This scam has been going on for well over two decades, but a telephone version of it seems to be gaining in frequency lately. Like the mail solicitation, the phone scammer purports to be "from your magazine company" or "an agency authorized by your magazines".

The call usually starts by the scammer solicitously asking whether you are enjoying your subscriptions or having any delivery problems Then comes the pitch for renewal or an offer for new subscriptions to other magazines because of "your good customer loyalty." These subscriptions are generally at inflated prices, often disguised by "bundling" or quoting a per issue or per month price.

While you may or may not actually get the magazines you renew/order, you will pay more than you need to and expose your credit card number to a potential thief. Don't do it.

Either renew through your magazine or look for possible savings on sites like MagazinePriceSearch.com which will refer you to honest subscription agencies, often offering a discount.