Online Fraud & Deception
Cell Phone Rebate Scam - Wirefly / Inphonic
August 31
I purchased a cell phone on November 19 from Wirefly. I was to receive a rebate of $200.00 per the Wirefly associate provided I file a rebate form no earlier than 180 days from activation and no later than 210 days. I would then receive a $200.00 rebate 10 weeks later. Per the Wirefly associate I spoke with on the phone.
The rebate form was not available on the Inphonic website until April 1. After printing the rebate form I was surprised to see a different date for filing the rebate form. The form stated, The rebate form must be postmarked no earlier than 60 days after the activation date and no later than 120 days after the activation date. With this window, I lose. (128 days had lapsed since my phone was activated by T-Mobile.
I submitted all proper UPC's, receipts, rebate forms, my paid T-mobile cell phone bill. This was also a condition a condition of the rebate. I filed the rebate form April 3 certified mail.
I waited 10 weeks, it was around June 26 and I had not received any communication from Wirefly/Inphonic whatsoever. I check the status on their website and discover that my rebate was not approved. It stated, Your submission was not postmarked within the valid timeframe. You will receive a letter or postcard describing this problem. The letter or postcard may have instructions on how to correct this error. Never received the letter or postcard.
Call T-Mobile Customer Service on 6/27.
The T-Mobile CSR called Wirefly/Inphonic and stayed on the line, I was informed that I had filed too early. The 180 days 210 days rule applied. I mention that the rebate form had different dates, 60 days 120 days for filing. The Wirefly/Inphonic CSR had no knowledge of this filing date for a rebate. I faxed the forms I had submitted. He said that I could check their website in 14 days for an update. I checked the website 14 days later, July 11, it was not updated nor did I receive the letter or post card as referred to on their website. At this point I'm not within either date range.
This business model has one intent, to defraud the consumer. I'm not the only victim. Search the Internet for Wirefly Inphonic scams - you will find plenty.
I called T-Mobile Customer 6/12 to share the outcome of this scam. I really surprised T-Mobile has a business partner that operates in such a deceptive manner. I have yet to receive a rebate from Inphonic nor do I expect one.
BRS
Newton, New Hampshire
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