"Do Not Call List" FTC Telemarketing Scam

Yahoo News / Associated Press - June 25, 2002

FTC Warns on Telemarketing Scheme

You're on this web site trying to learn how to protect your identity. One trick we suggest is to say, "put me on your do not call list" when telemarketers call during dinner. Federal law requires telemarketers to keep track of people who don't want to be called. Now, scammers and thieves are taking advantage of what you've learned.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is warning consumers that identity thieves, masquerading as federal employees, are calling people and asking them to confirm that they've requested to be put on a "do not call list." In order to make sure they have the "right person", they are asking the victims to provide social security, bank account, or credit card numbers.

Here's where common sense comes into play. The FTC does not have the time or the money to call every person in the United States asking if they want to be put on a "do not call list." Plus, the telemarketing companies would probably sue the government if they tried it.

The bottom line for avoiding scams: If it sounds fishy, it probably is fishy. Just hang up.

Get more information about the 18 DEC 2002 announcement regarding the FTC's creation of a national Do Not Call Registry.