NH Association of Chiefs of Police Telemarketing Fraud

It has been brought to the attention of President and Police Chief Paul Donovan of Salem that a telemarketing company is currently soliciting funds from consumers on behalf of the New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police. This is a fraudulent call. 

The New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police believes fundraising is an important vehicle to raise money for promoting law enforcement education and training. And we take it very seriously," said Donovan. "We do all our own fundraising so that 100 percent of the money raised goes towards the programs we support and our association. This is done through direct mail.

However, while many telemarketers sell legitimate products from lawful companies, disreputable telemarketers using false and deceptive sales practices cost consumers billions of dollars a year. 

How can you recognize a telemarketing scam? The caller's phone number is usually from out of area. They will use high-pressure sales tactics. Legitimate businesses will usually recognize the fact that you're not interested. 

Most consumers don't know about the Federal Trade Commission's Telemarketing Sales Rules," which give consumers important protections. Before the sales pitch even begins, the telemarketer must tell you that the call is a sales or a fundraising call. The telemarketer must tell you his or her name and the name of the company. 

You can get your name removed from many telemarketing lists through a free service offered by the Federal Trade Commission. Simply register at the Commission's web site, www.donotcall.gov, or call 888-382-1222 from the number you wish to add to the Do Not Call Registry. 

All telemarketers, even those not covered by the National Do Not Call Registry, must take you off their list if you specifically request that they do so. Tell the telemarketer to remove me from your telemarketing list and ask how long it will take to have your number removed. If you get another call from a telemarketer, they have broken the law. Contact the Police Department in your area, or you can send an email to the New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police by going to their web at www.nhchiefsofpolice.com.