Watch out for cable impersonator scam
It is well known that scammers will often try to impersonate someone you trust.
Recently, the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas has been receiving reports of scammers impersonating cable company representatives. Con artists claim to offer a great deal on your service, but it’s really a way to trick unsuspecting customers into shelling out hundreds of dollars for nothing.
The scam follows a similar pattern. You may receive an unsolicited call offering you reduced rates on your cable bill. Speaking to the “customer service representative” may be quite convincing.
Many scammers use the same hold music as big-name cable companies and duplicate a company’s caller menu.
When speaking with the representative, they seem very professional. The caller explains that the company is offering a special promotion. If you pay for a few months up front, you can receive discounted monthly rates for the months that follow.
Then, things get fishy. Instead of using the payment information your cable company already has, they ask you to purchase pre-paid debit cards to make the up-front payment. Don’t do it. If you purchase the cards and send the information to the caller, your money will be lost for good.
The Better Business Bureau offers the following information on how to avoid the cable impersonator con:
Be cautious when answering unsolicited calls or emails. Legitimate companies that you already do business with may call you, but they won’t pressure you to pay in a new way.
If someone shows up at your doorstep, verify their identity.
Do not invite strangers into your home, even if they claim affiliation with a business or entity you know. If you weren’t expecting a visit, ask the person for their ID and then call your cable company to verify that they are an employee.
When in doubt, verify special deals with your cable company.
If you are unsure about a promotional offer you’ve been presented with, get the customer service number from your cable company’s official website or your latest bill.
Use the contact information on the bill to call the company directly to make sure the offer is real.
Never make payments with prepaid debit cards or wire transfers. Scammers prefer these payment methods because there is nothing you can do to get your money back.
Unlike debit or credit cards, successful wire transfers and prepaid cards can’t be contested later. Remember, legitimate companies almost always accept checks and credit cards as the primary means of payment.
If you have been the victim of a similar scam, report it at BBBHouston.org/ ScamTracker. Your first-hand experience can help other consumers recognize scammers’ tactics before it’s too late.
Also, check BBBHouston.org for information on current scams. The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is senior director of Investigative Services with the BBB of Greater Houston and South Texas. Send questions to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail lnapoliello@bbbhou.org. Include your mailing address and phone number.