Do Not Call Registry Scam - How it Works
Scammers are again making phone calls posing as representatives of the National Do Not Call Registry. The callers claim to provide an opportunity to register your phone number, but it's a trick.
How the Scam Works: Someone calls you claiming to represent the FTC's National Do Not Call Registry or Canada's National Do Not Call List. The "representative" says he is offering you the chance to register your phone number in order to limit telemarketing calls. Several versions of this exist. In one, scammers ask for personal information, such as your name, address and Social Security number. In another, scammers try to charge a fee to join the registry. Either way, just hang up the phone. The call is a scam. The registry is a free service, and sharing personal information with the caller will put you at risk for identity theft.
How to Protect Yourself from Do Not Call Registry Scams:
For frequently asked questions about the Do Not Call Registry, check the FTC website at http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0108-national-do-not-call-registry. To find out more about scams, check out the BBB Scam Stopper at http://www.bbb.org/scam-stopper.
[Source: BBB Scam Alert 20 Sep 2013]
Chuck Weber
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