After reading hundreds of complaints exactly like mine, I figured that I would add my story to the mix.
In February I signed up for a free trial with SMC Corp (Specialty Merchandise Corp). After receiving the package of catalogs and failing to sell any merchandise, I called SMC to cancel. This was all within the 30 day trial period.
SMC doesn't like to have a person speak with people who wish to cancel. Ultimately, I ended up leaving a voice message. I stated my request to cancel and asked for a telephone call if SMC needed anything further. I did not hear anything from SMC again until August.
In August I received a debt collection notice from CPS - Security. I noticed that CPS did NOT use the required procedure to dispute debt collection. I immediately called CPS and explained that this debt was not mine because I cancelled.
The CPS representative rudely explained that I needed to pay. I asked for SMC's information. He refused to provide it. I threatened to call New York State's Consumer Protection Board, and the CPS representative hung up.
Fuming, I immediately called CPS back. The new representative explained that they hung up because I threatened to report CPS (apparently CPS takes notes). Finally, I received SMC's contact information.
I called SMC and asked SMC to explain why I was being charged when I cancelled my membership. The SMC rep explained that I needed to send the membership package (catalogs). I said, "Sure. Where can I overnight them?" The SMC rep rudely explained that I had to have sent them back upon cancellation. Nice job, SMC, since I asked what I needed to do to cancel MONTHS before this phone call.
Today (10/09/08), I received another CPS letter. It's my second letter and CPS still won't let me dispute the debt as required by law. This letter is disturbingly called "pre-legal action review."
I honestly don't think that the SMC/CPS attorneys will bring me to court for $455. I also don't think that they will bring an action in New York (the only way for them to obtain jurisdiction). I am disturbed that they are breaking the law.
I filed a complaint tonight with the FTC and will update this post when I receive a response.
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