QUESTION: Is that automated robocall sales pitch legit?
ANSWER: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently reported consumers were receiving automated robocalls allegedly from the government’s Health Insurance Marketplace. The callers, however, were part of a phishing scam to steal personal information. If you receive any pre-recorded sales messages from anyone you have not previously authorized to contact you, the call is illegal. Here’s what you should do:
- Hang up. Do not press any buttons as instructed or attempt to speak to an operator to remove you from the calling list. If you respond, you could end up receiving more calls. And remember to never give personal information over the phone, even if the person claims to work for the government.
- Make a note of the caller’s number.
- Notify the FTC as soon as possible.
Source: FTC.gov