRI phone scam by following these two simple rules:

• Don't answer any unexpected calls from international or unusual numbers.
• If you have a missed call from an international or unusual number, don't be tempted to call them back.

Example of WANGIRI Used in a Text