Attorney General's News Release

July 30, 2002

Contests at summer fairs and expos could provide telemarketers with a foot in the door, Nixon cautions

Jefferson City, Mo. — Missourians attending state and county fairs or area expos should read the fine print before filling out an entry form for a contest, Attorney General Jay Nixon said today. Often the entry forms ask for a telephone number, which is later used to establish a telemarketing list, Nixon said. This technique can provide for an established business relationship, which is an allowed telemarketing 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 sign up online for the No Call list or call toll-free 1-866-NOCALL1 (1-866-662-2551).

CONSUMER EDUCATION BOOTH ON THE ROAD

Consumer Protection Division staffers are stopping in at fairs and expos to hand out fraud-fighting brochures, answer questions and sign up Missourians for the No Call list. Look for the booth:

• Aug. 8-18: Missouri State Fair, Mathewson Exhibition Center, Sedalia
• Aug. 16-18: Black Expo, St. Louis

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