Firstcoast411 Search
Sponsored by:
ABC Video Player - Watch ABC Shows Online ABC News Video Player WJXX ABC 25 Programming Schedule Watch NBC Shows Online WTLV NBC 12 Programming Schedule

Man Flooded With Telemarketing Calls Takes Action

 Ken Amaro  Taren Reed     Created: 8/28/2009 5:51:36 PM    Updated: 8/28/2009 6:27:53 PM
Advertisement

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- William Newman has been an AT&T customer all of his life, but in recent months he's been flooded with telemarketing calls from company representatives.

"It is at least three times a week," says Newman. His phone number is on the 'National Do Not Call Registry,' but because he has a business relationship with AT&T, he is not exempted.

Even so, Newman said he has repeatedly rejected the callers offer for a DSL modem.

"I told them I don't want it, I don't use my computer," says Newman.

Nevertheless, a DSL modem was shipped to his business and billed to his phone account.

"I sent it back and then sent it back," says Newman. So frustrated he called his attorney, Barry newman, his son.

"I told them if he has a contract show me," says Barry Newman.

He says the company sent a document with an electronic signature.

Barry Newman said it was not legal and decided to ship the modem back.

"They picked it up at my law firm on Friday and shipped it to my Dad's business on Monday," says Newman.

Determined to put an end to the nightmare, Barry Newman sent the company a Cease and Desist letter and threatened legal action.

The AT&T telemarketing company, which is a subcontractor, agreed to put William Newman's name on the AT&T 'Do Not Call' list and 'Do No Visit' list.

His account will also be credited for the unwanted charges. The company via an e-mail said the employee who placed the order for the modem in error was let go immediately because AT&T has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy for orders placed in error.

An AT&T spokesperson confirmed that Mr. Newman's account has been credited and his name has been added to the 'DO Not Call' list.

Gretchen Schultz said, "Our customers come first. We do apologize for the confusion and inconvenience in the matter and we will continue to investigate until we can determine a cause."

Schultz also added these tips:

? Read your monthly phone bill thoroughly. If you do not understand the charges, call the telephone number listed at the top of the bill.

? Insist that any products and services not ordered be removed from your bill.

? Do not sign anything without first reading it carefully. If you don't understand what charges will be included, ask questions.

To file a cramming complaint, contact your state public utilities commission or the Federal Communications Commission at (888) 225-5322

©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.



In your voice

Read reactions to this story