Beware of Fine Print That Sidesteps the “Do Not Call” Lists-Truth!
Summary of eRumor:
This says that someone received a card in the mail offering free soft drinks.
But the fine print on the card said that by responding to the offer, that person could be called by the sponsors or the co-sponsors of the offer even if the person had been protected by being included in a “do not call” list.
The Truth:
TruthOrFiction.com has received numerous copies of this particular eRumor, but has not yet actually seen one of the alleged cards offering the soft-drinks.
We have evidence, however, that this tactic is being increasingly used by businesses that want to try to disarm the “do not call lists.”
Consumers have been angered by the volume and the nature of unsolicited telephone calls.
Even unlisted numbers are not protected because of telemarketers who use automated dialing equipment.
Additionally, there are annoying auto-dialers that constantly “test” your number and hang-up to see what times of the day somebody answers the phone to a telemarketer can call back during those times.
Many states have established “do not call lists” which allow consumers to list the telephone numbers they do not want telemarketers to call.
Additionally, In the U.S., there has been a federal do not call registry established at http://www.donotcall.gov/
It is operated by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
That blocks most telemarketers from calling your numbers.
Some organizations, such as non-profit charities, political organizations, or pollsters are still allowed to call.
In addition, the Federal Trade Commission is warning about a scam that is based on the “do not call” registry.
Scammers are making telephone calls to offer consumers the opportunity to put their numbers into a “do not call” registry and ask for personal information.
Some of the calls seek to confirm your alleged registry on the “do not call” list.
Some try to get you to pay for your listing with a credit card.
None of the registries initiates telephone calls to consumers or charges anything for listing your numbers..The telemarketers are hopping mad about the do not call lists and are attempting to fight them in court.
Meantime, some of them are including fine print in their communications with consumers that is designed to allow them or their affiliates to call the consumers regardless of being on a government “do not call” list
For example, a long page of fine print at www.catalog.com includes the words, <b”>By completing the forms on this website, you agree the sponsors or co-sponsors of of this contest may telephone you, even if your number is found on a “do not call” registry or list. You may be required to confirm information you have provided on this form. Completing this form may result in a sales solicitation.”
We found similar wording at:
http://www.filterqueen.com/rules.html