Verizon Wireless Warns of Unauthorized Phone Offer

BEDMINSTER, NJ — Verizon Wireless has notified authorities of a telephone scam offering "free phones and service" involving one or more individuals falsely claiming to represent Verizon Wireless in calls to prospective customers.

The scam involves an offer of a free wireless phone and service for $3.95, the purported cost of shipping and handling, in exchange for victims' checking account and bank routing number information, based on information gathered by the company.

The false offer and unauthorized use of the company's name came to the attention of Verizon Wireless recently when several victims called Verizon Wireless to inquire about the status of their "orders."

Anyone calling Verizon Wireless to report such an incident has been informed this is not a legitimate offer and directed to notify local law enforcement authorities. Callers also have been advised to contact their banking institution and credit bureau.

Verizon Wireless advises that it has not offered free phones and service as part of a promotional or telemarketing campaign. Anyone who receives a call from a Verizon Wireless agent who wishes to confirm the terms of any offer may do so by calling 800-2 JOIN IN, or may check current service offerings and promotions online at www.verizonwireless.com.  

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless is the nation's leading provider of wireless communications. The company has the largest nationwide wireless voice and data network and 39 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com. To receive broadcast-quality video footage of Verizon Wireless operations, log onto www.thenewsmarket.com/verizonwireless.

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