Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D – W. Va.) sends A STRONGLY WORDED LETTER to wireless companies asking what they’re doing to combat unwanted third party charges. This isn’t the first time the senator has looked into the practice, known as “cramming.” He has previously sent a letter to wireline telephone companies on the same issue. The Hill reports:
Rockefeller said the scams are “remarkably similar” to the scams his committee uncovered in its investigation of wireline cramming.
He noted that consumers are receiving conflicting advice about how to avoid the unwanted charges. Some people say consumers should text “STOP” or “CANCEL” to opt out of the information texting services, but others say that texting anything will only confirm to the crammer that they have reached a working phone number.
We’ve reported on this issue before, and the bottom line is that you have to be vigilant. Triple-check your phone bills for any charges, and if you see anything fishy call your provider. They’re used to the scams are usually really good about removing the charges.
There’s a lot happening in the world. Through it all, Marketplace is here for you.
You rely on Marketplace to break down the world’s events and tell you how it affects you in a fact-based, approachable way. We rely on your financial support to keep making that possible.
Your donation today powers the independent journalism that you rely on. For just $5/month, you can help sustain Marketplace so we can keep reporting on the things that matter to you.
