Calls about "extended auto warranties" blow up our phones over and over. But where did these calls begin? What are they actually offering?
During the call – which often begins automated or pre-recorded – you may be instructed to press a certain number or stay on the line, then asked to provide personal information, which potentially can be used to defraud you.
One sure step you can take to protect yourself is not providing or confirming any information.
Do not provide any personal information, such as:
· social security number,
· credit card information,
· driver’s license number or
· bank account information
This information should not be given to any caller unless you can verify you are dealing directly with a legitimate company with which you have an established business relationship.
Telephone scammers are good at what they do and may imply that they work for a company you trust. Don't fall for it. Be extremely cautious!
If you have a caller ID you can screen incoming calls. Legitimate telemarketers are required to transmit or display their phone number and the name and/or the phone number of the company they're representing. The display must include a phone number that you can call during regular business hours, to ask that the company no longer call you.
You should be cautious even if a number appears authentic. Criminals may engage in caller ID "spoofing" – deliberately falsifying the information transmitted to your Caller ID display to disguise their identity.
Avoid answering any calls you suspect may be spoofed.
Filing a complaint
While the FCC does not award individual damages to consumers, your complaint may help to identify scammers and take appropriate action. In some cases, the FCC can issue warning citations and impose fines against companies who are violating the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.
If you think you have received too many auto warranty robocalls, you can file a complaint or contact our firm at 718-674-1245 or leave a message here for legal consultation.
Comments