VW businesses warned of radio ad scam

VW independent/submitted information

Callers purporting to be from “the Van Wert radio stations” have reportedly been dialing Van Wert businesses attempting to sell high-priced “safety” ad campaigns.

“These so-called campaigns are priced astronomically higher than any advertising spots we’ve ever sold, or ever will,” said Chris Roberts, owner of WERT AM 1220 and WKSD 99.7 FM.

According to businesses that have been approached, the subject of the ads can tug at heartstrings.  Topics like care for the elderly, prenatal care and children’s safety issues can make for an effective pitch and result in a sale.

The problem, says Roberts, is that the cost is in the thousands and the callers do not represent local stations at all.

“I’m not quite sure what their angle is, but I would advise businesses who receive such calls to just hang up the phone,” he said.