Telemarketing Sales Rule
claim that, for a fee, they can change or erase accurate negative information from your credit report. Only time can erase such information. Recovery room operators contact people who have lost money to a previous telemarketing scam and promise that, for a fee or donation to a specified charity, they will recover your lost money, or the product or prize never received from a telemarketer. Advance-fee loans are offered by companies who claim they can guarantee you a loan for a fee paid in advance. The fee may range from $100 to several hundred dollars.)
If you have the slightest doubt about a telephone offer, wait until you can get information in writing and check it out!
Although most types of telemarketing calls are covered by the Rule, there are several exceptions. The Rule does not cover the following situations:
Calls placed by consumers in response to general media advertising (except calls responding to ads for investment opportunities, credit repair services, recovery room services, or advance-fee loans).
Calls placed by consumers in response to direct mail advertising that discloses all the material information required by the Rule (except calls responding to ads for investment opportunities, prize promotions, credit repair services, recovery room services, or advance-fee loans).
Catalog sales.
Calls that are initiated by the consumer that are not made in response to any solicitation.
Sales that are not completed, and payment or authorization for payment is not required, until there is a face-to-face sales presentation.
Calls from one business to another unless nondurable office or cleaning supplies are being offered.
Sales of pay-per-call services and sales of franchises. These are covered by other FTC rules.
In addition to knowing about the Telemarketing Sales Rule, its a good idea to keep the following tips in mind whenever you hear a phone solicitation:
Resist high pressure sales tactics. Legitimate businesses respect the fact that you're not interested.
Take your time. Ask for written information about the product, service, investment opportunity, or charity thats the subject of the call.
Before you respond to a phone solicitation, talk to a friend, family member, or financial advisor. Your financial investments may have consequences for people you care about.
Check out testimonials to make sure they're genuine -- not statements that have been bought or paid for.
Don't send money -- cash, check, or money order -- by courier, overnight delivery, or wire to anyone who insists on immediate
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