AT&T
Free Phone Offer Led to $150 Bill and Collection Calls

I received an offer for a free wireless phone from AT&T. I responded by calling the toll free number-had absolutely no problem getting through. The gentleman told me the phone was free for 30 days and if I decide to keep it they would bill me $150.00. I agreed and I received the phone approximately 3 days later. I activated the phone and then received a bill in the amount of $150.00 for the phone approximately 3 days later.

I tried to contact AT&T's customer service several times. From November to the beginning of December I made approximately 4-5 calls p/day. Each called resulted in no contact and being put on hold an average of 18-20 minutes (I would eventually hang up because of the long hold time).

Finally I had a weekday off from work. The night before I set my alarm clock just so I could be one of the first to get in through the customer service line.

I worked (sort of). After 27 minutes on hold I got a representative who said they would send out a return label so that I could return the phone. This is the only way they would accept the returned merchandise. The wait would be approximately 7 days. I said O.K. And waited. 2 weeks later-nothing. To my total dissatisfaction I had to start the process all over again. After a few days of being put on hold for long periods of time-I gave up.

I finally started getting collection calls from AT&T. I would receive messages when I got home. I just ignored the messages. Finally a collector reached me at home one evening. I explained my dilemma-she told me that I would have to return the phone. I told her I was not going to call AT&T ever again. If they wanted the phone they would contact me. The representative said she would forward the information to a supervisor. I received a call from a woman who claimed to be a supervisor named Laurie. She indicated she would send a return label to return the phone.

This is now approximately the end of January or beginning of February. Approximately 2 weeks later I receive the return label-but in the interim continued to get collection calls. I continued to receive collection calls until approximately April-approximately 2 months after I returned the phone.

I stress to every one who sees, hears or scans these reports—stay away from AT&T wireless service. Very poor customer service and they are not customer friendly—unless you're calling them for the first time getting service—that's the best customer service you'll get from these people—I'd really be surprised if division of the company continue to make it!!!

Company: AT&T
Country: USA

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