Law Articles

Return to Law Dictionary Index

Dealing with Telemarketers

One of the fastest growing businesses involves telemarketing, where consumers receive unsolicited offers over the telephone. These "pitches" often use high-pressure sales tactics and offers that can sound too good to be true.

What to watch for:

When you are solicited by phone, remember:

• Never give out your credit card, bank account or social security numbers;
  
  
• Ask detailed questions and get all information in writing. If a telemarketer is unwilling to provide you with specifics, be suspicious;
  
  
• Do research on the company. Check with your local Better Business Bureau for complaints filed against a telemarketer. In New York, legitimate charities are required to register with the Attorney General's Charities Bureau;
  
  
• Take your time in making decisions;
  
  
• Remember, they called you. Don't be afraid to say no, or simply hang up.

New federal rules impose strict requirements on telemarketer. Under the new rules, telemarketer must:

• limit their calling hours to between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.;
  
  
• tell consumers that they are trying to sell them something;
  
  
• disclose the nature of the products or services for sale, their costs, and any delivery restrictions before asking consumers for money;
  
  
• tell consumers involved with prize promotions that no purchases are necessary to win.

Shopping by phone is a modern convenience that many seniors wouldn't want to be without. A new law in New York, enacted at the Attorney General's request, gives consumers three days to cancel most telephone sales orders, but certain rules apply.

Always ask about a company's cancellation and return policies. Use a credit card instead of cash. And never buy anything if you're feeling pressured. Remember, by hanging up, you get the last word.

Source: Office of New York State Attorney General

Return to Consumer Law

Return to Law Dictionary Index