I noticed on my phone that I'd missed a call so I called the # back. The operator was very vague on his identity until I identified myself. He then proceeded to ask if I'd been at the Pride festivities this past weekend. He told me that I had filled out a ballot & I was selected based on my demographics. He asked me numerous personal questions about my age, address, what credit cards I use, marital status, etc... He then went on & on about an amazing vacation package to Fort Lauderdale & the Bahamas that sounded incredible except for the fact that I needed to provide my own transportation to Florida & pay a $349 registration fee for myself & a friend.
They would then throw in an additional 2 tickets for free. The operator, Charles Wilson (employee #310) was so enthusiastic, but I am a rather skeptical person so when he asked me to read out my "visa # from left to right starting with the 4" I began to ask him what my other options were if I didn't feel comfortable with giving out my # on the phone. He assured me that everything was secure & they would tape my call as proof that I would receive everything promised. I then told him that my card was at home & that I was not so I'd have to call him back when I get home.
I assured him that I wrote down his name & employee number so I could speak with him directly when I call back. He maintained his enthusiasm & told me to hurry because it's a limited time offer. I then went home & searched the internet & found stories of devastation that were EXACTLY like the vacation I was promised. I decided not to call back. At about the same time the next night, I received another call from "Matt". He tried the same tactics & I pretended like I knew nothing about the previous call. When Matt asked me if I could get time off work in the next 18 months, I told him "No, I work a lot... I like to work". Matt seemed puzzled but continued to sell me his pitch. He told me the trip is amazing & I told him "yes, I did some research last night & it does seem promising" I eventually told him the scams & rip-off sound particularily interesting & I'd have to decline his offer. I suggested he look at somebody elses demographics & try his tactics on them.
D
Barrie, Ontario
Canada
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