They usually are. For example, be wary if you're told you've won a prize but have to buy something, pay a fee or prepay taxes to receive it. Offers must be stated clearly and honestly, so that you know exactly what you have committed to and what you will be getting in return before you place your order. Scam artists can use this information to debit your checking account or charge unauthorized purchases to your credit card. The way to shut down telephone fraud is to shop wisely and report your loss or any suspicious call to the proper authorities as soon as possible.
Scam artists count on their victims being too embarrassed about being conned to report it.
Unfortunately, even if you do report it, the changes of getting your money back are slim. When law enforcement agents get close to apprehending fraudulent telemarketers, they change their names and scams and start over again somewhere else. State laws may also vary. Any violations of the Telemarketing Sales Rule should be submitted in writing to the FTC or your state attorney general. Keep detailed records so that you can provide accurate information when filing a complaint.