This came from "PROLIFE NEW" and a very nice woman asked me if I was for or against Life, and if I would donate between $75 to $100 if they sent me information in my mail. She sounded 100% like a real person, very smooth, no hesitation, & correct answers to the questions I asked.
I said I could contribute $20 & she asked "are you 100% positive that you are comfortable with sending in that money?" I said yes (mistake right there) and then she asked for my address, not an address confirmation but my actual address.
When she next asked for my name I asked if this was a computerized call. She said she was not a computer and went right into asking me for my name again. I then asked if this was a real person, why wouldn't they already have my name and address, and that I would not give anything until I read through what they mail me (it's harder for even an advanced computer program to properly respond to a multiple part question). She just came back asking me again for my address, which I had already gave.
The voice did NOT sound anything like a computer, answers were still sweet and the wording changed every time she'd answer a duplicate question. I was truly shocked at this point as although I now knew for sure it was a computer, I could not believe how realistic she sounded. It seriously felt like I was dealing with a real person.
People: be AWARE. DO NOT GIVE OUT ANY INFORMATION OR SAY "YES" TO ANYTHING OVER THE PHONE EVER! Even if it's something that you are passionate about. Just don't pick up. If you pick up and there is ANY silent wait time--even 2 seconds--before someone starts talking, it's a computer calling, then when it registers that someone (you) answered, it transfers you to a live person to sell you something. Hang up!
Charities that really want your $ will send out mailings. This includes the police department...if you get a call about contributing anything to the police, even if it's for widows and orphans, tell them that the police do NOT solicit over the phone for contributions. If for no other reason than its the truth. I called the police and was told that they may send out local mailings, but they never call. Tell them that and you will get a fast hangup.