Automatic Debit Account Scams
What are Automatic Debit Accounts?
Debit account is the same as your checking account with an accredited financial institution. Today, many people use online banking and automatic bill pay. These enable the consumer of services such as cable, internet, electricity, etc., to automatically have the bill deducted from their account on a monthly basis. This automatic bill pay saves the consumer time and postage stamps. However, many telemarketers are taking advantage of this automatic bill pay in order to steal money from accounts.
How Do Credit Scams Work?
Telemarketing scams work in a variety of different ways. However, the most common occurs when a telemarketer calls a household claiming to be promoting a new credit card with substantial benefits. However, the telemarketer wants to verify your account by getting the account number on your checking account. This practice leads many individuals to give up their account numbers in the hope of winning a prize.
What Steps Can I Take to Correct a Scam?
When telemarketers have initiated a scam against your checking account there are a variety of steps you can take. These include:
- Contacting your bank immediately. This will enable the bank to immediately stop all pending withdrawals on your account to prevent further damage.
- Contact the local consumer protection agency. This will help to prevent future victims from falling into the same trap.
How Can I Protect Myself from a Scam?
Because telemarketers are very good speakers and are able to convince many competent individuals, there are a number of protective steps consumers can take. These include:
- Never giving out your account numbers over the phone to people that you are unfamiliar with.
- Ask to review a telemarketer's offer by mail. This will allow you to read all relevant material before giving away valuable credit information.
Should I Contact an Attorney?
An experienced attorney can help a victim of automatic debit accounts rectify their situation. A lawyer can help bring a cause of action against the telemarketer and recover any losses that have been incurred.
Consult a Lawyer - Present Your Case Now!
Last Modified: 11-15-2011 04:25 PM PST
