Minister warns against potential Do Not Call Scams
May 30th, 2007
The Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, today warned consumers about potential unscrupulous door knocking scams where people were asked for money in return for being listed on the Do Not Call Register.
“Everyone needs to be aware that it is FREE to put your home and mobile number on the Register. The Government has paid for the establishment of the Register, with industry contributing to the running costs.
“With the official start of the Do Not Call Register only days away, it is very disappointing to hear that some unscrupulous scam merchant may be trying to illegally profit from the extremely popular Do Not Call Register,” Senator Coonan said.
“Since the launch of pre-registrations on 3 May, the Do Not Call Register has been extremely popular with over 927,000 numbers being registered already.
“However it is outrageous that people may be trying to cash-in illegally on the popularity of this great Government initiative.
“I am aware that the Australian Communications and Media Authority have received reports of scammers charging as much as $79 to sign people up to the service.
“I urge residents not to hand over money to these scammers but to get as many details as possible from them to help authorities identify the criminals,” Senator Coonan said.
“From midnight on Thursday, it will be illegal for telemarketers to cold call numbers that are listed on the Do Not Call Register.”
While a very limited amount of calls will be allowed, including those from charities and market research companies, evidence shows the Register will greatly reduce the number of unsolicited calls.
There are three ways to list numbers on the Do Not Call Register – via the web at www.donotcall.gov.au, by phoning 1300 792 958 or by picking up a form from Australia post.
Registrations are valid for three years, and people can withdraw their registration at any time.
If consumers receive telemarketing calls more than a month after registering on the Do Not Call Register, they can lodge a complaint online at www.donotcall.gov.au or through the Do Not Call complaints line, on 1300 792 958.
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