Attorney General's News Release

August 6, 2003

Contests at summer fairs and expos could provide telemarketers with opportunity, Nixon cautions

Jefferson City, Mo. — Missourians attending summer fairs and expos should be cautious when filling out entry forms for contests, Attorney General Jay Nixon said today. Telemarketers often use these entry forms to gain consumer telephone numbers, which can later be used to establish a telemarketing list. Nixon said that this method establishes a business relationship, which is an allowed exemption to Missouri's No call law.

“Entry forms for contests at local fairs are a prime way in which these telemarketers get a foot in the door,” Nixon said. “Read the fine print of the entry forms, and don't enter the contest if you don't want to be bothered by telemarketers.”

Missourians can register their home telephone numbers on the No Call list by registering online or by calling toll-free 1-866-NOCALL1 (1-866-662-2551).

CONSUMER EDUCATION BOOTH ON THE ROAD

Staffers from the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division will be at the Missouri State Fair to hand out consumer brochures, answer questions and sign up Missourians for the No Call list. The fair will be held Aug. 7-17 at the state fair grounds in Sedalia.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818