HOUSTON -- Several Houston drivers say they have received calls from telemarketers promising hundreds of dollars in gas coupons. But, investigators tell Local 2,(comma) the catch is only a way to scam drivers out of their money.

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Telemarketing Trick Promises Big Savings For Drivers

People who received the telemarketing call told Local 2 the company promised more than $1,000 in gas coupons. The telemarketer assured the drivers the coupons would be redeemable anywhere, but the truth is they will get you nowhere.

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"(The telemarketer told me) that I had won gas vouchers, and that I would get my first one in three days for $200," said Teresa, who wished to keep her identity withheld.

The caller continued the pitch to Teresa, saying eventually she would receive $1,200 in gas vouchers that she could use anywhere for only $3.95.

"I said,' You're talking $1,200 in gas free?' And she said, 'Yes.' I told her I didn't believe her," Teresa said, when the caller asked for her personal bank account number.

"I asked, 'So it's only going to cost me $3.95?' She said, 'Yes.' And I responded, 'Plus whatever is in my bank account, right?' (The caller) hung up," Teresa said.

Assistant State Attorney General John Owens said consumers that have reported the scam to the state said they knew something was not right when the caller asked for their bank account number.

"At a minimum, their bank account is going to get carried out. At a maximum, their identity is going to be stolen, and stuff may be bought in their name," Owens said.

Authorities said they are not sure who is behind the convincing scam. Teresa said they knew her name and where she lived.

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