Last week my computer was infected with the XP Home Security 2012 virus which takes over your computer and renders it useless - no access to the internet - nor to data in your files. Nothing.
I was able to use my cell phone to briefly access the internet and found the first listing for a toll free number and a web address for microsoft-support. Pccare247.com. I called the number and was immediately connected to someone in either India or NY - I am not sure where.
The PC Care 247 technician completely put the fear of God in me - he told me that my computer had been hacked - that bad people were using my IP address to do criminal things - that my bank account numbers, passwords and all financial transactions were in evil hands. The only way to fix it was to install some anti-MALware and that I could not wait another minute.
I was told it would cost $399.95 to fix my computer and provide me with 3 years of technical support for this computer. I was shocked at the price tag - I stated I thought this was high - that I would wait for my computer guy to look at it. I was never offered another price package with a lesser term limit or even a per fix price. I was told this was the only solution and that I was at risk - even if I bought another computer - my IP address was in jeopardy.
I questioned their affiliation with Microsoft and was told they were an authorized rep - I am not sure if that is true or not. They badgered me to move forward. They told me each minute I waited to make a decision was putting my computer in further danger - It was crazy and not knowing a lot about computers and viruses - I stupidly, moved forward with them.
I suppose the good news is the computer was fixed and became operational. All day though, I had a weird feeling that I was being ripped off. When I fnally had access to the internet and went on their website and saw lower based packages - fees for service only - I called their customer support hotline and was assured I was lucky that I received such a rich low priced offer.
I emailed the following day and asked to be charged for just the service they provided to remove the virus - i was told the price was $300 and that the 3 year service plan was only $99.95. I find that astonishing - that a simple fix that took them an hour (maybe) is $300 and a 3 year 24/7 technical support contract is just $99.95!!!
They have few published prices on their website - there is no way I can confirm that this is indeed the rate charged to remove the virus.
The salesman could not provide me with a price list or a quote - every quote is customized I was told. The salesman said he would refund the $99.95 only.
It is my personal opinion that this company is a ripoff and I think their tactics are forceful, frantic, frenzied and not right. All I can say is BE AWARE.
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