On August 1, a woman contacted me about consolidating my debt and re-establishing my credit rating. I had spoken and inquired about this with a number of companies over the past year. Finally, the offer that later I discovered was too good to be true. I was informed that I was approved to receive a Mastercard with a $2000 credit limit and 0% interest for up to four years.
All I had to do was to pay $199.90 in interest up front and a minimum of $10 a month on any debt that I wanted to tranfer to my credit card. After two years Equifax and the other major consumer credit companies would provide me with a high credit rating. I further was to receive a free trip to Orlando, FL for three night and four days with $100 in gas coupons that could be used anywhere.
This was to be sent via UPS within 7-10 days. I didn't have the funds in my account at the time. She then offered to draft a check on my checking account on the day when I was to be paid. (part-time summer employment for an underpaid school teacher) That day was to be 8/9.
My bank online banking statement showed that a draft for $199.90 was made on 8/13/02 to ALCC 800-587-4152 and another draft for $10 to ALCC on the same day (UPS) charges. After ten days, no package from UPS. On the 14th day I called American Leisure Card Company (ALCC) and the answer machine stated that "business operations for B.A.B.C. Had been temporarily suspended until further notice..."
Suddenly, I realized I had been ripped-offed. Besides the lost of $209.90 to some greedy scam artist... I also had several NSF fees for gasoline and groceries that I thought I would be able to catch when my credit card arrived. My disappointment is almost paralyzing emotionally. If being in debt wasn't bad enough, now I have developed paranoia toward all of these debt consolidation companies calling sometimes daily to help. Sooner or late I guess thay figure they will get someone.
Sorry, I put my info in the pool seeking help. Who is legitimate? Who is a scam artist? Somebody help?
Donald
New Orleans, Louisiana
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