I was contacted at work by "Pat Agbuis" a representative of what I now know as Publishers Business Services, on 4/29/04. She purported to have a survey & asked me to participate as it would only take a few minutes. I did. Mistake #1. Then she quickly moved on to the sales spiel. I listened. Mistake #2. I subscribed. Mistake #3.
The next day a "Diana S." called to verify the conversation and subscription order placed. Unfortunately, instead of cancelling then & there, I validated the information she was seeking. Mistake #4. Diana S. Did state that the subscription (s) could be cancelled after 180 days. I believed her. Mistake #5.
Today (5/6/04) I received the invoice/contract in the mail, along with slips of paper like "Your Record of Tape Recorded Verification of Our Telephone Offer, " which states, in part "Verification is tape recorded only with customer's permission." "Tape No. 13139." Additionally, the following is included on the magazine order sheet: "Reel 13139, Side A, 036 to 078."
Also included is an explanation of the magazines I "ordered." None of which are of any interest, but were the only ones sales representative Pat Agbuis offered. It's not her fault I said yes. I should've hung up on her after the "survey" questions ended and the magazine spiel began. This explanation also spells out the true costs involved, which show what a bargain it isn't! Plus it states, "We also have a non cancellation policy during the term of this agreement."
I allowed myself to be roped into something I have absolutely no interest in. I was duped. The practices employed by this company, its managers and employees, and its telephone representatives, as far as I am concerned, are unprofessional (unless you're a professional rip off artist), unethical, dishonest, and disgusting. But not necessarily in that order. And, I intend to fight back.
I understand they're members of the C of C. I also understand they've had many complaints filed against them. Mine will join those. And I will do whatever I legally can to get out from under this. Any help you can provide is appreciated.
Live and learn! But it's tough doin' it the hard way!
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