New rules are in effect nationwide to combat telemarketing fraud.
The rules empower individuals to prevent telemarketing calls and telemarketing fraud. Report violations to the Virginia Attorney General's Office. It is illegal for a telemarketer to call you if you have asked not to be called. 9 p.m. Telemarketers must tell you it's a sales call, the name of the seller, and what they are selling before they make their pitch. If it's a prize promotion, they must tell you that no purchase or payment is necessary to enter or win.