I just noticed a charge of $96.00 on my account, debited by MWI Connections. Since I really didn't remember charging anything for that amount, and certainly didn't recognize the name, I did a search on the internet to find information which may help me contact them.
What I found was innumerable sites dedicated to spreading the word about the fradulent nature of this company. On these sites I found contact information, though only one of the several numbers provided me with any help in 'resolving' the issue.
The following are numbers I called, and the responses I received:
800.809.3795-the automated message from this number asked for my telephone number or a membership id. I entered my telephone number and the automated service replied that my membership was already cancelled and I would be receiving a refund shortly.
I thought this odd, since I had not yet called to complain about the service and the so-called membership was initiated only the day before. My theory, and keep in mind this is only a theory, is that they may put all numbers into this system, thereby allowing a dissatisified consumer to feel as if the issue has been easily resolved.
866.993.9663-this office was closed on Saturday, the day I called.
800.808.3785-this office was also closed on Saturday.
800.503.4052-Finally, a person on the other end of the telephone! Unfortunately, AMANDLA 14776 (the individual I spoke with) did not have a good command of the English language. He reminded me of what it was that I 'ordered' — a TRIAL version of some discount travel stuff, which was accompanied by a couple of free movie tickets and dinners out. That would have been nice, had I ever received the trial, but I had not.
He said that he will resend the information and I could then cancel the trial if I didn't like it.in a state of frustration—both from waisting my Saturday away and from not being able to understand him—I said send it and I will cancel it later. My misguided logic was that, since I actually did consent to a trial on the initial telephone call, I figured legally they may have a case if I do not give their product a chance.
Not very smart of me, I know... I should have cancelled then and not rely on a later opportunity.
A couple of minutes after I hung up the phone with Amandla, I came to my senses and tried call him (or anyone) back at that number to just tell them to disregard and that I do not want to try anything, I just want my $96 back. Oddly, the number was not allowing me to speak with anyone, as a totally different recording was played. Very odd... And my frustrations are only growing. So, I thought I would try some of the other numbers.
800.568.2386-A message machine said to hold, so I held. After a couple of minutes I was disconnected.
800.270.6902-This number is one I actually got of this site, linking a periodical subscription company with MWI. I called and spoke with CARMELLA. She denied any affiliation with MWI said that she would pass my name and number to her supervisor who would call me soon. I am still waiting... No call.
Finally, I started calling the numbers I had again, hoping that I would be able to get through. I hadn't any luck until calling 800.503.4052.
I spoke with HOPE 15016 and described the situation. She said that she see's my earlier contact with Amandla and asked what the problem was. I told her of the communication barrier between Amandla and I and that I found numerous reports online about fraudulent practices by MWI. I further stated that I wanted nothing further to do with the company and that I wished my monies returned, with no trial period and not to send anything.
She put me on hold for a bit, and when she returned she said that was doable. She said in three to five business days, the funds would be refunded to my account.
I asked Hope how this company got my credit card information, as I have a rule not to give out personal information to anyone on the telephone unless I initiate the call. She said I must have given the information to IDEA VILLAGE, the company whose promotion the service was provided through.
I asked for contact information for this company, and she said that she did not have any—no website, no telephone number... Nothing. I found that odd too.
Anyhow, I will update this (if it is possible) to let you all know if and when I get refunded. This isn't over yet...
Free
Arlingon, Virginia
0 comments