Protect Yourself From Telemarketing Fraud

Sometimes it's hard to know when a sales call is legitimate.  With the growing problem of telemarketing fraud, consumers need to be very skeptical whenever they receive an unsolicited sales call.  Even companies whose names you recognize and may even trust have been sued for fraud.

Here are some quick tips to help keep you from becoming a victim of telemarketing fraud:

• Always ask the telemarketer for the company's full name and address and a clear explanation of their offer
• Ask the caller to send you written material to review before making a purchase
• Do not pay for any prize or send money to improve your chances of winning
• Never give a caller your credit card or bank account number

Remember the Telemarketing Registration Act prohibits:

• Conducting telemarketing business between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.
• Calling a person who has previously indicated a desire not to be called
• Failing to end a telemarketing call when the consumer indicates a desire to end the call

Consumers with questions or complaints may contact the Bureau of Consumer Protection's Toll-Free Hotline at 1-800-441-2555 or log onto the Attorney General's website at www.attorneygeneral.gov.