From the Florida Attorney General:
Small businesses all over the country are receiving solicitations that appear to be invoices from the local Yellow Page Directory. The invoices are usually being sent by out-of-state companies that publish a directory with a limited number of businesses and limited availability. Many directories do not get published. Before you pay an invoice for a Yellow Page Directory advertisement, familiarize yourself with the following:
Why are the invoices confusing?
Most invoices contain the popular “walking fingers” logo and the name “Yellow Pages.” They will often include the consumer’s phone number, an account representative’s name, and a request to fix any incorrect information. This is a deceptive technique used to trick the consumer into thinking there is an established relationship. “THIS IS NOT A BILL” may appear on the invoice, but returning it may commit the consumer to a future bill. Read the invoice carefully, including the terms and conditions.
Please note courts have ruled that any business can use the logo and the “Yellow Pages” term.
ABC News, Denver Reports:
FORT COLLINS, Colo. – A Fort Collins church and the Better Business Bureau are warning people about a bogus billing scam where people are threatened to pay an overdue invoice.
An ominous fax grabbed the attention of the staff at Harmony Presbyterian Church…