Posted at 1:12 a.m., Wednesday, February 28, 2007
BBB warns senior citizens of potential annuity scam
Advertiser Staff
The Better Business Bureau is warning senior citizens to be aware of a possible scam circulating Hawai'i.According to a BBB news release, an organization called the Annuity Service Center/ Investors Union LLC is creating confusion and stress for local senior citizens in Hawai'i with a post card stating, "This notice is to inform you that you may have an annuity that has reached the end of its surrender period."
The hope is that the recipient will return the postcard with the requested information filled out or call the company direct and provide personal financial information.
The postcard campaign appears to be a lead generating tool for the company.
The Better Business Bureau of Akron Ohio area, where the company is headquartered, has an unsatisfactory report with the Bureau due to a pattern of complaints, questionable solicitation practices, and failure to correct the underlying reason for the complaints.
The report also includes several government actions in Ohio, Utah, Kansas, Missouri, Delaware, and Illinois.
Consumers who want to inquire further about this company or file a complaint may contact the Better Business Bureau of Akron Ohio direct at www.akron.bbb.org 719-636-5076 or fax 729-636-5078
Consumers can call the 808-536-8609 or toll free from the Neighbor Island at 1-88-333-1593 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to report scams.