A "gentleman" representing Freedom Resource called to offer a no-fee, 0%interest Visa/Mastercard with a guaranteed $2500 limit. Told him to call back in 24 hours so I could check him out. The so-called Better Business Bureau had no complaints about them, so I very reluctantly agreed to authorize a $221.95 bank draft. This was done on tape and I was very careful NOT to give them blanket permission to take the money. I explained on tape that the money was for a $2500 credit limit Visa or Mastercard and the verifier agreed.
Each time he asked me if I authorized it, I restated what it was for. The salesman told me it would take 10 to 14 days for my "benefits package" to come in. I asked him what the f*ck a benefits package was and he said it was my credit card and all the wonderful benefits that came along with being part of the "Freedom Resource Family." I took this as crap, but still wanted my credit card.
I asked him if these were business days or calendar days and he said that they were calendar days. Well, after over a week, my bank account still had the money in it. Get this—I called the non-toll-free service number to complain that the process couldn't begin until the money was taken from my account. They assured me that they were behind because of so much interest in their "deal" and the money would be taken out. A few days later the money was removed.
After 14 days, I called the number and got the company hours (like everyone else) and was put on hold until I gave up after a half hour. The next day I called, determined to get through and I waited an hour before someone picked up. It appeared to be the same southern black lady who answered the phone every time and she reassured me that it was on its way but that I had to wait 15 to 21 BUSINESS days to get my "package." These weasels were trying to buy time to collect more money and blow town! Like an idiot, I held out hope and waited until the 22nd business day (right before Christmas). My Christmas gift money was taken by them to feed their scam and I was counting on the credit card! I am fairly street-wise, college educated, and far from stupid, but these folks got me good. I used to be a drug counselor so I had been bullsh*tted by the best and these folks were better.
Well, I filed a report with the FTC and at least got a reference number for my complaint. I then talked to the FBI, who referred me to the Secret Service, who told me that the crime wasn't big enough to pursure and I should "chalk it up" or take them to court (costing more than I lost). That's if I could find them. I am glad that these folks were not located near me or I would be serving multiple life sentences for homicide right now. They prey on the poor, elderly, and retarded (like me).
One last thing. On this very site, I saw an ad for a guy that promised he would "help you get your money back in two days." Yeah, for only $125 dollars! The last thing these people need in their desperation is to be taken again and given information that is readily availible. I GOT MY MONEY BACK IN ONE DAY! Email me at [email protected] and I will send you some basic instructions on how I did it. No money, no nothing. I just want to help screw these guys to the wall and I know that if people do what I did, then they will be successful like me. I shouldn't have had to do anything and the criminal justice system is out busting people for smoking weed when it could be arresting these extortionists and theives. Nice priorities. The only reason they exist is that they are tolerated by law enforcement. If I promised something by writing a check and I don't have the money in my account, they lock me up. These people take MILLIONS and nobody cares and because not enough people speak up. Don't be embarassed folks, just speak up. Call your congressman. Call your local law enforcement and district attorneys. You didn't do anything wrong except trust someone to deliver what they promised.
Jeff
Providence, Rhode Island
U.S.A.
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