New Spectrum Scam Targets Customers With Fake Discount Threat

I just came very close to falling for a scam. Shame on me. I pride myself on being pretty vigilant about such matters, but the message left on my phone seemed legitimate, and here's why.

Phone Scam Targets Spectrum Customers

I got a good deal on Spectrum services a little more than a year ago, and earlier today, a message was left on my voicemail that almost fooled me. Here's what it said...

The number, 586-257-0478, was an immediate red flag; I have Spectrum's number saved in my phone. Also, the number was identified as coming from Mount Clemens, Michigan. But, as you can see, the message mentioned a discount, and I got one last year. Anyway, I called Spectrum and reported it to them. The woman I spoke to sounded like she'd been fielding calls like this all day. Her tone made me laugh.

News10-NBC in Rochester, New York, recently shared the story of viewer Ed Laughlin, who had gotten a similar call from "Spectrum," except that his message was much more formal. The incoming number had a Vermont area code on it. Now, I realize that when you call Spectrum and speak to a representative, they can be anywhere. But the number is always the same.

What to Do If You Receive a Scam Call

Spectrum released a statement that somewhat mirrored what the lady on my phone call told me. In it, Spectrum indicates that they will never call customers, threatening to remove a discount.

When this happens, it's recommended that we notify the FTC and the Better Business Bureau. It's also not a bad idea to add your number to the Do Not Call Registry. (I should take my advice, shouldn't I?)