How to Protect Yourself: "900" Prefix Telephone Numbers
(Pay-Per-Call Telephone Numbers)

How to Protect Yourself: "900" Prefix Telephone Numbers (Pay-Per-Call Telephone Numbers)
Source: The Florida Attorney General's Office

“900” numbers are called “pay-per-call” services because you are charged for the call itself, and information or service provided. Charges are determined by the respective company—not the government or telephone companies—and are often costlier than regular long-distance rates.

When you dial a 900 prefix number you should hear the following:

• the 900 number company's name
• the cost of the call
• a description of the information, goods or services to be provided
• a notice that you can hang up and not be charged for the call within 3 seconds of hearing a certain tone or signal
• a warning that kids under 18 need their parents' permission to stay on the line

You cannot be billed for listening to the aforementioned message.

Transfers from toll-free “800” numbers to “900” numbers are illegal. Never accept a servicers request to accept collect calls. Bills for “900” numbers should tell you who to contact if you suspect there is a problem, as well as provide a local or toll-free number to dispute charges. If you dispute a “900” number charge, put the dispute in writing. Local and long-distance phone service cannot be shut off if you refuse to pay disputed “900” number charges. Deduct the disputed charge(s) and pay the remaining balance of the bill by the due date.

You can ask your telephone provided to block outgoing “900” number calls.