I wasn't even searching for this "deal". It just popped up on my computer screen. I knew better, but I thought I'd try filling out the survey, see how far I could get with even finding two products or services that I could live with. Afterall, didn't it say "fill out the survey, buy two products and get a free laptop."
Even though I knew better than to go down this road, I was unaware of the trap that lay ahead.
The first product I thought I could live with was a foreign language CD with a small booklet.
My impression was that I was paying for postage/handling and possibly a bargain price for this product... (like under $20). This first introduction to the "onlingo" company resulted in three charges to my credit card as follows: $1.00, $5.95 and $69.95. Wow... Screwed already. Come to find out (only at a later date), CD packet #2 and #3, each priced at $76.90 a piece are already on their way. "What fine print" I say, I have no recollection of seeing these details on that initial encounter.
OK... So I've made my first purchase. Still with me? Only one more purchase to go to get that free laptop. I believe the second company I chose to purchase from was possibly Columbia Record Club. This has already been two and a half months ago. It's more convenient for the con artists if you don't remember the details anyway.
I proceeded to sign up for this second great offer and the credit card that I had just used with "Onlingo" was now being refused by Columbia. This is the very same credit card I pay off every month. It's a valid account.
I tried to contact whoever/whatever entity I was dealing with... The ones who were going to give me a laptop. I was still connected to their site. Sent them an e-mail. Told them how my 2nd purchase attempt wouldn't go through. Never got a response from them. Don't even know who they were. How convenient. I spent an hour and a half filling out the "survey". Tried to make that second purchase that wouldn't go through. Had no other recourse at that moment. Was trying to figure out what in the hell just happened.
"Onlingo" had my credit card # and ran with it. When I spoke with "Meredith" my "Onlingo" representative about my experience, she wasn't interested in hearing even the short version of the above saga. Basically, it was in the fine print and was there "anything else I can help you with?" Other than canceling the account... Gee thanks Meredith, You just got $230.70 for 3 CDs and 3 little booklets.
She did however, give me a website where I could register my complaint with the originator of this wonderful free laptop offer. I found this web site (www.offerup.com/service) about as useless as tits on a boar hog. Once you get on that site you're given a list of 10-15 companies that may have made that original offer to you. Good luck in trying to figure out which one it was.
Would I participate in a law suit? H*l yes!
0 comments