Why is AT&T calling me about my internet usage?

[RevCheesehead]

Over the last week, I've been getting recorded messages from AT&T telling me that my computer has been accessing another internet service provider, and that I WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS.

The irony is that I'm on the worldnet unlimited plan, and the AT&T unlimited LOCAL AND LONG-DISTANCE plans. From what I can tell, I really won't be billed...
...but why am I being called?

[LiberalFighter]

1. Could you have downloaded a program that automatically calls?

Without your knowledge?


Are you sure it is AT&T and not someone trying to scam you?

[Guy Fawkes]

2. might be a Dialer program. Get Spybot SD and Adaware right away!

[Berserker]

3. RevCheesehead

You may have been hijacked by a dialer. If you have a dialup modem I would call AT&T and see what they had to say. Also you can check this site out to see what else to do.

http://clarkhoward.com/topics/porn_charges.html

Here's how it works...

1) The consumer - usually a teenager - logs on to a computer and accesses a pornography site through his or her Internet Service Provider (ISP).

2) A teaser Web site then downloads "dialer" software onto the consumer's computer.

3) After "dialer" software is activated, the consumer's computer modem disconnects from the ISP and dials an international telephone number assigned to Madagascar, Vanatu or another distant foreign country.

4) The consumer then returns to the Internet through an ISP purportedly located in Madagascar or the foreign country initially called.

5) The consumer's Web site is directed to an adult-content Web site hosted on a computer in the United States.

6) You are billed at up to $7 to $8 dollars a minute and the charges appear on your AT&T bill. Keep in mind that you don't have to be an AT&T customer to be a victim.
Here are two programs that will help you ..

Ad-Aware http://majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=506
Spybot S&D http://www.safer-networking.org/en/download/index.html

[RevCheesehead]

4. THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!

I've been in here too long, and was wondering if it was a right-wing conspiracy to deter me from going on the DU.

I will follow the above advice.

You guys are the BEST!