I have been trying to build up my credit history so I have been applying for credit cards from different legitimate companys.
One evening I receive a phone call from nice little ol' Laurie representing the very ficticious credit card company Integra Financial Benefits. The offer sounded amazing. 0% a.P.R. For three years, $500 cash advance, $2000 credit limit, no annual fees... She even went as far as telling me that my credit was a 7 on a scale from 1 to 10. HA!
So I agree to pay the one time fee of $249 because a credit card like this doesn't come along all the time. Little did I realize I was being SCAMMED!
They set me up. They recorded my voice relaying all of my personal information including my bank account routing number and checking account number. Supposedly I would be receiving my credit card via courier in 7-14 days after my account was charged. They even assured me they would call me on my debit day so I can give them the final go ahead.
My account was debited without any go ahead call. Hmm, I wondered. So I called Integra to inquire when exactly I would be getting my card. All I got was a weird recorded Customer Service message not even identifying the company as Integra. It sounded slightly fishy. I left a message with my name and phone number.
No one ever called my back. Since they are on the east coast and I reside on the west, I called about 7:30 am, my time. I finally got a voice on the other end. She was very rude and she hung up on me when I asked for her name. I called back and a male answered. I starting asking him questions and he ended up playing my recorded message that took place the day of Laurie's call. I heard my voice and instantly regretted what I had agreed to. I knew right then I had been scammed. There would be no credit card, no $249 refund, no justice.
Not only did I lose money, I was tricked and lied to. One time my internet account was hacked into and I felt scared and violated. After this experience I feel angry and upset. Not only with myself for being so damn gullible but with those telemarketers and their fake company knowing exactly what they are doing to people. I guess if they think we are dumb enough to give up $250 so fast then we deserve it. If it makes them sleep better at night knowing they make money ripping people across the country off then good for them. I know now protection of your identity is essential. Believe me I am taking the steps as we speak. I only hope one day those crooks will get the justice they deserve...
I will keep this updated.
Samantha
Norwalk, California
U.S.A.
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