Protect Yourself From Being "Slammed" and "Crammed"
"Slamming" is the illegal act of switching your telephone company without your permission. "Cramming" refers to the adding of unauthorized charges to your phone bill. The following steps will help you avoid slamming and cramming scams.
Instructions
Slamming
1. Read the fine print on coupons and contest-entry forms. By using them, you could be agreeing to switch your phone service or buy optional services without realizing it.
2. Be cautious about calling unfamiliar 800 numbers. Be especially wary if you are told to enter codes, leave your name or answer "yes" to prompts.
3. Consider requesting a "carrier freeze" through your local phone company. This prevents changes to your choice of long-distance carrier unless you contact the local phone company directly.
Cramming
4. Check your phone bill every month.
5. Look for unfamiliar charges.
6. Examine the recurring monthly charges as well. They may be so small that they are easy to overlook.
7. Watch for fees described as "Min. Use Fee," "Activation," "Membership Fee" or a similar phrase.
8. Follow the instructions on your statement if you find an error on your bill. You will be told to call or write to dispute the charge.
9. Keep a copy of all communications in your files.
