Credit Card Warning

27 August 2002

Consumer Protection Officers in the Western Isles are warning people about giving out credit card numbers to telephone salespeople offering cheap holidays in Florida.

Complaints have been received of people being phoned and told that as a result of completing a survey they're entitled to a heavily discounted holiday to Florida. They are told they get 70% off normal prices, and can take the holiday anytime within the next 18 months, but the caller needs their credit card number.

The callers sometimes have an American accent, are plausible and very persuasive.

A spokesperson for the Comhairle said:

”Our advice is not to give out any credit card details to a company you have not heard of before. It is possible to register with the Telephone Preference Service on 0845 0700707. This will stop most sales and marketing calls on the phone”.

ENDS

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Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 01851 706412 (Home)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk