virus: urban myths?

Paul Prestopnik (pjp66259@pegasus.cc.ucf.edu)
Mon, 20 Apr 1998 13:49:03 -0400


Here is something I have gotten twice in the last week. Unlike most urban myths it
seems reasonible. In any case even if it is an urban myth it might belong as a
topic here.
so read and judge for yourself.
-Paul Prestopnik
-------

Hey Guys.. Check this out.. never knew this.
I received a telephone call from an individual identifying himself
>>>as an AT&T Service Technician that was running a test on our telephone
>>>lines. He stated that to complete the test we should touch nine (9),
>>>zero (0), pound sign (#) and hang up. Luckily, we were suspicious and
>>>refused. Upon contacting the telephone company we were informed that
>>>by pushing 90# you end up giving the individual that called you
>>>access to your telephone line and allows them to place a long
>>>distance telephone call, with the charge appearing on your telephone
>>>call. We were further informed that this scam has been originating
>>>from many of the local jails/prisons. I have verified with UCB
>>>Telecomm. that this actually happens.
>>>
>>>Please beware. This sounds like an Urban Legend - IT IS NOT!!!
>>>
>>>I called GTE Security this morning and verified that this is
>>>definitely possible and DO NOT press 90# for ANYONE. It will give
>>>them access to your phone line to make long distances calls
>>>ANYWHERE!!!! The GTE Security department told me to go ahead and
>>>share this information with EVERYONE I KNOW!!!
>>>
>>>Could you PLEASE pass this on. If you have mailing lists and/or
>>>newsletters from organizations you are connected with, I encourage
>>>you to include this information.