The Illinois Sheriff’s Association is alerting Kane County residents that scammers are using the ISA’s name in a telephone campaign to solicit funds.

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.

Telemarketing fraud costs billions of dollars each year.  Phone solicitors who want you to “act immediately” or are offering a “too good to be true” opportunity are most likely fraudulent.  Remember that if you have any doubts, or are highly pressured – Just Hang Up.

You have the right to ask for the following information:

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

The ISA advises residents to hang up the phone if you cannot get the answers to these questions.

“Although, there are some legitimate organizations that use telemarketers for their fundraising efforts, the sheriffs of Illinois, through the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association, are adamantly opposed to police groups and associations using telemarketers in their fundraising efforts.,” the ISA said in a news release. “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 the 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.

Telemarketing Safety 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 you don’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.

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

SOURCE: Illinois Sheriff’s Association