The BBB cautions consumers however, to deal with reliable companies. Oftentimes, the packaging will tell you nothing about the number of minutes you are buying, but sometimes will state a number of 'units,' which are typically the same as minutes. These cards have been sold in vending machines and convenience stores.
Consumers can protect themselves from purchasing phony cards through a number of steps.
Before purchasing any pre-paid phone cards, make certain you know the name of the issuer of the card. The name of the company who issued the card should be on the vending machine or on the packaging and card itself. Find out if there is an activation fee. Make sure that you are purchasing the card from a reputable dealer. You do not want to purchase a card only to find out it was a fake.