Scamming Crammers

In general, consumers often feel comforted by larger companies because they think that they won't be taken advantage of.  Caution is often used when looking to do business with smaller, less prevalent companies.  The thought process being safety in numbers; the more people who use a product or service, the less likely it seems to pose a danger to the individual consumer.  However, in the world of telecom carrier, larger companies often have more hidden fees tucked away in the line items, sometimes at no fault of their own.

Phone bill cramming is one of the instances in which consumers of larger carriers are targeted and more vulnerable.  Companies such as Verizon and Comcast are used as vehicles by scam artists and 3rd party billers who tack on extra fees through a loop hole in the system.

Here's how it works...

A 3rd party company calls and gets a consumer to say "yes" to some type of question about their carrier.  This could be as innocuous as somebody asking if you want to have your number listed in an online telephone book.  The only thing these scammers need is to have a recorded "yes" from the billed party.  This then allows crammers to tack on charges such as "Business optimization" onto your bill for $20, $30, sometimes even $50 per month.  These amounts can add up quickly, and consumers are often none the wiser as the charges get lost in the jumble of the bill.

How you can spot it...

Look through your bill for a 3rd party business logo.  There should be no other businesses listed on your bill except for your company's and your carrier's.  A bogus phrase may also be attributed to this charge.  Some examples: "Business internet optimization" "online business listing".  Be skeptical and listen to your instinct if it doesn't look right.

How you can stop it...

There is usually a number listed under the logo by the bogus cramming charge.  Call that number and insist to stop that service.  Do not let them scare you into keeping on there.  The crammers will often say somebody at the company authorized it and it may disrupt your service.  Demand the service be stopped and also demand to be reimbursed for back charges.  Threaten to contact and lodge a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (see this site for more helpful hints http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/products/pro18.shtm).  Ask for as much information as possible from the crammer; their name, supervisors name, company, address, and tell them you are going to file it in the FTC report.  They will most likely back down and reimburse you fully.

If you ever have any doubts, go to www.mcenroevoice.com and contact us to help you audit your bill for these charges.