$13.$ Phyllis told her client Bob that his disability income insurance premiums could be cut if Bob would switch to coverage offered by Phyllis's insurance company. Bob filled out his application honestly, including information about a back problem he had seen a physician about, but which now seemed to be under control. Phyllis assured him that if there was a problem, the underwriting department would let them know before the policy was issued. Otherwise, the company would issue the policy and Bob would have nothing to worry about. Three months after the policy was issued, the back condition flared up again and Bob was unable to work. Bob discovered that back problem was considered a pre$-$existing condition and was not covered for the first six months after the policy was issued. Which of the following describes Phyllis's level of responsibility in this case?

$($Search Chapter $2)$

a$.$ Phyllis is not responsible in any way because the underwriting department should have made the client aware of the exclusion.

b$.$ Phyllis is responsible because in giving Bob her assurances, Phyllis assumed a role with more responsibility than that of an agent.

c$.$ Phyllis is not responsible in any way because Bob could have read the policy and canceled it during the free$-$look period.

d$.$ Phyllis can be held responsible only if Bob paid her a fee for her advice.