I responded to a radio ad for Internet Speedway in which they promoted setting up an Internet Sales web-site, including use of Ebay.
They advertised a free CD available for evaluation. But the free CD had a $9.99 shipping and handling charge, which is how they got my CC number.
My understanding of the offer was I had a month to evaluate the product at no charge. What was NOT explained was that if I did not cancel within the month, the $69.99 charges would start.
I did not even open the box they sent until I saw the charge on my last CC statement.
I had NEVER activated an account with them, utilized web hosting services, signed any agreement or authorized automatic monthly credit card payments to them! Not only that, but upon opening the box today it contained NO documentation regarding registration, the evaluation period, nor any details regarding the subsequent billing if I failed to cancel. It also provided no information on how to return the material or cancel (within the 30 day window).
I called Internet Speedway and asked them to stop the billing as I had not activated their service. I spoke with their Customer Service dept to see if this could be reversed. They refused, saying I had the "opportunity" to activate and that it's not their fault I did not do that. They told me that another four payments of $69.99 each will be billed over the next four months as I had agreed to accept the charges when I talked to their sales rep. On the phone.
I do not do that and did not knowingly authorize such a charge! They told me that a collection agency would take action against me if I refuse the charges. My point is there was NO PRICE DISCLOSURE in the start up kit I received, neither was there any of the registration information required to initiate the contract.
For this reason I would have been unable to activate the account even if I tried. The rep I spoke to today stated that I could have phoned them or gone on their web-site for that information if it was missing from my kit.
In addition, having now visited their web-site it would seem that $29.95/month will be billed indefinitely for their web-hosting service. It appears that, as far as they are concerned, there is no way out once their 30 day free trial is passed.
I feel this is a NON-DISCLOSURE situation and have filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and the Michigan Attorney General's office.
I have filed a dispute with the credit card company (M'Card) and have alerted them to potential future charges. I must admit I am tempted to cancel this card to avoid such charges but really do not want to do that at this point in time. Any more suggestions in reversing and/or stopping these charges would be appreciated.
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