Complaint Review: Enhanced Long Distance

In doing a close examination of my Verizon bundled monthly statement, I noticed a new charge under a section entitled "The Billing Resource." There was a charge of $19.77 (including taxes) for something called Enhanced Long Distance. I do not carry long distance phone service through Verizon, so I called billing inquiries. I was told that Verizon provides a service whereby outside companies may bill communications-related services through Verizon. I requested that that "service" be blocked, and Verizon did so at no charge to me.

I then phoned the Billing Inquiries number provided by Verizon for their Billing Resouce "service." My call was transferred to someone identifying herself as a representative of Telephone Services for Enhanced Long Distance. When the operator asked me to identify myself by name and phone number, I refused, asking her to identify herself and the group she represents. She then "accused" me of "surfing the internet" and signing up for some $1000 in free groceries and signing up for this service. She then provided me with an incorrect birthdate and mother's maiden name, and my correct verizon email address. I told her I was going to the Mass. Attorney General with my complaint, and hung up. Minutes later, I received an email notifying me that my account had been cancelled.

I will use much of the content of this report in my appeal to the Attorney General of my state.

Sick and tired
Dorchester, Massachusetts
U.S.A.