Subscription Scams - Uncovering the Costs of Free Offers
Columnist - Sandra Fong YoungWho doesn’t like free stuff? Unfortunately, free doesn’t always mean free. One of the most popular tactics that companies use is to offer a product/service completely free for a given length of time, followed by a paid subscription. Such subscription deals include magazines, cell phone plans, fitness clubs and more. The advertised free offer is usually very appealing, so bargain-hunting consumers often sign up for the subscription with plans to cancel it before payment is required. However, all consumers should be aware of exactly what they will be paying for, as well as the cancellation policy, before entering an agreement. Here are some questions to ask: * To get this free item/service, will I have to pay any costs now or in the future? * By accepting this free deal, am I signing up for a subscription service? * Will you need to take down my credit card/bank account information if I agree to this free trial? (Avoid providing them with this information, if possible, especially if you do not plan on continuing the paid subscription. * When will I start being charged? * Will I be notified before charges begin? (Regardless, it is your responsibility to cancel the agreement.) * What is the cancellation policy? May I have a copy of it in writing? * Whom am I speaking with? (Write down the salesperson’s name, for future reference.) As well, consumers should always verify that they are doing business with a legitimate company. (The Better Business Bureau is a great resource.) If the consumer decides to take the free product/service, but does not want to be charged for future subscription fees, here are some important steps to follow: * At least one week before the free trial expires/paid subscription begins, make a note to contact the company to terminate the agreement. * Be prepared that the company will most likely try to persuade you to continue, even offering additional freebies. * Monitor your credit card/bank account for unauthorized charges. Should any appear, report them immediately. * For more consumer protection information, visit The Federal Trade Commission’s Web site. Note: SanDiegoBargainMama.com clearly states the conditions of featured free offers and also reminds consumers on the “Freebies” page that “some of these offers may require you to cancel membership after the trial in order to not be charged.” E-mail:
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