A faxback scam is an unsolicited fax that can offer you anything from amazing diets to fantastic deals, business directory entries and competition entries—all you have to do is send a fax back to a premium rate number (starting with 190). Premium rate faxes can be charged at more than $6.00 per minute. The scammers make sure your fax will take several minutes to get through, resulting in hefty, unnecessary phone bills (a single fax could cost you $20 or $30).
They usually target small business, often with offers of directory entries and catalogues of goods and services.
If you have received an unsolicited fax and you are interested in the product it advertises—research the product before making any decisions. You might find a cheaper option available elsewhere. If the fax includes any fine print or conditions or contact details, make sure you take a note of them and always note the final cost of the call.
Never send a return fax to one of these unsolicited faxes without first ensuring you know how much the fax will cost and whether the company and its products are worth the expense.
If you have received a fraudulent directory entry invoice or phone call, or if you have sent money to pay for an entry which you now realise is a scam, you can report it through the SCAMwatch website. You should also spread the word to your friends, family and colleagues to protect them.