What Is a One-Ring Call?
A "one-ring call" (wan-giri) rings your phone once and hangs up immediately. The goal is to make you curious enough to call back the unknown number in your call history.
Why They Do It
Three main patterns: (1) Premium rate fraud - calling back charges hundreds of yen per minute. (2) Sales screening - identifying people who answer phones. (3) Number validation - confirming your number is active for future scam targeting.
How to Handle It
Don't call back. If someone genuinely needs you, they'll call again or leave a voicemail. If curious, search the number online. Be especially wary of numbers starting with + (international), 0990 (premium rate), or unfamiliar area codes.
If You Already Called Back
Hang up immediately if you hear an automated message. Never share personal information. If you receive a large bill, contact the Consumer Hotline (188).
Prevention
Use iPhone's "Silence Unknown Callers," carrier anti-spam services, or apps like Whoscall.