The Better Business Bureau is warning cellphone users about a new scam that can result in unauthorized charges appearing on their monthly bills.

Consumers across the country report getting calls on their mobile phones during which the caller hangs up. This is being called the “one-ring scam” because the perpetrators program their computers to blast out thousands of calls to random cellphone numbers, ring once and then disconnect.

“The objective is to make you curious about a call you missed and return it right away. When you call back … you are connected to a paid international adult entertainment service or ‘chat’ line located outside the country,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO.

Victims subsequently are billed not only for the incoming international call if they answer, but also the unwanted “premium service,” which typically appears as a $19.95 charge. In some cases, the scammers might only put a small charge of several dollars, so as not to arouse suspicion.

The area codes that appear on the caller ID often originate from the Dominican Republic (809), Jamaica (876), British Virgin Islands (284) and Grenada (473).

The practice of third parties placing unauthorized charges on wireless accounts is called “cramming.” The Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commission have reviewed thousands of complaints about the practice and expect the problem to grow.

Better Business Bureau recommends if you don’t recognize an out-of-state telephone number on your caller ID, ignore it. If you do answer, do not call back. Check your wireless bills carefully and inform your carrier if you spot any unauthorized charges.