Premium rate diallers are often used by sites offering adult content or games. Normally, you will be asked if you want to download the dialler. However, in some cases the diallers have been included with pop-up windows and are installed automatically. Some diallers can be included and installed from email attachments.

• Always check that the number being dialled begins with 0845. The NewNet dial up access number is 0845 684 0044
• If the number begins with 09xx or 00 then disconnect immediately and check your dialler settings
  (Windows XP - Start -> Connect To -> Show All Connections)
• If you do not intend to call premium rate numbers, contact your telephone line provider and ask them to block premium rate calls. BT provide this as a free service - call 154 from a BT line to enable blocking of 09xx numbers. Blocking of international dial numbers is available as part of a monthly charge package - other providers, check with your line provider.
  (please note: this will block all calls to premium rate numbers - including interactive television voting lines etc.)
• Check your computer for rogue diallers and remove - run software such as Ad-Aware and SpyBot Search & Destroy to disinfect your system
• Make sure that your computer is up to date - visit the Microsoft Windows Update site to download the latest security updates and patches
• Run a firewall (included in Windows XP) to protect your system
• Never open email attachments unless you are sure of the contents and the sender
• Set up a Check Dialler (site in Spanish - application configurable to English) to block calls to numbers not on your specified dialler list

Using broadband

Broadband users make use of a different means of internet accecss that is not dependent on modem dialup (ADSL, leased line etc.) and should not be affected by rogue dialler applications. However, it may be a sensible precaution to disconnect your modem from the PSTN circuit whilst using a broadband connection to prevent any unrequired application from making additional dial up calls. If the modem is required for other purposes (sending/receiving fax etc.) then take steps to ensure that your internet connection is set to 'never dial a connection', that you check your machine for rogue diallers at frequent intervals and use a check dialler application to block calls to premium rate or international numbers.

If you have been affected by a premium rate dialler

If you think that you have been affected by a premium rate dialler you can report the number to ICSTIS (the Independent Committee for the Supervision of Standards of Telephone Information Services) who are the regulatory body controlling the premium-rate industry. The ICSTIS web site will allow you to check the user of the premium rate number shown on your bill and to report your concerns. You will need to provide the full details shown on your bill.

Please note that ICSTIS have no control over international rate diallers.

Links

ICSTIS - the Independent Committee for the Supervision of Telephone Information Services
Lavasoft - Ad-Aware anti-spyware application
SpyBot - Search and Destroy
Microsoft Windows Update