Residents warned of warranty scam

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles County residents are being warned to be on alert for a new wave of telemarketing "robocalls" offering deceptive extended warranties to car owners.Thousands of residents have reported receiving pre-recorded phone calls telling them that their original car warranties are expiring and that they must "extend coverage before it's too late," said Los Angeles District Attorney Steve Cooley. Many car owners have signed up for unnecessary or fraudulent insurance coverage as a result of the calls, Cooley said. "If you get one of these unsolicited 'robocalls,' don't argue or choose from an options menu - just hang up right away," Cooley said. Residents were warned never to purchase an extended car warranty over the phone unless they initiated the call. Residents who have received these calls can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission by calling (877) FTC-HELP or online at www.ftc.gov. The FTC, which enforces telemarketing regulations and manages the Do Not Call registry, has filed lawsuits seeking to shut down the companies, Cooley said.

********** Published: June 5, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 7