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  • Report:  #175323

Complaint Review: VONAGE - Edison New Jersey

Reported By:
- Cherry Hill, New Jersey,
Submitted:
Updated:

VONAGE
vonage.com Edison, New Jersey, U.S.A.
Phone:
866-243-4357
Web:
N/A
Categories:
Tell us has your experience with this business or person been good? What's this?
Anyone who is thinking about switching to Vonage, I beg you not to. Read all the complaints on this site as well as all over the internet about this company! They are a complete scam.

My horror story begins on January 10, 2006 when I signed up for Vonage to switch 3 residential lines from Verizon. The customer service rep makes it clear that if you are not happy for any reason, you can cancel within 30 days and get a full refund--no questions asked. This is the first of many lies they tell you to sucker you in. You pay upfront for the first month which makes no sense b/c it takes 20 days for Vonage to get your lines switched. So in a nutshell, you are paying 2 companies (vonage & your present carrier) for one month despite not having service with Vonage. You are supposed to get Letters of Authorization via email to start the transfer process. I only rec'd 2 out of 3 so my one line never got transferred. Despite calling their customer care line, no one had a clue. I didnt get any service at all, whatsoever, and cancelled a week later. Of course, you get the run around from everyone at Vonage as to why you cant cancel right away... either their systems are down, someone needs to call you back or they are getting an error in the computer. Its all a scam to get you beyond the 30 day mark. You cant send the routers back without RA #'s. Again, the same run around to obtain the numbers. I finally got the #'s after 3 calls to Vonage and about an hour of screaming. I sent them back via UPS. UPS contacted me to say that they couldnt deliver them b/c Vonage must have moved. I sent them to the address the rep gave me and what is listed on their website. I called Vonage (again!) and was told they may have moved suites. UPS was able to find them and deliver the package. I called Vonage again, after confirming they were delivered, and requested a full credit to my credit card. I was told they dont have a record of receiving the equipment back. THIS IS SUCH A CROCK! I got an email from Vonage saying they rec'd the items back as well as confirmation from UPS. I called at least 5 more times to get a credit and was told I was only getting back $87.73 out of $220.53. They said they only reimburse on the first line cancelled. The guy who signed me up told me otherwise. If you call today and pretend to want to sign up, they still lie and tell you that you get a full refund. I am now disputing the charges to my credit card. The CEO of Vonage, Jeff Citron, was indicted for Securities Fraud in 2003. I found this out after signing up. Another thing I found interesting is the number of complaints online about this company. Everyone has an issue with it. Their selling practices and refund policies are questionable. Even the people who run Vonage are criminals. You can read about Jeff Citron and his whole scam at: www.sec.gov/litigation/complaints/comp17929.htm. I have contacted everyone I know about this and hope that if I can turn people off to this company, and show their true colors, something will happen to them. They are thieves to say the least.

Joann

Cherry Hill, New Jersey
U.S.A.


16 Updates & Rebuttals

Dave

Helper,
Utah,
U.S.A.
Hey MICHAEL, is your real name "BOZO THE CLOWN!!"

#2Consumer Comment

Wed, March 08, 2006

Hey Michael, How much money did Vonage pay you to keep your yap shut?? I checked out that government website that Joann from Cherry Hill, New Jersey was kind enough to put up on her complaint. There's some heavy "s**t" in that fraudulent lawsuit. You ought to go and check it out for yourself. That's all true fact there!! Some people's eyes are blind to what others do and how they conduct their business practices. I agree to the other thousands of complaints that have been filed here at rip-off reports.com about what Vonage has a "known track record" of doing to some of its customers like me- for one. As for Joann, I tip my hat to her and the others that have come forward with what Vonage has done to them!! I just wish that Joann and I could somehow connect at some point in time to start the process of a "Class-Action Lawsuit" against these "THIEVES FROM VONAGE??" " ONCE YOU GET CAUGHT BEING DIRTY-YOU ALWAYS WIND UP DIRTY!!"


James A.

Portland,
Oregon,
U.S.A.
I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money.

#3Consumer Suggestion

Tue, February 21, 2006

Problems, problems, problems... I was an 18-month Vonage customer who left numerous customer service issues ... and also after finding out that the attorneys general in three states (at the time, there may be more now) had filed deceptive marketing practices lawsuits against Vonage (Texas, Michigan, Connecticut). State attorneys generals don't file lawsuits on a "whim." Anyway, If one of the problems you encountered was charges put on your account following termination, there is a solution to that problem (though too late in your case). When I terminated my account with Vonage, I _knew_ I'd have problems ... so I took action in advance. I logged onto my account and altered my credit card number and 3-digit verification code about a week prior to cancellation. Sure enough, they ignored my termination notice (sent much earlier) and attempted to bill me anyway. I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money. But when I cut that access off at the source, you wouldn't believe how communicative they quickly became (grin). The one thing to keep in mind when dealing with any business that charges your credit card is this ... that the person who has the money in their pocket is ALWAYS the person who can argue from a position of strength. BTW, I've now been a very happy Packet8 customer for 3 months and would take them over Vonage any day. BUT, if at some time in the future, Packet8 starts giving me bad service, I'll similarly plan my termination in advance ... and again, cut off access to my money at the source beforehand. P.S. One additional hint. If you're worried that the company might go back to an original invoice to glean the credit card and verification numbers from it, simply "lose" your card (ahem) and get a new one issued to you. Access to "your" money is the key to "controlling" a termination situation. I'm surprised more people don't take control.


James A.

Portland,
Oregon,
U.S.A.
I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money.

#4Consumer Suggestion

Tue, February 21, 2006

Problems, problems, problems... I was an 18-month Vonage customer who left numerous customer service issues ... and also after finding out that the attorneys general in three states (at the time, there may be more now) had filed deceptive marketing practices lawsuits against Vonage (Texas, Michigan, Connecticut). State attorneys generals don't file lawsuits on a "whim." Anyway, If one of the problems you encountered was charges put on your account following termination, there is a solution to that problem (though too late in your case). When I terminated my account with Vonage, I _knew_ I'd have problems ... so I took action in advance. I logged onto my account and altered my credit card number and 3-digit verification code about a week prior to cancellation. Sure enough, they ignored my termination notice (sent much earlier) and attempted to bill me anyway. I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money. But when I cut that access off at the source, you wouldn't believe how communicative they quickly became (grin). The one thing to keep in mind when dealing with any business that charges your credit card is this ... that the person who has the money in their pocket is ALWAYS the person who can argue from a position of strength. BTW, I've now been a very happy Packet8 customer for 3 months and would take them over Vonage any day. BUT, if at some time in the future, Packet8 starts giving me bad service, I'll similarly plan my termination in advance ... and again, cut off access to my money at the source beforehand. P.S. One additional hint. If you're worried that the company might go back to an original invoice to glean the credit card and verification numbers from it, simply "lose" your card (ahem) and get a new one issued to you. Access to "your" money is the key to "controlling" a termination situation. I'm surprised more people don't take control.


James A.

Portland,
Oregon,
U.S.A.
I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money.

#5Consumer Suggestion

Tue, February 21, 2006

Problems, problems, problems... I was an 18-month Vonage customer who left numerous customer service issues ... and also after finding out that the attorneys general in three states (at the time, there may be more now) had filed deceptive marketing practices lawsuits against Vonage (Texas, Michigan, Connecticut). State attorneys generals don't file lawsuits on a "whim." Anyway, If one of the problems you encountered was charges put on your account following termination, there is a solution to that problem (though too late in your case). When I terminated my account with Vonage, I _knew_ I'd have problems ... so I took action in advance. I logged onto my account and altered my credit card number and 3-digit verification code about a week prior to cancellation. Sure enough, they ignored my termination notice (sent much earlier) and attempted to bill me anyway. I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money. But when I cut that access off at the source, you wouldn't believe how communicative they quickly became (grin). The one thing to keep in mind when dealing with any business that charges your credit card is this ... that the person who has the money in their pocket is ALWAYS the person who can argue from a position of strength. BTW, I've now been a very happy Packet8 customer for 3 months and would take them over Vonage any day. BUT, if at some time in the future, Packet8 starts giving me bad service, I'll similarly plan my termination in advance ... and again, cut off access to my money at the source beforehand. P.S. One additional hint. If you're worried that the company might go back to an original invoice to glean the credit card and verification numbers from it, simply "lose" your card (ahem) and get a new one issued to you. Access to "your" money is the key to "controlling" a termination situation. I'm surprised more people don't take control.


James A.

Portland,
Oregon,
U.S.A.
I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money.

#6Consumer Suggestion

Tue, February 21, 2006

Problems, problems, problems... I was an 18-month Vonage customer who left numerous customer service issues ... and also after finding out that the attorneys general in three states (at the time, there may be more now) had filed deceptive marketing practices lawsuits against Vonage (Texas, Michigan, Connecticut). State attorneys generals don't file lawsuits on a "whim." Anyway, If one of the problems you encountered was charges put on your account following termination, there is a solution to that problem (though too late in your case). When I terminated my account with Vonage, I _knew_ I'd have problems ... so I took action in advance. I logged onto my account and altered my credit card number and 3-digit verification code about a week prior to cancellation. Sure enough, they ignored my termination notice (sent much earlier) and attempted to bill me anyway. I'd always had problems getting complaints replied to at Vonage when I was a customer and they had access to my money. But when I cut that access off at the source, you wouldn't believe how communicative they quickly became (grin). The one thing to keep in mind when dealing with any business that charges your credit card is this ... that the person who has the money in their pocket is ALWAYS the person who can argue from a position of strength. BTW, I've now been a very happy Packet8 customer for 3 months and would take them over Vonage any day. BUT, if at some time in the future, Packet8 starts giving me bad service, I'll similarly plan my termination in advance ... and again, cut off access to my money at the source beforehand. P.S. One additional hint. If you're worried that the company might go back to an original invoice to glean the credit card and verification numbers from it, simply "lose" your card (ahem) and get a new one issued to you. Access to "your" money is the key to "controlling" a termination situation. I'm surprised more people don't take control.


Paul

Palm Bay,
Florida,
U.S.A.
RE: Vonage

#7Consumer Comment

Tue, February 21, 2006

Sorry to hear all the horror storys, but I have had great service for over a year now and have had no problems thus far, knock on wood!Maybe area has alot to do with it or internet service I don't know. Good luck and I hope your problems are resolved.GOD BLESS ALL


Joann

Cherry Hill,
New Jersey,
U.S.A.
What works for some doesnt work for others!

#8Consumer Comment

Thu, February 09, 2006

While I am glad it worked out for you in California, it definitely isnt working here where Vonage is supposedly based, New Jersey. There have been numerous complaints by people in NJ. I don't know why it doesnt work across the board but thousands of people have the same complaint as I do, some even worse. We cant all be making it up! I understand the whole credit card thing....I am not opposed to paying for something as long as I receive a service in return. I never used the service because it didnt work. Instead of attempts at making it work, Vonage just gave the run around. If they are worried about people thinking their service sucks, why did they register the name www.vonagesucks.com? They had to buy the name before people started anti-vonage websites using that name. While there may be thousands of satisfied customers right now, there are thousands right behind them wishing they never heard the name Vonage. There are tons of websites dedicated to warning people about Vonage. If it works for you, then you're a lucky person!


Sherri

Piedmont,
California,
U.S.A.
VONAGE HAS BEEN GREAT FOR ME

#9Consumer Comment

Thu, February 09, 2006

I have been with them going on two years, and other than an occasional crackling sound when internet traffic is unusually heavy, no problems. I cannot comment on their customer service, as I have never had a need to contact them. The reason Vonage asks for a credit card when you sign up is because they do not do paper bills..it would not be cost efficient, meaning that the higher costs would be passed on to their customers. I imagine having virtually no charge-offs due to bad debt is also keeping their costs down. My bill is charged to my credit card on the 27th of each month..$39.03 for unlimited phone service and a fax line...including taxes and federal surcharges. No different than why an internet provider asks for a credit card number to provide service. Joann, sorry it didn't work out for you and hope things get resolved.


Joann

Cherry Hill,
New Jersey,
U.S.A.
Hardly

#10Consumer Comment

Thu, February 09, 2006

It just goes to show how some people are so close minded and cant possibly fathom the idea that while some companies may work for a few, there are thousands of people it doesnt work for. Yippee--it works for Michael in New York. Give Vonage and Michael a cookie. No one should have to deal with what Vonage does on a daily basis. If I had service, I wouldnt complain. I would pay anyone to get service. What my complaint says is that I never got service and returned the equipment and still was charged and continue without any service. How do you charge someone when they arent providing a service? Do you ever buy something and not get something in return? No. Dont knock people who have issues with them. Just because you arent, doesnt mean the rest of us dont have legitimate complaints.


Joann

Cherry Hill,
New Jersey,
U.S.A.
NY has no clue

#11Consumer Comment

Thu, February 09, 2006

You can say what you want. I am telling you what happened to me. Go online and read the thousands of complaints about Vonage. I am not making this stuff up. I hope you have a problem with them so you can see what people go thru. They do nothing but screw people over.


Joann

Cherry Hill,
New Jersey,
U.S.A.
NY has no clue

#12Consumer Comment

Thu, February 09, 2006

You can say what you want. I am telling you what happened to me. Go online and read the thousands of complaints about Vonage. I am not making this stuff up. I hope you have a problem with them so you can see what people go thru. They do nothing but screw people over.


Micheal

Springfield,
Illinois,
U.S.A.
Rip Off Vonage got to go

#13Consumer Comment

Thu, February 09, 2006

I read your statement up above & I tend to agree with you. I got onto Vonages web site the other day & filled out my information. When they asked for a credit card I got scared & got off. If they were so legit why then do they need a credit card. Again why can't they bill you like any other phone service. I have MCI in my husbands name & have been having major problems with them so I had heard previously about Vonage & how it was supposed to be good. That is why I tried to get phone service. They keep sending me e-mails now, plus harrassing me on the phone. I told them hell no. But this don't seem to be working so far. So I do agree. Vonage is a scam & the person below you you are an idiot. You must work for them or something.


Michael

WYANDANCH,
New York,
U.S.A.
NO YOU ARE THE DUM ONE

#14REBUTTAL Individual responds

Wed, February 08, 2006

VONAGE IS A MAJOR CORPORATION . AND THEY ARE NOT A SCAM . I HAVE THERE SERVICE AND IT'S JUST GREAT. AND THE TIME OF THE TRANSFER IS SOUNDS JUST ABOUT RIGHT. EVEN WITH ANY OTHER PHONE COMPANY ASK AROUND . YOU NEED TO STOP AND THINK BEFORE YOU COMMENT ON ANY COMPANY OK.


Michael

WYANDANCH,
New York,
U.S.A.
NO YOU ARE THE DUM ONE

#15REBUTTAL Individual responds

Wed, February 08, 2006

VONAGE IS A MAJOR CORPORATION . AND THEY ARE NOT A SCAM . I HAVE THERE SERVICE AND IT'S JUST GREAT. AND THE TIME OF THE TRANSFER IS SOUNDS JUST ABOUT RIGHT. EVEN WITH ANY OTHER PHONE COMPANY ASK AROUND . YOU NEED TO STOP AND THINK BEFORE YOU COMMENT ON ANY COMPANY OK.


Michael

WYANDANCH,
New York,
U.S.A.
NO YOU ARE THE DUM ONE

#16REBUTTAL Individual responds

Wed, February 08, 2006

VONAGE IS A MAJOR CORPORATION . AND THEY ARE NOT A SCAM . I HAVE THERE SERVICE AND IT'S JUST GREAT. AND THE TIME OF THE TRANSFER IS SOUNDS JUST ABOUT RIGHT. EVEN WITH ANY OTHER PHONE COMPANY ASK AROUND . YOU NEED TO STOP AND THINK BEFORE YOU COMMENT ON ANY COMPANY OK.


Michael

WYANDANCH,
New York,
U.S.A.
NO YOU ARE THE DUM ONE

#17REBUTTAL Individual responds

Wed, February 08, 2006

VONAGE IS A MAJOR CORPORATION . AND THEY ARE NOT A SCAM . I HAVE THERE SERVICE AND IT'S JUST GREAT. AND THE TIME OF THE TRANSFER IS SOUNDS JUST ABOUT RIGHT. EVEN WITH ANY OTHER PHONE COMPANY ASK AROUND . YOU NEED TO STOP AND THINK BEFORE YOU COMMENT ON ANY COMPANY OK.

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