Question from a reader:
I’m troubled by persistent fraudulent and phantom billing. Should I change my phone number or email address? It might be a hassle, but is it worth the change?

For Those Struggling with Fraudulent and Phantom Billing: The Value of Changing Your Phone Number or Email Address

Recently, while talking with a friend at a café, the topic
of fraudulent and phantom billing came up. He mentioned that he had experienced such issues and had been troubled by numerous calls and emails. At that moment, I wondered: Is it really worth changing my phone number or email address when faced with such a persistent and troublesome problem?

What is Fraudulent Billing?

First, let’s clarify the concepts of fraudulent and phantom billing. Fraudulent billing refers to being asked to pay money for which there is no actual obligation. Phantom billing refers to being charged for services or products that do not exist. These scams are often carried out using clever tactics, typically through phone calls or emails. Scammers are skilled at identifying their targets and disguising their requests as legitimate.

Why Does This Happen?

I want to consider this issue from a psychological perspective. Humans have an unconscious tendency to “believe” information coming from unknown sources. This tendency is particularly strong in non-face-to-face communications, such as phone calls and emails. Let’s think about how this affects our lives based on actual experiences.

Real Example: A Friend’s Experience

My friend A received a call one day from an unknown number. A usually avoids answering unknown calls, but for some reason, he picked up that day. The caller claimed that A had unpaid dues for a service he had previously contracted and threatened legal action if he didn’t pay immediately. A was shocked and panicked. In the end, he realized that the claim was fraudulent and regained his composure, but he mentioned that those few hours were extremely stressful.

Is Changing Your Phone Number or Email Address Really Effective?

Now, is the option of changing your phone number or email address truly effective? In reality, changing them can significantly reduce the chances of being harassed by persistent billing. This is especially true if your phone number is publicly available or if you receive a lot of spam emails; in such cases, it can be worth making the change.

However, changing comes with its own risks. For example, if you change a number or email address that you use for work, you might miss important communications. Additionally, it can complicate keeping in touch with friends and acquaintances. There is also the anxiety that your new number or address might become a target for fraudulent billing as well.

Specific Measures and Mindset

From my own experience, I can say that it is crucial to remain calm when dealing with these issues. If you encounter fraudulent billing, it’s important to verify the details without panicking and to record the caller’s information. Consulting with a consumer center can also be effective. In Japan, the Consumer Affairs Agency and local consumer centers provide consultation services, allowing you to receive appropriate advice.

Conclusion: What Approach is Best?

In conclusion, changing your phone number or email address can have certain value. However, you must also consider the associated hassle and risks. If you decide to make a change, it’s important to plan thoroughly in advance and inform relevant parties of your new contact information. Additionally, it’s essential to enhance your awareness of personal information management and security for the future. You should carefully consider which choice is most appropriate for your life.

Finally, if you are currently struggling with fraudulent billing, it is important to act calmly. Gather information to protect your rights and choose the correct approach. If necessary, consulting a legal expert is also a viable option. Taking a step to protect yourself will likely lead to peace of mind in the future.