Tips on Telemarketing Fraud

Don't buy from an unfamiliar company.  Legitimate businesses understand that you want more info about them and are happy to comply.

Always read the terms of an offer to make sure you understand it.  Get help if you need it.

Never agree to pay any fees or costs to redeem a "free" offer,

Only wire money to family members or people you have known for a long time.

Never buy lottery tickets other than those issued in the USA.

Always take time to rethink and offer and get more information.  Don't be pressured into a quick decision.

Ask to have further information sent to you in the mail.

Never send money or give out personal information such as credit card numbers and expiration dates, bank numbers, or social security numbers to unknown persons or companies.

Ask for the callers's name, business identity, telephone number, street address, and business license number before you contract business.

RED FLAGS

"You must act now."

"You've won a free gift or vacation."

"You must send money, give a credit card or bank account number, or have a check picked up by courier."

"You don't need any written information."

"You can't afford to mis this high profit/no risk/once in a lifetime/unbelievable offer."

NATIONAL DO NOT CALL REGISTRY

1-888-382-1222

www.donotcall.gov

From "Telemarketing Fraud" by Patrick L. Meehan, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.