Internet dumpers have transferred their diabolical practice to international numbers after they were banned from using premium rate numbers, according to the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman.

According to statistics released by the TIO, there were 731 complaints of Internet dumping on international numbers between October 1 and December 15. The amounts charged ranged from as low as AU$0.37 to as high as AU$3,500. The average amount disputed in the month of November was AU$194. In the September quarter there were only 85 complaints of international Internet dumping, but 1,173 complaints of Internet dumping using premium rate numbers.

Internet dumping involves the practice of disconnecting an unsuspecting Internet surfer from their connection and reconnecting on a different number which could be charged at up to AU$5 per minute.

According to the December issue of TIO Talks  , up until the end of August, most Internet dumping complaints to the TIO related to charges for data calls to premium rate numbers beginning with the prefix 190.

However, in February Telstra gave notice to companies offering Internet dialler services on its 190 premium number service that the contracts would be terminated in six months - which occurred on 28 August.

"Since that time the number of complaints about dumping to international numbers in the Comoros Islands, Diego Garcia, Guinea Bissau and elsewhere has increased significantly," said the TIO, John Pinnock, in his newsletter. "Because these are situated outside of Australia's jurisdiction these providers are not subject to Australian law or to the TISSC Code. Many of these websites do not provide a warning of higher charges and pose a considerable threat to consumers."

Ironically, members of the telecommunications industry had previously warned that placing restrictions on premium rate numbers would be likely to drive the industry to International numbers, which are outside of Australian jurisdiction.

Although the TIO has warned of the dangers of Internet dumping for years, and recommended call caps on numbers that can rack up high charges, the Ombudsman can only lobby. "We give our statistics to the regulators but other than that we have no regulatory powers," a spokesperson for the TIO told ZDNet Australia  .

The Australian Communications Authority has raised the issue of putting caps on premium rate numbers to combat Internet dumping, and the TIO believes any cap should be extended to international numbers as well.

Consumers can request their number be blocked from dialling premium rate and/or international numbers, and receive a PIN if they need to dial the number legitimately.

Copyright © 2009 CBS Interactive, a CBS Company. All Rights Reserved.
ZDNET is a registered service mark of CBS Interactive. ZDNET Logo is a service mark of CBS Interactive.