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Potential customers are attracted by an advertisement of an “800" number. When the number is dialed, the call is sometimes switched to a “900” service. Such switching is illegal.
Legally, customers can be charged for “800” pay-call services on their phone bills only if they have previously agreed to subscribe to the service.
However, some “800” services will issue a PIN to a caller, claiming that customer acceptance of the PIN is presubscription.
“Be sure you understand a agree to the service’s terrtis and charges before accepting a PIN,” Ms. Brooks said. “If you haven’t presubscribed to the service, they should bill you only by credit card.”
Customers should also be aware that telephone numbers with a “011 ” prefix are for international calls. Service providers using such a number often operate in countries whose long-distance carriers charge high rates and split the revenues with the service providers.
Sprint/Centel does not endorse any pay-call service that operates.illegally or deceptively. Telecommunications equipment cannot distinguish legitimate services from dishonest ones.
“We do our best to screen out the dishonest and illegal businesses," Ms. Brooks said. “Those services have a negative impact on legitimate phone services.
“Caution by customers in the bes safeguard to avoid misunderstandings that can lead to unexpected charges.”
She offered these tips:
• Make'sure all users of your telephone — especially children — understand the pay-call services and their charges. Children should get permission from a parent or other adult guardian before calling any of the numbers.
• You can obtain service that will not allow calls to be made to “900” or “800” numbers on your telephone.
• Scrutinize telephone bills for unexpected charges. Some pay-call service numbers may be disguised as direct-dialed, calling card or other types of calls. Billing statements have instructions for questioning charges.
• If you use a pay-call service with an “800” number, you are entitled to get the service’s name, address, rates and complaint resolution procedure.
• If offered a PIN —which can help protect you account: with the service — ask if accepting the PIN constitutes a presubscription agreement.
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