When I called in to pay my monthly cell phone, I was shocked to find that my debit card was declined. I had just checked my balance a few days ago and while I am having a hard time covering all my expenses (I'm a full-time college student), my finances were secure and in order.
Confused, I checked my account online. Imagine my RAGE when I saw a charge from "MWI Connections" - a name I have never heard and MOST CERTAINLY HAVE NEVER DONE BUSINESS WITH - for $110. My car is dead (which will take money to fix and precludes getting a job), I need textbooks and a winter coat, and I'm supporting myself for the first time. $110 IS A HUGE DEAL FOR ME!
When I typed "MWI Connections" into Google, every link had "scam" and "ripoff business" in the title. I was so furious! I called immediately but was told that their representatives would not be available until Monday at 9:00am. This means that I cannot even begin to remedy the problem for another two days.
In the meantime, my card is locked because of the unexplained out-of-state withdrawal (I have a wonderful bank that looks out for these sorts of scams) and my phone will have to remain deactivated. This is an incredible inconvenience and seeing that I will be travelling in the next days (almost definitely before my money is refunded), I am a little nervous about the money situation. How will I afford a cab to the airport and how will I withdraw pocket money to eat?
I can't believe that any company would do this. Maybe they think most of the people they scam won't notice and therefore can afford it. I, however, am a young college girl supporting herself for the first time and this charge has made me unable to withdraw money, temporarily unable to reactive my cell phone (which will be essential for travelling home), and my credit is being threatened.in other words, I'm incredibly nervous about my financial future and THIS IS DEVASTATING. How can someone do this to a total stranger? They don't even know how much it can mess up someone's life.
I hope karma bites them in the ass. And I hope no one else has the same experience.
Caitlin
Worcester, Massachusetts
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