Have you recently received an unsolicited call from 713-696-5500 asking for donations? You’re not alone. This dubious number has been relentlessly targeting people posing as a charity to try and solicit donations. But before you consider contributing, beware – this is very likely a scam call that you should avoid.
This concerning caller has been actively phoning folks for years trying to wheedle money out of kindhearted people. But multiple online comments and reports strongly indicate it is not actually a legitimate charity despite its claims. So why does this number keep calling and how can you protect yourself?
A History of Harassment
+1713-696-5500 first started cropping up on people’s phones over a decade ago. Since then it has earned a widespread reputation as a nuisance scam caller. This number has weathered numerous user complaints, do not call requests, and even blocks, yet still continues to pester people.
Over the years the dubious operation has posed as various charities like veterans groups, medical research, and police foundations. But currently it primarily claims to collect used clothing and household donations.
Callers typically say they will come pick up the goods. But users report the organization sells off anything collected rather than donating it as promised.
So while the scam rotates its story, the goal remains the same – try to wheedle money or personal information from recipients. Even if you never contribute, they can sell your contact data.
Phone Number: | (713) 696 5500 |
Location: | Houston, TX |
Caller Type: | Scam Charity Caller |
Call Transcript: | “Hello, this is Adeline with charity closing pickup. We are going to have a truck in your area next week, it will be picking up used clothing and household items. If you would like to donate please call us back at 713 696 5500 to schedule your home pick up thank you bye.” |
Call Times Reported: | All hours, including late evenings |
User Complaints: | Persistent calls ignoring do not call requests, scamming donations, selling donated items instead of donating |
More Details: | Active for over 10 years, poses as various charities and requests used clothing/household item donations but sells anything collected; relentless nuisance caller that continues to call people despite blocks and complaints |
Fighting Back Against Fraudsters
It’s understandable why folks would be tempted to donate to seemingly worthy causes like veterans associations or cancer research. The scammers behind it count on kindhearted people wanting to help.
But legitimate charities do not cold call relentlessly hounding for donations while ignoring do not call lists. Nor do they switch between causes attempting to find a narrative that resonates.
So how can you protect yourself from this underhanded caller?
1. Avoid Engaging
The simplest solution is to not engage at all. Don’t answer calls from any number you don’t recognize, especially 713 696 5500. This gives scammers no opportunity to try and manipulate you.
2. Block Early and Often
Be proactive about blocking suspicious callers before they can hound you. Both wireless providers and third party apps offer blocking. If a number gets through, instantly block it post-call.
3. Beware High Pressure Tactics
Scammers often use emotional pleas, time pressure, or fake prizes to get what they want. Know these are red flags of a scam. Legitimate fundraisers don’t resort to manipulation.
4. Double Check Charities
If you do wish to donate, independently research any charity that contacts you. Verify they are registered and check reviews to confirm they use funds appropriately. Never give just based on a call.
The Last Word on (713) 696-5500
In summary, the phone call appears to be a relentless scam charity caller that has been pestering folks for years. Their tactics may switch but the goal remains procuring money and data under false pretenses.
Protect yourself by screening unknown calls, immediately blocking suspicious numbers, and double checking any charity that contacts you. With smart precautions, you can avoid becoming another target of shady callers like +17136965500.