Date: Fri, 02 Mar 2001 10:50:52 -0600
From: Allison Mays (Millsaps College) <maysap_at_millsaps.edu>
Subject: Business Directory scam
[Ed. note: This comes up now and again and was recently discussed on
several other lists. Acquisitions folks are usually aware of these
scams but it doesn't hurt to remind people to be wary of cold calls
that seemingly obligate the buyer - warn your staff!]
I'm looking for someone who has dealt with Newline Publishing about the
American Business Communications Directory. To make a long story short, a
salesman made it sound like we were simply updating our listing in the
directory but apparently we were committed to purchasing this directory.
When it was questioned, they played back a recording of the original call!
We tried to cancel our order and returned the directory, but we were
informed that we're obligated to buy it. The listing cost $154 and the
directory will be $279.
Needless to say, we now have a strict policy that no one authorizes anything
over the phone; we have to see everything in print. If anyone has words of
advice about dealing with this company, I'd appreciate it. And be careful
yourownself!
Allison P. Mays
Acquisitions Librarian
Millsaps College
1701 N. State Street
Jackson, MS 39210
601-974-1083
maysap_at_millsaps.edu
Received on Sun Mar 11 2001 - 16:39:09 EST