The Huntsville Item, Huntsville, TX

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March 9, 2010

HPD issues warning on phone scam

By Matthew Jackson Staff Reporter

HUNTSVILLE — The Huntsville Police Department is warning business owners to be aware of telephone solicitation scams after a scammer contacted a local business owner Monday.

According to HPD Community Services Officer Joe Thornton, a local business was contacted early Monday by a representative of Premier Impressions, a company claiming to sell advertising via magnets.

Thornton said the representative used the police department’s name in his sales pitch, and took a checking account number from the business owner.

Later, the business owner researched the company online and noticed several red flags, leading them to cancel the check and call police.

Thornton said online research has revealed numerous complaints against the company, include from former employees. He said the use of the police department’s name as part of the pitch was a particularly large red flag in the incident.

“They’re using a name that most people would consider trustworthy to advocate buying their advertisements,” Thornton said. “They may actually put out a product, but you’re paying way over what it’s worth.”

Thornton said businesses and individuals can safeguard themselves against phone scams by either researching the company before making an agreement, or simply hanging up on solicitors.

“Just hang up on them,” he said. “If they’re trying to get something from you over the phone, just hang up.”

Thornton urged anyone who has experienced a similar incident to contact the HPD at (936) 291-5480.

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