Telemarketing is a common way companies promote their products and services. While some calls may be legitimate, it’s important to be aware that scammers also use telemarketing as a tool to trick people. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and learn to outsmart these scams .
What are telemarketing scams?
Telemarketing is all about contacting by phone to promote or sell goods and services. It could be part of a plan, program, or campaign designed to connect with you. Some of these calls are regulated for your protection. Knowing your rights and what to watch out for can help you stay one step ahead of unwanted or dishonest telemarketing offers.
Scammers often mislead consumers with scams that seem like genuine promotions. These scammers may claim you’ve won a prize, qualify for a special offer, or are entitled to a reward to mislead you. They often use official-sounding language and include company logos to appear trustworthy. Once they have confidence, they may ask for a “handling fee” or personal details like payment information. Sharing such details can lead to identity theft and financial loss.
How to recognize and outsmart telemarketing scams
Telemarketing scams are unfortunately common, but there are steps you can take to stay safe:
- #BeFraudSmart: Watch out for signs that the call can be a scam, such as poor grammar, unrealistic offers, or callers pressuring you to make quick decisions. Always avoid giving personal information or payment details over the phone, especially if you didn’t start the call. Legitimate companies won’t ask for this kind of information unless you contact them first.
- Don’t fall for pressure tactics: Scammers may try to rush you or claim you’ve won something in a contest you never entered. Legitimate offers take time and allow you to think carefully before deciding.
- Know the laws: It is illegal for any seller or telemarketer to accept payments from US consumers using money transfers for goods or services sold through telemarketing. Sellers who ask for payment through money transfers are breaking the law. Real companies won’t ask you to pay taxes or fees upfront to claim a prize.
- Prevent fraudulent transfers: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a strong focus on identifying, preventing, and stopping cash-to-cash money transfers and cash reload money transfers started or received in the US from being used as a form of payment by sellers or telemarketers. Always be cautious and question the payment methods requested by telemarketers. For more information go to the FTC website.
Take Control: How to make an action plan for handling a possible scam?
If you think you’ve been targeted by a telemarketing scam, take action right away. Report it to your local law enforcement, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC works to protect consumers by stopping fraudsters who misuse cash-to-cash money transfers.
If you’ve sent money through Western Union and suspect a scam, call our fraud hotline at 1-800-448-1492 for immediate support.
Taking quick action can help protect you and others from future scams.
Stay alert, trust your instincts, and report anything suspicious to outsmart and recognize these telemarketing scams. Remember, it’s illegal for telemarketers to accept money transfers as payment for products or services. Stay one step ahead by being informed. For more information about how to #BeFraudSmart, learn more at our website.
