Complaint Review: Quotesource

Here's what happened to me. Mark Flores put up an ad for his company Quotesource, to hire agents across the country for an "Off-site agent program", selling life and health insurance over the phone. Free leads, nearly unlimited leads, etc. Sounded good, but the "catch" was that there was a $450 lead security deposit. Most companies would charge nearly that amount for 1 set of direct mail leads anyway, so I wasn't alarmed. But, I wanted to confirm that if I didn't get appointed, that I'd be getting the deposit back. Mark's response "Absolutely! It's only a deposit!" Sounds good. No reason not to trust him.

Similar to other reports, I was promised 70-80 leads/week and by week 2, I'd have enough to be very busy. Ok. But a couple weeks go by and nothing. After Thanksgiving, I get an email (that I'm sure was sent out to multiple agents), saying that we're almost ready to go. But, I get nothing in the mail from MOO, saying I was my contract was being reviewed. Nothing. I ask him about it, and he tells me he told everyone else - Don't worry! I have a lot of pull, and you should be getting your writing number any day now! Ok.

On Dec. 17, 2012, I get an email from Robert Halbot, who says he's Mark's best friend and business partner. He said that Mark got into an auto accident and the situation is dire. In regards to the my situation, they will be evaluating it and getting in touch with me. Again, not sure how to feel. This guy has been giving me the run-around this entire time. 

Fast forward to January 8, 2013, I get another email from Robert. He now says that Mark will make a miraculous recovery, but until further notice, operations will be temporarily (if not permanently) shut down. And in regards to our situation, refunds would be given on a case-by-case basis. I forwarded my email, asking for a refund since Mark told me that I was absolutely guaranteed a refund if I didn't get appointed. As of January 23, 2013, I'm still waiting. 

I've learned a few things. First, they have had these complaints in 2 other states (Missouri and Illiinois, I believe). Also, Mark isn't even appointed with MOO. Here is his license (click on the hyperlink license and it'll redirect you to the CA Dept of Insurance website). In Googling the address, Robert's name comes up. Only, it isn't Halbot, but rather "Robert James Abbott". Here is his Utah license. Here is his CA license. 

Lastly, I have been in touch with the CA Attorney General, and I will be trying to contact any and all people who were scammed by these people (person?) in regards to this situation. I don't know if he got into an accident or not, but it's very hard to believe based on other people's claims. 

Contact me if you'd like to ensure that this person(persons) get prosecuted for this scam.