When I asked consumers what they wanted to hear about on this blog a few months back, telemarketing was still a hot topic. In this blog post, I’m going to share my top three telemarketing tips.
- Know the law. Be aware that, by law, BC telemarketers (or telemarketers calling BC consumers) cannot call you from a blocked number. There are also rules in place about when a telemarketer can – and cannot – call you. For example, did you know that telemarketers are not allowed to call you on statutory holidays, or on weekends before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.?
- Reduce the calls by registering with National Do Not Call List. You can register your residential, wireless, fax or VoIP telephone number on the National Do Not Call List. Registering is easy, but it’s important to note there are some exemptions (for example, registered charities or political parties can still call).
- Take all the time you need. Before agreeing to anything, do your research about the company and the product/service being offered. Ask to see a copy of the contract before making the purchase, so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to. Still not sure? Take a time out: don’t be afraid to tell the telemarketer that you need more time to consider your options.
More consumer information about telemarketing is available on our consumer help page.
ADDITIONAL READING:
Watch out for charity scams
Hang up on unwanted scam calls
Cell phone scams: What do you need to look for?
The Do Not Call List
I am on the no call list but continue to get calls from ‘Microsoft your computer is going to crash or you have a virus’ and you have ‘won a trip’ marketing calls. Have tried everything to get all to stop. The Microsoft ones are live people – and the won a trip ones are mechanized. How do I stop them?
Hi Betty-Anne Juba, the Do Not Call list does work for legitimate telemarketers. As the companies you mention are likely not following any laws to begin with, it would make it very difficult to stop them. You may want to consider calling Canada’s Anti-Fraud Centre for these types of calls. 1-888-495-8501
I tell the microsoft ones directly that they are scammers and hang up. Or if I have time I ask them questions to waste their time , such as what computer do I have , or what if I no longer use microsoft on my computer, or how do I fix my keyboard,, the kids changed all my keys:),etc, then hang up.
I tell them that I know this is a scam and that the call is being monitored by the RCMP. I tell them that if they ever call again they will be investigated for fraud. They usually hang up before I finish my first sentence.
I really find this post very useful. Thanks for sharing.
Hi John! Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for your comment.