how scams work

Telemarketing Scam Precautions

Scammers approach their victims in many ways, including by phone, where criminals pose as legitimate businesses, charities, or causes. Every year, consumers lose countless dollars to telemarketing fraud. How can you avoid falling victim?

1. Don’t do business until you’ve verified the company is legitimate.
2. Always provide as much information as you can to the person who’s calling.
3. Only send cash or a money order if the caller asks for a donation.

“A” is correct. When telemarketers call, be cautious. Ask questions and request a call-back number to verify who they are. Never provide information over the phone unless you initiated the call. Don’t send money in ANY form until you research who you’re dealing with. If you do, pay with a credit card, not cash -- it’s safer. To cut down on telemarketing calls, click here to request being placed on the “Do Not Call” registry.