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FraudNews
06-19-2010, 07:20 AM
Not all “800” number telephone services are free. Some “800” numbers access information or entertainment that costs money. These companies must ask for a credit card payment, or make billing arrangements with you before providing the service.

It is illegal for “800” number calls to be transferred to “900” or “976” pay-per-call numbers, or international numbers with prefixes like “011” or “809.”

Before arranging to be billed for an “800” number service, request the company’s name and address, its rates and a personal identification number (PIN) to obtain their services.
Children are encouraged to ask for permission before calling advertised services on television and/or print.

For unauthorized charges, follow instructions included on billing statement for file a dispute.

“900” numbers are called “pay-per-call” services because you are charged for the call itself, and information or service provided. Charges are determined by the respective company—not the government or telephone companies—and are often costlier than regular long-distance rates.

When you dial a 900 prefix number you should hear the following:

the 900 number company's name
the cost of the call
a description of the information, goods or services to be provided
a notice that you can hang up and not be charged for the call within 3 seconds of hearing a certain tone or signal
a warning that kids under 18 need their parents' permission to stay on the line
You cannot be billed for listening to the aforementioned message.

Transfers from toll-free “800” numbers to “900” numbers are illegal. Never accept a servicers request to accept collect calls. Bills for “900” numbers should tell you who to contact if you suspect there is a problem, as well as provide a local or toll-free number to dispute charges. If you dispute a “900” number charge, put the dispute in writing. Local and long-distance phone service cannot be shut off if you refuse to pay disputed “900” number charges. Deduct the disputed charge(s) and pay the remaining balance of the bill by the due date.


You can ask your telephone provided to block outgoing “900” number calls.

Source (http://myfloridalegal.com/pages.nsf/main/f0e34764bd10c5c085256cc90071bbaf!OpenDocument)