Mike
Phoenix,#2Consumer Comment
Mon, December 12, 2005
I'm sorry to hear that this was such a difficult process. I'm not writing this in any way to defend the practices you've experienced. I just know that my experience was entirely positive, so perhaps there is hope for you. sorry, allowing you to give a competitors name would instigate others to just file against their competition, to only come back later to suggest their company your comments on this policy are welcome! CLICK here to see why Rip-off Report, as a matter of policy, deleted either a phone number, link or e-mail address from this Report. I worked with (((REDACTED))). The offer was that if I signed up for an American Express card, I could receive a free DVD player. I just needed to make a single purchase and then proceed to remain with the card for three months in order to receive my free player. At the end of the 3 month period, I had to remind *them* via email that my trial period was over and based on their terms, I was entitled to my player. They emailed me almost immediately back (within a day) and they gave me a link to a "gift certificate" page. All I had to do was complete it and they would mail my product. I received a Daewoo DVD Player via UPS in less than 4 weeks and although it was a low-end model, it actually works like a charm . . .better than my $200 DVD player in fact. I have always been skeptical of those flashing pop-ups that said I could win a free anything (and to this day, I still am). I knew I needed a credit card and really had nothing to lose other than my junk-free email address (which got spammed often after I signed up). Since they didn't seem to even know I got a credit card and took my word for it, in some ways, I think I could have easily put one over on them. I wish you luck with them. Since every part of my transaction was exactly as they described, I'd like to think they're an honest business, but from your report and others, I'm not so sure anymore. Good luck. Joe
Brian
New York,#3Consumer Comment
Wed, February 23, 2005
It is imperative to always read the fine print. I cannot stress it enough! While this goes for any contract, it is especially important in the relatively unregulated world of internet commerce. The Internet Opinion Group has a legal "out" in its contract with users. The terms are found on its website. A.8) TERMINATION AND CANCELLATION. "At its sole discretion and for any reason or no reason at all [the company] may terminate any Members without prior notice for... (g) any other reason at the discretion of InternetOpinionGroup.COM." To initially qualify for a free gift, a person must become a member. The company can cancel a membership for any reason - without notice, at any time. Cancellation effectively terminates the chance to get a free gift. Section D, which covers the specific terms for free gifts, outlines a couple more ways that can absolve the company from delivering its advertised gifts to members. In response to Donna's question: Yes, the company states in its contract that it can change the terms. This can be legal, but there will be instances where a court will find a contract unfair and unconscionable - especially when one party has considerably more authority over the contract provisions. But keep the faith. I did come across some positive reports from people who received gifts - and I'm hoping things will turn out well for those of us who are presently frustrated with the company.