Telemarketing Fraud

Today's consumer has more options and flexibility then ever before when it comes to purchasing goods. Shopping by telephone or ordering items on the Internet has made obtaining products easier then ever before. Unfortunately, persons eager to commit crimes against those consumers utilizing it for convenience also use the telephone.

It's estimated that millions of dollars each year are bilked by these illegal scams with a growing focus of them being geared towards the elderly. While there are a number of legitimate companies doing business through telemarketing there is a growing number of illegal operations popping up every day.

Telemarketing fraud involves the illegal use of telecommunication systems for the purposes of conducting unsolicited sales offers over the telephone. These tactics usually employ the use of high-pressure sales approaches and offer deals that can sound too good to be true.

All consumers,and seniors in particular, need to understand that many of these operations are being run by individuals that are very good at what they do and are not just low-life sales people. These operators are criminals and won't stop until they've swindled you out of your life savings! They're so good at their business antics that in the past they've even convinced persons to mortgage their homes in order to claim sweepstakes prizes. Unfortunately, all too often these offers and get rich schemes don't exist.

Seniors can protect themselves by knowing how to identify fraudulent sales pitches. There are a number of different types of telemarketing frauds. Some of the more common scams include the following approaches:

  • Phony Prizes or rewards will often require you to either send in money for the costs of collecting a prize or to make a purchase with a prize. Often the prize turns out to be of little or no value. Legitimate sweepstakes or prize offers don't ask for payment because it's illegal!

  • Bargain Sales are usually offerings that list several items for sale, one of which, is priced way below its normal value. The bargain prize usually ends up being some fake or a toy replicate of the prize.

  • "No Risk Investment" Unfortunately, all investments are risky and legitimate companies must tell you of the potential risks involved. "Congratulations" you have just won. Remember that old saying that nothing is free in life? Nothing!

  • 900--Number Toll Calls-- Collecting prizes through the use of a toll call to a 900-telephone number often result in expensive phone bills. Report any requirement of dialing a 900 number to your local police/sheriff.

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    Fraud Man

    What You Can Do

    One of the first things you can do if you receive an unsolicited phone call is to remember that you did not ask to be called. Do not get suckered into feeling like you have to act upon any request. Remember that these individuals will attempt to establish rapport with you by connecting in some special way.

  • It is perfectly all right to say, "No thank you!" and hang up. Ask them not to call you again.

  • Ask for written sales literature or a contract before making decisions. Most fraudulent operations will often refuse such requests or conveniently state that they don't have such important information. This should be another "warning" sign to you and will allow you time to thoroughly evaluate any such solicitations.

  • Offers that are about to expire or are for a time limited period only should raise suspicions on your part. These tactics are aimed at pressuring you into making hurried decisions. Don't fall for them!

  • NEVER send in money as a prerequisite to pick up your prize. Remember, if its free - its FREE!

  • NEVER give your credit card number, social security number or bank account information to an individual that you don't know. Report all suspicious requests to your local law enforcement agency.

  • Take your time in making informed decisions. If you have any doubts or reservations you may need to do more homework on the company. The Better Business Bureau may be a valuable resource to assist you. ALWAYS follow your gut instincts!

  • Ask them not to call you again. Legitimate companies will be more then glad to take you off of their call list if you so request. Cons on the other hand will keep calling you trying to wear you down and to pressure you into giving.

    Bill Oberbeck, Sheriff
    Address: 301 B Street
    Washington, KS 66968
    Phone: 785-325-2293
    Fax: 785-325-2924