Illinois Sheriffs’ Association Warns of Phone Scam

Submission by the Kane County Sheriff's Office

The Illinois Sheriffs’ Association is warning all Illinois residents of a phone scan currently underway. As part of the scam, callers are using the name of the Illinois Sheriffs' Association in their solicitation, according to a Kane County Sheriff's Office press release.

The Illinois Sheriffs' Association never solicits by phone but does conduct a direct mail campaign throughout the state of Illinois endorsed by the individual sheriff’s offices across Illinois, according to the news release

Telemarketing fraud costs billions of dollars each year. Phone solicitors typically want their victims to "act immediately" or are offering a "too good to be true" opportunity. If you have any doubts, or are highly pressured, just hang up.

The Illinois Sheriff’s Association also provides these tips.

You have the right to ask for the following information:

1. The name, address and phone number of the organization for which they are soliciting.
2. The name, address and phone number of the telemarketing firm.
3. The percentage of every dollar paid to the telemarketing firm.
4. Insist on something in writing prior to making a pledge or commitment.

If you cannot get the answers to these questions do not hesitate to hang up the phone.

Although, there are some legitimate organizations that use telemarketers for their fund-raising efforts, the Sheriffs of Illinois, through the Illinois Sheriffs' Association, are adamantly opposed to police groups and associations using telemarketers in their fundraising efforts. Again, the Illinois Sheriffs' Association never solicits by phone.

Should you receive a call from someone saying they represent your local sheriff or the Illinois Sheriffs' Association and are asking for donations contact your local Sheriff’s Office immediately or gather as much information as you can from the caller and report it to the Illinois Sheriffs'Association at ISA@ilsheriff.org

REMEMBER THESE TELEMARKETING TIPS:

• Offers too good to be true usually are. Ask to receive the “unbelievable deal” or the “amazing prize offer” in writing so you can read it carefully before making a commitment.
• Never give out your personal information over the phone or Internet unless you have initiated the contact.
• Legitimate business callers will never ask you for this information over the phone.

• If a caller asks you to pay for an offer in advance or asks for your credit card number or Social Security number, tell the person youdon’t give out personal information over the telephone.
• Remember that legitimate telemarketers won’t be turned off if you use these techniques. They will appreciate dealing with an educated consumer. It’s not rude – it’s shrewd

Any questions regarding this scam please contact the Illinoi Sheriff’s Association (217) 753-2372