NMJournal.com
Consumer Alert

EMAIL/PHONE FRAUD

Patricia Madrid   by NM Attorney General Patricia Madrid

"Watch out for that phone!" That may sound a bit sensational, but there are scams involving your telephone that could cost you money. Consider the following scene which is appearing in a number of states:

You have received the following e-mail: "This is to confirm your order. The cost of your order will appear on your VISA card. If you have any questions regarding this e-mail or your order, please call (809) xxx-xxxx."

But you haven't placed an order. So quite naturally, you pick up the phone to find out what is going on. Here's the scam. The call is actually long distance to an island in the Carribean! The rate you will be charged is outrageous and it is the scamers who are pocketing the profits on these calls. Be aware of this scam.

What should you do? First, don't make the call. These scamers do not have your credit card number (though they may try to get that from you if you make the call). The purpose of this scam is to make money from the phone call. If you do call, contact US West and alert them to the scam. Then, write to US West and inform them that you are disputing the charge and that it should be removed from the bill. If the call appears on your bill, highlight the disputed call and make a notation on your bill that you dispute the call and it should be removed.

If you have a question or consumer complaint you may contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Attorney General's Office in any of the following ways:

  • call toll-free at 800-678-1508;
  • on-line at www.ago.state.nm.us;
  • or write to: P.O. Box 1508 Santa Fe, NM 87504-1508.

Patricia Madrid is the Attorney General of New Mexico.

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