July 30
State of Connecticut
Department of Consumer Protection
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, Connecticut
(860) 713-6300
(860) 713-7239 FAX
Dear Sirs,
I would like to file a complaint involving a telemarketing company which has operating offices in Stamford, Connecticut. The company, MemberWorks Incorporated (MWI) recently processed an unauthorized $79.95 charge on my First USA Bank Visa credit card. The description of the charge was for a security service called 'Privacy Plus'. This was charged to my card without my knowledge or consent. Upon speaking with representatives of MWI, they acknowledged that they sometimes 'make mistakes' and can sometimes sign up consumers for services that they are not aware of. After reading the numerous complaints against this company, it appears that these 'mistakes' happen very frequently. It should also be noted the company could not explain how they got access to my credit card number.
In reviewing the website for MWI, it indicates the company has adopted a Best Marketing Practices policy. The company did not follow these guidelines in their dealings with me:
1) Full Disclosure of Membership Benefit Terms I did not receive an offer nor did I receive any materials in advance of the charge.
2) Full Disclosure Of Payment and Cancellation/Refund Terms there was no discussion indicating that if the consumer does not cancel, he or she will be automatically charged.
3) Verification of Membership Acceptance MWI agrees to verify consumers telephone solicitation by obtaining and recording unambiguous express affirmative consent did not receive telephone or other type of solicitation
4) No Questions Asked Full refund policy for unauthorized charge complaints MWI tried to convince me that I ordered their goods and services on a specific date. Upon further questioning, they would not address any specific questions or offer to provide proof that I really ordered any of their items.
I have since received a credit for this unauthorized charge, however, I believe MemberWorks Incorporated is involved in unethical business practices. The members on the MWI Consumer Advisory Board should be ashamed. I would really appreciate if your office could look into this matter and stop their deceptive tactics.
Sincerely,
Rich
New Rochelle, New York
0 comments