- Various older unclassified
complaints -
From our old website
name: N. G.
city: 78728
problem: 12/13/2002
A number of people purchased a GEM LCD monitor at Fry's
because of the advertised $140.00 rebate on Sep 1 2002. To date, none of us
have received it though we submitted all of the required documentaion in a
timely fashion. A number of us have been waiting for as long as six months but,
the rebate form stated that it would take only 8 - 10 weeks. We have visited
the panacer website and found that out rebates won't be delivery due to
incomplete forms. We did send all the required forms.
name: S. ?.
city: 76571
problem: 12/11/2002
www.elens.com - ordered contacts in early September 2002. It
is now December 11 and they still say they will be shipped in a week. And they
have no customer service. You will just be on hold for almost an hour before
someone will talk to you.
name: E. Y.
city: -----
problem: 12/05/2002
Be CAREFUL WHEN BUYING ACCESSORIES FROM COACH. I purchased a
watch from the Coach store in Garden State Plaza in NJ. I purchased the watch
on 3/17/2002 and did not wear the watch until 4/28/2002. The watch was a
birthday present from my kids - reason I did not wear the watch immediately. I
wore the watch for a dinner party and the stem fell out. I went to the Coach
store on 57th Street and Madison Avenue in NYC to replace the watch. The watch
was examined and the saleswoman called over other salespeople and finally the
supervisor. Verdict - I could pay $20 to have the watch repaired. No I could
not return the watch, no I could not exchange it for another watch (this store
did not carry this style yet no one bothered to check). They refused to help
me. I took the watch back and I went on line and called the customer service.
The Coach customer service personnel is very nice but I was told that the 57th
Street was correct. The company policy, on watches - if you purchase a Coach
watch and it is defective after 30 days you must pay $20 to have it repaired. I
was given the option to return the watch to their Florida headquarters at my
expense. If Coach decided that I was indeed telling the truth my money would be
refunded. I was called a few days later letting me know that my money had been
refunded - no apology and no refund of postage money to get the watch there.
It's too bad since I have purchased many Coach bags but I will no longer
purchase Coach products.
name: V. P.
city: 11226
problem: 11/20/2002
I ordered the Steam buggy Platinum online on 8/19/2002. It
arrived within the prescribed timeframe but there were no instructions on how
to use the machine. After about 7 phone calls over the past two months, I am
still without the instructions. The phone reps have forwarded my requests to
the Corporate Office, Tristar Products, Inc. each time. They state they must
hard copy a request to the Corportate office and I cannot be transferred to
that office. Once I was told there was a back order on the instructions so they
shipped the product in the meantime as they did not want to keep the product in
the warehouse but yet no one had the courtesy to include a letter indicating
that the instructions would be sent as soon as they were available. Next time,
there was no back order of the instructions and they would be shipped on
10/29/02 and I was to give it two weeks for the instructions to reach my home.
A call from someone at the Company indicated the instructions were mailed on
10/25/02 not 10/29/02 and that they were sent from the Conn. warehouse. I live
in NY. I still have not received the instructions and the phone reps can only
apologize and say they will resubmit another request for the instructions. The
Supervisor said the same and offered no solutions. After I stated I would take
legal action, I was advised that it wasn't necessary to go that far. He didn't
take the situation seriously and was very patronizing to me. It is extremely
frustrating that I cannot be connected with someone who is willing to resolve
my situation. Tristar Productions, Inc. is located in Parsippany, NJ.
name: D. P.
city: 15062
problem: 10/25/2002
I inquired about a diet product on line--the product was
slim patch. A company out of utah called me and told me that they would send me
the product within 7 days and I would only be billed 19.90 for the first 30
days. I never received the product and called and cancelled it after numerous
calls to inquire about the shipping. I was billed the first charge of 19.90 on
8/23/02. The order was cancelled. the end of september the product arrived. I
immediately sent it back. By 9/27/02 I was charged 199.95. I repeatedly called
the company at their Utah office but got no help. The receptionist was told to
tell me that "no one was in who could take my call". I was charged
another 199.95 on 10/24/02. I do not have the product and I am out of 419.80.
name: H. ?.
city: 80917
problem: 09/07/2002
UrbanQ is the biggest ripoff of all time! This company will
send you overpriced merchandise with 100% rebate promises . . . You will never
receive a check! Don't ever do business with them! If you have been taken
advantage of go to www.consumer.state.ny.us/compgen1.htm There is a printable
form to fill out and send. Also file a complaint with Ron Waldman at the
Federal Trade Commission at rwaldman@ftc.gov or call 212-607-2814. One other
suggestion, fight it with you CC company!
name: M. B.
city: 91364
problem: 08/16/2002
UNIVERSAL VAN LINES (Pompano Beach, FL)
Awful. Changed pick up date three times, despite being
advised 60 days before that pickup couldn't be after a certain date since we'd
be gone. Truck broke down three times. Furniture delivered late and damaged.
Some items missing. If it weren't for my calls, I'd never know about the above
problems and probably still be waiting for my stuff. These folks are awful! Two
Rooms of Furniture to be moved from Los Angeles to Omaha, NE. Company changed
pick up date three times, then arrived late anyway. Truck broke down twice in
route, without giving me notice. Furniture arreved 4 days late, with items
damaged and two items missing. Were it not for my phone calls, I would never
have been informed of these problems. Despite numerous promises of pick up
guaranteed dates and delivery dates, none of the promises were kept. These
folks are awful.
name: V. G.
city: 06403
problem: 06/04/2002
In March 2001, I purchased a new Magic Chef gas range from
Ted's Appliance in Huntington CT. From the start we noticed a strong gas odor
upon turning the oven on. Over the term of our warranty we had a service tech
come to our home four times, each time telling us there was nothing wrong with
the stove. I was particularly concerned because I am pregnant, 8 months now
& I also have a 2 year old & it did not seem normal to have such an
overpowering gas odor in the house when I cooked. Please note, that I have
cooked on a gas stove for more than 10 yrs & never experienced such a problem.
Finally our warranty expired & the Appliance company told us that they
would begin charging us for service calls for this particular problem that they
never fixed to begin with! They were rude to us, delayed service calls, assured
us that the stove was safe for use regardless of the gas odor & made us
feel like it was all in our heads. Finally, we contacted the manufacturer,
Maytag, who sent an "independant" service tech, who also told us that
he could find nothing wrong. Still Maytag offered to take the stove back &
refund only the purchase price of the stove. It would take weeks to process
this transaction. While waiting. We returned home one day to find our Carbon
Monoxide detector sounding. We contacted the fire department who checked for signs
of CO in our home, they found none even though our home detector registered a
small reading of 5ppm. As an afterthought, I mentioned the problem we
experienced with the stove and of course my concern for my pregnancy and my
toddler. The fire chief agreed it would be best to check the stove, while in
the off position the stove registered 3ppm of CO. However, a couple of minutes
after turning the oven on, the detector registered 400+ppm of CO, a highly
toxic level of CO. The fire department tagged the oven dangerous for use and
promptly advised me to notify our family doctor as well as the appliance
service. The real fear for us is that we could have been exposed to CO for over
a year, including my entire pregnancy thus far. Even more frustrating is the
fact that if indeed my unborn baby was exposed, we may not even see the results
until the baby is 2 years old! We pray that our 2 yr old will be alright but
most times she was not in the kitchen while I cooked. I contacted both the
Appliance Service and Maytag and was shocked to be treated with total
disrespect, each blamed the other for responsibility. Maytag told me
"well, all we can say is that we're processing your refund" Ted's
Appliance refused to give me any answers and my questions were answered with
"I can't answer that, I'm not a technician" and "you'll have to
ask Maytag" my request to have the owner contact us was ignored. We have
since received our refund for our gas range from Maytag but we lost over
$300.00 due to our purchase of a new electric range, putting in the electric
service, delivery charges as well as a $60.00 co pay we had to pay to see a
Toxicology Specialist, who examined my family and will do so again as long as
everything goes well, after my baby is born.
name: J. ?.
city: 22303
problem: 04/29/2002
I WAS IN THE HARRIS TEETER GROCERY STORE ON 4-26-02 LOCATED
IN PENTAGON ROW IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA. I HAD ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A PURCHASE WITH
MY DEBIT CARD FROM THE BANK. HOWEVER, THE MAGNETIC STRIP WAS NOT WORKING. THE
CASHIER INFORMED ME THAT SHE COULD NOT KEY IN THE INFORMATION INTO HER CASHIER.
VARIOUS STORES HAVE ALTERNATIVE METHODS IN PLACE FOR THIS SITUATION. THE
CUSTOMER BEHIND ME WAS VERY IRATE AND SUGGESTED THAT I SHOULD GET OUT OF THE
STORE. I FIND HIS COMMENTS TO BE VERY INDIGNANTAND THOUGHTLESS. I FEEL THE
STORE SHOULD HAVE HANDLED THE SITUATION BETTER THAN WHAT IT DID WHICH WAS TO DO
NOTHING.
name: T. B.
city: 94040
problem: 04/11/2002
On December 14, 2001 person(s) Pried open and removed the
screen on a window at my apartment. They then proceeded to pry open a locked
window to gain entry for the purposes of committing a burglary. I submitted a
claim to balboa. Balboa denied my claim. Balboa is stating that there is no
evidence of forced entry; I submitted evidence in a police report. Balboa is
stating that I created this evidence and is again denying my claim.
name: M. F.
city: 39208
problem: 03/25/2002
HELLO, MY WIFE FOUND THIS SPECIALWITH A NEW DENTIST IN TOWN
FOR A FREE WHITING KIT (495.00VALUE) WITH A TEETH CLEANING- NEW PATIENTS. WHILE
HE HAD THE TIME OFF BETWEEN JOBS, I INQUIRED ABOUT A TOOTH THAT OCCASIONALLY
FLARES UP. DR. WATSON'S OFF. MGR. (DEBBIE) CHECKED WITH MY INSURANCE AND SAID
THE INSURANCE WOULD PAY MOST OF THE ROOT CANAL AND CROWN I NEEDED. I WOULD BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR APPROX. 268.00 OUT OF POCKET. WELL I SCHEDULED IT FOR THE NEXT
DAY AND AFTER THE PROCEDURE, THEY HIT ME WITH A $500.00 BILL BESIDE THE
TOOTHCLEANING THE PRIOR DAY. DEBBIE SAID I POSSIBLY COULD GET SOME OF THAT BACK
ACCORDING TO THE INSURANCE;WELL I WAS BILLED ANOTHER 375.00 (TOOTH HELD
HOSTAGE). THEY ROOKED ME IN AND STUCK ME WITH EXTREMELY HIGH COSTS (900.00 OUT
POCKET) AFTER MY INSUR. PD. 917.00, FOR 1 TOOTH. THAT IS OBSURD... THEY EVEN
CHGD. ME FOR THE NUMBING STUFF. THEY WERE OVER MOST OF REAS. AND CUST CHGS. OR
WERE DISALLOWED. HELP....HE IS DR. JIM WATSON (601)366-7645 1437 OLD SQUARE
#203 JACKSON MS 39211
name: J. J.
city: 32131
problem: 02/28/2002
I graduated from the Colorado Institute of Art, now the Art
Institute of Colorado with a gpa of 3.8, honors and best portfolio from Visual
Communications in Sept. 1989. I was unemployable in the field at graduation. I
was promised by P. L., the school representative assigned to me, that I would
be offered the tools to learn computer illustration and art production if I
attended as shown in the promotional material sent to me. It was very high tech
and glossy. I enrolled and did not have a computer class until the final, 8th
quarter. There were 30 people in the class and only 10 machines. The instructor
physically left the class as he was so overwhelmed by the panic and his own
inability to instruct the class. We spoke with department heads and they
allowed a computer literate student to 'instruct'the class which amounted to no
more than copying the required project to disc and inputting your initials.
There was no computer software instruction, no computer production of art
techniques involved nor computer illustration skills required to pass this
class or taught. I complained to CO Dept of Higher Education, ACICS who
accredits this school, Sallie Mae who granted me loans to attend....and all
told me that this school was in no way violating anything and it was up to me
to continue my education. I interviewed at Karsh and Hagan in Denver less than
a month after I graduated and was told if I would care to go home and put together
an ad portfolio, they would be happy to critique it if I finished it. I
graduated at the top of the class, can you imagine what kind of comments the
other 69 people received when they interviewed for work? I accepted work based
on previous work experience as I had worked for 10 years between high school
and attending CIA. When I received alum info from the school I noticed they
were listing people I knew personally, including myself, as working and placed
in the field, when in reality, they and I were not working in the field at all.
They continue to list people as fine artists when they are house painters,
graphic designers when they are secretaries, etc. This is fraudulent and is an
effort to provide material to try to prove the 90% placement they continue to
boast of to this day. I did not receive any useable knowledge while attending
the institute. To compound this problem, just 8 months after graduation, I was
rear ended by an unlicensed, uninsured motorist and lost my job and spent 2
years in surgery and rehab. To this day I have dysfunction in my right hand, I
am right handed and have been deemed permanently disabled but not totally....so
although I cannot hold a full time job as I have been fired from every one I
have secured due to hand dysfunction, I still have to pay a loan for an
education I did not get. The loan amount now is $60k. The original loan amount
was $20k. Sallie Mae will not forgive a loan for an individual that has the
ability to generate an income of $1.oo. You have to totally incapacitated to
have your loans forgiven. I would appreciate any one who knows of how I may
find resolve to this situation as even though I have complained to everyone
from higher education, 20/20, congress and the President of the US, I have had
not one response as far as help goes. I try to freelance from home and network
on the computer and manage to only make about $10k per year. I am currently
paying $52 monthly on my loans with interest accruing at over $500 monthly. If
I were not disabled, I still was unemployable in advertising so would not have
been able to make enough money to pay the added expense of a student loan for a
worthless education. Education Management Corp is still boasting a 90%
placement rate and I am sure that the information is contrived. I have not
spoken to one person in the last 12 years that ever got a job in art as a
result from attending this school. They all said it ruined thier life. It
continues to ruin mine. Thank you.
name: J. G.
city: 62801
problem: 02/15/2002
Went into the Centralia Eye Clinic with my daughter to get
her eye pressure checked because of prior recommendation from another eye
doctor. After the appt. my daughter gave the clerk the check for one half the
amount of the bill. The clerk came out to my car and insisted that we pay the
whole bill and I told her that I didn't have it. A big seen was created and we
began to argue about payment. I feel that because I was black and poor, she
felt that she could treat us bad as well as make us feel bad because we didn't
have the money. I immediately called the office manager to report her poor
customer service and to let her know that I felt humiliated by this lady called
connie.
name: K. H.
city: 10009
problem: 02/09/2002
RCN has actively and continues to actively recruit customers
for cable, telephone, and "high-speed" cable internet access in my
neighborhood and throughout my city. I have had the so-called
"high-speed" cable internet access for several months now and I find
it to be anything but "high-speed". I take issue with their
advertising and claims that they provide a "HIGH-SPEED INTERNET
SERVICE" (this is the title prominently displayed on an RCN web page at
http://www.rcn.com/cablemodem/.
This web page contains phrases such as the following:
"Access speeds many times faster than traditional analog 28.8 dial-up service." In addition, this sentence contains a clickable hotlink to another RCN web page on the words "many times". The linked page contains a graphic image showing comparative times between various methods of accessing the internet. In the graphic example on this page, a claim is made that the "Time to Download Chicago Tribune Sunday Classified Section", which is purported to be a 40 Megabyte file, takes 50 seconds. This is not even consistent with their claim, made above the graph, in which they state:
"That same 1 Megabyte file could be transferred in about 16 seconds, or even faster, with your cable modem!"
"Access speeds many times faster than traditional analog 28.8 dial-up service." In addition, this sentence contains a clickable hotlink to another RCN web page on the words "many times". The linked page contains a graphic image showing comparative times between various methods of accessing the internet. In the graphic example on this page, a claim is made that the "Time to Download Chicago Tribune Sunday Classified Section", which is purported to be a 40 Megabyte file, takes 50 seconds. This is not even consistent with their claim, made above the graph, in which they state:
"That same 1 Megabyte file could be transferred in about 16 seconds, or even faster, with your cable modem!"
As a comparison, I have been getting download times that, at
least 90% of the time, do NOT EVEN approach 56k dialup modem speed. I recently
waited over one and one half hours for a download that was 37 Megabytes.
I am not alone in this. Several others I have spoken to in
my neighborhood who have RCN "High-Speed" internet access have also
complained about slow speeds.
One RCN support worker even told me, upon visiting my
residence on a service call related to this issue, told me that there was
nothing he could do, RCN has too many people subscribed to their cable modem
service which slows everyone in one area down. He even recommended that I call
RCN to obtain a refund or rebate for their poor service.
All of this does not stop RCN from not only continuing to
actively recruit and sign up new customers for their cable modem service
whenever they can, but they charge a premium price, $39.95 per month, for a
service that only approximates 56k dialup modem service which generally goes
for $15 to $22 per month.
I believe RCN should either be prohibited from recruiting
new customers, or prohibited from advertising or asserting that they offer a
"high-speed" internet service that isn't one, or be forced to issue a
large number of refunds or rebates to any current or former (a class which I
intend to join soon) RCN cable modem service subscriber.
The latest kink in their service is that now it generally
takes two attempts to load any given web page, due to the fact that the first
attempt to access the site usually results in a "page not found"
error.
name: D. E.
city: 92595
problem: 01/11/2002
I have had nothing but problems with a website called
E-pilot.com. It's a site where you do searches, buy things and your
"supposed" to get paid for what you do on their website. Well, after
over a year of making money on their site, I get e-mails like this:
"Dear ePilot user, We have received your inquiry
regarding payment for your ePilot user account. We review all accounts prior to
payment, to ensure that users comply with our Terms of Service. Unfortunately,
we have found your account to be in violation of those terms."
I have sent them 17 e-mails that I want my money and they
"ALWAYS" send me back this lame e-mail, BUT never tell me what they
think I did wrong.
The website is no longer paying people ( or should I say
"riping people off") but I know of 4 people they have done this to
and it's time to get paid for what we did to make them their money.
name: E. E.
city: 28786
problem: 11/14/2001
In May of 2001 I inquired with GO-TODAY.COM about booking a
trip for Paris for New Years. They were offering a package trip. As New Years
is my husband’s birthday, and his son lives in The Netherlands; I contacted
GO-TODAY before booking our trip to see if they could arrange a room in Paris
for our son. They assured me that they could get a discounted room but that I
needed to wait until closer to our departure time to make the reservation. On
Monday October 29th I called Go-Today to make the reservation and I was told
that they could not make a reservation for the room. So now we have no room at
the hotel for our son and GO-TODAY says the best that it could do is to book
the room at the full walk in price. The customer service rep Michelle that I
spoke with did offer to book our son on a Land Only package in LONDON. So I
guess her suggestion was that is that we have our family vacation in 2
different countries. She kept insisting that this was my fault that I should
have known that the customer service person I spoke with in May Before booking
was lying HUH?? How am I supposed to know their customer service
representatives are liars?
I am not trying to get something for nothing from this
company. What I would like is for them to book a room for me in the $100-150
price range in the same hotel as the one we are booked into or very near. (That
we pay for) I think that this is the least they can do since this is a
reasonable rate compared to the walk-in rate $224.00.
This company promised me a room BEFORE I BOOKED WITH THEM –
the least that they can do is to follow through on their promise.
THE FOLLOW-UPS:
This company, with all the arrogance they can muster
repeatadly infers that I am lying which just infuriates me more. Since when did
it become acceptable business practice to call your customers liars? They
refuse to even consider that they may have an internal problem. Instead they
blame me, the customer for messing up my family vaction, as if that would make
any sense to any reasonable person. The fact that they are so unwilling to do
ANYTHING to satisfy me as a customer - shows really bad business judgement at
time when the travel industry isself is in peril. This blame the victim
mentality is really disgusting.
name: E. H.
city: 02826
problem: 10/31/2001
I purchased an iPaq H3635 pocket PC from uBid, inc. for
$329.00. They shipped a kick scooter by mistake. I have been attempting to
communicate with them since 10/13 and they just keep sending me the same form
emails in response. I have requested an RMA so that I can return the scooter
and a cancellation of the order for the pocket pc. They have not responded to
this request. It is now 10/31 and they don't seem to care.
name: C. B.
city: 89015
problem: 08/20/2001
Had trouble logging into Xdrive online storage service.
Every time I asked for a new password to be sent, it sent me email of
gobbledygook. Have to get signed on to cancel, thus the resulting conundrum.
Customer service was unhelpful, unsympathetic to the plight, and refused to
refund my money. Surfers Beware!
name: T. M.
city: 77450
problem: 07/24/2001
I purchased a system on the internet called Train4Riches for
$199. I received an email from m.russell@instabill.com stating that they are a
credit billing company for Train4Riches web site and would like to process my
order for $199.00, but first needed my approval. I sent an email back saying I
did not give my approval. The charge went through anyway. I tried calling the
number on my credit card statement and they gave me a different number to call
for Zstar Network. I called that number and they told me to send an email to
m.russell@instabill.com. I did that and got no response. I sent several more
messages and still got no response. Several months passed and I still had not
received my money back, so I called the number again. I got sent to an
answering machine and I left a message. I did get a call back from Acter (sp?)
and he said that he talked to Bob Morris at Train4Riches and Bob stated that he
personally helped me (which he did not) and that I was passed the guarantee
time for getting a refund. By now I was also past the 60 days my credit card
company allows so I thought I would go ahead and try selling a few of the
programs just to re-coup my money. I can't get into the members site now and as
I understood, this purchase gave me lifetime access to the member's area. I
tried sending an email to Bob Morris stating that I needed help getting to the
member's area and so far have gotten no response.
My first complaint is with instabill. Why did they send me
an email saying they needed my approval and then go ahead and submit the
transaction without my approval? (I wrote them asking this very question and
have gotten no reply). I was willing to try to work it out with Bob but get no
response from him either. So now I'm out my $199 and can't even get access to
what I paid for. His site is still up so I'm assuming he is still selling his
system.
I feel like I've been treated very poorly by both companies
and am very upset about it.
name: K. H.
city: 14624
problem: 07/20/2001
I sent away for information on stuffing envelopes along with
a 30 dollar payment. They sent the brochure, but it involves paying for a
weekly ad and weekly shipping. The free info said there would be no other fees.
Magnum Marketing or M.P-A. is a mail order company that sends you information
on expanding their work-at-home scheme. They ask you to pay $30 for a brochure
and they do send it BUT you will have to pay for weekly ads and weekly shipping
and there is no end product you are selling. In my opinion, it is essentially a
pyramid scheme. DO NOT GET INVOLVED.
name: J. S.
city: 20171
problem: 07/01/2001
Stay away from International Readers League of Atlanta. They
called to sell magazine subscriptions, & the types of questions they asked
were intrusive & highly inappropriate. For example: What is your age? What
is your spouse's name? Who is your employer? Do you own or rent? What do any of
these questions have to do with taking an order for a magazine subscription? I
refused to answer these types of questions. I asked why they wanted to know
these things, & they said they had to "pre-qualify" me for
subscription. Hah! They're relevant only if someone is running a credit card
scam.
name: J. H.
city: 91709
problem: 07/19/2001
I ordered the Winnie the Pooh checks from Checks Unlimited
at the "introductory" price. I received them and then received a bill
for an outrageous amount with a note stating I could not receive the
introductory offer because I had previously ordered from one of their
affiliates. I had ordered from Current--not knowing they were affiliated. I called
and I was told that I would have to pay the amount--they would not accept a
return and would only give me $3.75 off of my order. I paid it to keep from
getting notices and wrote then a letter requesting a refund or, at the very
least, an explanation as to why I was called to find out if I actually wanted
the checks if they were to be at the full amount . It was obvious to them that
I thought I was getting the introductory price because I sent a check for that
amount. I have not received even a courtesy of a reply from them and am warning
everyone I can not to deal with them.
name: J. T.
city: n/a
problem: 07/26/2001
BelMar Resort, Bonaire
We checked in on a Saturday afternoon. The manager, Wilma,
showed us to our room and pointed out extensive water damage. She explained
that a leak had caused damage to both the kitchen and bedroom cabinets and
walls. Further, she told us that we would be doing them a big favor if we
agreed to change rooms on the following Monday, so they could repair the room.
Wilma pointed out that the resort was full until Monday. So, we couldn't have a
different room until then. Because she assured us that the problem had been
corrected, we agreed to stay and switch rooms on Monday.
We started noticing a strange smell right away, but we
opened the windows and doors to air the room out. On Sunday, the smell of sewer
gas was unbearable. When we returned from diving, late that afternoon, we could
not stomach being in our room any longer. Around 5 pm we complained to the
managers, Wilma and Jan. They told us that their plumber had been trying to fix
it only the day before we arrived.
They made no offer to help us in this situation, other than
to assure us that we would be moved to another room the next day. We had a
discussion with them about whether they should have ever checked us into Room
17, knowing its condition and plumbing problems. We asked why they hadn't
helped us to find a room at another hotel prior to our checking in? They were
enraged that we would even suggest they shouldn't have put us in that room.
We were given little choice but to agree to be moved to
another room the next day. Almost a whole day later, late the next afternoon,
we were given the keys to another room. There was absolutely no offer to help
us. We even had to move all of our gear ourselves.
Until our check out on June 30, there was no further contact
with the management of Bel Mar. At that time, we returned the keys and headed
to the airport.
name: L. B.
city: 27603
problem: 06/19/2001
An AHS warranty was part of the deal when I bought my house
two years ago. During the first year, I needed only a minor dishwasher
adjustment (probably not even worth $35). After renewing, my A/C began freezing
up during the hottest part of the summer (July 2000). It would still run, but
only force out hot air. I called AHS and they faxed a service request to
Supreme Air in Raleigh, NC (where I live). After two days they finally called
me and left a message. After two weeks of phone tag, I talked to an actual
person who reported they no longer worked for AHS. I called back and AHS faxed
another A/C repair company. Over the course of another two weeks I made two
appts with the new company, but they never showed or called either time. It was
now September and not as hot, so I sne AHS a letter and called them and said I
wanted to cancel the service and get my money back. Yeah right. The woman (one
of many people at AHS who, sadly, only have first names) I spoke to said why
not just wait until next spring and AHS would arrange for someone to come out
then. In the beginning of June, this year, I called AHS to request another
service call. They gave me the name of Supreme Air. I called back and asked for
another company but they assured me Supreme Air did work for them. Four days
later, after calling them numerous times I got a person on the phone at Supreme
Air who made an appt for a "technician" to come out. They arrived 2
days later. They attempted to recharge the A/C, found out it did not need
recharging and left (after taking a check for $35) after telling me the coils
were probably dirty and I needed to hire someone else to clean them. (AHS does
not cover routine cleaning.) I called the company that regularly services my
A/C-heater, paid them $224 and spent 3 hours with the technician while he took
apart my entire A/C and tried desperately to figure out why it was not working.
He also released some of the charge because Supreme Air had overcharged it.
After a thorough examination, the real repairman told me there had to be
"a restriction in the capillaries" and the only way to fix it was to
replace the A/C. He recommended I call AHS and try again. At this point the A/C
was working in 3 hour intervals (it would only cool for a few a hours before
blowing only hot air -- much like AHS). Sunday night (June 17, 2000) I turned
on the A/C at 10pm. 2am I awoke to the sound of explosions and a burning smell.
I turned off the A/C which no longer works at all (neither does the heat) and
went back to bed. I called AHS in the morning and they offered to send Supreme
Air out again. I explained how Supreme Air really did not seem like they wanted
to fix my A/C but AHS said I had no choice. After 2 faxes and 3 phone calls I
finally got Supreme Air on the phone. They think the problem probably was
caused by the guy who cleaned the A/C. There is no way it could be related to
the problem they have been refusing to fix for almost a year. I made an appt for
Wednesday, but I called AHS back to plead with them to get another repair
service to come. They said it was not possible. An hour later Supreme Air
called. This is the first time in the year I have been begging them to fix my
A/C that they have actually called me. I was very excited until I realized they
were calling me to confront me about asking AHS for another service provider.
And now AHS is hanging up on me when I call. I am getting ready to file a
complaint against AHS and Supreme Air with the Attorney General's office. But I
am out $700 so far and I still have no A/C.
name: C. P.
city: 33068
problem: 06/06/2001
In 1997 my now husband and I decided to get Married. My
co-worker, at the time, suggested that I contact her brother about having him
take my wedding photographs. I was glad at the time to have someone I trusted
recommend someone, because I had heard so many horror stories about wedding
photographers. My husband and I decided we weren’t going to get a video, and we
were going to use the money for better photos because we felt they were more
important to us. We meet with him, we put together a package we were happy with
and went about the rest of the wedding plans, thinking this was one thing we
didn’t have to worry about. In fact he had even helped us find a DJ. We made
payments, like most couples, and had given him 2/3’s of the money in advance,
which we understood to be an average amount. One week prior to the wedding I
called everyone involved with the wedding to confirm our arrangements. When I
got to the photographer, he had me down for the wrong date. I knew I hadn’t
made the error because we were getting married on a Saturday instead of a
Sunday because the honeymoon had be booked first. He told us not to worry he
would still try to come, but if not, he would send another talented
photographer in his place. There was a problem with the replacement right from
the start! He was a smoker, at a non-smoking affair. Every time I need him to
take a picture, unlike most photographers which are so on top of you they are
almost in the way, I had to hunt him down. But I assumed he had gotten the
“standard” wedding pictures such as table shots and my father giving us a
toast. Soon after we were married my husband got into a car accident and was
unable to work. We still owed the photographer 1/3, so we contacted him about
making payments. He agreed, but we couldn’t see the pictures until after we
paid in full. (which made sense, so that we couldn’t cheat him buy making
copies etc.) We paid him as much as we could when we could, even cutting from
our grocery budget, to make sure we gave him enough to know we wanted our
pictures, and we had full intentions of paying him. About a year to a year and
a half later we finally paid him in full, and received our pictures. We were
very disappointed. There were no table shots, no picture of my Dad’s speech, no
un-blurry picture of the “kids” in the bridle party, not a full picture of my
husband and my self cutting the cake or even one of us in regular lighting and
to add to that there were even a few rolls of film missing. I mentioned this to
Allen (the photographer) and he gave me one excuse after another, everything
from, “Well did you tell him you wanted that picture” to “Well you did take a
long time to pay, your lucky I’m not raising your price.” With my tail between
my legs I did as he asked and went home to put my pictures in the order I
wanted them in the book. I couldn’t even find 40 pictures for the large (one of
the more expense) book I wanted to use, and on top of that I didn’t even have
table shots and other traditional pictures to place it in a logical order. I
mailed the pictures to my Mother to see if she wanted any prints. She miss
placed the pictures, since my Dad has 100,000’s of collector pictures it wasn’t
hard to believe, but Allen didn’t believe me. He went into a “it is going to
cost you 100’s of dollars to get them replaced” speech. At this time I called
my Mom and told her I was sorry, but she would have to go through all of the
pictures and find them. When luckily we finally found the pictures I went in to
showed him the order I had selected, he made fun of me and told me I had to
“sign off” on the order in order for the printer to believe it. I explained I
didn’t have the pictures I wanted, and he again made excuses and blow it off.
At this point I told him I possibly wanted by my proofs, starting not to trust
him, and fearing I would never see my book. I felt he should just give them to
me because of all the problems, but instead I asked him how I could get them.
He said it would cost a couple of hundred dollars, so I told him I wasn’t sure
yet.I assumed he had sent the book up to be done. I called him once a month for
a year. At the end of the year he said he never sent the book because he was
waiting for the money for the proofs. I told him I wasn’t even sure I could
afford them and that’s why I had needed to get back to him about them, and he
said since I had added them to my order the book would be set until I paid for
the proofs in full in the amount of $350.00 (a price never talked about, that I
had never heard). I gave in to his demand borrowing money from a friend, but
told him I would have to get my pictures (proofs) in my hand before I gave him
the money. At this point I didn’t believe I would ever get my book and a least
now I would have my proofs. When I saw him face to face he told me my book was
sent and I would get it by Valentine’s Day at the latest. I again believed him,
and at this point didn’t have a choice anyway. I called Valentines Day, still
no pictures, I called two weeks later, and there was no answer, and finally I
left at least 10 messages. I called in March, and then April. By April his
Voice Mail was full, and I thought to myself many people must be in the same
situation as I am. In May I drove up to his place of business, and the place
was cleared out, not even a piece of paper on the floor. In tears, 3 years
after my wedding and 4 months pregnant, I did what every girl in my position
would do, I called my Daddy. He went online and found out there was another
couple who had problems and had written about them on a website called
consumersrevenge.com. We are both sure there are many more people, but don’t
have the resources to find out who they are. And to our surprise being from New
York, Florida dose not have a Better Business Burro! (What a sad statement
about Florida.)
Owner/ Photographer -Alan Silvers
Home Address - 3784 Coco Lake Drive, Coconut Creek, FL
Home Address - 3784 Coco Lake Drive, Coconut Creek, FL
Business Name - Creative Images Business Address 4400 West
Sample Road, #224, Coconut Creek, FL, 33073
Business Phone Number - 954-426-3333 - The one with the full voice mail.
Business Phone Number - 954-426-3333 - The one with the full voice mail.
name: D. W.
city: 60187
problem: 04/09/2001
I have yet to be able to utilize my pre-brought vacation
plan with Med Resorts international. Their sales pitch promised to be able to
arrange exchanges with multiple sites. Instead, what I find is that the actual
people who I speak with to arrange the vacation cannot give me any lists of
groups with which they exchange. They cannot provide me with any information
for a particular area that I'm interested in except those listed in their
colorful manual. They have been rude to me on the phone. Not understanding my
confusion when I ask for info on a vacation to a particular area. They do not
have any patience in explaining their system. They seem to think that I'm the
the one who's off my rocker. The problem is actually that the sales people
showed me lists of companies and places that were affiliates. (I specifically
checked out sites in Kenya) and now I can't get anything like that since paying
big bucks for the package. If you are considering a deal with them. Go for it
only if: you couldn't go further on the 10.000 dollars yourself. Couldn't do a
good vacation on your own with that plus 349$ yearly membership fee. Only if
you routinely vacation at the places that they OWN. Ask those questions. Go
home and think about it! If you still like the idea, they might still be in business
next week when you go back. If their not still in business. You haven't missed
much! So far, I have only regret. Self-reproach for allowing sales to pressure
and soft talk me into the deal. And I have nothing to show for it. Just Be Wary
of the whole Deal.
name: P. O.
city: 86305
problem: 05/15/2001
I purchased a PC from Gateway over the internet. The
shipment came in two segements. 1)memory upgrade 2)computer.
The memory shipped was incorrect (their error not mine) The
computer arrived several days later and did not work. I spent approximately
2hrs online with their tech support, it was decided the problem could not be
dealt with in the field and the computer had to be returned.
I needed the computer for business and had already waited
for 10 days for this computer. I was going to cancel the order and return the
machine when the tech told me it would take another 10 days to get a
replacement.
After he threatened that I would have to pay shipping and
said he would expidite a replacement I agreed to give them another try if the
replacement computer arrived by Monday May 14,2001.
The machine had not arrived by Tuesday so I checked with
them only to find the computer was not going to be manufactured until May 21,
2001. I then proceeded to cancel the order.
Over a period of 3 hours I went through numerous reps and
supervisors to cancel the order (I was cutoff twice)it was made as difficult as
possible to process the cancellation. I had to go through the process seperately
for the computer and the memory. I was informed I would have to pay shipping in
both directions for two return kits even though I still had all the original
shipping materials.
I received from them two shipments.
1) Memory that was not functional in the computer it was
destined for. Their rep selected the memory when I told him how much memory I
wanted in the computer. It was shipped in error by them, I did not give
incorrect order information.
2) I received a computer that was non-functioning right out
of the box, it never did work.
I either have to accept another computer from them in
another 10 days or pay shipping in two directions for two of their mistakes. I
do not yet know what those costs will be but estimate them to be between
$100-$200.
name: D. E.
city: 21784
problem: 04/26/2001
I recently rented a limo from Bayside Limo (Bowie Maryland)
for May 19th, 2001 for my son's prom. 24 days prior to the 19th of May I discovered
that May 18 year old son had given me the wrong date. I discovered this when I
was looking at the upcoming school schedule. I immediately called Bayside and
explained our mistake. He then told me that he had nothing for the 12th of May
but he would be glad to see if any other "reputable" limo services
were available. I immediately started to call around and soon found another
limo service. I thenk called Bayside back and asked him if there was any chance
I could get my $200 deposit refunded. He became very rude and when I gave him
the name of the limo service I had contracted he said they were not reputable,
and so on. (Extraordinare) He claimed they double booked and double charged.
Any way 1 week later my co-worker called to see if the 14 passenger limo was
available for the 19th from Bayside.. He was told it was booked solid.
I then called thinking he would be a good businnes person
and refund my money. Well the other person that I talked to when I called
informed me that my contract was still in the computer. I could not believe
what he was trying to do, she told me I would have to speak with him. It told
him I had a co-worker interested in the 19th but he was told it was booked. He
then started to dance around the issue, claiming he could not remove my
contract from the computer and that is was available. This place is definitely
not on the up-and-up and I would not recommend them to anyone.
I plan on making sure they are "blacklisted" from
my country schools.
Clearly my contract says I will not receive a refund but the
work ethics in the company are some of the worse I have seen.
It it quite clear to me that they are double booking the
same way they accuse Extroidinare
name: L. A.
city: 47630
problem: 04/18/2001
I was a member of a site called TheStudentSaver.com and went
under the name CamoflaugeStarr@hotmail.com (Might be important to tell you in
this case) and and referred a lot of my friends to their site to gain enough
points to redeem to get a prize. I think it it could have been September or
November when I accumulated enough points to get a sleeping bag. I never
received the sleeping bag, and e-mailed them several times asking them why I
had'nt received it. You know what? They never e-mailed me back. I worked hard
to earn that sleeping bag - I spent many days and nights referring my friends
to their site. I feel like I deserve that sleeping bag after all of that hard
work.
name: L. A.
city: 47630
problem: 04/18/2001
One person in particular likes to go under different user
names and personalities on my site promoting their site http://coupons.hk.st .
I don't mind if people promote their site on my site once in awhile, but there
is a point where I have to draw the line. I think this is an unethical way to
promote their business. I also believe that by going under so many different
user names and personalities is an unreasonable way to promote their site and
that they don't have promote their site so much, because this is irritating the
members on my site. I e-mailed this person on their site and told them that I
did'nt approve of this and for them to stop, and they threatened to take legal
action against me for false accusation.
name: L. H.
city: 85711
problem: 04/27/2001
My son, who is 12, started recieving a magazine called FHM
(For Him Magazine) in the mail. This is a disgusting, female degrading magazine
with almost nude photos of women and articles like how to cheat on your girl
friend or wife and not get caught. When the magazines came I went in search of
a phone number to contact the company and ask them NOT TO SEND ANY MORE! I
found out that there is simply a PO Box address in Florida and the magazine
comes from a publishing company out of the United Kingdom. So I sent the
magazines back to the PO Box with a letter explaining about my son and please
don't send any more. They still sent magazines and then invoices. I sent all
this back to them again. Now my son has recieved a letter from National Credit
Audit Corporation. The phone number on the bill is to an automated system (go
figure...no one real to talk to). I have since found your website and others in
which I am finding there are numerous complaints against this company NCAC. Is
there ANYTHING I can do about this situation? I would appreciate any advice or
help from anyone. Thank you.
- Various unclassified
complaints -
name: J. S.
city: 90045
problem: 01/06/2003
I am a victim of a scam at the Ice Cold Air on Hillsborough
Ave. & Town & Country in Tampa, Florida. I took my vehicle to Ice Cold
Air to get a coolant flush and the antifreeze found in my radiator turned out
to be water with green dye according to several dealerships who verified this
for me. I ended up having to replace my radiator and most of my cooling system
which in the end costed me $789 plus tax...Please do NOT take your vehicles
there as you too will become the victim of these money making con
artists!!!???!!! Thanks a lot Kevin R. owner of Ice Cold Air
name: D. P.
city: 90045
problem: 11/20/2002
I sent my son a Moneygram wire in 1994 for $55.00. At the
time he was in the service and was unable due to training to pick the money up.
So I contacted Moneygram about refunding the wire, and was told at that time I
could'nt get a refund, sorry. Then in August 2002, I had to send my son another
Moneygram wire of which I did, and was told by a customer service person I had
$55.00 on the books, and was told whom to contact to get the refund. This
person Mrs. Weems now no longer works for Moneygram, there is a Mr. Gracia who
now is in charge of refunds. I have sent a fax transmission of a letter sent to
Mrs. Weems because Mr. Garcia says he could'nt find any such letter sent
requesting a refund, October 23, 2002. And to this day Nov. 20, 2002 I have not
heard anything and I want my money back.
name: S. D.
city: -----
problem: 10/23/2002
Feb.1 2002, I sent through an order for return address
labels from the above mentioned company. My cheque was cashed within the week
and I expected to receive them within 4-6 weeks. Apr.1 2002 I realized I'd not
received them yet and proceeded to contact the company by first e-mailing their
customer service dept. 10 days later (Apr. 11) I'd not heard back from them and
sent a second e-mail, not response. After no reply again, 5 days later, I found
their phone number and called them "long distance" (prime time)
approx. 3 times where I was left on hold for 15-20 mins. without anyone
answering my call. On the 4th call (mid Apr.), I finally got a hold of someone
in Cust. Serv. and expressed my dis-satisfaction with the time it took to have
some return address labels delivered. They explained to me that their machine
(aka: printer) had broken down, hence the delay, and that the lables would be
sent out the next week. I then asked to have a Supervisor call me back to
express to them how unhappy I was with their Cust.Serv.-never received a call.
I received the labels approx. the last week in Apr.(3 months from the time of
original order)which were spelt wrong and were on a sheet of labels that I
could have myself properly on my own computer in a much shorter time frame! The
week after someone called me from the company to see if I'd received the
labels. I explained to them that I did, they were spelt wrong and considering
the amount of time it took to receive them I could've done the exact same thing
myself and that I would like my money back. The lady explained to me that it
was their policy not to refund labels and I could put it towards something else
at their company. I told her I wanted nothing to do with her company and again
expressed that I'd like a refund. She told me there was no way I would get my
money back for the labels. So, I begruggingly reordered my labels (spelt
correctly). This company is a joke & should be put out of business!!
name: J. J.
city: 32131
problem: 09/05/2002
I attended the Colorado Institute of Art in Denver....now
the Art Institute of Colorado....part of the Art Institutes International. I
graduated in 89 from Visual Communications with honors and Portfolio Par
Excellence of 70 grads. I was unemployable at the time of graduation and was
told to go home and put together an advertising portfolio. I found employment
due to prior job experience and could not get a job in my field. I did not know
until now that students can sue for breach of contract and am way past my
statute of limitations. To make matters worse, I was injured in a car wreck 8
months after grad where I suffered permanent nerve damage to my right arm and
hand and spinal injuries so now am unable to hold full time employment. My
student loan has gone from $24k to $70k with all the accrued interest and no
policy in place for help if you are only partially permanently disabled. I work
freelance but cannot pay the $600 month as that is all I average. I am also
aware on the alumni site that the school has falsified alum records to give the
illusion of success of the grads. One friend of mine is listed as a fine artist
when he could also not get a job in the field and has been a house painter for
the last 12 years. They listed another as a graphic designer when there wasn't
even that position available where she worked as a SECRETARY....so, beware,
these schools do not provide a useable education even today from what current
grads have told me.
name: E. B.
city: 92845
problem: 05/30/2002
On April 8, 2001, my young son slipped and fell while we
were vacationing in Utah. Since there are no Maxicare providers in Utah, we
took him to the closest hospital. This was a Sunday, so we called Maxicare the
next day to inform them that my son broke his leg and needed emergency care,
and gave them all of the information. One month later, Maxicare files
bankruptcy. Later on in the year (around October, 2001), I started receiving
bills from the hospital, doctors, radiologists, etc. After numerous telephone
calls, and advising Maxicare in writing of my dissatisfaction, I ended up filing
a complaint with The Department of Managed Health Care. One particular provider
was processed incorrectly as an in-area claim. This provider was denied because
of that. I called Maxicare to find out what to do, because this provider wanted
me to pay ($1,355). After a heated discussion, this individual advised that
they did, in fact, screw up and told me to have the provider file an HCFA or
UB92 and re-submit the claim. Consequently, it was denied because it was now
too late to file a complaint directly to Maxicare. I made numerous telephone
calls to The Department of Managed Health Care, and they told me that they
can't do anything exept advise the provider the attorney name and case number
to file a claim through the court. I discussed this whole issue with our agency
that deals with more complex insurance issues (from my work). They called
Maxicare to try to help me. Maxicare told them that all claims are being
handled through the medical group and that it's the medical groups
responsibility. Interestingly, Maxicare mentioned another provider for $120.50
(radiology); for which they wrote a letter to last year advising that they
(Maxicare) were responsible. So, I'm basically getting the run around and some
of these medical providers have sent me to collections. Clearly fraud and bad
faith - but what can I do?
name: J. S.
city: 90277
problem: 04/25/2002
Budget/Ryder Takes me for a Ride!- On or about January 25th
I'd ordered a 24ft.truck to take my family, 3bed home and me across the
country. The 800 order taker promised a rate of $650 and waived the fee for the
car dolly. When I arrived to pick up the truck, I waited at the ANDERSON OHIO
RYDER RENTAL for an hour and a half in the snow when the franchise owner pulled
up in a fifteen foot truck. He told me he had to wait at another franchise
across town and was visibly angry about this, stating, "hey, it's not my
fault". When I informed him that I must have a 24 foot truck as I'd just
returned from overseas and knew the exact weight of my home, he said, "Ok,
I've got one out back you can have". I'd been told by the customer service
800 person I'd get a new or near new truck as this was a cross country haul,
(Cincinnati to LA), and I was concerned for the safety of my four year old
child and wife. The franchise owner then told me the charge was $1015.00. $100
deposit. I informed him that this was again not what was quoted me on the 800
order, he shouted, STOP YOUR WHINING, DO YOU WANT IT OR NOT. I had no choice as
movers were waiting and I took the truck. Before we made it across the river
into Kentucky, a nut fell off the top of the driver side mirror, and I had to
make an on road repair, myself. The truck itself was old, extremely loud and
the air conditioning barely worked. In Missouri, through to Arizona, we crept
up hills and mountains at 35mph. We nearly overheated at several points in the
journey. In Barstow CA, The power-steering began to fail, and in Torrance Ca.
at the drop off the franchise owner told me the truk should never have been
rented for an in town move, less a cross country. I recieved the deposit back,
and thought that was the end of it. I noticed several weeks later that I was
charged a second time for the rental A WEEK LATER!!!!!. When I contacted Ryder
they told me they thought it was unusual to be charged twice but to correct
this would take 7 to 10 buisness days. I eventually was returned my money, but
it was a hassle. I've rented numerous trucks over the years and have never
encountered such miscommunication, poor customer service, and awful billing, if
not outright fraud in my life. STAY AWAY FROM RYDER/BUDGET IN ANDERSON TOWNSHIP
OHIO.
name: S. E.
city: 74012
problem: 04/17/2002
Budget Movers (Tulsa, OK) damaged quite a lot of our
furniture (dings and water stains) and one of the two movers was almost
completely worthless and lazy! To top it all off, when we called to complain,
the owner himself told us to "...go jump in a lake!"
name: E. M.
city: 27606
problem: 03/27/2002
My problem is with a company much like the CRS, this one is
called CMS. Ive gotten many many phone calls from these people and
"tried" their service and no I cannot cancel my service. Help!
name: F. T.
city: 96789
problem: 03/26/2002
I have had an account with Direct Merchants Bank for approx.
5yrs., I have paid my payments regularly when due, except (1) month, when my
wallett was stolen. My daughter notified all credit card company's plus by
bank, and everyone was extremely kind and helpful, EXCEPT Direct Merchants
Bank!! I was deliquent on one payment, and being on a fixed income(Social
Security), I wasn't able to send 2 full payments, however did catch up my
account. I received calls from Direct Merchants Bank Reps., 2-3 times a day for
2 months threatening me with reports of bad credit rating, they even had the
nerve to call to Thank me for getting my account in order, but I was short
$19.00, in interest and they wanted to know how soon I could pay them, or else
they would have to add $29.00 more dollars in interest for this overdue amount.
I am elderly, and have Heart and Blood pressure problems, so my daughter tries
to handle most of these calls, and explained my health, so they insisted she
and my son-in-law pay them, or they would have to take further action. They
were receiving my payments but not crediting them for 2 weeks, just to collect
more interest. These people have extremely shady business practices, and prey
on the Elderly with threats and Telephone harrassment. Please stop this Company
from harrassing and threatening people, who pay their bills ON TIME, except in
unforseen circumstances.
name: D. K.
city: -----
problem: 03/26/2002
Publishers Renewal Service will not cancel an order that I
believe they obtained through illegal telemarketing magzine subscription
name: K. B.
city: -----
problem: 03/25/2002
Washington Mutual refuses to remove my name from the
ChexSystems report even though the debt was paid in full. They will not return
my phone calls, nor will they respond to any of my many emails. I have filed
complaints with The BBB, Federal Trade Commissions, and the Office of Thrift
Supervision. It clearly states that I paid the amount that was incurred, and
that I owe nothing, yet I still can not open an account with ANY financial
institution until my name is removed. made on 2-15.
name: J. T.
city: 85210
problem: 03/01/2002
I purchased a wireless phone from quest. the first phone
that was sent I never recieved. A new phone was sent to me, but since then I
have never recieved credit for the first phone which was sent to the wrong
address, my bill has never been correct, and now my phone has been disconnected
for non-payment, even though my payment was made on 2-15.
name: C. W.
city: 20036
problem: 01/02/2002
Two years ago I bought a computer for $2,100 through
1-800-gateway. Over the phone, they told me about a $400 rebate when you
sign-up up with Compuserve internet service for 3 years. I asked if there was a
penalty for cancelling with Compuserve early. Within days I received my
computer, and signed up with Compuserve over the phone, and sent in my rebate
info. After my rebate didn't show-up from Compuserve, I called, and found that
they had set up my account incorrectly. They closed my first account, and opened
a second one. After several weeks, I received my $400 rebate. Now, two years
later, I have switched over to a DSL service, and called Compuserve to cancel
my account. Not only did I have a lot of trouble finding the correct number to
call, but the first time they hung up on me, and the second time, I was on hold
for 40 (yes, FORTY!) minutes. Very rudely, the Compuserve person told me that I
owed them $350 because I didn't fulfill the full 3 yr. contract after having
received a $400 rebate. I was shocked because this was the first I heard about
a cancellation clause. I was especially upset because I had specifically asked
whether there was such a cancellation fee when I bought the computer through
Gateway and when I signed up for Compuserve. They lied! The man on the phone
spoke to me like I was a child. He asked me if I knew what a contract was! I
told him that I wanted to see the peice of paper I signed agreeing to such a
thing. He then asked if I knew what an electronic contract was very rudely. I told
him to show me any electronic document that I had "signed". He was so
rude. I told the man that I would tell all my friends how awful Compuserve was,
and not to use them especially since I had other problems with them overbilling
my account. He then threatened me, and told me that the phone call was being
recorded, and I "don't want to embarass myself". What jerks! So, now
I'm stuck paying for an overpriced, slow internet service that bombards my
computer with ads, in addition to my DSL service. It stinks!
name: A. B.
city: 87401
problem: 10/18/2001
Recently my wife and I decided to do an "envelope
stuffing" program found on realworkathome.com. This is a huge scam. Money
is _not_ earned by means of stuffing and mailing envelopes. Quite the contrary,
one needs to advertise their product, receive money from those who want to buy
the product or are interested in the product. The requests are then sent to
Advanced Marketing and only then is money received. If a person lives in a
small community, money is nearly impossible to earn. This is just part of the
scam. The other part is the $89.95 registration fee, which is returned and even
doubled _if_ fifty people have paid to get information on the product being
sold. Absolutely none of this is stated in the recruiting ad. Unless a person
has time enough to find fifty gullible people to send $5 to the advertiser, the
$89.95 is lost. I feel that many people have lost this fee. This company is
blantantly misleading those who read their ad and even admitted it to me in an
email sent by their customer relations person. I have saved the email and can
forward it to your site if you'd like. I highly admonish any who may be
interested in this program. It is false advertisement by the mere fact that
they have not told the whole truth behind how the money is earned. Again, if it
seems too good to be true, it is.
name: L. ?.
city: -----
problem: 10/14/2001
I had a credit account opened with Goodyear who actually use
Hurley State Bank to hold the credit account. After some time of being
unemployed I fell behind on my payments and they sold the account to another
agency, ER Solutions. I have since paid the account in full to ER Solutions but
Hurley State Bank will not release the negative information on my credit
report. I have repeatedly contacted ER Solutions and since paying my debt 7
months ago Hurley State Bank still has not noted the account as paid!
name: R. W.
city: 33756
problem: 07/18/2001
DO NOT GET VERIZON DSL -
VERIZON DOES NOT PRACTICE HONEST BUSINESS -
NOBODY NEEDS THIS ABUSE OF POWER BY CORRUPT CORPORATIONS
VERIZON DOES NOT PRACTICE HONEST BUSINESS -
NOBODY NEEDS THIS ABUSE OF POWER BY CORRUPT CORPORATIONS
July 2001: Verizon is still billing me for an account closed
in November 2000; in addition, Verizon has just sent it to collection.
I had escalating DSL problems from the start. 2 different
techs came to home and checked phone lines. Second tech recommended installing
separate modem line. Did that $200.00 with my own money trying to help -same problem.
Called VERIZON DSL tech support, tested again, didn’t help. Verizon said I need
Static IP Address. He said transfer my home account to Business Account (I have
no business - They set me up!) Sean Williams, 877-483-1794 ext 5845 business
dept, emailed contract. Waited over 2 wks+, then couldn’t even connect to
internet! Very next day, called Verizon Tech Support, they still couldn’t fix
it. Called 877-483-6006, told Paul problems, what all we tried, and to cancel
service entirely because THEY couldn’t get service running. The cancellation
order ... was submitted by Paul Nov 3, 2000. I specifically asked if I needed
to contact anybody else in business dept. Paul said NO it is completed with
this cancellation order. He made account retroactive to start date August 16,
2000.
NOTE: VERIZON gave me my money back for (retroactive)
charges I paid on monthly phone bills. They admitted there was a huge problem
with my service, let me out of my year contract lease, and refunded me money!
Month later, received bill from “VERIZON Internet
Solutions”. Thought cancellation didn’t go through yet, so didn’t think much of
it. Next month received another bill. Called (800)927-3000, said there was NO
cancellation record. I explained situation, gave cancellation number, and spoke
of Paul’s conversation. I explained when I cancelled Paul told me EVERYTHING
would be taken care of by him. Cancelled AGAIN, this cancellation was done in
writing by Justin lljana @ 972-399-5856. Thought everything was over until
received another bill. Called back, they said because of contract had to pay
monthly rate for Business DSL Service. I explained the service NEVER started,
Verizon already closed my account/refunded me money, and I shouldn’t be
obligated to a closed account. In addition, when Verizon closed/refunded the
account, I sent Verizon their modem back in November 2000; therefore, there is
no way my account could even be used.
VERIZON sent it to collection. Called Verizon Internet
Solutions July 10, 2001, 800-927-3000, Iris transferred me to “Advanced
Billing”. Asked for manager – they said NO! Steve (REP ID# 3393, would not give
me his last name) said operators are managers and he’s been there 2 yrs, felt
sorry for me, sees this all the time, and no recorded of me ever having ANY
problems. Bottom line, Verizon wants $449.40+. Verizon says TO PAY WHETHER I
GOT ANY SERVICE OR NOT because of contract. Contract SAYS 30 days to cancel…I
did. Look where it got me.
All I want is for Verizon to close the entire account as
promised, take me off collection status, and leave me alone. Verizon obviously
has an internal paper debacle that if ONE person there would take time to
investigate - this entire matter could be put to rest. Verizon refuses to let
me speak to ANY managers and Verizon's CEO will not return my messages. VERIZON
SAYS TO PAY EVEN IF THEY ARE UNABLE TO PROVIDE THE SERVICE TO THE CUSTOMER.
This type of business practice is ethically, professionally, and humanly wrong.
Verizon is so big that they just ignore the little guys problem. I REALLY need
help. Verizon is abusing its power.
P.S. This is not the only complaint posting I have done. So
far my list is up to 45+ different places including local radio, local news/TV,
20/20, better business bureau, dsl reports, New York Times, Washington, State
capitals of Florida, Texas and Georgia, attorney general, federal trade
commission, Florida Public Service Commission, Florida Governor Jeb Bush,
Internet Fraud and National Fraud Commission,and more - I am not done!
I am NOT alone, see site:
http://bellatlanticpathetic.com/bb.html
name: B. L.
city: 34428
problem: 06/12/2001
On March 15, 2001, I signed a contract for the purchase of a
house in Crystal River, Florida. The closing date was scheduled for April
16,2001. At that time, I was assured by the real estate agent, Richard
Venticinque; ReMax Realty One that the house would meet FHA standards. The
house failed several FHA inspections and the closing was repeatedly delayed for
this reason. Mr. Venticinque coerced me into making repairs on the property so
that it would pass inspection. He told me that if I did not make these repairs,
that he would hire someone else to do it and bill me for it. When I voiced my
concerns about investing time and more money into this property before closing,
Mr. Venticinque threatened me stating "I have another buyer that will pay
more money and you will lose your earnest money" using foul language,
which further intimidated me.
I began to get suspicious when my requests for inspection
reports were ignored. On the advice of a friend, I hired Jim Bourgoin; Buyer's
Broker from "Buyer's Advantage" in Springhill. Mr. Bourgoin has
assisted me in learning my rights and responsibilities regarding the purchase of
this house. So far, with the assistance of Mr. Bourgoin, I have learned that
the house has extensive termite damage which was not disclosed to me, but known
to the seller and the real estate agent. According to the contract, I should
have been made aware of the termite damage in writing within 4 days of
discovery to give me an opportunity to withdraw my offer if I so chose. I was
not notified.
After failing numerous FHA inspections and finding the
extensive termite damage, I decided that purchasing this property was not in my
best interest. Mr. Bourgoin (my representative) has attempted to communicate
with Richard Venticinque(realtor) in an attempt to resolve this matter, but was
verbally abused by Mr. Venticinque. Attempts made by Mr. Bourgoin to communicate
with the broker, Mr. Steve Varnadoe were to no avail either. Mr. Varnadoe does
not address the issues at hand, but continually diverts attention away from
these issues with personal insults and lies.
Since there were numerous areas where not only the spirit of
the contract, but also the letter of the contract were broken by the agent, I
feel that I am entitled to a full refund of all money that I spent toward the
failed purchase of this property. My out of pocket expenses to date are as
follows:
Earnest money...........................1,000.00
Inspections...................................510.00
Painting supplies and rental equip...200.00
20 hours of labor.............................?????
Total -------------------------------------- $1710.00
Inspections...................................510.00
Painting supplies and rental equip...200.00
20 hours of labor.............................?????
Total -------------------------------------- $1710.00
I find it difficult to place a dollar amount on the
considerable amount of time and energy I put toward this transaction. The real
estate agent and his broker, Steve Varnadoe, flat out refuse to refund my
earnest money, let alone reimburse me for anything else.
Jim Bourgoin of Buyer's Advantage informs me that although
there are regulatory agencies, such as the Florida Real Estate Commission and
the local Association of Realtors it would take time in investigating the facts
of the transaction. Usually the transaction is whitewashed and the
investigation usually takes so long that even if one does not drop their
dispute, and an agency does find that illegal/unethical/ or misleading
practices were carried out, there is only an insignificant token punishment
handed out.
This "wink and a nudge" association between
brokers and their regulating agencies leaves me and the rest of the public with
little or no recourse for satisfaction. We are merely targets for unethical
real estate practices and powerless victims afterward.
It is my hope that you can intervene in this matter for both
personal satisfaction and as an expose into the lack of rights potential
homeowners face whenever they put up their earnest money in good faith. This
may also be a lesson in "Let the Buyer Beware" to not be coerced into
activities such as pressure cleaning and painting a prospective property, no
matter how insistent the seller's agent is or how he uses his position of
control to strong arm people to make happen what he wants to occur. I know there
are many more like me that have been taken advantage of in a similar way, but
are so embarrassed that they do not speak up. I too, almost took this route;
but I realized after mulling this over that the realtors know we will usually
shut up out of shame. Well, this time I'm speaking out in the hope that others
with like experiences won't endure quietly what I have had to go through.
I would like to add that I will never again enter into a
real estate transaction without a buyer's broker. I recommend that EVERYONE
buying a piece of property hires a Buyer's Broker and I highly recommend Mr.
Jim Bourgoin with Buyer's Advantage in Springhill, Florida.
name: G. W.
city: 92119
problem: 06/08/2001
I believe I have been the victim of a "bait and
switch" by Hilton Reservations. However, to give Hilton Reservations the
benefit of the doubt, at the very least, a reservation clerk made a mistake
which I may have to pay for.
On June 5, 2001 I made a room reservation using the Hilton
Honors reservation line for a 1-night stay at a Hilton affiliated hotel in NYC,
The Millennium Hotel, Confirm No. # 3133417793.
When making the reservation, I was told that I had until
June 20 to cancel the reservation. At no time was I told I was making a
non-refundable reservation.
Today, June 8, I called Hilton Reservations to cancel the
reservation. I was told that I was calling past the cancellation date of May 8,
and that this was a non-refundable reservation. In short, I was out of luck and
had to pay for the room whether or not I stayed there. When I asked how it
could be that I made a reservation on June 5th, which is a month after May 8,
and not be told it was non-refundable, they had no answer.
I immediately asked to speak with guest services in Hilton's
Dallas offices, and spoke with a Supervisor, Melissa McCowan, 1-800-446-6677
who informed me Hilton would be charging me regardless of what I said about
what the initial reservations agent had told me. Although they would not say
so, they were in essence, calling me a liar.
It appears it is now my word against theirs. I have left a
message with Ms. McCowan's supervisor, Kendra London. Ms. McCowan said I was wasting
my time calling Ms. London, as she will tell me the same thing. In essence,
they will not admit their reservations agent made a mistake, they are assuming
I am trying to pull a fast one.
I have assured them I will persue this and will take them to
court if I have to. I will also be contacting various "complaint" web
sites to publicize this matter as much as possible.
I have contacted my credit card company, DIners' Club, who
informed me that two "authorizations" for the amount of the room were
made on June 6th. Why Hilton asked for two authorizations for a 1-night stay, I
do not know. Diners' Club assures me they will dispute the charges on my behalf
once they come in.
At this point, the principal of the matter is most important
to me, not the money. I am prepared to sue Hilton in small claims court if need
be. But, I would prefer they settle the matter properly by not charging me for
the room.
Priceline.com
name: M.T.
city: 94599
problem: 12/142001
GET YOUR MONEY BACK!
No matter if its their fault and you didn't get what you
were lead to believe, Priceline.com customer service insists there is nothing
they can do. No changes, no refunds, no nothing. Your bid was accepted, your
money is gone and you're screwed. Three calls to customer service later,
nothing has changed. Now you're told your case is closed but you can always
write headquarters. Thank you, we're sorry, see ya!
Well, Buddy Lee says the buck don't stop there. A wiseman
once said "Grasshopper, it is the squeaky wheel that gets the
grease." If it is action you want, be squeaky. Better yet, be downright
clanky. Here is a list of names, numbers and emails at Priceline.com. They
helped me and hopefully they will help you GET YOUR MONEY BACK!
Good Luck,
M. T.
PS - feel free to repost!
M. T.
PS - feel free to repost!
Priceline.com Inc.
800 Connecticut Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06854
Phone: (203) 299-8000
800 Connecticut Avenue
Norwalk, CT 06854
Phone: (203) 299-8000
SEND FAXES HERE: (203) 595-0160
Employees (last reported count): 355
Rick Braddock Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 27233625#
Jeffery H. Boyd President and Chief Operating Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 269353#
Robert Mylod Chief Financial Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 69563#
Brett Keller Chief Marketing Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 535537#
Ronald V. Rose Chief Information Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 7673766#
Trey Urbahn President, Airlines
(203) 299-8000, 1, 872246#
Christopher L. Soder President, Hotels
(203) 299-8000, 1, 76337#
Jeanne D. Wisniewski Executive Vice President, Human Resources
(203) 299-8000, 1, 9476439#
Lisa Gillingham Senior Vice President, Customer Service and Operations
(203) 299-8000, 1, 4455464426#
Mitch Truwit Executive Vice President, Operations and Product Development
(203) 299-8000, 1, 8789488#
Thomas P. D'Angelo Senior Vice President, Finance and Controller
(203) 299-8000, 1, 3264356#
Lisa Singer Barnes Customer Service Manager
(203) 299-8000, 0
Brian Ek Media Relations
(203) 299-8167
Employees (last reported count): 355
Rick Braddock Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 27233625#
Jeffery H. Boyd President and Chief Operating Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 269353#
Robert Mylod Chief Financial Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 69563#
Brett Keller Chief Marketing Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 535537#
Ronald V. Rose Chief Information Officer
(203) 299-8000, 1, 7673766#
Trey Urbahn President, Airlines
(203) 299-8000, 1, 872246#
Christopher L. Soder President, Hotels
(203) 299-8000, 1, 76337#
Jeanne D. Wisniewski Executive Vice President, Human Resources
(203) 299-8000, 1, 9476439#
Lisa Gillingham Senior Vice President, Customer Service and Operations
(203) 299-8000, 1, 4455464426#
Mitch Truwit Executive Vice President, Operations and Product Development
(203) 299-8000, 1, 8789488#
Thomas P. D'Angelo Senior Vice President, Finance and Controller
(203) 299-8000, 1, 3264356#
Lisa Singer Barnes Customer Service Manager
(203) 299-8000, 0
Brian Ek Media Relations
(203) 299-8167
EMAIL:
jeff.boyd@priceline.com, bob.mylod@priceline.com, brett.keller@priceline.com, ron.rose@priceline.com, trey.urbahn@priceline.com, anne.wisniewski@priceline.com, lisag@priceline.com, tom.dangelo@priceline.com, lisasinger@priceline.com, brian.ek@priceline.com, rick.braddock@priceline.com, chris.soder@priceline.com, brian.ek@priceline.com
jeff.boyd@priceline.com, bob.mylod@priceline.com, brett.keller@priceline.com, ron.rose@priceline.com, trey.urbahn@priceline.com, anne.wisniewski@priceline.com, lisag@priceline.com, tom.dangelo@priceline.com, lisasinger@priceline.com, brian.ek@priceline.com, rick.braddock@priceline.com, chris.soder@priceline.com, brian.ek@priceline.com
WEB:
http://biz.yahoo.com/p/p/pcln.html
http://www.corporate-ir.net/ireye/ir_site.zhtml?ticker=pcln&script=2200
http://messages.yahoo.com/?action=q&board=PCLN
http://www.zdnet.com/zdnn/stories/news/0,4586,2631034,00.html
http://www.2think.org/priceline/message/8archive.html
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/travel/priceline_growls_back.htm
http://www.usatoday.com/life/cyber/invest/ina162.htmPriceline.com - GET YOUR MONEY BACK!
http://www.corporate-ir.net/ireye/ir_site.zhtml?ticker=pcln&script=2200
http://messages.yahoo.com/?action=q&board=PCLN
http://www.zdnet.com/zdnn/stories/news/0,4586,2631034,00.html
http://www.2think.org/priceline/message/8archive.html
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/travel/priceline_growls_back.htm
http://www.usatoday.com/life/cyber/invest/ina162.htmPriceline.com - GET YOUR MONEY BACK!
name: J. H.
city: 20176
problem: 01/02/2003
Booked a "3 star" hotel in London through
Priceline.com. After my bid was accepted I checked out the hotel which sounded
very nice. We arrived in London, very tired and loaded with baggage. Our
"3 star" hotel was virtually in a slum and was a filthy little place
not close to shops, attractions or restaurants as advertised. Even the local
police department suggested we not go out at night. Obviously we couldn't stay
and found another hotel. Like idiots we thought when we got back to the States
that Priceline would give us a partial refund. What a joke! They stick by their
rating system and won't even discuss a refund. I'm totally disgusted with them
and my economical little vacation cost me as much as it would have if I had
stayed in a luxury hotel.
name: C. F.
city: 61234
problem: 12/29/2002
I booked a car rental and found out that they had an error
in the return site. I was told by Hertz that there is nothing they can do. They
gave me a toll free number of Priceline. I've called it 8 times, no one will
talk with me, they just hang up.
name: E. Y.
city: -----
problem: 12/05/2002
You should NEVER,EVER do business with this company. Last
summer I purchased 5 roundtrip tickets to San Juan, PR. American Airlines
overbooked the flight and my family was bumped off the flight. We weren't
worried until the counterperson told us that since we were not travelling on
the date on the ticket (the next flight out was after midnight) our tickets
were void. Priceline blamed the American Airlines and American Airlines blamed
Priceline. We were able to get to San Juan because we were travelling with my
93 year old grandmother and the counterperson did the right thing. I spoke with
a Priceline supervisor (for at least an hour, who was unhelpful and basically
told me these tickets were worthless. We also found out that since we missed
the flight the return tickets were void. I sent e-mails and letters to
Priceline - no response. I then had to purchase 5 one way tickets to come home.
Once I was home I called Priceline to try to get some of my money refunded. I
was told that there was no supervisor with the name I had been given and that
the return tickets could have been used. BUYER BEWARE THIS IS ONE OF THE WORST
COMPANIES I HAVE EVER DONE BUSINESS WITH.
name: J. T.
city: 47803
problem: 10/16/2002
I purchased tickets through Priceline.com. I did realize
that to some degree there were no refunds but I didn't realize that you could
not have changes made. I was checking on the status of my ticket through the
airline carrier Delta to make sure all of my plans were as stated in my
itinerary that Priceline.com sent me. Let me tell you, I was speechless when
they told me that the reservations that I had made were cancelled on Delta's
computers. I spent several DAYS calling trying to get things taken care of. In
the mean time, I needed the flight changed leaving from my destination a day
sooner. The Customer Service Personnel told me that since I have had all of
this trouble that when she figured out what had happened to my tickets being
cancelled that she would change my departure date to help make up for all of
the trouble I went through. After I received no calls about anything dealing
with the problems I was having, I called Priceline myself and found out that
the tickets had been reinstated but the departure dates had not been changed as
was agreed. I then called Delta airlines to make sure that it was reinstated
and it wasn't. They had no record of a reinstatement. I tried getting a refund
because I was tired of all of the hassel and even let them know I was turning
them in to the Better Business Bureau and contacting my lawyer. Regardless of
what I said, they did not care. They basically stole $250 from me and did not
care. I believe that Priceline is the scam of century. I just can't believe
they are legally stealing from people and nothing is being done about it.
name: L. C.
city: 02124
problem: 10/01/2002
I attempted to purchase airline tix on 9/25/02 of this year
to Raleigh, NC and ended up with tixs to Greensboro, NC. Now I am forced to
rent a car and a hotel room the first night that I arrive because my flight
doesn't get into Greensoboro, NC until close to 11pm and my family and friends
are more than an hour away from where I will arrive. I feel that I was mislead
by the wording in the "contract" and the no refund policy is unfair.
When I called to complain the customer svs reps response was "It is 64 or
65 miles away from Raleigh so if you drove 60 miles an hour, how long do you
think that it would take you to get there." I will never use this company
again. I was not surprised to see the many complaints on this website and other
sites about this company. It's funny I had never used priceline before because
I was skeptical abt their svs but something came up and I needed a reasonable
price for airline tixs and look what happens. I didn't even get the price that
I wanted it cost me $100 more than I expected for the airline tix and flying
into unwanted site and have to pay additional cost just for using this service.
NEVER AGAIN!
name: B. O.
city: 89146
problem: 09/06/2002
I bought a round trip ticket to Europe for myself and for my
wife from Priceline.com. I am flying with United Airlines and my wife is flying
with Iberia Airlines! This does not look like a fun trip for a husband and
wife, each going its own way. Calling Priceline is no use. I feel so stupid to
have even tried to buy a ticket from Priceline. I will refuse to take delivery
of their ticket, I will dispute the CC charge, and will never ever call
Priceline again.
name: V. B.
city: 91933
problem: 08/14/2002
In June 2002 I booked a car rental in Cleveland Ohio for use
in August. Priceline.com promptly billed my credit card and had use of the funds
for over 2 months. When it came time for the rental I was unexpectedly too ill
to travel. I wanted to assign the care rental to another person and AVIS would
not allow this. It seesm as though it is shady business practice to
"double dip" and charge priceline, not complete the rental per my
instructions (although the new driver met their criteria) and then go on to
rent the same car to another person. All I wanted was to assign a different
driver.
name: R. R.
city: 99752
problem: 06/17/2002
After purchasing tickets through Priceline, while still
"signed-in" I wanted to research a price on round trip tickets for my
mother from FL to NY. When I went to search for the tickets Priceline charged
my credit card for tickets it found without "Confirming" that i
wanted to actually purchase these tickets. I don't have a problem with the
departure time but the return date needed changing because of the length of
time. Not only were they rude about it they won't make changes, even though I
was willing to pay penalties. I am out a hell of a lot of money because I don't
know if my mother will even travel on the dates. So NEVER NEVER NEVER again
will I purchase tickets for trips through priceline, nor will I travel the
airline that accepted the terms and is unwilling to help me out with changes to
the ticket. Even with enough advance notice. I will go out of my way to know
how I was treated by this company and how they won't try to help people with
ticket problems. It was suggested that even if my mother was dead they wouldn't
refund or change the ticket. What kind of a company claiming to help people
with cheap fares won't help those they've freely RIPPED OFF!
name: K. E.
city: 44406
problem: 02/22/2002
I went to the website Priceline.com and requested a flight
from Columbus, OH to Las Vegas, NV. I asked to fly from 2/23-2/23. What I got
was a flight that arrived home on the 2/25 at 9AM. I immediately called
Priceline and begged them to help me change these useless tickets. They were
very rude and not helpful. I cannot take off work on 2/25 and so I am now out
$800 for three tickets that I cannot use. I feel that they are very misleading
on their website and that a lot of innocent people are suffering from their
disservice. Please help me if you can!
name: R.W.
city: 23233
problem: 07/302001
DO NOT USE PRICELINE OR BUY ITS STOCK!
I bid on a hotel in Boston in the Copley area, (with a
witness at the computer) and was given a hotel in the Cambridge area. We
rechecked my bid and it was for Copley alone. I emailed Priceline and they
maintained I had bid for all of Boston, which was absolutely false. I reached
customer service and the unchanging mantra was "you are wrong and you will
never get your money back". This is a corrupt outfit. They are either just
sloppy and nasty, or deliberately dishonest. Stay away.
name: A. D.
city: 78728
problem: 07/18/2001
I am another Priceline.com sucker. Just as I clicked on the
confirm button, my eyes caught the "No refunds on this purchase"
statement buried in a size 5 font in the middle of a huge paragraph. I begged
and pleaded to no avail with the so-called customer service rep who was
politely condescending. So now I will be taking my 8 year old daughter through
NY city at 1:00am. It's a shame that Priceline is still in business. I will be
discussing this matter with the state attorney general's office. I encourage others
to do the same.
name: J. G.
city: 92124
problem: 07/16/2001
I wanted to add 1 more day on my car rental through
priceline and their entire customer service department should change their name
to "customer disservice." I will never go through them again.
name: P. S.
city: 19057
problem: 05/25/2001
Price Line.com. I did get a good price on a ticket but they
would not even try to change my flight time.The Airline was willing to work
with me but price line would not!!! I waisted the money because I can not go
the distance I intended for just pretty basicly one day.The flight is not until
September and they would not even talk to the Airlines.
name: S. A.
city: 21075
problem: 05/02/2001
On 02/05/01 at 5:07 pm (EST), we went on-line to
Priceline.com to order 5 Round-trip Non-Stop Airline tickets from Harrisburg
Intl. to Detroit-Wayne County & back. (I'm claustrophobic & have a fear
of flying, so I just want to get on the plane & off as quick as possible).
We received confirmation for 5 Round-trip Connecting tickets & even the
times for flights weren't what we asked for. We thought they'd give us an
option for either direct or connecting flights with different prices, as a
result they issued us connecting flight tickets. As of this date(05/02/01) we
are trying to get these tickets cancelled and get our money refunded. It's
really a shame that so many hardworking people get ripped off by companies like
Priceline.com.
name: S. A.
city: 94115
problem: 04/18/2001
I requested airlines tickets on Priceline.com. I wanted to
plan a 3 day week end on memorial day from Saturday to Monday in San Diego. I
requested to leave San Francisco early morning on Saturday and return on monday
from San Diego late in evening. What I have got was tickets leaving SF at 2:39
pm and returning on monday at 6:20 am! What a memorable memorial day!!! The
worst thing is there is nothing I can do to change or transfert my tickets. I
am completely stuck! Priceline.com SUCKS! At least we should be able to choose
the timetable and have the choice to cancel the order!
name: F. L.
city: 94803
problem: 11/15/2000
I'm another one of those suckers whose got conned by the
priceline.com screw your customer scheme. I bought two tickets didn't realize
you are locked into to the flight times they stipulate and recieved a flight
completely unvailble to myself and my wife. Forcing both of us to take time off
work to use the tickets or see our money go to waste!
name: G. M.
city: 66044
problem: 10/29/2000
I bid on roundtrip plane tickets for two & never
received a confirmation within 60 minutes as priceline.com promised. Over 90
minutes later, I rec'd two emails from priceline.com at the same time, one
confirming my bid, the other confirming my purchase. The plane tickets were
routed from Kansas City to Chicago to Nashville and the trip took 5 hours. I'm
attending an ill person on the flight. Changing planes and lengthy layovers are
not an option.
When I didn't hear from Priceline.com within the time period
they specified, I purchased tickets from an airline for a non-stop, 1 hr 45
min, flight that cost 10 cents more than Priceline who promised, on their web
page, up to a 40% savings over airline prices. Plus, they added $55.90 worth of
taxes and fees to my bid amount! Perhaps a more apt name for such unethical
practices would be "pricelying.com".
When I rec'd the simultaneous emails from Priceline, I
called *immediately*. The customer service reps were rude, unhelpful, and
downright nasty. They refused to terminate the transaction. I next called Mastercard
who said the purchase had gone through (probably done as I was complaining to
those priceline.com swine). I'm told I need to enter a dispute process after I
receive the paperwork. The Mastercard service rep left little hope. She said a
similar thing happened to her sister and priceline.com would not mediate with
Mastercard about it.
Now that I've researched it, there are complaints all over
the internet about this shoddy outfit. My story is an all too familiar one. I
refuse to be screwed by this unethical sleazey outfit.
name: S. H.
city: 97008
problem: 08/24/2000
I was on Priceline.com to purchase tickets from PDX to BUR.
I requested peak hours for travel and 1 connection. What I received was not
anywhere near what I ordered. I received confirmation that I had tickets from
PDX to SFO and from SFO to BUR leaving PDX at 5:50 pm and arriving at BUR at
9:47 pm. With a layover in SFO of approx. 1 1/2 hours. Return times were also
supposed to be 1 connection from BUR to PDX leaving BUR at 6:55pm and arriving
in SFO at 8:02 pm, leaving SFO and arriving in PDX at10:57 pm. Not hardly peak
travel times or 1 connection flights. I immediately called Priceline and was
told that what I got is what I am stuck with and I would have to pay for the
tickets whether I used them or not. I called my credit card company and was
told that I could dispute the charge but it might take up to 90 days to settle.
In the meantime if I don't use the tickets and get a flight that is compatible
with my needs I will be stuck for the price they have charged me. The credit
card comnpany also informed me that if the website says no refunds or changes
that I will probably lose the dispute and lose the money. So begrudgingly I
will use the tickets and recommend everyone that I send e-mail to or talk to
not to ever use priceline.com.
name: A. K.
city: Houston, TX
problem: 08/24/2000
Priceline.com uses deceptive and vague selling practices to
rip you off!
I purchased a last minute weekend ticket and was sold a 48
hour plane ride,with over a half a day of stopover time. I was allowed all of 4
hours in my desination city.
Upon contacting their Priceline.com, I was told that they
could not cancel the transaction and that it was not their policy to change or
refund tickets. This was clearly stated on their web site, so I asked them if
they would credit my Visa for the amount, due to the fact that I was so
dissatisfied with the tickets they had sold me. Needless to say, they were not
willing to make any consent in order to make me happy or to keep me as a
customer.
I have made several reports to consumer agencies concerning
Priceline.com and have filed a dispute claim with my credit card company. I
have also made my concerns known to my local and state representatives. I
intend on securing a refund for my tickets as well as innitiating a policy
change at Priceline.com
The kind of policy that Priceline.com uses is unethical and
inexcuseable.
I believe it should be illegal to sellunseen merchandise or
services without some kind of return or refund policy.
name: D. M.
city: 29617
problem: 07/21/2000
ON 7/7 I MADE AN OFFER ON NOTEBOOK COMPUTER @PRICELINE
PERFECT YARD SALE AND THEY ACCEPTED IT. THE NEXT DAY THEY CHARGED MY CARD FOR
$500.00 WHICH WAS CORRECT. ALSO ON 7/8 THE SELLER FILED A CLAIM BECAUSE HE SAID
THEY LISTED HIS NOTEBOOK AT THE WRONG PRICE. I HAVE E-MAILED PRICELINE AT LEAST
10 TIMES AND ALL I GOT WAS AN AKNOWLEDGEMENT SAYING THE CLAIM WAS AGAINST THE
SELLER AND NOY ME! THEY STILL WILL NOT CREDIT MY CARD EVEN THOUGH THEIR SITE
SAYS THEY HAVE A 7-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. IT HAS BEEN 2 WEEKS AND NO CREDIT
YET!!
name: J. Y.
city: 93449
problem: 06/12/2000
unclear instructions - bad customer service - and NO
refunds, whether you've made a mistake or not.
I wanted to take a flight to Philadelphia, arriving on July
21st. The instructions and cautions NEVER specifically state that while you
have to agree to a flight between 6 am and 10 pm, connecting flights do not
have to go in between those times. I attempted to book a flight for the
21st...my credit card was charged...and the itinerary received. I found that I
had been booked for a flight arriving at my destination after midnight, in
other words, on the July 22nd, not July 21st.
And while the instructions given to you by Priceline do
state that your ticket price cannot be refunded to you, I mistakenly believed
that you would have a chance to give a final approval once the flight was
located.
Despite the e-mails I've sent, all I've received is a pair
of form letters, and judging from other comments I've seen here, customer
service by telephone won't do me much good either. Has anyone found a way to
get Priceline to either a)refund tickets or b)change flight times? There HAS to
be a way around them somehow.
name: Julie
city: 77084
problem: 6/01/2000
Never, ever, EVER do business with Priceline.com
I made the ultimate mistake when I bought some airline
tickets online through Priceline.com. What would`ve been a 1 hour flight to
Shreveport has turned into a 4.5 hour ordeal that routes me through
eastern-Egypt and gets me home after midnight. All this abuse for $35 less than
the ideal flight!!!
Here is the kicker: Priceline.com charged me another 36.6%
(OVER the ticket price I agreed to) in hidden, undisclosed charges AFTER I
named my price. The itsy bitsty print on their website basically allows them
unended, undisclosed fees, taxes, fuel charges, etc. Neither American Express
nor American Airlines could (or would) do anything to get me a refund.
Within two minutes of my e-mail notice of ticket arriving, I
called AmEx, then Priceline (these are the most abusive, beligerant,
threatening people in the world!!!), AmEx, AmEx travel and American Airlines.
The ticket I was sold was so worthless, it wasn`t worth having!!! Customer
service personnel at American Airlines told me, "I hate Priceline.com,
they are ruining the travel industy. I hear nothing but nightmares about
them!" Gee thanks, American Airlines and AmEx for doing business with
these people!!!
All I want is a refund so that I can go straight to
Continental and pay a legitimately disclosed fare and get on with my life!!!
name: L. O.
city: 20832
problem: 03/21/2000
I recently made a bid on priceline. I noted on my bid I
would make no more than one connection, not fly off peak hours, and that and
infant would be accompanying me ( which i would be paying a full price ticket
for). My bid was accepted, and as I read the conformation I was stunned. The
flight they "congratulated" me for getting would be leaving just
after 4pm from Baltimore Md, making two connections totaling over 5 hours of
layover time to arrive in portland Maine at nearly midnight, then I saw the
price the fees and taxes were almost have of the cost. I had read on their site
"7.5" taxes was average plus a small fee of $5. Being that I needed to
attend to a family emergency i called the 800 number to see if perhaps some
accomidation/adjustments could be made since this is not what i had bidded on
nor was it exceptable. The smug customer service rep told me "It's done
there's nothing that can change it, it's not our fault" and "you
still have to pay for the tickets". I filled out the form noting what I
wanted, pricelines job was to find me that. Obviously there was a blanted
disregard for the request. Only to be topped off with exorbiant fees and rude,
hard to reach customer service represenatives. Price Line for your service and
thougtfulness, for letting me know I got screwed, I will return the favor by
telling anyone and everyone.
name: J. F.
city: 02865
problem: 03/23/2000
Jay Graham
4331 Equity Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43228
4331 Equity Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43228
Dear Mr. Graham:
I recently had taken some issue with a practice of
Priceline.com and was given your name and address. First of all I do not mean
any information in this letter to be a personal attack on you, my issue is with
Priceline.com's business practices. Now let me tell you what I take issue. On
February 18, 2000 at approximately 7:45-8:00 pm I attempted to place a request
for a hotel room for the night of February 19, 2000. I clicked the submit
button and some screens flickered and then the building I was in, my work, lost
complete power, thus I lost everything I was working on. I was not sure if my
request went through so I waited and no email was received, so I made an
attempt to call your 800 number to make sure the request had not went through,
to prevent duplicate billing. When I called the system asks for a hotel request
number which I did not have due to the power outage, and I had used this
service before and know that the request number placed on the screen after
successful submission and also in a email. I did not have either of these. So I
used the option of entering the credit card number that the request was placed
with, which I did several times and was told repeatedly by this friendly
machine that the credit card is invalid and to use another card. Well it was 11
pm by now and I went home assuming the transaction was never placed.
I sent an email to try to get the request number or status
or both. Oh how I was wrong. Today March 2, 2000 I receive a credit card bill,
the one whose number I entered to talk to an operator and was told it was
invalid, was billed for $47. Mr. Graham this brings me to 2 points:
1)I exhausted all of my efforts to no avail; I never
received an email confirming the acceptance of my offer, nor an email
acknowledging that I had even submitted a request. Your system needs some
checks
2)This point, to be honest, really bothers me the most. I
was told by Wes B. #4728. supervisor on duty ,after finally getting to speak to
someone in your customer service department that the fault was all mine and
that Priceline.com was in no way responsible for what happened. Now I will
explain my case to you.
Yes this was all triggered by a power outage, but there are
other alternatives that did not work correctly. First your customer service
department has a record of an email being sent to me at 9:04 pm this email was
never received. Secondly, attempting to look out for my best interests I send
in an email via the website. I never received a response. Next I attempted to
call the 800 number that you give on your website. This was a failure, Wes
tells me tonight that if you input a number over and over again that it will
send you to an operator. Well that did not happen either, the phone system hung
me up. I get my credit card bill today and see that Priceline.com has charged
me $47, oh great I get to pay for something I did not know I bought. Well
seeing the charge I attempt to call again the phone system does the same routine
to me again. I call my credit card company and explain, they advise me to
dispute the charge or turn it over to fraud. I give Priceline.com one more
chance via email and explain basically everything that I have included in this
letter. I finally am sent the form that says your Request has been accepted.
Thus now I call the 800 number and am told by everyone that I talk to that this
is my problem and that it is not Priceline's policy to refund or change
requests. Mr. Graham I really would like to talk with you in person on this
issue, but the people in customer service would only give a name and address.
If you get a chance please call me anytime. Mr. Graham I have used your service
in the past and have turned many family and friends on to it. Please don't force
me to have to change an opinion of a great thing. I am not asking for a refund
of the $47, I just want to have late Valentine's Day with my wife that I tried
to plan. I am hoping we can make this right. I will include all the information
below. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
J. D. P.
J. D. P.
Note:
I have been given an address for a person at Priceline.com
who handles all of their complaints.
Email: info@priceline.com
For Complaints:
Jay Graham
4331 Equity Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43228
For Complaints:
Jay Graham
4331 Equity Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43228
Corporate Info, including the CEO and address:
Richard S. Braddock
5 High Ridge Park
USA - Stamford,, CT06905
Phone: 203-705-3000
Fax: 203-595-0160
Richard S. Braddock
5 High Ridge Park
USA - Stamford,, CT06905
Phone: 203-705-3000
Fax: 203-595-0160
name: M. A.
city: 02865
problem: 02/22/2000
I mistakenly entered a transaction on the Priceline.com web
site, I noticed my mistake called immediately to demand cancellation. I was
told that there are no cancellations even though my transaction for flight
request was still not fulfilled. I stayed online with a customer service
supervisor for 25 minutes and during that time a flight I didn't want was
automatically chosen and charged to my AMEX. I called AMEX who sympathized, but
said they couldn't do anything until the next billing cycle (20 days from now).
My flight is in 31 days....what can I do to fight for my rights. I've even
asked if I can pay a cancellation fee, but was rejected. HELLLLLP.
name: J. C.
city: 55976
problem: 02/11/2000
I requested airline tickets from Priceline.com. I wanted
round-trip tickets from Minneapolis to Las Vegas for three adults. I requested
NO connecting flights. Priceline found tickets for me at my price, but they had
a stop-over in Phoenix! I called them within minutes of receiving my E-mail
from them, and I was cut off while waiting for a "manager". I called
them again, and talked to "Justin", who claimed he was the highest
manager of the company. He would not listen to my complaint - he just quoted
the fact that ALL Priceline.com's flights may have a connecting flight. He
stated that it was on their web page. I do not doubt that it may have been, but
it was not obvious. Justin would not listen to my arguement, and then he hung
up on me! I am working with my VISA company to see what I can do to cancel this
charge. They have had other complaints against Priceline.
name: M. W.
city: 89107
problem: 12/13/1999
I requested tickets to go to a church Conference On October
22-23, 1999 in Phoenix AZ. I requested to leave Las Vegas early morning on
October 22, 1999 and to return on October 23, 1999. What I got was tickets
leaving Las Vegas at 10 p.m. On October 22,1999 and returning on October 23,
from Phoenix at 8 a.m. These were totally unuseable. I immediately notified
them by return email at least 4 times with no answer. I cancelled them on my
credit card, but they still appeared. When I talked to Priceline.com after I
spent more that an hour on the phone I was informed by the rude customer
service rep at Priceline that it was my own touogh luck. So I was forced to
purchase the correct tickets to go to the conference.
name: M. S.
city: 90266
problem: 08/1999
Based on their numerous ads, I decided to purchase airline
tickets from Priceline.com.
I sent in my information and the amount that I could afford
with the expecation that I would have to pay standard taxes and fees in
addition to my bid amount which are generally 8 to 10%. However, my final
ticket cost had fees & taxes which exceeded 17% of the ticket price. I have
been unable to reach a human representative on Priceline's customer service
line and they have emailed me that there is no way that they can cancel or
refund my ticket. I'd like to warn consumers that Priceline's fees can exceed
the standard fees charged by most travel agencies and to read the fine print
and then click again to read the finer print!
Stay Away From Consumers
Readers Service!
name: J. B.
city: 72032
problem: 08/28/2002
I too have been tricked into buying them thinking that they
were magazine source. Stay away from these ppl.
name: C. S.
city: 02144
problem: 02/28/2002
I had the same problem with the Readers Service Magazine.
They blatantly tricked me then told me there was no way to break the
committment because it was a verbal agreement. I want my money and peace of
mind back.
name: S. P.
city: 13676
problem: 02/10/2002
Consumer Reader Service is SHADY, I am in college and got
the 1/2 hour call from these people and stupidly gave out my credit card info
to them. they talked their way around and around in circles untill they had me
buying this and that. Yes I got tricked but I also after getting their
verification call canceled my subscriptioin order. Now I say cancelled but I
wasn't sure so I called my bank and canceled the card. So hopefully that'll put
a stop to the annoyance I've come to know as CRS
name: R. E.
city: 99577
problem: 10/10/2001
My problem is with "Consumer Readers' Service" I
got a call from them a couple months ago, they had a great deal on magizines.
They even lowered the monthly rate to help me out. Well first, I have only seen
a couple of these magazines. And then, I get my bill and it has some
interesting extra charges I never agreed to. So Discover has been investigating
that supposedly. I have wanted to call and talk to them. But noone ever picks
up, not even an answering machine. Then I start getting calls that from them in
my machine that they want their money. They say that the only time to call them
is before noon. Well this must be noon China time, because nobody is there at
those times. Overall, these people disgust me and their name should be changed
to COnsumer Readers' DIService
name: D. D.
city: 29406
problem: 09/08/2001
I have experienced the same problems with Consumer Readers
Service as the other people on this site. This company, which also goes by the
name Readers Service Magazine, led me to believe that they were a company that
I was already doing business with--they even already had my credit card number!
I have been in contact with them several times, but they have failed to provide
any written documentation to substantiate their claim that the service cannot
be cancelled. They have also failed to reply to any one of the SEVERAL letters
I have sent to them on the matter. Today (08Sept01) I went to my lawyer's
office to get some advice and explore my options. I am going to contact each
individual magazine publisher and cancel my so-called "subscription"
with them directly. I truly hope that this website can generate enough
complaints on Consumer Readers Service to warrant an investigation. I would
greatly appreciate anything that might help me end this on-going saga.
name: S. T.
city: 08830 problem: 03/28/2001
I have a problem with this one company called Consumer
Readers Service. I want to cancel my subscription and they say its impossible.
I just want to know how could I can stop them from calling my home, because my
wife is in her last stages of pregnancy. Can I ask my telephone company to put
a block this No.? Everyone - please stay away from these telemarketers -
especially Consumer Readers Service.
B. Z.- November 30, 1999
I am on medication for a chronic illness. The day (11/12/99)
that I received a telephone call from Consumers Readers Service, I was
suffering from a debilitating migraine and, was, at that point in time, just
trying a new medication from my rheumatologist. Needless to say, I was somewhat
groggy and quite ill. I believed that Consumers Readers Service (referred to as
"CRS") was the same company that I already used. Not the case, I use
Consumers Periodicals Service ("CPS"), and so far am pleased with
their service.
My husband called (11/29/99) "CRS" to cancel their
service, and a female said there is "no way" to cancel -- how can
that be? My husband was appalled at the very unprofessional way this person
handled his call. My husband, almost immediately, called American Express, and
the bill will not be received by us until around 12/10/99. The American Express
Representative explained to my husband that once we received the billing, they
might be able to get involved at that point, but could not do anything for us
at this time. (Of course, my husband and I would like to know if we are doing
the right thing by waiting to receive the American Express billing.)
I then placed a call to "CRS", and explained to a
female, Kathy, that my husband had just placed a call to their company, and I
then asked several questions regarding why we cannot cancel this service, as I
believed at the time they called they were actually the service I now use. She
explained to me that is their policy, and maybe I could have my doctor write a
letter, even though their are "no guarantees" it will take care of
the problem (cancelling their service). She was quite nice, but not really very
helpful.
I believe, as a consumer, I have the right to cancel this
service anytime I care to. That is the way we have always done business, and we
have never had a problem.
Thank you very much for your time and cosideration. I
understand you will be giving me advise via Email. According to
"CRS", I am running out of time. Can you help me right away, or can I
at least hear from you as far as how long it might take?
name: S. J.
city: 53223
problem: 09/14/2000
If I get one more f#@$%ng call from Consumer Reader's
Service I'm going to f#@$%ng kill myself.
Here's how it started. It was 6 years ago, I was in college.
I received a call from this nice woman on the phone. Now keep in mind, I never
had a telemarketer call me before. She goes through this spiel that seems to
take a 1/2 hr and she offers up some magazines that I would read. It all
sounded fucking DANDY! So I got signed up. Now every couple of months they call
me again, saying "this is just a courtesy call...we don't want to set you
up with more magazines...which magazines that you currently get do you
like...OKAY WE'LL INCREASE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION ON THOSE MAGAZINES...my supervisor
will call in a minute to RECORD your conversation and confirmation."
They did this to me today for the whole 5 minutes I was home
for lunch. I even fucking asked her if I could let ALL of my subscriptions to
run out. SHE SAID "NO, THERE IS NOT WAY TO DO THAT." I was so much in
shock, that I let her ramble through everything. I had to get back, so I let
the phone ring when her "supervisor" called back. I will not pickup
the phone for a long time now, or, if I do, I will hang-up on anyone I don't
know.
If you have had any problems with this company, please file
a complaint report we will add your comments to these. Conversly, you may send
positive comments and they will be added as well.
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