I received a phone call on 1/10/08, at my work place and was asked to take a quick survey. Told I would receive four free magazines of my choice, to be sent to me at no charge. I didn't agree to anything at this time but, did do the survey. They called back within a half hour, asked for me, and told me they wanted to confirm my magazine order. I didn't even have a chance to pick any magazines. I just said, okay okay okay, to get them off the phone because I was at work and very busy. I never realized how much they were talking about, or that it would cost me. The woman was Indian and spoke very quickly, I couldn't understand a word she was saying. I just though that she was getting my address for the four free magazines to be sent. I got a bill a week later for seven magazines that I didn't pick, they want $24 a month for 29 months and I can't cancel.
No magazines for free.
I have since then called them several times to get help with the situation. Every time I call 1-800-949-0171 they are rude, cut me off and just put me to an answering machine. Never to return my call, of course.
I went ahead and sent a $24 payment on 2/10/08 just to prevent it from going to collections until I could figure out what was going on.
I received one phone call around 4/03/08 to try and clear up my debt with them. They said that I could pay with either a credit card or check. I told them that I would not send a dime until they agreed to send me magazines that I actually like. They put me through to their manager, who told me that my account was on hold until they received payment and that he couldnt do anything until I paid. He recommended that I sent payment of $54 asap including a letter stating the magazines that I have and what I wish to change them to.
I never received a call back about anything and they just keep sending me bills and late payment notices. Threats have been made repeatedly to take this to collections.
On 5/30/08 I called PBS at 1800-949-0171 to file a complaint, and to give them one last chance to rectify the situation. I stayed very calm and spoke with a man named David Lang, a very kind man who breathes through his mouth really loudly over the phone. I told him the situation with the letter I recently sent. That I have not received any response and am still getting the magazines that I did NOT ask for. He treated me like I was dumb and said, "you can change your mags online... Did you know that?" I said, " yes sir. I know. Like I said, I have been through all this and over the past 3 months have been trying to get the mags that I want, and nothing has worked. At this time I just want to cancel my account. I am willing to go to the Attorney General with a complaint if I have to." He promptly canceled my account and I asked him for his name and any information he can give me. I got his full name and a account cancellation conformation number.
We will see in another week, if I get another collections notice.
P.S. I am filing a complaint with the Attorney General, the BBB, and a few others.
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