America's TRUE Choice for Current Auctions Information - Direct Access To Over 3,200+ LIVE and ONLINE Auctions Nationwide & Canada

• How can I protect myself against telemarketing fraud?
  
  Tips for Determining Telemarketing Fraud:
   
  1. High-pressure sales tactics.
  2. Insistence on an immediate decision.
  3. The offer sounds too good to be true.
  4. A request for your credit card number for any purpose other than to make a purchase.
  5. An offer to send someone to your home or office to pick up the money, or some other method such as overnight mail to get your funds more quickly.
  6. A statement that something is "free," followed by a requirement that you pay for something.
  7. An investment that is "without risk."
  8. Unwillingness to provide written information or references (such as a bank or names of satisfied customers in your area) that you can contact.
  9. A suggestion that you should make a purchase or investment on the basis of "trust."

  
  Ways to Avoid Becoming a Victim:
   

  1. Don't allow yourself to be pushed into a hurried decision.
  2. Always request written information, by mail, about the product, service, investment or charity and about the organization that's offering it.
  3. Don't make any investment or purchase you don't fully understand.
  4. Ask with what state or federal agencies the firm is registered.
  5. Check out the company or organization.
  6. If an investment or major purchase is involved, request that information also be sent to your accountant, financial adviser, banker, or attorney for evaluation and an opinion.
  7. Ask what recourse you would have if you make a purchase and aren't satisfied.
  8. Beware of testimonials that you may have no way of verifying.
  9. Don't provide personal financial information over the phone unless you are absolutely certain the caller has a bona fide need to know.
  10. If necessary, hang up the phone.