Remember, you are never required to pay fees to receive a prize from a legitimate sweepstakes or contest. There are still many people trying to get away with these scams. The following article appeared in the Colorado Springs Gazette Telegraph:

Be Wary About Many Phone Offers

"Ring, ring..."

Another telemarketer is on the phone trying to sell you a product or service. Consumers in the Pikes Peak region, as well as all over the United States, are contacted by telemarketers. Many concerned consumers contact the Better Business Bureau to tell of their experiences with phone solicitors.

Recently, a consumer contacted the BBB to tell of a new spin on the telemarketing tactics of magazine subscription companies. The consumer received a call from a company she did not know, telling her that she had "won" four magazine subscriptions! But there was a catch. The consumer was asked to "help the company" in question by paying a handling fee of $2.88 a week.

Although that amount may not sound like very much for the "shipping and handling" of four magazines, it totals up to $150 a year/$38 a subscription!. It pays to see what rates the magazine(s) you are interested in charge for a subscription.

People should never feel pressured or threatened that "this is only a one-time offer." This can be a "red flag" if there is high pressure. A legitimate offer will be there tomorrow.

This rule applies not only to phone solicitations, but to any offer presented to you. It may take a little time and effort to research an offer in the beginning. However, the time spent can end up saving you money and possible problems.

by Jane Blume
The Better Business Bureau
Gazette Telegraph, D6, January 22, 1997.