What is a "sucker list"?

Within the legitimate marketing world, a "sucker list" is a directory of people believed to be susceptible to telemarketing and other sales approaches. People on these list are also called "opportunity seekers" because they have previously replied to an offer or promotion sent to them. A "sucker list" might contain your home address, work, home and mobile telephone details as well as your e-mail address.

But "sucker lists" often make their way into the hands of conmen and fraudsters who bombard their victims with unsolicited calls and e-mails offering fake lottery wins, bogus investment plans and work-from-home schemes. Rarely do such offers ever deliver the riches first promised.

How might my name appear on one?

Your name might appear on a "sucker list" list if you have ever replied to an offer or promotion sent to you. Alternatively, it is becasue you have registered your details on a dubious website or failed to tick the box requesting that your contact details are not sold. Sometimes 0800 and other freephone numbers record your contact details using Automatic Number Identification technology. This information is then sold to marketing companies.

How can I prevent my name being added to a "sucker list"?

The simple answer is never give your details to any company, whatever they are offering, unless you are sure they can be trusted, or without reading their privacy policy statement.

When you are completing an application form most legitimate companies will give you the chance to tick a privacy box requesting that your details are not sold or shared with any other companies. Usually this option will appear in the small print towards the end of the document. It is also worth asking how your details are being protected from unauthorised access.

You should also avoid calling 0800 and other freephone numbers unless you already have a relationship with the company.

What should I do someone is trying to scam me?

If you suspect that someone is trying to scam you, take as many of their details as possible and report them to the either the Office of Fair Trading (0845 7 22 44 99), your local Trading Standards, the Financial Service Authority (0845 606 1234) or your local police. If you discover a scam, it is always worth telling your friends and family so they do not fall victim to it.

If you are continually harassed by callers offering you free holidays, dubious investment schemes or lottery payouts, it might be worth changing your telephone numbers.

Where can I find more information?

For more information visit Times Online’s consumer affairs section or visit the Office of Fair trading's website.