The Better Business Bureau has learned of a scam involving a company called Western Renewal Service, a magazine subscription company supposedly located in Albuquerque, N.M. The scam has been reported by at least one consumer in Colorado.Consumers allege that company representatives call stating that the potential victim has signed up for a magazine subscription, when in fact they have not. Western Renewal Service uses several scenarios when speaking to consumers, but the goal of the phone call remains the same: to obtain personal information and a verbal authorization to charge the consumer’s credit card. Several consumers have reported that Western Renewal Service already had their credit card number when calling. They negotiate with consumers to establish a monthly fee ranging from $39.90 to $49.90 per month. This brings the total cost of the 30-month subscription to about $1,500.Western Renewal Service uses the address 6565 Americas Parkway NE, Suite 200 in Albuquerque. This location is a virtual office and the actual physical location of the company is currently unknown. The company uses various names and phone numbers when calling consumers. These names and phone numbers are linked to negative reports with other Better Business bureaus.The BBB is urging consumers to avoid contact with company representatives of Western Renewal Service. If the company states they have the consumer’s credit card information, consumers should immediately notify their credit card company that their card number has been compromised. Consumers should never give personal information, such as credit card number or date of birth, to anyone that contacts them over the phone.
