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November 5, 2005

359 Comments »

1. I received a call from 727-471-1407 and of all things on my cell phone. Grrrr. It was listed under my “missed calls.” They did not leave a message, but definately a scam!

   Comment by Brian M. — November 22, 2005 @ 2:16 pm

   
   

2. I got a call from these bastards yesterday. I am one of the few who will openly admit to being stupid enough to give out his checking account number. I don’t know what I was thinking.

   As soon as the last number of my checking account number left my lips, I felt like a complete idiot and did a Google search on the names of the companies this woman claimed to be affiliated with: Distinct Advantage and Freedom Gold. The search results confirmed that I am a dipshit; and I hung up on her and immediately reported it to my bank. The woman’s phone number was 1-727-471-1408. This morning on my caller id is a similar number: 1-727-471-0400. Maybe they’re upset that I closed out the checking account yesterday. I do hope they reach me so I can take the opportunity to tell them to go fuck themselves.

   Comment by Borscht — December 6, 2005 @ 12:53 pm

   
   

3. I can’t believe this has gone on so long with them being shut down. I was wondering if anyone was falling for it out there

   Good call notifying the bank though. Hopefully you did it in time.

   Comment by vvhitekid2 — December 6, 2005 @ 1:41 pm

   
   

4. I recieved a call today form 727-471-1418 today. The guy told me he was calling fron Distinct Advantage, and they had recieved my number form my Bank and I as a preferred checking-account customer, I was to recieve free airline gift vouchers for a value of $400 ( valid for 1 year).

   He asked me the Bank I banked with … which raised question in my mind, as he had previously told me that he had recieved my number from the bank itself. He said it was only for verification and also wanted details of my bank location.

   Then he asked me to choose a password… as he would open an account for me. I asked why was this needed ? He told me that I would be recieving free advertised products at home which I can try and refer to my friends.On telling him that I did not want any such service, he said it was free and he has opened the account for me. Finally I was asked to verify my checking account number… he read out some digits.. I refused to give any further info as I smelled something fishy.

   Looks like these guys have a lot of information already… like phone nos, addresses.. pls be careful.

   Comment by Jhumpa — December 13, 2005 @ 1:26 pm

   
   

5. I just recieved a call today form 727-471-1418. The lady told me she was calling becasue I had recieved a free airline gift vouchers for the value of $400 because I am a vauled customer. I sad, “Great!!…which of my banks is offering this to me?” She hung up.

   Comment by Jay — December 14, 2005 @ 3:31 pm

   
   

6. I got a call from727-471-1418. It was a scam. I think those pesky canadian scammers are at it again!

   Comment by Jon Wilson — December 15, 2005 @ 7:03 pm

   
   

7. I keep getting calls on my cell from 727-471-1416. I get hung up on as soon as I answer, no message. So i decided to do a search after this last call. Keeps happening. call call call, I get hung up on and no message left. Thanks for letting me know about this.

   E

   Comment by Em — December 19, 2005 @ 8:12 pm

   
   

8. wow! am i stupid? i received a call from 727-471-1414 saying that i won $400 worth of airline tickets. he says he was from Agent Travel Network. he told me like a bunch of my bank account numbers and asked for some more. so, being stupid, i did. what should i do? have i been scammed? and how loong before they can do anything with my account????

   Comment by Dani — December 27, 2005 @ 12:13 pm

   
   

9. I would suggest calling your bank ASAP and informing them about this. You have been scammed.

   Comment by vvhitekid2 — December 27, 2005 @ 5:13 pm

   
   

10. Yeah, my cell got a call from 727-471-1407… Only I looked at the caller ID and refused to answer it. Didn’t recognize it, so why bother? They did not leave a message, either.

    I can’t believe you people!! Stop complaining - GET ACTIVE!! Got a gripe about telemarketers?? SCAM artists?? First, get your cell and landline phones registered on the “National Do Not Call Registry”… https://www.donotcall.gov/default.aspx

    Then, after 31 days, you have the right to FILE A COMPLAINT against ANY annoying caller, SCAMMER or whatever…!! It’s easy and convenient - and this Registry DOES take your complaints seriously!! Put these creeps outta business, or at least cost THEM $$ in defending themselves!!

    Comment by Kathy Schleicher — December 30, 2005 @ 1:01 pm

    
    

11. My mother received 2 calls today from 1-727-471-1408 the first telling her that she would be rewarded with $100 gas cards for having a checking account in good standing and as soon as she questioned, how would you know it’s in good standing by using my account # he hung up. the second was similiar from the same # a woman called and started talking about the same thing.asking for a checking account number again to validate the checking account was in “good standing” it’s all BS.

    Comment by bmason — January 4, 2006 @ 10:58 pm

    
    

12. I had them call me too. I started asking questions like why do you need my bank name if you have it in front of you? And she’s like I need to confirm you are who you say you are, now can I have a password? And I was like well if you can’t be sure its me then how can you ask me for a password. And continuing with my drilling of other questions she said it seems like you dont understand what im saying ill call you back.

    Comment by Dan Highbrown — January 11, 2006 @ 10:53 am

    
    

13. These people call me cell phone up to 10 times a day. I don’t know where they got the number and what will make them stop.

    Comment by MIchelle — January 18, 2006 @ 12:01 pm

    
    

14. These fine folks or some close associates with a nearly identical line of BS also seem to be using the number 714-991-3651 (which is answered as “Vacation Giveways”) as a DID display #.

    Comment by Steve — January 18, 2006 @ 3:19 pm

    
    

15. They’ve been calling me the last two weeks (about three times a day) from a 727 number and never leaving a message. I finally picked up the phone last night because I figured it was a telemarketer and it was time to end things. I had a male tell me that I would get $500 and free travel points because I’ve kept my checking account open for so long. It would cost me nothing if only he could send me a packet in the mail. Whether or not I signed a membership with them I got to keep the prizes. At some point though, I would start being charged for my membership if i forgot to call and cancel.

    I didn’t understand how it would make sense to win “Checking account” prizes from someone other than my bank. He made it quite obvious he was not with the bank.

    He asked me what bank I belonged to and I told him. He couldn’t even pronounce it. It’s a three letter acronymn. Strange. Then he said he needed to verify some account information before sending out the packet in the mail. He asked for my checking account number. No legit company would ask you for that over the phone, maybe a credit card number, but not your direct checking account number. I pretended I didn’t know the number and told him I didn’t have it with me. At this point I know I need to get off the phone with him.

    Then he asked if I had a bank account statement, I told him I was driving in the car (which I actually was) and did not have that info. available. He then asks me if I had a voided check. He tried everything he could to make me tell him my bank account information. Sure let me give my checking account info to someone who can’t pronounce my name or my banks name.

    So after almost ten minutes of questioning, I for a second time tell him I’m going to hang up and to not call my phone ever again. I tell him if I change my mind (because he’s freaking out that I’m hanging up) that I have his phone number and will call him back.

    He tells me that I can’t call him back because the number he is calling from is in the Shipping Dept. and I might not get anyone when I call. WHAT?!?!?! What the hell is this guy talking about shipping dept. So I attempt to hang up again for the last time and ask, “What exactly is the name of your company?” He tells me Direct Advantage. I again say “Look buddy, if i’m interested I’ll go to your website and register”. He tells me he doesn’t know if they have a website, but he could find out. What legit employee doesn’t know if they have a company website or not?

    I finally hang up and tell him to remove me from the company’s calling list. Later last night I went to the .gov site that blocks telemarketers from calling your cell or home phone.

    If this story rings a bell with anyone reading this, you’ve been scammed, call your bank.

    Comment by Lauren — January 20, 2006 @ 4:01 pm

    
    

16. They’ve been calling me the last two weeks (about three times a day) from a 727 number and never leaving a message. I finally picked up the phone last night because I figured it was a telemarketer and it was time to end things. I had a male tell me that I would get $500 and free travel points because I’ve kept my checking account open for so long. It would cost me nothing if only he could send me a packet in the mail. Whether or not I signed a membership with them I got to keep the prizes. At some point though, I would start being charged for my membership if i forgot to call and cancel.

    I didn’t understand how it would make sense to win “Checking account” prizes from someone other than my bank. He made it quite obvious he was not with the bank.

    He asked me what bank I belonged to and I told him. He couldn’t even pronounce it. It’s a three letter acronymn. Strange. Then he said he needed to verify some account information before sending out the packet in the mail. He asked for my checking account number. No legit company would ask you for that over the phone, maybe a credit card number, but not your direct checking account number. I pretended I didn’t know the number and told him I didn’t have it with me. At this point I know I need to get off the phone with him.

    Then he asked if I had a bank account statement, I told him I was driving in the car (which I actually was) and did not have that info. available. He then asks me if I had a voided check. He tried everything he could to make me tell him my bank account information. Sure let me give my checking account info to someone who can’t pronounce my name or my banks name.

    So after almost ten minutes of questioning this guy and not giving him any pull, I for a second time tell him I’m going to hang up and to not call my phone ever again. I tell him if I change my mind (because he’s freaking out that I’m hanging up) that I have his phone number and will call him back.

    He tells me that I can’t call him back because the number he is calling from is in the Shipping Dept. and I might not get anyone when I call. WHAT?!?!?! What the hell is this guy talking about shipping dept. So I attempt to hang up again for the last time and ask, “What exactly is the name of your company?” He tells me Direct Advantage. I again say “Look buddy, if i’m interested I’ll go to your website and register”. He tells me he doesn’t know if they have a website, but he can find out. What employee doesn’t know if they have a company website or not?

    I finally hang up and tell him to remove me from the company’s calling list. Later last night I went to the .gov site that blocks telemarketers from calling your cell or home phone.

    If this story rings a bell with anyone reading this, you’ve been scammed, call your bank.

    Comment by Lauren — January 20, 2006 @ 4:01 pm

    
    

17. How neat to see how broad this scam is. I am a very sceptical person anyway, but she was offering me the free airline vouchers for me or for me to give away as well as $100 gas voucher, she just needed to confirm that I still have an active account with my bank. Upon questioning how that was relevant she said I was sent to them as a preferred customer from something I bought with a check probably but she couldnt tell me where. She actually read me my banking routing number for me to confirm. That is when I starting getting upset and asking why she had my account info. She said they just need me to read the next seven numbers on my check….HELLO, that is my account number and I am not about to give that to her. She explains by telling me that it just gives them a green light or red light on an active account so they can send me the free gifts, no purchase necessary. I told her to flag me with a red light, and I will live just fine without the gifts, she begged me, literally, but I was finally able to get her off the phone.
    I did call my bank and notify them, they had not heard of this particular scam yet, but they are going to put out a notice!
    I am in Alabama, and I am curious how wide spread this scam is.

    Comment by grace — January 20, 2006 @ 6:11 pm

    
    

18. I got called one morning by 727-471-0400 and now have six missed calls from them because right when they said that the call was being recorded and then asked for my bank account info, i hung up. and they’ve been calling my cell phone.

    Comment by Sam — January 20, 2006 @ 10:54 pm

    
    

19. I’ve been receiving numbers from the 727 area cide fir weeks! 717-471-1407 about three times a day, from Agent Travel Network. I finally called them back last time to tell them to cut it out and the lady knew who I was when I called. I said that yes, my name was Jennifer and I asked her to stop calling. She said “I don’t call anyone, lady”…I told her that I’ve received a call from her company three to four times a day for the last two weeks and to stop calling and hung up…any ideas on how I can get them to stop? It’s SO annoying.

    Comment by Jen — January 23, 2006 @ 9:59 pm

    
    

20. Has anyone gotten unauthorized fraudulent charges on thier account? All I am reading is that is what they do, no one has said it has really happen to them. Nothing has happened to me yet.

    Comment by dianne summer — January 26, 2006 @ 2:56 pm

    
    

21. I kept getting calls from a 727-471-1407. Fianlly I picked up.. He said he was from “SOME travel agency.” He said I was a prefered customer.. I’m 17.. how the heck can I be a prefered customer.. I have a bank account but not a checkings so there is no way I used a check. This is def. a scam I hung up and googled the number to find a bunch on people with complaints….now I want him to call back so I can call him on his bull.

    Comment by Megan — February 2, 2006 @ 9:24 pm

    
    

22. Hey im getting these calls now what should i do? Call the police or what?

    Comment by Josh — February 3, 2006 @ 10:24 pm

    
    

23. I did get charges to my account from these people. I told them I didn’t want anything. My story is very similar to most of these complaints. The only difference is that they had ALL of my Bank information, and edited the recorded message. I listened to it, when I called them to dispute. They took $149.00 from my account. They called from one of the 727 phone numbers. That is how I found this page. I looked up this number. These people need to be stopped!

    Comment by Gypsy — February 6, 2006 @ 10:45 am

    
    

24. I recieved a call last week from Florida Passport. They threw their pitch, and I told the lady that I didn’t want anything. She kept on and on, but she wouldn’t stop. She had my bank account number, routing number, name, phone number, and address. I asked her how she got that information, and she wouldn’t answer me. I kept asking, and she said that if I stay on the line, she would tell me. She threw the pitch again, and I kept refusing. She then hung up on me.
    On Feb. 3rd 2006 (my son’s birthday), I went online to check my bank account, and I was missing $149.00. I have not recieved anything in the mail from these people. Florida Passport wrote an elcetronic check without my permission. I called the phone number on the check, and they had a recording of me. The recording was made without my permission, and it was edited to sound like I actually gave them permission. My husband listened to it, and he couldn’t even understand this lady. He even said that I sounded like a robot. I was furious. When I finally did speak to someone there about it, they were rude with me, and refused to give me my money back. I told them that I have not recieved anything, and wanted to know what I supposedly paid for. I explained to her that I told the lady on the phone before that I didn’t want ANYTHING they had to offer, due to the fack that I am having a baby any minute. I don’t have a job, or the money to pay for anything extra. The lady had the nerve to ask me why I am such a dishonest person.
    I went into my banking center, and they saw the check online. Apparently, Florida Passport worte a fake electronic check. Electronic checks are supposed to look like debits, not an actual check. The bank explained to me that this check had the wrong number of digits for the check number. So, the bank gave me my money back and I was advised to close my checking account, and open a new one. I still bank with the same bank, just a different account.
    If this happens to you, you must take action with your bank within 60days. I did this as soon as possible. It really paid off. If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me. gypsylove25@hotmail.com I promise to answer back.

    Comment by Gypsy — February 7, 2006 @ 8:23 am

    
    

25. I just got a call from 727-471-1408 today with the same scam that everyone else has received. I did not give them my account info, and just as others have said, she was BEGGING me to stay on the phone and “verify” my account info. I just notified my bank, and they said that as long as you don’t give out your account number, you should be safe. However, if something does debit that you didn’t authorize, you can fill out a form that get your money back. That makes me feel a little more safe! FYI: I’m in Florida, so this must be a pretty widespread thing!

    Comment by Katie — February 7, 2006 @ 4:44 pm

    
    

26. I just started a new home based business so when the lady called me from 727-471-1412 and said that I had made a purchase through one of heir affiliates and I was to recieve a travel voucher for $400.00. She said she needed to verify my bank info. Asked Name of Bank, Location, a password for their website(the town I was born in). Then SHE read ME my routing number. Next she asked me to read her my checking account number. But I did not so I hope I am safe.phew. that was a close call…something made me not tell her that. I started thinking that I have heard”a legitimet company will NEVER CALL YOU and ask for this info. She also gave me the red light green light story.

    Comment by Sheila — February 9, 2006 @ 1:46 am

    
    

27. I have been called by 727-471-1414 3 times a day for the past 5 days. I always miss the call. They never left a message so I Googled the number and found this place. I called them back and they started with the $400 plane ticket thing. I started to laugh at them and said let me guess, you need my bank info right. Before he could say anything I told him you are nothing but a scam and to lose my number. They called themselfs Travel Agents Direct, so add that name to the list.

    Comment by Erik — February 9, 2006 @ 7:03 pm

    
    

28. To add to my last post…

    I reversed the number and got:
    (727) 471-1414
    SAINT PETERSBURG, FL
    ITC DELTA COM - FL WIRELINE

    ITC is the phone company, but there is no customer info given. Definity shady.

    Comment by Erik — February 9, 2006 @ 7:08 pm

    
    

29. I have a daughter who is 18 and she just called me.  She told me that someone from phone number 727-471-1414 just called her on her cell phone and told her “that since she was in good standings with her bank she was eligable for a special offer and if she signed up she would receive a gift along with her promotion. The representative said that all they would need from her was her checking account number and she would not be billed. They said they would send her the gift and if she decided to decline the offer all she would have to do is call the number on the gift and cancel it.”

    Now I as a mom, that natural protecting mode kicked in. I got the number from my daughter and called it. I was on hold for more than 20 minutes (thinking to myself while waiting, that no one is going to pick up this call). No one ever did. I Googled the phone number and got this website…. “Thank You” I realized that my daughter had got scammed. This time I was able to prevent this company from taking what little hard earned money from her account because I IMMEDIATELY transferred her funds from the checking account that she gave them and put it into another account. She will be closing out that account today and reopening a new one. “I HATE SCAM ARTIST and people who take advantage of vulnerable people.

    Always know…. ” IF IT IS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, THEN IT IS NOT TRUE”….

    Comment by Angelica — February 10, 2006 @ 2:11 pm

    
    

30. Got the same call, gave the information for Florida passport deal. I was told I had three offers, all which would come in the mail and then i had a few days to consider them. After which they would automatically take money out of my account if I did not call and cancel withing a few days. I got all the info after the “few days” was up and the money was taken out. HOWEVER, I did call the 1-800 numbers, and you have to act like you are going to take the deal to get through to a human being (by hitting number two I believe) and they promised a refund within 6 weeks for the mistake. 6 weeks went by and no refund, made a second call to all businesses and after the next two weeks I DID GET MY MONEY BACK- just be very persistant!

    Comment by emily — February 13, 2006 @ 11:45 am

    
    

31. Emily, I find the fact that you got your money back from these guys amazing. Nice work though.

    Comment by vvhitekid2 — February 13, 2006 @ 11:50 am

    
    

32. I just received a call from 727-471-1418 from Distinct Advantage. He said that for a good checking account that I was going to receive $100 Vouchers for gas and $300 for Airlines. In addition, I was able to join a exclusive shopping club which would save me much more. He first verified my name and address, i agreed. He then asked for a password and i was smart enough to not use a password that I would ever use on my computer or for an account or for anything. He gave me a password and then asked me to verify and spell my bank, i did cause that isnt too incriminating. He then asked me to get a voided check or statement so that I could verify that the information he has is correct. I objected, he was very clever and handled the objection and made me willing again, kind of. I told him I would verify the routing number, thats it. He told me he needed to verify my acct#, too. I told him no, he tried talking to me again, I stopped in mid sentence and said let me talk and I said Im done, I appreciate you calling me but I will not give out info over the phone. Should I still notify my bank?

    Comment by Luke — February 15, 2006 @ 11:05 pm

    
    

33. Phone Number (727) 471-1412 – Information Available:
    Name - Available

    Phone Company - Available

    Phone Location: SAINT PETERSBURG, FL
    Report includes matches for up-to-the-minute phone listing updates, unlisted, non-published, cellular, residential, business, pager, pay phones, and other phone types. Address will be listed in report when available.

    That’s what I’ve gotten based on the number lookup.

    Comment by Hayli — February 16, 2006 @ 3:36 pm

    
    

34. I recieved the same call that all of you are talking about. I have reported this to the Federal Trade Commission but they will do nothing about individual circumstances however they will investigate if they have many similar complaints. If all of you who have this crap happen to you would please call the Federal Trade Commission and file a statement with them then they will begin investigating this fraudulent company.

    Comment by Landon — February 16, 2006 @ 4:27 pm

    
    

35. I had a number 727-471-1408 show up on my cell and i didnt recognize the number so i let a co-worker answer. The first thing they said is ” Who is this”? How are they going to call my number and ask me who am i! “Who were you calling?!” The woman, named Roalyn said that she will call me back later. I have not spoke with them yet, but its good to know in advance what to expect. Any suggestions on what i should say to them, besides cursing them out?

    Comment by KENYA — February 20, 2006 @ 3:17 pm

    
    

36. I got a call on my cell phone this morning from 727-471-1407. I didn’t answer because I only give out my cell number to my close friends (even my bank doesn’t have it) and I noticed it was a long distance call (I’m in Maryland by the way). I Googled the number and - voila! I find it is indeed a scam. Now I get to think up all kinds of fun ways to mess with these guys if they call back:

    “Sorry, I’m already richer than God and couldn’t care less for your pocket change vouchers.”
    or
    “Ah, I see….I see that you are in…Florida, yes, St. Petersburg. And you…want my banking information. Yes, not my routing number, you already have that, don’t you. No, you want my account number…”
    or even
    “Who uses banking accounts? I keep all my hundreds of thousands of dollars under my mattress ”

    Haha, I almost hope they do call back.

    Comment by Mary — February 21, 2006 @ 3:24 pm

    
    

37. Grrrrrrrr!!! I keep on getting a call from 727-471-1413 on my cell phone! Gosh! these people never stop calling me, first they call me at least 3 timesevery freakin day, now once a day cause I never pick up there damn call. I’d register my cell on the do not call just a couple of days ago but they still keep on calling. Next time, Im sure gonna pick up there call and let them know ‘wassup’ im just so sick of them calling. Plus Im from Colorado and I’ve heard its wide spread. I hope they keep on calling …so i can sue them! hehehe

    Comment by girl_83 — February 28, 2006 @ 10:07 pm

    
    

38. I’ve been getting calls from 727-471-1407 on my cell phone for a few days now. I finally picked up today. As soon as the lady said something about a free $500 or something, I hung up.

    Comment by George — February 28, 2006 @ 10:42 pm

    
    

39. For about the past month or so, I keep getting calls from 727-471-1416 and my son (who is only 15) is getting the same calls, except he picks his up. They ask him for a checking account number and when he says he doesn’t have a checking account cuz he is only 15, they ask him to ask his parents if he could use their checking account. I just got another call today, on my cell, while I am at work. I average 1 call aday for the past month or so from these people.

    Comment by Tina — March 1, 2006 @ 2:56 pm

    
    

40. I’ve been recieving calls from 727 471-1416 for weeks now. I figured they were just another telemarketer so I never answered but today I figured I would answer so that they will stop calling. When I answered the phone I told the man that I was my ’sister’ and that I was not home. He told me the call was pertaining to my checking account and that he needed to get ahold of me. I asked if there was a name and a call back number and he said NO. He then asked me if I happened to know the authorization numbers on the back of my ’sister’s card. I told him No and he hung up. Is there any way I can get these people to stop calling me.

    Comment by Kathy — March 2, 2006 @ 6:51 pm

    
    

41. THANKS SO MUCH.
    I have been called twice in the past 2 days from 727-471-14707 on my cell phone. Next time they call i am going to bitch them out!

    Comment by Jane — March 8, 2006 @ 1:49 pm

    
    

42. These bastards are still at it. My roommate called the phone number back pretending to be me after the woman said she needed to verify my checking account info. The woman wouldn’t give us any information about herself and hung up on us after we told her we would return anything they sent in regards to free gasoline or airline tickets.

    Comment by Lana — March 8, 2006 @ 8:50 pm

    
    

43. wow, I can’t believe I almost fell for this trap. These guys called me solid for about a week from a few different 727 numbers and finally I actually answered from curiosity. after they gave me the same talk, I reluctantly gave them my bank name after they were rude and then realized that there was no way in hell this was a worthy company. still think it is weird how they had my address and cell number… i live in texas, so these guys have gotten this far around the US….when is it gonna stop!?

    Comment by Lindsey — March 11, 2006 @ 5:35 am

    
    

44. check out the linked website
    http://forums.somethingawful.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1823034

    they got ahold of me also.

    Comment by jaye brunner — March 11, 2006 @ 2:00 pm

    
    

45. check out the linked website
    http://forums.somethingawful.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1823034

    they got ahold of me also

    Comment by jay brunner — March 11, 2006 @ 2:01 pm

    
    

46. These people called me and said very anti-Semitic things when I told them I was a rich Jew. I do not recommend these people.

    Comment by goldstein — March 11, 2006 @ 3:56 pm

    
    

47. They call my cell at least 10 times a day. I have a strict policy of not answereing the phone unless I recognize the number. This is why.

    Comment by Rick — March 13, 2006 @ 10:48 am

    
    

48. Much like Rick, I do not answer calls on my cell from numbers I do not recognize. I got one from the 1414 number and decided to do a google search, thinking it might be from some long lost freind in Florida. ‘Glad I found this site. It will be interesting to see if they call back, as I live in Seattle. I cannot imagine how they got my number…

    Comment by Edward — March 13, 2006 @ 7:37 pm

    
    

49. Hi, I’m gullible. Went through the whole deal with them. Upon receiving my package, I realized that the 7 day trial period had expired YESTERDAY. Imagine that. I called them about the issue and they told me that it was not their fault that the post office had screwed up and that I would be charged $149. I have notified my bank and I am going to contact them again regarding this problem. I have filed two complaints. One through the FTC and the other through the Florida Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services. I’m hoping someone takes these bastards out. Class-action anyone?

    Comment by Shelly — March 22, 2006 @ 5:18 pm

    
    

50. I got a call at work from this 727 number telling me I was a valued customer and they seemed to have my address and routing number.I made the mistake of telling them my acct number.As soon as I hung up I realized how stupid I was and immidiately called my bank and reported it and had my account put on hold.Next morning I got a new one opened and transferred my funds there.I tried calling their number hoping to have them not send me any material but was told they dont have my record into their system yet and need to call in 72 hours.I am glad I googled and found out abt this scam before I got hit.
    Can anyone suggest if I need to do anything to get out of their useless offer?

    Comment by Rich — March 24, 2006 @ 1:31 pm

    
    

51. My phone calls started thiss week and will not end. They called me on my cell and told me for having a open bank account I was getting $400 in free airline coupons and $100 in free gas coupons and I didnt have to buy anything. They the gave me a password in case I needed to get a hold of them if my free gifts didnt come. They said the last ting they needed to do was verify that I had an open bank account so they needed my checking account and routing number. I told the lady I did not have them on me and she asked me why I did not have them memorized. She then told me that she could not send out my free gifts without them and she would call back at another time. She called back the next day and I hung up on her. After that I decided to Google it and found this website I was so furious I called the nimber back and told them I knew they were a scam and if they called me again I was calling the cops. The guy assured me they were not a scam and once again they called back.Now I do not anwser my phone but they are still really annoying isn’t there anything we can do to stop them. I called Attorney Generals Office and was told they are liscenced and are doing nothing wrong until they take money from you so there is nothing that can be done… How is there nothing that can be done? That anwser just is not good enough for me!

    Comment by lynsey — April 18, 2006 @ 3:53 pm

    
    

52. I got a call from 727-471-1408 the other day. They asked for an “Ear (my last name).” My father’s name is not Ear, it is Earl. When i said that EARL is not home, they asked if I had his account info. I had read these complaints only a few days before, so I called them on their bullshit. I live in Vermont, and from what I’ve read, this is an INTENSELY wide spread problem. I told my father to call his bank and inform them of the problem, just in case. someone better get crackin’ and rid us of the problem

    Comment by Doug — May 19, 2006 @ 12:16 pm

    
    

53. I received a call from this company today, so they are still operating. I did not give them any information, but I was so aghast at what they were doing, I contacted the Florida Attorney General’s office and also filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. I’d suggest anyone else who has been called by these people and who has an extra five minutes do the same. The more complaints, the more likely someone will pay attention. It troubles me that they’ve been operating in MY state for at least 6 months now…

    Comment by neil — May 24, 2006 @ 9:29 pm

    
    

54. I got a call from 727-683-1126 the today. They are still doing it.

    Comment by d — June 27, 2006 @ 12:18 pm

    
    

55. I got the call from 727 683-1125 Distinct Advantage is what they are going by now. Same kinda scam is being used, they get you comfortable with sharing usless info to get what they are really after, your bank acct number. I saw right through their scam right away and didn’t confirm anything with them. As a matter of fact every free minute I get I call them just to take up as much of their time as I can. In a business like that time is money.

    Also I filled a complaint with the Florida attorney generals office and the federal trade commission. I suggest everyone who is contacted by these scum bags do the same.

    Comment by John — June 29, 2006 @ 5:37 pm

    
    

56. I got a call from 727-683-1118 and 727-683-1124 and i made the stupid mistake of actually giving them my account number. i hung up on them when i realized what i had done and they called back three more times, but i didn’t answer. i called my back but they said i can either close my account or to a stop payment where some interactions won’t go through but some might. does anyone know the best way for me to handle this? please help!!!

    Comment by renee burns — June 30, 2006 @ 1:46 pm

    
    

57. Here’s an update from the Florida Attorney Generals office. I received this e-mail from them this morning

    Attorney General Charlie Crist’s Office is in receipt of your correspondence regarding FTN Promotions/Distinct Advantage/Freedom Gold.
    We are currently investigating the business practices of this company and will contact you should we need additional information.

    Thank you for bringing this to the attention of Attorney General Charlie Crist’s office.

    John MacGregor
    Senior Assistant Attorney General

    Comment by John — June 30, 2006 @ 2:44 pm

    
    

58. I have been harassed by these people for days!

    I recently obtained a new job in sales, and my salary has been paid to me on a debit card rather than a check. That was about a month ago. Recently I have been contacted FOUR times by the above number, with details below:

    1st Time: They told me they were with my bank, and I had $500 that was not deposited into my account (with never existed.) I tried to play along — they first asked me for my favorite color and name, so I told them. I was suspicious and asked why they needed my name if they were with the bank, and they responded with “For security purposes.” Although, I knew it was a scam after they slipped and asked “What bank did you open your account with?” “I thought you were with my bank,” I replied, and at that point, she hung up immediately.

    2nd Time: They called me back three days later, like nothing ever happened. When they asked for my name, I informed them that I know their call is a scam, and she hung up quickly again.

    3rd Time: About twenty hours later, the number called me back, and as soon as I picked up the phone to say “Hello?”, she hung up.

    4th Time: About only thirty minutes later, she called one last time. This time, I picked up, but didn’t say anything, but I could here her breathing heavily, and what sounded like a television. She hung up again, and I proceeded to block their number from the cell phone’s directory.

    It’s also to note that I am a computer programmer, and have knowledge of most electronics. Knowing this, I noticed that the background noises in all three calls (except for third, where it was silent) looped about every minute and a half, which was easy to hear in the first and second call, indicating that it was a poor attempt at playing a tape over and over to make it sound like she was actually at an office.

    That’s all for now, she has not tried to call back since.

    Comment by Harrison Moccio — July 2, 2006 @ 9:46 pm

    
    

59. These people just called me today. I had no clue what was going on. After I hung up, I immediatly called my bank and cancelled all my accounts. Do these people affect Credit Cards at all? Any ways I feel like a jerk, I never thought this would happen to me. As I am only 22 years old. I definetly learned my lesson. It did sound too good to be true. My dad called them back and had a shit fit with them on the phone. Then like usual they hung up! Why do people have to do this?

    Comment by Elizabeth — July 3, 2006 @ 10:49 pm

    
    

60. Oh yea, I am in California… Long ways away from Florida.

    Comment by Elizabeth — July 4, 2006 @ 3:20 am

    
    

61. yea i got a call from 727-683-1124 at 9:30am and didn’t answer cause i was at the doctor but since i didn’t know the number i was like well i might as well google it and see what comes up… its now 11:30am and all i have to say is thanks for posting this you coulda saved me a bunch of money thanks guys lol……

    Comment by kevin — July 5, 2006 @ 11:35 am

    
    

62. me too. i got the call. i did not give them anything.

    once they ask you your bank name and city they tell you your routing number. THE ROUTING NUMBERS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET ANYWAYS. its the checking account numbers that they need.

    what a scam. gotta say, these guys sound persistant. sadly, persistance pays off for them.

    Comment by ron — July 6, 2006 @ 2:06 pm

    
    

63. I have been receiving calls from this number several times a day. my wife answered on one call and ther wanted her to give them my social and my bank account info. she never did. i just stopped answering the phone

    Comment by steven — July 6, 2006 @ 7:04 pm

    
    

64. I got a call today from Distinct Advantage, 727-683-1124, they offered all the same BS as I have read here. I hung up when she wanted the name of my bank.
    For all of you that are amazed that they know your routing #, don’t be. Bank routing #’s are by REGION, ALL BANKS in the same region have identical routing #’s. that’s how they scam you, you think because they know your routing # that they are legit. Report them to the state Atty General;s office, you can google your state’s Atty Generals office and file a complaint.

    Comment by harry — July 7, 2006 @ 11:16 am

    
    

65. I got a call from 727-683-1126 this morning… Its the 5 or 6 call I’ve gotten in the last week. How can I get rid of them?

    Comment by Amanda — July 10, 2006 @ 4:32 pm

    
    

66. yea so i got a few calls from 727-683-1126, one yesterday, two today.. so i called back to see who it was only after looking up the number on good to find this site, i wasnt sure if this site was still active or not.. so like i said i called the number.. sure enough same offers mentioned by everyone on here, free gas and airline money but i said no thanks and hung up right away, if they call back im just going to threaten to sue them haha maybe that will make them nervous?

    Comment by Alyssa — July 10, 2006 @ 8:01 pm

    
    

67. Same story as most of you all - although I did give them my city / state and bank (I know I feel really stupid!) but hung up when they asked for account number. Here is my question: Since this happened tonight is there a way for me to set up a trace so that if I call them back the police can get a location and arrest these guys?

    Comment by Melissa — July 12, 2006 @ 10:55 pm

    
    

68. Melissa, just be sure to grab the caller ID value when they call back. I would also suggest printing off and showing them this page with all the comments.

    You might have better luck with your state’s attorney generals office. Send them a link to this page. We need to make all the state departments aware of this scam.

    Comment by vvhitekid2 — July 13, 2006 @ 1:03 am

    
    

69. I NOTIFIED THE TAMPA POLICE DEPARTMENT ABOUT THIS. I WOULD SUGGEST YOU DO THE SAME. THEY TRIED TO GET INFO FROM ME AND HAVE BEEN CALLING ME FOR 3 DAYS NOW! ALSO, WHEN I STARTED ASKING QUESTIONS, I HEARD SOMEONE HANG UP IN THE BACKGROUND AND THEN THE LADY TRIED TO REASSURE ME THERE WAS NO PROBLEM WITH GIVING ME HER THE INFO! WHAT A SCAM! I HOPE THEY CATCH THIS GROUP!

    Comment by Jul — July 13, 2006 @ 2:14 pm

    
    

70. I just got off the phone with those Bums! They called me saying similar things about the airline tickets and so forth, but they asked me for the city I was Born in. Now my concern is that some internet sites used that info along with your address to confirm certain things. Any way when he aksed me for that the red Flag went up. Then he read me a bunch of routing numbers, all were wrong. So after that I kept asking him questions. He said he was with Dintinct Advantage located in Clearwater Fl. They are now using the number 727-683-1138
    Be careful People

    Comment by Christina — July 14, 2006 @ 5:28 pm

    
    

71. I got a phone call from “John” at 8PM from “Distinct Advantage” (503-426-3110) wanting to give me gas vouchers for being such a wonderful customer from my bank. BS! First my bank has never authorized anything like that before, the numbers he had was wrong, and the state he had me listed in was wrong. So, they are pr*cks trying to weasel information out of people who are usually helpful. I told him I wasn’t comfortable giving out information on the phone and said that scam artists should spend the rest of their lives in jail. I hope they call again. Notify your bank immediatly so that its security services can begin looking into it. I hate the fact that its people like that who make me trust people less and make me waste my time. If you are in the MILITARY ask your soldiers if they have had the same type calls and remind them NEVER to give out any information like that. Its sad AMERICANS are taking advantage of soldiers trying to protect this country. I will be more than willing to participate in any investigation concerning these scum bags.
    In response to other posts, I am glad everyone is keeping track of the phone numbers and specifics concerning the resons for calling. Also, the “company” should be helpful as well. If we have a trail of information hopefully those who take these dirtbags to court will have plenty of information to send the whole crew to an extended stay at the “20 to life” hotel.

    Comment by Walter — July 14, 2006 @ 11:10 pm

    
    

72. 727-683-1126 has been calling my cell several times a day. I’m glad Google exists.

    Comment by Max — July 15, 2006 @ 5:09 pm

    
    

73. Got call today that was too good to be true “because of my checking account” That was the 1st red flag. Went on to tell me about gas vouchers and something else that I didn’t have to return even if I didn’t want it. 727-683-1124 is the # I called it back and it gave me a number of options - one is if I’m not interested in any other offers press 3. I absolutely am not interested in any offers. When they called and asked me to verify info I said right off the bat if you want me to verify my checking account # no thanks you and remove my name from your call list. Doesn’t the law ever look into these scamers????

    Comment by Mery Elyn — July 15, 2006 @ 7:12 pm

    
    

74. Got two calls today. Called back and I don’t believe this is a scam. While, maybe just a scam to get you to purchase vacations and other incentive programs.
    Question? Has anyone here played a thing like a “register to win” game at their local mall or sporting event. Read the fine print, you give these a-holes the right to contact you by giving out your phone number. Call them back and follow the instruction on the phone and get your number off their database.
    Be cautious every time you give out your number over the Internet. But don’t worry to much about this because it’s not a scam to get your banking info.

    Comment by Josh — July 18, 2006 @ 6:54 pm

    
    

75. I too like everyone else have been scammed. My wife sent an overnite letter to Distinct Advantage for a refund and to cancel this account, they told her that the letter has not been received. We know that they received it because DHL has a tracking number associated with it and she has the name of the person that signed for it. After giving us the run arounds my wife looked on the internet and found out that this was a scam so she went directly to the bank and closed out our account. Please, if you know of anyone who is thinking about Distinct Advantage or Freedom Gold tell them the truth about these companies.

    Comment by Stupid — July 19, 2006 @ 7:41 pm

    
    

76. Hahaha… 3 guesses where Josh works!!

    Comment by Jason — July 19, 2006 @ 7:57 pm

    
    

77. FYI… My wife got a call tonight and I took over about 2 mins into hearing what she was saying. I kept this woman on the phone for 11 minutes, I think she went through her schpiel 6 times by then… she kept insisiting that she could not hang up on me until I said yes to receiving their material or she would get fired… I told her fine, I have a cell plan with unlimited minutes and a full battery. I had just turned my digital cable to the all Metal music channel and was about to put down the phone and walk away, when I heard a 2nd muffled voice come on the line and told her to drop the call. At which point she told me to “have a nice day” and hung up.

    Comment by Jason — July 19, 2006 @ 8:06 pm

    
    

78. I’ve been getting these calls for the last two months. Same story as everyone else’s. I’m in the Marine Corps and i think they mostly deal with these banks that the military offers for some reason. two of my friends got the same calls and offers. one of them hasn’t purchased andything in over a year because he’s been in Iraq and when he answered the phone they thanked him for a recent purchase using his checking account. he told them he better call his bank and see why something was purchased with his account. they then changed the story and said that it was because of him having a checking account for so long. it’s def a scam and be careful and if you research this after you made the mistake call your bank and close that account out and open another its quick and easy so thats your best bet. thanks to everyone that helpped and posted something.

    Comment by Rick — July 19, 2006 @ 9:07 pm

    
    

79. Same thing for me. 727-683-1126. I have never answered, but I’m glad I found all of this info on this site, so I can avoid them. Thanks.

    Comment by Brady — July 19, 2006 @ 9:10 pm

    
    

80. 503-426-3110
    This number came across my cell phone today. I google the number and it brought me here. Guess they are still out there scamming!!

    Comment by alan — July 20, 2006 @ 2:29 pm

    
    

81. OMG! They called me from 727 683 1124 and claimed the same things as above yesterday as I was walking to work! The claimed to have gotten my name from my bank and asked for my account info I told them I would not give it to them because just last week I got scammed by a company claiming to distribute grants to students which I fell for and now I am under investigation so I told her why do you need my account info to send me prizes! She too said she was in the shipping dept! And she actually started getting mad at me because I said no! I was like I would like to decline the offer and she is like well fine loose 500 dollars worth of gifts! I CANT BELIEVE THIS! How do they get our numbers?

    Comment by Claude — July 21, 2006 @ 12:05 pm

    
    

82. Got a call from 727-683-1126 today.. hmmm I had a bad connection so they hung up. They asked for Trish?? looks like I get to have some fun the next time they call :p

    JPS

    Comment by James — July 21, 2006 @ 1:41 pm

    
    

83. LISTEN UP PEOPLE!!! Dont believe anything these people say to u! The 727 numbers are a scam. The number they called me from was 727 683 1118. They asked me to varify my bank information and that i would be recieving free airline tickets and a bunch of vouchers totalling 400 dollars. Do not give out any info. My bank advised me to close my account before they take out any money because they could do so with just my routing number. i had to open a new account just because of this crap. I hope my information was useful to. Please be careful and dont give out any information over the phone!

    Comment by Trisha — July 21, 2006 @ 3:46 pm

    
    

84. Same story as alan– got a call from 503-426-3110 on my Do-Not-Call-listed cell phone today, and landed here via a Google search. Reported it at http://whocalled.us/lookup/5034263110 just in case it ever makes a difference.

    Comment by Eric Meyer — July 21, 2006 @ 5:28 pm

    
    

85. My mother got a call this morning from these people 727-683-1125…they didn’t know I had gotten married and hadn’t used my maiden name in years..This is what alerted her.They told her she could use the gas rewards if she was over 18 and had a bank account.THEY DON’T KNOW MY MOM..HEHE she will give them the run around and they won’t want to call her back..Glad I have a computer to check these things out!!!

    And I put us all on the NO CALL LIST!!

    https://www.donotcall.gov/default.aspx

    Comment by Jody — July 22, 2006 @ 12:14 pm

    
    

86. These people have been calling us for weeks and I’ve never picked up the call until this morning. God forbid, I actually slept in and woke up to these people calling my phone! Answered it in my sleep induced haze and was actually awake enough to hear the SCAM going on over the phone.727-683-1138, the woman was from Distinct Advantage and said I had a checking account in good standing. I told her that was nice to know and then she told me that she had $100 in gas vouchers for me if I could verify my checking account info. When I told her I don’t give that out over the phone she then tried to keep me on the line with some other lines and I just hung up on her. Then I went and checked the number and found this site. Thank you so much for this site. Now I can give all the info to my bank and let them know this is a scam as well.

    Comment by Jennifer — July 25, 2006 @ 10:13 am

    
    

87. Received call from 727-683-1126 where I work at a law firm! I didn’t answer and they left no message. Why aren’t these people being stopped. I have warned my family and we are also on the “no call” list.

    Comment by Jayne P — July 25, 2006 @ 1:17 pm

    
    

88. I’ve been getting calls in Boise, ID for days now! Over a week. Argh! At least 3 a day, sometimes more. I figured out real quick on the first call that it must be a scam with them asking for info I wouldn’t give my best friend! They keep calling but they hang up quick now. I see the 727 prefix and I just start saying, NO! Don’t call here again! etc. But they keep calling. Phone is registered as a do not call but I’ve been told that takes 30 days or so to kick in. Sheesh.

    Comment by Patrice — July 25, 2006 @ 9:43 pm

    
    

89. I just got this same call. What they are doing is asking where you opened your checking account and what bank you are with. Once they know this they can read you your Routing # in the hopes that you don’t know any better and will finish off the #s… which is your particular account #!
    HUGE SCAM!!! Never give out personal information!!

    Comment by Kelly — July 26, 2006 @ 3:19 pm

    
    

90. I am glad I saw this site, I was tempted to call it back on my phone. I dont answer my old number, which is the one that they keep calling on, I hope they dont decide to keep calling my new one, that would be annoying. I come home and see 3 missed calls pretty much every day saying 727-683-1126 over and over, its ANNOYING!! Can’t these people find real jobs???

    Comment by Christian — July 26, 2006 @ 7:31 pm

    
    

91. My story is exactly the same. I got several calls sometimes early in the morning waking me up. I also got very skeptical when asked for my account number. Little did they know my mother is a corporate manager for one of the biggest banks in the nation. She told me that anyone can get your routing number, and that thousands of people have the same routing number. They ask you what bank and where you opened the account. This is all they need to get your routing number. They are hoping that you are gullible enough to make you think that they already have your account number and that you just need to “verify” it. When they have it, they can start making unauthorized purchases. Any who I closed my account and opened a new one just to be safe. But anyway that is how they get your routing number. Just use good common sense.

    Comment by David — July 26, 2006 @ 10:37 pm

    
    

92. I kepp getting calls from 737-683-1138 claiming to be a travel place wantign to give me a free vacation. I have told them to take me off their list Im not interested and they still keep calling. I had recently signed up for a Publisher Clearing House entry online and have been bombed with all kinds of calls from Florida and Canada. Beware they are trying to get your Bank account info……DONT do it they are all scams!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You can go to donotcallregistry.com to list your # on a list to not be called anymore and it the persist after 30 days you can report them and file a complaint.

    Comment by Jennifer — July 27, 2006 @ 1:39 pm

    
    

93. 503-426-3110 is now a mortgage refinance automated message that has been calling my direct number at work. Yikes! I called the number back and the message said that you could enter you number into their “do not call” list but it makes me wonder if that isn’t just phishing for real numbers to create a list that they’ll sell to other scammers. Double Yikes!

    Comment by egbrode — July 27, 2006 @ 1:50 pm

    
    

94. These low life pieces of shit just called me. I’m usually pretty gullible but I’m learning quick, and fortunatly did not give out my info. You cant trust anybody!!! The quality of people in this world is going downhill fast!!

    Comment by jolene — July 27, 2006 @ 6:04 pm

    
    

95. I got a call from 503-426-3110. I have actually received several calls from them regarding my real estate. Unfortunately I do not own any real estate so I knew it was a fradulent call. Another annoying aspect is that they are calling my cell phone!!! so if anyone gets a call from this number, do not pick up! Do not waste your time or minutes.

    Comment by Daniel — July 27, 2006 @ 8:24 pm

    
    

96. I have been called by a company at 727 683 1138. They also claimed that I won a 100 dollar gas card. voucher etc. I feel this is a scam. please advise. Thanks!

    Comment by Robert Langdon — July 27, 2006 @ 9:06 pm

    
    

97. i got a call from 727-683-1124 they said the company was distinct advantage. it was very well rehersed so be careful.She told me that i won 100 in gas and airline voucher ect. they asked me who i bank with then gave me a set of numbers that were supposed to be on my check which were bogus thats where i caught them they expected me to give them my numbers to verify the correct ones. when i told them i dont have any checks she asked me if i have a credit card or anything with an account number that she could verify. i told her no and she hung up on me.

    Comment by Travis — July 28, 2006 @ 11:40 am

    
    

98. I get a call every day on my cell from 503-426-3110 and the like. I do not recognize the number, I do not answer. I check on these sites and then set the number id as “phone scam” on my cell. It makes it easier to decide to answer or not when you open the phone.

    We should all get out our stamps and actually write to our Congressmen and Senators. It is one little thing that is actually still noticed in D.C. Get the numbers together, say how much time and suffering from worry these people are causing and end the letter with the following lines.

    I feel terrorized in my own home. Please help.

    The war on terror needs to be fought at home as well as abroad. Al Quida can’t really get to be directly, but phone scammers threaten my peace of mind and hard earned money every time I answer an unknown call.

    Comment by David — July 28, 2006 @ 12:42 pm

    
    

99. I got 2 calls from these scums yesturday!! the first time they asked for me and i asked who was calling, he was pushy and asked for me again, i think said this is her daughter( meanwhile my daughter is 19 months), he said that wont work i need ur mother. and click the phone was dead. about 8 last night the phone rang again, she said i won $100 in free gas and $400 in airline tickets,i was like LOOK im NOT giving u my bank info.she was like i already have it, i said ok what is it then..she said i cant give u that info. shes like u have to verify it i said i have to tell u my info so u can verify if its me, if u have it u dont need me then do u.i said ur a scam u want me to tell u my info so u can steal my money..im not that stupid, i might have been born at night but not last night. she laughed, ” we’ve been in bussiness 35years is that from scamming people” i said i dont give a d**m how long u have been in business im not giving u any info. she said i won this because i have had good standing with my checking account..and this is sad but my 2 checking accounts are negative now due to a move and change of jobs, yet!!!! im in good standing..HAHAHAHAHAHA funny! then my husband called back the 1-800 number that she said about 50000 million miles a minute. and asked for a manager AND GUESS WHAT apparently the manager doesnt have a phone or a number….right!!!!!! my husband told him to go about his useless life stealing money, and told him to “have a nice day” and hung up. DO NOT GIVE THEM INFO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THEY ARE A SCAM, AND WATCH UR ACCOUNTS AND REPORT ANY FRAUD ACTIVITY. SCREW WITH THEM TOO ITS FUN…THEY GET PISSED..AND THERE IS ANOTHER PERSON ON THE PHONE WHEN THEY CALL, ” THE MANAGER I GUESS” BE CAREFUL….HOPE THIS SAVED SOMEONES ACCOUNT…

    Comment by Tiffany — August 2, 2006 @ 5:50 am

    
    

100. I just got a “missed call” on my cell phone with the 727-683-1126 number — it rang 1x and hung up. I don’t answer quick enuf I guess. I’ve had other calls from 727 numbers that I have found to be scams both on my cell and on my unlisted VoIP — thanks for both the internet and this site. I appreciate all the posts.

     Comment by Sharon — August 2, 2006 @ 11:39 am

     
     

101. Yeah these freakin cunt whores wont stop calling. They have been calling since we got this phone number a month ago and just hang up when i pick up. Can’t there be a harrasment case aginst them? They have called over 15 times and never once have they said anything, they just hang up. Can’t this be reported to the police or someone, i don’t know.

     Comment by Elise — August 2, 2006 @ 12:44 pm

     
     

102. These same people have been calling my home as well with their aggravating lies! Thanks to your site, people are being forewarned!!! I called the 727-683-1126 number and was connected to an automated service which offered me the choice of having my name and phone number removed from their database (choice # 3). My number is supposed to be removed from their system within 24 hrs - won’t THAT be great?! Will see if it happens… Planning to have LOADS of fun with them if they call again!

     Comment by Sheryl — August 3, 2006 @ 10:54 am

     
     

103. I just got a call from these fukkers this morning. I didn’t fall for his talk that “if the account number was secretive, the bank wouldn’t print it on your checks”. LOL - what a crock! Anyways, I notified my bank in case they have other customers who get scammed. I also tried calling back this number and someone actually answered, so if you need to contact them or just want to bitch them out, here you go…727-683-1138. Glad all this info was online so I could “verify” that this is a total scam.

     Comment by Jen — August 3, 2006 @ 11:04 am

     
     

104. I’ve been getting calls from 727-683-1126. They are showing up on my cell as “Data Calls”. Now, I don’t know what a data call is so I don’t answer them. On a whim, I decided to google the number this morning and found this VERY INFORMATIVE website. I deceided to call them back and get my number removed (which is legal). I got right thru to a human and she answered “Distinct Advantage this is so and so”. I immediately knew it was a scam so I told her my number and didn’t even give her a chance to give her pitch. I told her “I know this is a scam! I didn’t know how they got my number, but I want it removed from your list. Do you understand?” She replied “Yes” and then I hung up on her. I highly suggest that, unless you know someone in the 727 area code, DO NOT ANSWER THESE CALLS!

     Comment by Julie — August 3, 2006 @ 11:04 am

     
     

105. I received the same kind of call today and was asked to set up a password and give out my bank info. I didn’t give them and they hung up. So if anyone gets that call, NEVER EVER SPEAK TO THAT SCAM, JUST HANG UP.

     Comment by greenflower — August 3, 2006 @ 1:40 pm

     
     

106. I received a call today from 727-683-1138. Distinct Advantage.. Same crap pitch, free gas, travel etc. They had our address and wanted to confirm bank acct info. I told them to piss off and they hung up. Getting a call from these asswipes is a distinct disadvantage.

     Roy

     Comment by Roy — August 3, 2006 @ 1:53 pm

     
     

107. I got a call from 727-683-1138 today, and when the man on the other end said for having a checking account in good standing I had won $400 in gas cards, or whatever, and asked what bank I used, I told him “I don’t give my financial information over the phone.” he hung up.

     Comment by Greg — August 3, 2006 @ 2:23 pm

     
     

108. I received 2 calls from 727-683-1138 today. I missed them both, so I called back. When someone answered, they know I’m calling because she said “Hi Lisa!” I was like um hello. Same story as above. I had won some free vouchers for gas and airline tickets and they verified my address and said they have some of my bank info but will need me to verify my routing number. I first asked her, “Wait, I’d like to know why a message wasn’t left earlier when you called earlier and I didnt answer.” The stupid biitch replied with “ah hehe, um…i dont know i’m new here.” Then i said “ha, we’re all “new” aren’t we. Can you please ask your manager?” and she said, sure hold on. She put me on hold for about a minute, came back on and said, well my manager said it’s against company policy. And I said its against your company’s policy to make a business call and not leave messages?? Then I said, How much is your boss paying you to scam people? don’t you people have anything better to do? And she said wow lisa you’re being so nasty to me and it’s my first day here blah blah blah. I honestly do hope they’ll call me tomorrow so I can mess with the next idiot that tries to scam me. hahahehehoho.

     Comment by Lisa — August 3, 2006 @ 9:10 pm

     
     

109. I got yet another call from these idiots this morning (727) 683-1126. I’ve been on the do not call list for some time now, so I decided to file a complaint. I strongly urge all of you to register your phone numbers and start filing complaints so these people can get shut down.

     Comment by Julie — August 4, 2006 @ 11:27 am

     
     

110. The number 727 683 1119 has called my place of business (home office) 3 times a day for the past two weeks. I don’t answer it- I know it’s a scam. I returned the call to them and got immediately HUNG UP ON.

     Anyway- they’ve changed their number.

     Suggestion: Tell them to you have to take another call but call you back on your local SHERIFF’S phone number. See if that scares them.

     Comment by Carol — August 4, 2006 @ 7:45 pm

     
     

111. Ok, I had a bit of fun with the 727’s about a month and a half ago. Somehow they got ahold of my work cell phone # and I was getting about 20 calls a day! I tried to have it blocked, but the phone company couldn’t do it. I answered a few of them, they were calling as a collection agency on behalf of Levitz Furniture or some crap. Saying that my account was seriously delinquent, and they were needing payment commitments from me. I stumped them when I told him that I didn’t plan on paying. Why, he said. Oh, I just don’t feel like it. He got really upset. Had him going for 5 minutes at least. Told me he would be calling me the next day to set up a payment plan. I encouraged him to call as often as he likes, and that one of these times he may get lucky and I’ll give in. I NEVER got another call from them on that phone. Yesterday and today I got calls on my home line from the bastards. Hung up both times. Took twice to strike my memory. PLEASE BEWARE, but have some fun with them if you like.

     Comment by dani — August 4, 2006 @ 10:11 pm

     
     

112. I got a call on Friday (from # 727-683-1138) where they (Distinct Advantage) told me they were sending me a free gas card and were going to save me money on such and such. I played along until they started asking for bank account numbers, routing numbers for my checking account and so fourth. I told him I didnt have that stuff with me and he said that he would call me back another time when I might have that stuff available. He called me the next day (Saturday) but I did not answer the phone. I am going to call my bank and inform them of the situation.

     Comment by Mike J. — August 6, 2006 @ 2:41 pm

     
     

113. Wow…I can’t believe how big this is! I’ve been getting calls from these people for a week now, at least 2 times a day. Finally I answered a few nights ago and they asked for my husband, saying it was about his checking account. I had seen similar numbers on my ID the whole week, so I warned my husband about it. The guy started describing the prizes and such, and my husband told him he wasn’t stupid, and hung up. I thought it was over and done. Then I got a call one morning a couple days later from an almost identical number. I didn’t get to the phone in time (#727-683-1125). I got curious and looked up the phone number online - and found all sorts of information on the scamming. We just got a new phone number, so we haven’t been on the do not call list for 31 days yet - how annoying.

     Comment by Amanda — August 7, 2006 @ 12:13 pm

     
     

114. Today I recieved a phone call from 727-683-1126. The man “Jamall Stevenson” told me I won 100 dollars in gas and 400 dollars for a travel voucher. I played along knowing this was a scam, but the guy asked me to choose a password. He told me most people choose their favorite color as their password so I chose “blue” lol. Anyways, I hung up and had my mother call back. I’m too young to even have a checking account. My mother yelled at them saying how what they are doing is crazy and what not and how this a scam, and the guy said, “scam spam ham!” Haha wtf!? Anyways. Don’t give out your info it’s a scam.

     Comment by Melissa — August 7, 2006 @ 6:50 pm

     
     

115. I agree 727-683-1138 this guy called trying to talk to Steven my 1 year old son, when I told him who he was looking for and that I was his father “Can I help you with something” He slammed his phone down HARD before hanging up.

     Comment by Adam — August 7, 2006 @ 10:17 pm

     
     

116. These people have been calling me too..I don’t think anything is going to make them go away quick, seeing as its been going on for a couple months now, but I sent out an email to all my friends to remind them how easy it is to fall for scams like this! I think the best thing to fight people like this is to tell everyone you know to be on guard at all times and encourage people to put their numbers on the Do Not Call list! Contacting your bank does not hurt either - its their job to protect their customers!

     By the way, I’m from Michigan, and I’ve only had a checking acct for a few years now (I’m 20). Seeing as I just bounced 2 checks in the past week, I don’t see how my account is in “good standing” but hey- I guess they’ll try anything to get your money!

     BE CAREFUL!!!

     Comment by Laura — August 8, 2006 @ 10:06 am

     
     

117. Been getting calls from this number over the past few days at work, but they left no voicemail. And i couldnt answer the phone each time because i was with clients. I wanted to know who it was, so i looked up the number through google, to make sure it wasnt like a creditor or someone i didnt want to talk with lol. Found this page and saw all the posts. Called the number and got a “Fizora??” I think is what she said her name was, with Distinct Advantage. Told her I wanted to put my balls in their face. She just sat there, so i told her never to call my number again, and then she asked for my social so they could take me off their list. “HAHA” I said, and once again told her what i wanted to put in her face, and hung up. YAY, so much fun!!

     Comment by Joseph — August 8, 2006 @ 8:06 pm

     
     

118. I got two calls yesterday and one call today, which I anwered, from 727-683-1126. The man that was on the line said he was with Preferred Advatage (a new name it looks like). The first thing they asked was if I was over 18. Second, they wanted to confirm my address, the funny thing was they didn’t have the unit number of my townhouse. They told me that I was going to receive a $400 airline voucher and a $100 gasoline voucher, but they needed the name of my bank. I told them I don’t give out that information over the phone. I was then told that I give that information to strangers all of the time when I write a check. I stood fast and finally said that I was not interested and hung up. They called on my cell phone, a number I rarely give to anyone and that is on the No-Call-List. Please don’t fall for this time of scam.

     Comment by Mike — August 9, 2006 @ 12:39 pm

     
     

119. So just like everyone else the boogieman keeps calling me and wanting my info. I might have a very helpful discovery for everyone. The phone number and address that they had for me is my work info that I only submited once while signing up for one of those ever so alluring FREE LAPTOP websites, I decided I didn’t want to go through the hassle of signing up for all those programs and trial things you have to complete before you get your “FREE” item. SO DON’T EVER SIGN UP FOR THOSE!!! I hope this helps.

     Comment by NothingIsForFree — August 10, 2006 @ 7:03 pm

     
     

120. We are from Indiana, and rec’vd calls from 727-683-1124 , then went to vegas and got calls all hrs of the night. now back in Indiana we are still getting calls. Just googled and thought it was a telemarketer, but thanks for the warning..I worked at a bank for 10yrs..and calling for bank info is not ever done, we have everything we need on file already.

     Comment by kelly — August 12, 2006 @ 3:18 pm

     
     

121. HERE IS AN ACTUAL SCRIPT THEY USED OR STILL USE.

     When they call people they use this Script.

     *Agents Travel Network Script & Verification!!!!

     Hi, (Customers name)

     My name is __________ I’m a registered agent calling on behalf of *Agents Travel Network (or Travel Agents Direct which is what it’s called now)in regards to your bank account. As a valued customer we are going to send you $400.00 in American Airline Saving Vouchers and two free nights of hotel accomodations, just for accepting a 14 day free trial into our *Agents Travel Network program.

     * Note IT IS NOW CALLED TRAVEL AGENTS DIRECT

     This program will give you the same hospitality benefits usually only available to travel professionals, such as discounts of up to 50% on cruises, rental cars and airline tickets. You’ll also receive major discounts at thousands of resorts and hotels nationwide, including Hilton, Marriot and Radisson and you’ll save a ton of money on selected theme park tickets. Your membership will arrive with your own personalized Agents Travel Network (now TAD)identity card.

     After your 14 days, if you decide to keep it, it’s only $19.95 a month billed to your checking account, with a one time activation fee of only $40.00. If you decide to cancel, just call the 800 number in your package during your free trial period, you’ll never be billed, and there’s no further obligation, Either way you still keep the airline vouchers and your free hotel accomodations, as our way of saying thanks for looking over the program. So you can’t lose!

     Now we will be shipping your package to (Verify Address) is that correct?

     How does your name appear on your checking Account?

     If different from customers name: are they authorized signer on this account?

     What is the name of your bank?

     And you opened your account in (Customers City and State)

     Now we are going to pull up your information to confirm that everything is correct. Please Hold.

     (Obtain the nine digit ABA routing # from your manager)

     OK, (Customers Name) I’m going to verify your ABA routing number that’s on the bottom left hand corner of your check book. If you can follow along with me to make sure the numbers are correct. (Confirm ABA Routing Number with customer) Is that Correct?

     ** Now there will be a symbol after those numbers I just verified with you, please go ahead and verify the next set of numbers, which is your account number.

     Thank You!

     ** ASSUMING YOU GAVE THEM YOUR INFORMATION THEY THEN PREPARE TO RECORD THE CONVERSATION FOR BILLING PURPOSES. NOTICE ON THE RECORDING SCRIPT BELOW THAT THERE’S NO DATE SO YOU DON’T KNOW WHEN YOUR FREE TRAIL ENDS. THE ONLY DATE THEY RECORD IS THE DATE THEY CALLED YOU. ALL THE AGENT TELLS YOU IS THAT AFTER TWO WEEKS WHEN YOU RECIEVE THE PACKAGE IS WHEN YOU WILL BE BILLED IF YOU DON’T CALL TO CANCEL. PROBLEM HERE IS THAT YOU NOR SUNTASIA KNOW THE DATE YOU’LL GET THE PACKAGE EXACTLY B/C IT IS SHIPPED REGULAR MAIL. THIS IS SO THEY CAN CHARGE YOU AT ANYTIME IF THE PACKAGE EITHER NEVER ARRIVES OR GETS TO YOU LATER.

     Verification Must Be Read VERBATIM.

     Thanks for holding, the remaining portion of this call will be recorded OK??
     (Must get affirmative, YES, OK, OR CORRECT) I’m speaking with (customers Name) and todays date is __________.

     Now we will be shipping your package to (Customers Address) Is that correct? OK. Great ! And I’m showing your telephone number as (read customers telephone number back) For security purposes we need to attach a password to your file. What city were you born in ?

     And what is your email address? These will act as passwords whenever You contact us.

     How does your name appear on your checking account.

     If different from customer name:(Are you an authorized signer on this account?)

     What is the name, city & state of your bank?

     Now, please read your routing number back to me that starts with a 0,1,2 or 3. Now please read back to me the account nunmber that YOU PROVIDED. Ok great.

     After your 2 week free trial period, the program is just $19.95 a month with a one time activaction fee of $40.00 billed to the checking account YOU JUST PROVIDED to us. If you decide to cancel your membership, just call the 800-number in your package. Theirs no further obligation and the airline vouchers and hotel vouchers are yours to keep just for accepting the membership for the first 2 weeks. With your permission we’ll rush your Agents Travel Network card (Now TAD) and materials to you and your benefits will start immediately. OK?

     If funds are unavailable upon deposit after the free trial your bank may charge you a processing fee.

     Now, (Customers name), you qualify for 2 additional packages

     !!AGENTS TRAVEL NETWORK —> FLORIDA PASSPORT UPSELL!!! (Changed to Floridaway)

     As a new VIP member The Florida Passport (FloridaWay) would like to sponsor your first travel agent fam trip. Its called the Fun in the Sun Dream Escape, you’ll receive 6 days 5 nights of hotel accomodations in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. You will receive this on a 7 day free review basis. This fam trip is subject to blackout dates of Christmas, New Years & Special Events. These vacations are fully transferable and will be sent to you with a travel date of 1 year from today, which can be changed at no additional charge. This vacation package comes to you risk free for 7 days. If, during your free review period, you do not call to cancel,the promotional fee of only
     One Hundred Forty-Nine Dollars will be applied to the checking account we have just verified with You. OK? Great. (Must Get an Affirmative, Yes, Ok, or Correct)

     !!!Teliflex Communications UpSell!!! (Changed to Prism Communications)

     As a Special Bonus you will also receive a free 21 day trial of unlimited long distance with voice mail from Teliflex communications (Now Prism). This has nothing to do with your home phone its in the form of a calling card and comes with a pin number. You can use this service from any touch tone phone at your home or office and call anyone, anytime, anywhere, coast-to-coast and talk as long as you want, free for 21 days. If after your free trial you decide to continue its only $49.95 a month billed to the checking account used today and thereafter, but keep in mind you are under no obligation to continue. If You feel its not for you simply call the customer service number within the free trial period and you will never be billed… its that simple… So with your permission under the terms described your billing information will be transferred to TELILEX Communications (Prism) and they’ll send out your free trail in the mail. OKAY?? (must get an affirmative)

     *** Thank you for your time and have a good day/night.

     *** Note You are told to hang up immediately and not engage in any other conversations with the customer b/c he or she might end up asking too many questions.

     END OF SCRIPT..

     Notice a few things on this script. I capitalized some words purposely b/c it lets you know how they get away with charging you. The words are “Now read back to me the account YOU PROVIDED” or “. . .billed to the checking account YOU JUST PROVIDED”. This places YOU responsible NOT them for giving out your information in order for them to have the right to bill you.

     Another thing that sticks out is they tell you to call an 800 number that’s on your package to cancel the travel program but on the second package (Florida Passport or Way) they just say to call and cancel. On the last package (Teleflex or Prism) they say to call customer service # to cancel. Why? Because the truth is that they have 3 different numbers for you to call if you want to cancel everything. The agents are told NOT to give this information out to the customer in fear that they may cancel on the recording. They are also not allowed to give out the customer service number b/c many of them cancel everything on the same day.

     When the customer starts asking questions like, “Do I have to call 3 different numbers to cancel everything?” The agents are told to say, “if you have any questions or problems just call the customer service number on your package and they will handle everything”. The customer might ask what is that number and the agent will say, “it will be on your package the day you get it”. The truth is that any numbers that the customer sees on the packages or gets from the agent themselves ALL lead to the same place Suntasia Marketing customer service department. When you call they tell you in order to cancel the other two packages you must call these numbers. Again it ALL leads back to the same place. They do this to frustrate you enough so you get tired of trying to cancel thus buying enough time to be billed later.

     As for the travel discount card and the 21 day trial calling card, if you don’t send back the travel card you’ll get billed. The calling card has to be de-activated, by you writing a letter to them to do so, otherwise you’ll get billed. Another thing is even if you liked using the calling card (most of us have cell phones so there’s no need for this unless you are that dumb to pay $49.95 a month for long distance), the pin number often doesn’t work at all and you constantly have to call in to customer service to either get it fixed or get another pin number.

     Some have posted here that they were told by the agent they needed to confirm your bank account number b/c the shipping & handling fee is $1.95 and we need your number so we can debit your account. THIS IS A BIG FAT LIE!! IT’S ALL A TRICK!! There is no $1.95 b/c Suntasia ships out the packages (if they ever REALLY do) through regular mail and they pay for that. Of course once they bill you then they make that money back and much more. This is why the agents are told to add the other two packages (FloridaWay which is a timeshare and the calling card) b/c that is where their profit is made. The $19.95 travel card just covers cost of the regular expenses (lights, security etc) in the company.

     Hopefully this will bring you more insight on how these crooks work. I also know what rebuttals they use in case the customer has any objections to the products they sell. I will post those in the near future.

     Comment by Joe — August 12, 2006 @ 6:01 pm

     
     

122. HERE’S HOW IT’S DONE AD DETAILED INFORMATION ON THESE CLOWNS!!

     To begin with Suntasia Marketing is located on 8751 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33771 and their corporate website is http://www.suntasia.com .

     Bryon Wolf is President and CEO, Michael Berndgen is the Chief Financial Officer and Roy Eliasson is the Vice President of Management Information Systems.

     There are about 8 rooms total that hold about 24 agents in each. Six of those rooms are outbound (an automatic dialer that calls you), the other 2 rooms are for inbound calls (people who call in and are curious about who called them or maybe have a complaint). There is also one big room for customer service only, where they are suppose to handle the cancellations or any other concerns from customers like being billed without receiving the product. Any phone numbers the agent gives you for their products they’re selling (Travel Agents Go Direct, Floridaway, Prism Communications, Distinct Advantage, Freedom Gold etc), ALL lead to the same place, SUNTASIA MARKETING in Largo.

     Your name, address and phone number are obtained through a third party company that they purchase it from. The third party company gets their information by the products you buy, or any other transactions you do that contains your personal information. They DO NOT and are NOT allowed to have or sell your SS#, DOB etc. Once the information is bought by companies like Suntasia, it is put into their dialer system to call you. The dialer clearly labels the list of names that are brand new leads and also how many times that specific list has been called. Unfortunately, this information is only seen by the manager of the room. He or she has access to it from the bridge (the big, high desk overseeing the agents when you enter the room).

     Vericheck is a software system connecting them to all the banks nationwide that confirm whether you have an open checking account or not. Grocery stores, retail stores all use them to scan your checks to make sure your account is legit.

     The only information the agent has on their computer at the time when they call is your name, address and telephone number. That’s it. After they give you their mumbo jumbo script about how you qualified and the “free” gifts (gas, airline vouchers etc) you’ll be receiving, they tell you it’s a reward for maintaining an active checking and ONLY active checking account holders qualify. They ask you for your bank name and the city you opened it in. The reason is b/c they can obtain your routing number through what else? That’s right Vericheck! It is only then that many are fooled to believe that the agent has your account number as well. The excuse the agent uses is, “we need you to verify the number to make sure it’s you”, but when you call their bluff they either hang up or put a manager on the phone to push for the sale and get the account. Their tactics are slick even downright insulting.

     They usually say that you made a purchase through one of their 400, 1000, 1700 affiliates (pick a number yourself) and that is how your name was entered into their system for this special promotion. ALL A BIG LIE! Like I said before, they bought the names and numbers from another company for anywhere from .20 cents to up to .60 cents per name. Oh and by the way this same information that can be sold to another company by the people who bought them in the first place.

     If you make them mad the agent can recycle your name back into the system. B9 is the code for DNC (Do Not Call List) on their system but unfortunately many times it is not used b/c they want to get back at you. The only way to get these people off your phone is by sending them a CEASE and DESIST letter to their corporate address. Donald Booth is their lawyer and the letter should be addressed to him. When they call again ask them for their FULL name and let them know they need to code your phone call as a B9, Do Not Call, after you hang up with them.

     This company was raided by the feds a couple of years ago. They were there to look at what the agents were saying over the phone with their scripts. This is why management watches the agents to make sure they are not using any other scripts but their own. Sadly many managers turn a blind eye when their top sellers re-word the script to their own liking just to make a sale. I have one of those scripts that are used.

     If you visit other sites (click below) and type in the search “Suntasia Marketing” you will see there are many, many people out there ticked off just like you.

     http://ripoffreport.com/search.asp

     http://scam.com

     http://www.stopjunkcalls.com (click on message board)

     http://www.google.com (type Suntasia)

     Thank God I don’t work there anymore.

     Comment by Joe — August 12, 2006 @ 6:16 pm

     
     

123. NOW, ARE YOU READY FOR THE GOOD NEWS? HERE IT IS!

     SUNTASIA MARKETING SCAM IS EXPOSED BY A LOCAL TV NEWS STATION!

     The media has started picking up the story on Suntasia Marketing and it’s crooked enterprise. The following link is from KOMO news in Seattle, Washington. Please click on the link below. It has vital information on how to report these guys and the investigation that is on going. It’s a REAL encouraging story and the people who have had enough with this company.

     http://komotv.com/buyerbeware/story.asp?ID=44298

     If everyone raises their voices just a little bit these guys can be run out of town.

     Comment by Joe — August 12, 2006 @ 6:29 pm

     
     

124. 727 683-1138. Received this twice on my cell. Will be deleting all 727 calls now after reviewing the post here. And Thanks!

     Comment by Delete — August 13, 2006 @ 4:43 pm

     
     

125. I got the exact same call as the rest of you, but like a dumb ass I finally gave in. I did’nt think any thing of it until last month when I saw that I have been getting charged 19.95 a month for the last 10 months. When I called my bank they told me that they are well aware of this scam and refunded the last 3 months of my money. I called the company and they played the recorded call of me, only the problem was that it was completly chopped up. these sons of bitches have been printing cheques with my name on them for 10 months and there is no shit I can do about it.

     Comment by matt — August 16, 2006 @ 6:18 pm

     
     

126. Contact your State Attorney General’s office and then file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. It is NOT uncommon for people like yourself to be debited money from your checking account unknowingly for months by this company.

     When I first started working there I remember managers bragging and joking about how dumb people were that they didn’t check their bank accounts for months sometimes even years not aware that the $19.95 was being taken out. This is why they tell their unsuspecting customer over the phone that they have over 30,000 active clients. The truth is the word should be 30,000 “unaware” clients.

     Funny thing is they also tell the customer they’ve been in business for 10, 20 or even 35 years (pick a number) which should be a big red flag when you consider they only have 30,000 “clients”.

     Anyway it is sad to read the posts of people who have been scammed by these jerks. This is why Suntasia is being investigated by the Florida Attorney General. The media as well has started exposing these crooks. If you haven’t seen the news story on KOMO Channel 4 in Seattle, Washington just click on the link below.

     http://komotv.com/buyerbeware/story.asp?ID=44298

     Hopefully with enough voices these guys can be shut down for good.

     Comment by Joe — August 16, 2006 @ 11:31 pm

     
     

127. I did a google search on this number and it directed me to this page. I live in Indiana and these people have been calling my cell phone twice a day for the past 3 days. They told me that I won free gas and to look out for it in the mail in the next 2 days and then they asked for my bank name and checking account number. Whoever I was talking to was blasting rap music in the background and speaking in a very unprofessional way. I asked her “What is this for” and she yelled “FREE GAS I TOLD YOU!” so I hung up. I have already reported this to my bank even though I did not give out any information.

     Comment by Meredith — August 17, 2006 @ 6:51 pm

     
     

128. Well, at least I’m not alone. I didn’t give them my full account number, but I still feel stupid. I’ve sent out an email to my friends, family and co-workers. I hope they all heed the warning and warn others. Thank you for this website, without it I probably would’ve thought I had missed out on some great deal! LOL

     Comment by Zena — August 18, 2006 @ 2:37 pm

     
     

129. The worst thing you can do is actually believe these people. It sounds to good to be true. Trust me, as a former employee of the Better Business Bureau, I still was caught in the middle of this massive scam and not even aware of it. Please do not, I repeat DO NOT trust any one that says they need your credit card information over the phone while stating that YOU HAVE WON some kind of prize, gift, $$$, vacation. They contacted YOU first for a reason. They talk fast, seem pleasant, and they leave you with a “rewarding promise”, but it is all a SCAM!!!
     Total charges cost me over $300 in one month! Fortunately, for myself I am in the midst of recovering my loss.

     I am in the mi

     Comment by Gabi — August 18, 2006 @ 5:12 pm

     
     

130. i just received a phone call from 727 683 1125 and some lady tried to get me to fork over my banking account number. i told her i dont have a check book, i dont have a banking statement, and played very young, which i am since im 18. while she was keeping me on the phone and trying to convince me i informed that i had been a telemarketer for nearly four months and knew all her tricks and that id google searched ‘distinct advantage’ and this website came up. anyways, these people are still out there, so be aware. i don’t think i gave them any info they can use to scam me.

     Comment by paige — August 18, 2006 @ 10:01 pm

     
     

131. Isn’t the internet a great thing when used properly!? These guys (Suntasia Marketing) have been doing this scam since the late 90’s when they started out in Treasure Island then St. Petersburg and now Largo, Florida.

     If you want to know who runs this company, just click below and you’ll see the pics of the corporate suits.

     http://suntasia.com/officers.htm

     Suntasia Marketing is located on 8751 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33771. Telephone: (727) 471-0276

     Travel Agents Go Direct, Floridaway, Prism Communications, Distinct Advantage, Freedom Gold as well as other prior travel names are ALL or were promoted by SUNTASIA MARKETING in Largo.

     Nothing surprises me any more with this company. They are certainly getting lots of attention from people, state attorney generals and the media. Sooner or later something has to give. Click below.

     http://www.komotv.com/buyerbeware/story.asp?ID=44298

     The reason you hear music blasted in the background is b/c they want to keep the agents ALERT on the phones. It is easy to sit there becoming complacent and not have any sales for the day. They ONLY get two 15 minute breaks for the whole shift. This includes lunch as well. Also some agents REALLY have no phone skills whatsoever even though they get trained somewhat and thus will be rude at times especially if you don’t comply with what they want or they’re struggling to get a sale.

     The agents prey on gaining your trust and making you think their “free” vacation or gas vouchers is a once in a lifetime deal. Forget it! In times of high gas prices and over worked families it is easy to fall for their “pitch”.

     I have posted the script that they use on customers (just look at the posts above under my name) and how easy it is to obtain your bank information. As long as you don’t tell them anything, for example: what is the name of your bank and where did you open it at, then you’re safe. If you did, call your bank and inform them to close your account then open up a new one. This way they can’t take anything out. Banks are becoming increasingly aware of these crooks.

     If you visit other sites (click below) and type in the search box “Suntasia Marketing” you will see there are many, many people out there ticked off just like you.

     http://ripoffreport.com/default.asp

     http://scam.com (click on Hotel Scams link)

     http://www.stopjunkcalls.com/ (click on message board)

     http://www.google.com (type Suntasia)

     If you’ve been ripped off by this company, I suggest you contact your State Attorney Generals Office.

     IN FLORIDA THE ATTORNEY GENERAL NEW FRAUD HOTLINE 1-866-9-NOSCAM (1-866-966-7226).

     They have been caught by the government before with deception. Here is the link.

     http://myfloridalegal.com/__852562220065EE67.nsf/0/04AF34D09D8589468525687F005ED098?Open&Highlight=0,ftn

     Also contact the better business bureau and file a complaint with them. Click on their website below. It will link you to the Suntasia page.

     http://www.bbbwestflorida.org/commonreport.html?bid=11002452

     Finally if you’ve been getting numerous phone calls from this company and you don’t want anymore, send them a neat, professional looking, certified CEASE and DESIST letter to their corporate offices made out to Donald Booth their legal eagle there.

     It is time to get up and do something otherwise these crooks will keep taking your money.

     Comment by Joe — August 19, 2006 @ 12:37 pm

     
     

132. Someone from a 727 number called me quite some time ago and I don’t remember what they wanted cuz I was at work and it was a very stressful time. I think I might have accidentally given them my account info. I don’t remember what happened! But they’re calling again but this time they’re not speaking so I did a search on the number and this is what I got. I think I messed up…Damn my bad memory!

     Comment by Bebe — August 19, 2006 @ 1:18 pm

     
     

133. Company doing Distinct Advantage is based in Largo, Florida. They reside in the business of Suntasia Marketing. They train employees to target impulse buyers and to tell people what to do. They make people feel comfortable before they place you on a recorded line. The recorded line is only there to protect them from being accused of false promises. They feed you the false promises that you will not be charged until 2 weeks when you receive your mail from Distinct Advantage and Teliflex, and 7 days after your Freedom Gold credit card.

     If you guys are really interested in taking the company down then contact a high profile lawyer and tell him you would like to start a class action lawsuit. Find out if others in your town have been burnt on the scam by writing to your local newspaper and other forms of media.

     Comment by Jeff — August 19, 2006 @ 8:16 pm

     
     

134. Well I guess I’ll jump on the band wagon and say I’m a sucker too. I just finally got the package and it’s convienently past the cancelation date and the charge is made to my account. I read a bunch of people got there money back either from the bank or the company. I dont understand how I can do this since they have me recorded agreeing to it. Even though they coarsed me to and made me think that they already had my info… that I was just verifing all of it… but none of that is on the recording. It just all happened so quickly and after I did it I realized it wasnt right so I called right back and said I wanted to cancle and they told me that since I went throught the recorded confirmation process that there was nothing that they could do I would just have to wait till I got the package. So can anyone help me… Besides telling me what an idiot I am and to not give my info out. HELP PLEASE!!!!

     Comment by Tracy — August 20, 2006 @ 9:12 am

     
     

135. I would like to start off by saying to you that I DON’T think you’re an idiot at all and will not say that either. The last thing you need now is to be chastised for an honest mistake. I know how easily a person can be duped due to the slick “wording” the agents use in their scripts. The REAL idiots are these crooks Suntasia Marketing who think they can get away with it but with the power of the internet, the media exposing them and people in general banning together to stop this fraud, WE WILL shut them down.

     The first step you need to take is immediately talk to your bank b/c by law you have sixty days to dispute a charge. Banks are very well aware of these scam artists and can help or work with you to recover the money but you can’t stay sitting at home waiting. The more time that passes the less rights you have to recover any money owed.

     TELL THEM IMMEDIATELY BEFORE ANYMORE CHARGES ARE DEBITED. YOUR BANK WILL CLOSE YOUR ACCOUNT AND OPEN UP A NEW ONE.

     Many people were charge for months and the bank was able to refund the last few charges that were made by “SCAM-TASIA”. Don’t go by what the recording said b/c there is no SPECIFIC date when your so called “free” trial ends. Let your bank know this or give them a link to this site so they can see for themselves.

     Next, write them a certified CEASE and DESIST letter to their lawyer Donald Booth at the corporate address which is:

     Suntasia Marketing
     8751 Ulmerton Road,
     Largo, FL 33771

     Telephone: (727) 471-0276

     Let him know that you either didn’t get the package or it arrived late and you want a FULL refund b/c you never had a chance for the “free” trial. Also THAT you are NOT interested in anything at all they have to offer other than a refund b/c of the fact that the agents mis-represented themselves totally.

     You can go to your local post office (if you did received their package) to find out what date it was sent. It should be post marked. Let Mr. Booth know this information and also notify him that if he doesn’t comply with your request for the FULL refund you will seek legal action against his company as well as contacting your local media. Trust me they’ve been exposed alot lately and this is the last thing he needs to hear.

     Third, if for any reason you don’t get a respond DO contact your local tv news station. Most news channels in your area have a consumer complaint tip hotline. Go on the net and log on to their site. I know this would be a “juicy” story for them to report on if you don’t get your money back.

     Finally, I suggest you file a complaint with your state attorney generals office letting them know the situation. The more people get involved the better off we will ALL be.

     Comment by Joe — August 20, 2006 @ 4:35 pm

     
     

136. I got a call from 727-683-1119. They wanted my banking information. The guy was saying I won $100 of free gas cards and $400 or $500 towards airline tickets. And alls he needed was to verify my banking information. He already has my routing number but wanted my account number. When I refused to give it to him he starting arguing with me and keep saying they couldn’t do anything with my account. I ended up hanging up on him. Is reporting this going to help?

     Comment by Brandy — August 22, 2006 @ 10:28 am

     
     

137. I’ve received a ton of calls, usually 2 a day everyday this week, from 727-683-1126. I thought it might be a friend from the Clearwater/Tampa area in Florida. But everytime I picked up, no one was there- no background noises or anything either. So now I’m about to report it and block the number. I was trying to look it up in whitepages.com but found no address or name. I then decided to just enter it into google and found this site. I’m so glad I did that. Not that I would’ve given any info about myself or anything but now I know for sure it’s nobody I know and that it’s some sick scammers. Maybe I’ll just block all these numbers listed on this site too because obviously they have my number so they could just call from a different line. Its’ so annoying!

     Comment by Liz — August 22, 2006 @ 7:20 pm

     
     

138. My suggestion is to send them a simple certified CEASE AND DESIST letter stating that you DO NOT want to be involved with their company in any capacity whatsoever. You are not to receive anymore of their useless promotions either by fax, email, postal mail, cell phone, land line, telegram, telegraph or pony express. Make it clear in the letter that you are not to be solicited any more and they are to put you on the DO NOT CALL LIST and if they don’t it is a violation of your rights and it will cost them a heavy fine. The letter should be addressed to their lawyer Donald Booth.

     The Corporate address is:

     Suntasia Marketing
     8751 Ulmerton Road,
     Largo, FL 33771

     Telephone: (727) 471-0276

     Finally if everyone contacted the media to further expose these crooks then they would be boxed into a corner and monitored a lot better by the authorities. All you have to do is go to Google and type in the search area “list of tv stations in (insert city or state where you live here). Then go to the website and click on the links of the tv stations and write to them about these scam artists. You can refer them to w