Countrywide Periodicals

Review: This company has been running me around and around. To start they offered me a watch with a diamond in the middle of it, and I never received it. Then they told me that these magazines would only cost me so much, and when the bill come it was over what they told me I would be charged. They call me almost daily, and I have told them on several accounts that I want nothing to do with them and to remove me from their list. They however continue to call and badger me while I am at work. I even went as far as sending them a signed and dated letter telling them that I wish to be removed from their list and that I want nothing to do with the company. I told them in that letter not to charge my credit card or my debit card. Funds have been very tight as I was actually homeless this summer for a while, but that does not bother them. I do believe I also told them I do not want their product because I do not even have time to read the magazines as I have been working two job and honestly have no time. I have no money for them! Thats why I have asked on several accounts to close my account. They told me they could not close my account. They left me alone for a while. But then yesterday (12-24-2013) I received my credit card bill and low and behold, they charged my credit card not once, but twice! I DID NOT authorize them to charge my credit card. The charges went through on Thanksgiving Day. They not only did not respect my wishes- they just stole from me. The first and second charges were for $33.20 so total they charge $66.40. Where does a company get off stealing from their late customers? I am so disgusted. I have had it with them. You can not talk to them because they are beyond rude, and they are not willing to work with you. Which is fine, but the second they crossed the line and charged my credit card without my approval, that is when enough is enough.Desired Settlement: I would like the $66.40 returned to my credit card company, and I want them to stop calling me. I want no contact from any one there at any time going forward.

Business

Response:

Please see attached

Review: see Attached documentDesired Settlement: see Attached document

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 828. [redacted] placed his order

with our company on February 25, 2013, during a two-call process; the final

call was recorded with his permission. Please be aware that an order is not

processed until the terms of the service are agreed to upon two scripted phone

calls. We use a two-call process to ensure that the customer fully understands

the terms of the service.

Mr. [redacted] states in his complaint, “They told me they were from publisher clearing house

at first.” We do not say we are from publishers clearing house. We state to the

customer, “The reason I’m calling is that your name was entered in our

sweepstakes with the publishers.”

Mr. [redacted] states that he called the same day to cancel his order. Mr. [redacted] called our

customer service department and stated that same thing. Our customer service

representative explained to Mr. [redacted] if this was true all he had to do is fax

or send in his phone records and we would reverse the charges. To date, we have

not received Mr. [redacted]’ phone records.

Mr. [redacted] also states that we told him that there was only a hold on the funds and that

the transaction had to clear first. We would not tell the customer that his

transaction had to clear first. In fact we would tell that it is just a hold

and we will not settle on the funds and it will roll back into his account

within 7-10 business days.

To date Mr. [redacted]’ account is active and will remain as so until all payments have been

made or until we receive phone records showing that Mr. [redacted] indeed cancelled

during his three day cancellation period. Should you have any further

questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Review: Received a call from this company about how I was entered in to a big money contest,and I would get free magazines. There sales people spoke fast, Needless to say I got hooked into buying magazines, after talking to the salesman, then his supervisor to verify my information, they had the first numbers of my account number so I assumed it was legitimate They told me I had 3days to cancel and gave me a bogus phone number ###-###-####. They called me back, someone from there circulation to verify my mailing address, that's when I told him that I had Changed my mind. His response to that they couldn't do anything because they already force a charge to my credit card. Immediately I called the credit card companyand told them I got scammed, They said they already charged my account. On 5/2/13 I received a letter for these people dated 4/29/13 congratulating that I was officially entered into a sweepstakes, This letter had the correct phone number on the letter ###-###-####, When I contacted them I told the woman that I wanted to cancel the transactionshe said it was after the 3day period and told me I was under a contract.Desired Settlement: A refund of $66.30 that they charged my Credit Card, I would like a check for the refund , because I had to close my account, per the CC company so they could not longer charge my account on a monthly bases

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9533164. [redacted] placed his

order with our company on April 26, 2013, during a three-call process; the final call was

recorded with his permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon three scripted phone calls. We use a three-call

process to ensure that the customer fully understands the terms of the service.

Mr. [redacted] states in his complaint, “They told me I had 3 days to cancel and gave

me a bogus phone number ###-###-####.” I personally reviewed the recorded

conversation and at 30 seconds the verifier says, “And sir if you would like to change any

of those just call ###-###-####.”

Mr. [redacted] does admit to buying the magazines.

After careful consideration I have elected to cancel Mr. [redacted]’s account. We did

an authorization for the amount of $66.41. During the sales the verifier lowered Mr.

[redacted]’s payment amount to $33.20. The $33.20 was what was charged to his card. The

difference will roll back into Mr. [redacted]’s account and I also refunded the $33.20 back to

his Visa card today. Mr. [redacted] will receive that back within 7-10 business days. The

money will still go back onto that card regardless that he closed his account. We do not

send checks for refunds.

To date Mr. [redacted]’s account has been cancelled. Should you have any further

questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 9533164, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Regards,

Review: In May of 2013, I unknowingly started a subscription with this company. After thinking about it, I cancelled my account the next day. The original charge was taken off of my bank account and I was never sent anything, so I thought everything was okay. August 7, 2013, I get a charge for $33.20 from them. When I called, they said my account was never cancelled. During the conversation, the supervisor, [redacted], was incredibly rude to me and mocked me, and was completely disrespectful. And, he told me that it will be two weeks before I get my money back. By the end of the conversation, I was so insulted and furious, that I was ready to drive to Montana from South Carolina. I have never been treated so badly by any company, shady or not. I would never recommend this company to anyone, and I think they should be shut down.Desired Settlement: I would like a refund of my $33.20, I would like written confirmation that my account is deleted, I never want to be charged by them again, and I never want to be contacted again by them after everything is settled.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id # [redacted] filed by [redacted].

This is not a valid complaint as Mr. [redacted]’s account was cancelled and refunded. Should

you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Review: I called to have the service cancelled over 5 months ago because I did not know this company was automatically taking money out of my account without my consent. After I checked my Checking account transactions to see that I was getting billed when I didn't even want the service in the first place I immediately called to get it cancelled. I WAS NOT informed of the "3 day cancellation period" after I called, and if anything that defeats the whole purpose of calling ONCE, getting it dealt with, to still be receiving annoying calls from this company. I picked up the phone today for them to tell me I owe over $200, but why should I pay that when I called to cancel 5 months prior? OBVIOUSLY I DON'T WANT THE MAGAZINES WHY ARE THEY BILLING ME? They constantly call and harass me over this service, then hang up on me when I ask to speak with a manager, then when I try to call back they do not answer. The second time I called I asked to speak with a manager, the man on phone told me "Well I'm really busy right now" and gave me a wrong number. Worst customer service I've EVER experienced and according to the reviews I'm not the only one. To top it off they won't even let me cancel my service.Desired Settlement: I will not pay the amount of money they are stating that I owe because it's ridiculous to pay for a service that I purposely called to cancel. They were billing me after I had called and cancelled. I'm not giving them my money, I cancelled the service for a reason.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

Review: I am a college student that does not have any extra money to be ordering magazines from a telemarketer at countrywide periodicals and I didn't realize what I was getting into. I tried to cancel my membership after their 3 day cancellation period but they told me that it wasn't an option to cancel my membership. I am now stuck in a 48 month contract with them and I do not want to receive the magazines either. I have not received any products yet and getting charged $66.41 per month for 15 months. I called this company 3 times to try and cancel my membership as well as my parents but, they said this wasn't an option.Desired Settlement: cancelation of my membership and a refund of $132.82 for the 2 payments that have been taken from me.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am

writing this in response to complaint ID 9603944. [redacted] placed her order

with our company on April 30, 2013, during a two-call process; the final call

was recorded with her permission. Please be aware that an order is not

processed until the terms of the service are agreed to upon two scripted phone

calls. We use a two-call process to ensure that the customer fully understands

the terms of the service.

Ms. [redacted]

states in his complaint, “I tried to cancel my membership after their 3 day

cancellation period.” It is obvious by that statement that Ms. [redacted] is well

aware of our three-day cancellation policy. In fact, during the recorded

conversation at 3 minutes 9 seconds the verifier states, “We ask that you take

the order with the understanding that after 3 business days you may not

cancel.”

Ms. [redacted]

also states, “and getting charged $66.41 per month for 15 months.” This is

incorrect. During the recorded conversation at 52 seconds the verifier

explains, “And [redacted] your payments, they have been set up 4 months at a time so

that’s going to make the billing amount $66.41 once each month for the first 12

months and than nothing at all you pay us for the last 36 months. So and the

total for the service is just $797, of course [redacted] your not paying it that

way, it’s just $66.41 once each month for the first 12 months and than nothing

at all you pay us at all the remaining 36 month. Is that both the way you

understood your payments and I explained them to you?” At 1 minute 18 seconds

Ms. [redacted] replies, “Yep.”

Ms. [redacted] also states in her

complaint, “I have not received any products yet.” Also during the recorded

conversation at 3 minutes 1 seconds the verifier states, “and [redacted] do allow

8-12 weeks at the longest for the magazines to start.” As of this date it has

just been 8 weeks. There is no doubt that Ms. [redacted] will start receiving her

magazines at any time now.

Also at the

end of the recorded conversation at 3 minutes 21 seconds the verifier asks,

“[redacted] do you have any questions on either your order or your payments?” At 3

minutes 25 seconds Ms. [redacted] replies, “No.” It

is evidenced that Ms. [redacted] knew exactly what she was buying when she gave out

her credit card to buy magazines.

At this

time I have elected to make Ms. [redacted]’s account a paid in full account. I will

not be refunding any money because it is very apparent by the recorded

conversation that Ms. [redacted] was again aware of what she was buying. Ms. [redacted]

will receive the magazines she ordered for 1 year for what she has paid in

which is well below our 1-year price. There will be no further transactions.

Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Review: I was recently scammed by this company.They had called and told me that I had been entered into a million dollar sweepstakes because of my ownership of a Visa card,and I'd be sent a watch along with some "free" magazines as an additional bonus so long as I paid for one of them for the next 24 months. While I was suspicious at first,they already seemed to have my address and card information on hand,so I thought they were a legitimate business. I foolishly confirmed my address and card information to process the order,and they even reassured me that I could cancel at ANY time! Once I got off the phone,I realized that I had just been scammed. They are operating off a verbal contract which holds absolutely no grounds for anything in the business world. They needed a written contract saying I agreed to the terms before they could even start billing me, which they never received. My mom did a bit research on them by looking up the company on the internet. We found that others like me had been ripped off by this company (and all its variations of their name)for YEARS. I had my bank close my debit card when I found out they were repeatedly taking money out which totaled about $500. The bank tried to work with the merchant but they were not willing to cancel my account.I called and talked with them and they said no to cancelling the service.The person I got on the line would not let me do so(and even seemed dismissive of my claims.My mom called and they were extremely rude to her over the phone and said there was no way to cancel the order once it is placed. Tough luck. Horror stories from other scammed individuals told me that the company threatened to report them to collection agencies! I just want this nightmare to stop! They were very rude on the phone.I do not read any of their magazines and do not feel that I should continue to be billed for a service that I will never use.I never received the watch or the agreement packet. I feel as a college student, I was taken advantage of.Desired Settlement: I want the close to $398.46 the company thinks I owe them to be be cancelled and my debt to be cancelled to this company. The company has already taken out the over $500 from my account. I would also like a refund of the money I have already lost to them.I want them to either refund the money they have taken by deceptive means or at the very least to stop the service. I want it cancelled and for them not to contact me again.

Business

Response:

Re: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: [redacted]. [redacted] placed his

order with our company on February 29, 2012, during a three-call process; the final call

was recorded with his permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon three scripted phone calls. We use a three-call

process to ensure that the customer fully understands the terms of the service.

In Mr. [redacted]’s complaint he states, “While I was suspicious at first, they

already seemed to have my address and card information on hand.” This is not true. We

do not have a customer’s credit card until they actually become a customer. In fact we do

not even know if he or she has a credit card until we call them and ask them.

Mr. [redacted] goes on to say, “I foolishly confirmed my address and card

information to process the order and they even reassured me that I could cancel at any

time.” During the recorded conversation at 3 minutes 42 seconds the verifier states,

“They just want to make sure all 12 payments of the $66.41 are made.” At 3 minutes 42

seconds Mr. [redacted] says, “Yep.” At 3 minutes 53 seconds the verifier also states,

“After 3 business days there is no cancellation.”

Mr. [redacted] also stated, “I do not read any of their magazines and do not feel

that I should continue to be billed for a service that I will never use.” At 27 seconds the

verifier goes over the magazines and at 44 seconds says, well send you that list, I’m sure

they told you about switching them.” At 47 seconds the customer replies, “Yes they did.”

Also in the complaint Mr. [redacted] states, “I never received the watch or the

agreement packet.” Mr. [redacted] is the one who verified the address with us and at no

time called and stated he did not get his confirmation letter.

To sum it up Mr. [redacted] placed an order, agreed to make all 12 payments, and

also is receiving product. Mr. [redacted] had made 6 payments on the account and than just

decided to quit paying for his magazines. I am not going to cancel this account as

evidenced by Mr. [redacted]’s own words in his complaint he is receiving product as

promised and he now needs to hold up to his end of the commitment and pay for what he

has ordered. Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Review: Company called my cell phone- on the National Do NOT Call List, and used an anonymous # (000-000-0000). When I asked who they were, the rep would only say "Reader Services." When I feigned interest he finally told me they are in Hamilton, Montana. He nor his manager would give me a web address or physical location to check them out. Only wanted to talk about promotion and if I'd sign up, he'd send me the info by mail AFTER I paid.I continued to press for who they are and finally the rep said, "I can see you are going to be more trouble than you're worth," and disconnected the call.Desired Settlement: I would like an apology and a check for $25 for my wasted time and for calling a number illegally and harassing me.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id # 9665753 filed by Mr. [redacted].

This is not a valid complaint. Mr. [redacted] is not a customer of ours and never has been.

Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 9665753, and have determined that this does not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

She is correct. I am not a customer nor a prospect. I received an unsolicited and harassing phone call from this business.

Regards,

Review: Back in June of 2012, I received a call on my cell phone that showed up as "Unknown". It was this man asking me if I was interested in subscribing to some magazines. I figured why not? But after I got off the phone, I looked up this company and realized that they were a scam. First of all, how did they get my number and I'm on the do not call list? Also, how did they know the name I went by and why did they not call me by my first name instead? Finally, what company in their right mind would charge $66.41 a month for some magazines? I recalled the man saying that I could cancel my subscription within three days. I tried calling everyday but to no avail. When I was finally able to get through, my account had already been charged and I was told that the three day period had already passed meaning I couldn't cancel my subscription. After getting charged a second time despite having a stop payment on it, I called my bank and cancelled the card. A few months later, they started calling me again. After this, I decided to take things a step further. I personally called to cancel two magazines and those I was unable to cancel, I suspended them instead. Also, there were two magazines I signed up for (Rolling Stone and OK!) that I never received in the mail. I refuse to pay for magazines that I have already cancelled and suspended as well those that never came in the mail.Desired Settlement: All I want is for them to cancel my subscription and stop calling my phone. If I haven't paid them all this time, then that means I have no intentions on paying them. Stop scamming innocent people out of their money! By the way, this is not slander; this is just the honest truth and this company cannot handle the fact that they are being found out.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

Review: See the previous Email letter that I wrote this evening just a few minutes ago. Mostly about contract issues and that I was behind with my payments since May and June of 2013. I told them awhile back when I talked to them that I am hard of hearing and I want to cancel the whole thing and I still do tonight. I recently lost more hearing and have to depend on my Caption Phone that I just received yesterday. My Account was changed 3 months ago and they have not been taking any money out of my banking account as of 3 months ago. I do not owe them any more money and I do not want more magazines period. I have my hearing to worry about now. Thank You.Desired Settlement: Countrywide Periodicals need to refund me of the magazines that I do not want including when I called them awhile back (within 30 days of "contract" to be cancelled) to resolve this issue.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9571380. [redacted] placed

her order with our company on June 5, 2012, during a two-call process; the final call was

recorded with her permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon two scripted phone calls. We use a two-call

process to ensure that the customer fully understands the terms of the service.

During the recorded conversation the verifier went over the magazines, the 12

consecutive payments of $66.41, total for the full term of service, verified the Mastercard

provided by Ms. [redacted], and also asked her permission to process the monthly payments

to the Mastercard account each month. Ms. [redacted] replied yes.

The verifier also went over our three-day cancellation period, the estimated time

of delivery, our toll free customer service number, and also had Ms. [redacted] verbally

verify her mailing address.

Ms. [redacted] states in her complaint that she told us a while back that she wanted

to cancel because she was hard of hearing. Ms. [redacted] has my apologies for her health

issues but hearing loss is not a reason to cancel her magazine service that she agreed to.

Again it was clearly explained to Ms. [redacted] that she had three business days to cancel

her order. Ms. [redacted] called our customer service department in July of 2012 and said

the payments were to high for her and we more than happy to lower her payments. Ms.

[redacted] agreed to 24 payments of $33.20 at that time and also changed her magazines.

Ms. [redacted] states in her complaint, “My account was changed 3 months ago and

they have not been taking money out of my banking account as of 3 months ago.” In May

of 2013 we ran Ms. [redacted]’s Mastercard for her monthly payment and her card came

back declined. Ms. [redacted]’s account was turned over to our billing department. Ms.

[redacted] is more than welcome to send her payment by mail but she does still owe 11

more payments on her account.

To date Ms. [redacted]’s account is active and will remain as so until all payments

have been made. Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact

me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 9571380, and have determined that this does not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

I received many unanswered phone calls from Countrywide Periodicals and went ahead to answer one time on June 5, 2012. This male representative explained to me about the magazine order and other offers. I then said to him I am not interested in getting magazines and other offers. He was difficult to understand, I had to have him to repeat it many times, and I told him that I am hard of hearing with a hearing aid. He was, also, persuasive toward me about entering the offer. I told him I am not interested in getting the magazine and the offer. He wanted to know what magazines I wanted. Still, he was persuasive toward me. After the order, I received "Periodicals Savings Club" with no actual heading where it came from and no address. This is the only letter I received from them. Also, there was no contract for me to sign.

I called the Countrywide Periodicals back through ###-###-#### on August 2012 and talked to a representative about canceling the whole thing. They refused to cancel it and with persuasiveness through them, they offered me with $33.20 per month. I continued to say no, I don't want the magazines, and I want to cancel the whole thing. They continued to be persuasive and with other magazine offers.

.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

Review: "Periodicals, [redacted], Hamilton, MT 58940." I am on the "do not call" list. This company began calling my cell phone at college in NY on 5/5/13. They wanted me to purchase magazines for a cost of $16 a month and offered a free watch. I Googled the promised watch and it was worth $125. On 5/10/13 I signed up for the magazines. On 5/16/13 I received the paperwork/terms in the mail (dated 5/13/13). The actual cost is $33.20 per month for 24 months for a total of $796.80. The $16.60 monthly cost they quoted me is the $796.80 divided by 48 months since 2 of my 6 magazines have 4-yr subscriptions (over $4 per magazine). On 5/16/13 I immediately called ###-###-#### to cancel the plan. The woman who claimed she was the supervisor, and highest level I could speak to, stated that the sales person explained all of the details to me on the phone, that I had to have cancelled within 3 days and that I would have to pay the full terms. When I indicated that I was a college student, thought it was $16 a month and wouldn't be able to meet these terms, she simply kept repeating that I agreed to these terms and there is no way to cancel. I haven't received any magazines and the paper states "ALLOW 60-120 days" for the first issue. The 2nd page of the terms has a place for me to "acknowledge and accept the terms of my magazine subscription as described on page 1." I did not sign this. I indicated I would be contacting the Revdex.com and Consumer Affairs offices. In looking on the Internet, it appears that I am in a large group of people who have been scammed by this organization. With all that is out online about the practice of this organization, and hundreds of Revdex.com complaints, how can they continue to do this?Desired Settlement: I would like a refund of the $33.20 this company immediately charged me on 5/14/13 since the first magazine will not arrive for "60 to 120 days." I would like the entire order cancelled without any impact to my credit. I have cancelled my debit card. I would like this company out of business so they do not continue to prey on those who are not so aware of these types of practices.I would like this company fined or prosecuted for fraudulent practices

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9547758. [redacted] placed his

order with our company on May 10, 2013, during a two-call process; the final call was

recorded with his permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon two scripted phone calls.

During the recorded conversation the verifier went over the magazines, the 24

consecutive payments of $33.20, total for the full term of service, verified the Mastercard

provided by Mr. [redacted], and also asked his permission to process the monthly payments

to the Visa account each month. Mr. [redacted] replied yes.

The verifier also went over our three-day cancellation policy, the estimated time

of delivery, our toll free customer service number, and also had Mr. [redacted] verbally

verify his mailing address.

Mr. [redacted] admits to placing the order and just decided that he no longer wants

the magazines. We did explain everything clearly to Mr. [redacted] and he even outlines that

in his complaint. We do not use deceptive business practices. We use a two-call process

to ensure the customer fully understands the terms of the service. The terms of the

service and the payment amount are explained several times throughout the order

process. At the end of each call, the customer is asked if he/she has any questions.

Everything was done with Mr. [redacted]’s permission and at no time during the order

process was there any doubt that Mr. [redacted] understood and agreed to the terms of the

service.

Mr. [redacted] also states that he is a student but he told us he was in the Army.

At this time I have elected to cancel Mr. [redacted]’s account as it apparent that he is

not going to pay for what he ordered. I have also refunded the 1

Mr. [redacted] should expect that back into his account within 7-10 business days. Should

you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Review: I received a call about how I would be entered in a drawing with no purchase necessary and was to receive a complimentary watch and 4 free magazine subscriptions, if I helped them out by purchasing a few magazines from them. When they told me the price, it didn't sound like much but when I calculated it, it was about $800 total. They went through the usual process and told me I could not cancel three days after my account was official, by charging my debit card. However, they also told me that I would need to sign the contract and send it back before I could receive my magazines. I told them I needed time to put money into my account, so they agreed they wouldn't charge it til the next day or the following. Of course, I was only 18 and thought when I win that million dollar sweepstake, $800 will be nothing to pay off, plus I get a watch. When all was set and done, I realized it was a scam and tried to cancel but they told me it wasn't even official yet, so I couldn't do it. Then when the charge was finally made, I tried to cancel the same day but couldn't find the number, because when they give it to you, they say it very fast. So I called Publisher's Clearing House thinking they were the ones that referred me to countrywide periodicals, but they told me they didn't know and to call the magazines directly and tell them, but I didn't know which I subscribed to because they suggested a lot of them. Finally, after the second payment was taken out, I managed to get a number from the charging statement on my bank account and called and told them that I hadn't received any products, and I hadn't received or signed the contract and that I wanted to cancel. She said it was specific to 3 day cancellation and there was nothing she could do. I even had my mom call but they said she couldn't do anything because I was 18. SO I told them to delay my payment, because they were getting ready to charge me a third time and I canceled my debit card. I was scammed, that is a ridiculous amount for magazines.Desired Settlement: I would like them to cancel my account and stop harassing me. I don't know if they have control over my credit, but I don't want this to affect my credit. I believe they asked me for my SS# and I don't want them to have any of my information anymore. I was so stupid. I feel like I might be subjected to identity theft because in the other complaints no one mentioned that they provided their social security number, like I did.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9498399. [redacted] placed her

order with our company on August 7, 2012, during a three-call process; the

final call was recorded with her permission. Please be aware that an order is

not processed until the terms of the service are agreed to upon three scripted

phone calls. We use a three-call process to ensure that the customer fully

understands the terms of the service.

Ms. [redacted] states in her complaint, “They also told me that I would need to sign

the contract and send it back before I could receive my magazines.” This is not

true; we have no contract to sign. The only thing Ms. [redacted] had to sign was

her official gift release form for her watch.

Ms. [redacted] also claims that she had to give us her social security number. This

is again not true. We do not have Ms. [redacted]’s social security number or did

we ever ask for it.

Ms. [redacted] admits to placing the order, giving her credit card out knowing that

it will be charged, and also admits to knowing that she had only 3 days to

cancel her order.

At this time Ms. [redacted]’s account is active and will remain as so until all payments

have been made. Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate

to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Review: I received a call from this company that I was in a chance for a drawing of some sort. Then they asked if I liked magazines and I was like yes! So I don't know why I even gave them my credit card information but I thought it was okay. Never doing that again. They said they recorded me and everything so I couldn't cancel or anything. I was charged the 33.20 from my debit card and when I went online and look at this company, I found out that people were getting scam from this company. So I cancel my debit card and I thought it was done. I never received magazines from this company and how can you charge someone and give them negative service? All they want is the money. I thought I was done with this company and now I received, today a supposedly "courtesy call" and saying that they tried to charge my card and it was rejected. I told them that I didn't want the service anymore so I cancel my card. He was getting an attitude and being very rude that he said that I'm in a legal bind and I will be served. That they will take me to court and that since I was recorded, that will be proof that I was in a legal contract. I got scared and nervous. They also said they will give it to debt collectors to harrass me and etc. What kind of evil company are this people! I'm scared. I'm barely getting out of one debt and trying to recover my credit and now I'm going into debt again. I wish I never gave out my card! Stay away from this people! They only want you for you money!Desired Settlement: To cancel this subscription and have them not harrass me anymore with calls that they are going to take me to court and they will hurt my credit!

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9564808. [redacted] placed

her order with our company on April 13, 2013, during a three-call process; the final call

was recorded with her permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon three scripted phone calls. We use a three-call

process to ensure that the customer fully understands the terms of the service.

During the recorded conversation the verifier went over the magazines, the 24

consecutive payments of $33.20, total for the full term of service, verified the Visa card

provided by Ms. [redacted], and also asked her permission to process the monthly payments to

the Visa account each month. Ms. [redacted] replied yes. The verifier also went over our threeday cancellation policy, the estimated time of delivery in which it takes 8-12 weeks for

the magazines to start arriving, our toll-free customer service number, and also had Ms.

[redacted] verbally verify her mailing address.

Ms. [redacted] admits to ordering the magazines and just decided she no longer wants

to pay for them. Ms. [redacted] has not received any magazines because she was told it takes 8-

12 weeks for them to start arriving. It has only been 7 weeks.

I have elected to cancel Ms. [redacted]’s account because it is apparent she is not going

to pay for what she ordered. There will be no further transactions or correspondence. My

suggestion to Ms. [redacted] is if she doesn’t want to be in debt and pay than she should quit

using her credit card and buying things. Should you have any further questions, please do

not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 9564808, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Regards,

Review: I requested to have my account canceled the day after (Friday 5/3) I agreed to the subscription (Thursday 5/2), was asked why I wanted to cancel my account, and was told my account was canceled. I received information from a different company (Old West Publications) in the mail and the letter inside was addressed from a company called "Periodicals" describing the service and monthly payments expected to be paid, the Monday (5/6) after my initial cancellation. After receiving this information, I called the number on the service letter and asked them why my account wasn't canceled when I called Friday. The customer service representative said there was no record of cancellation but he would cancel my account and it would not be billed for the subscription. I have read many complaints that said people have taken the same steps and their accounts have still been billed, ultimately leaving them in debt and ruining their credit.Desired Settlement: I want to make sure that my account and account information is completely cleared from their system, since my account has been canceled, that my account (nor my name and address) is not billed by this company, and that they do not send any information (magazines, awards, billing statements, etc.) to my home.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9532747. [redacted] placed her

order with our company on May 2, 2013, during a three-call process; the final call was

recorded with her permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon three scripted phone calls. We use a three-call

process to ensure that the customer fully understands the terms of the service.

Ms. [redacted] states in her complaint that her account was cancelled the day after she

placed her order. The paperwork that she received was sent out the same day that she

placed her order as promised. It was explained to Ms. [redacted] that she had three business

days to cancel her account. When Ms. [redacted] called her account was cancelled like

explained.

There is no real reason for this complaint. Ms. [redacted]’s account was closed and her

payment was refunded back to her account. Should you have any further questions,

please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Tammy Fox

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 9532747, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Regards,

Review: I was contacted by phone for an Espn magazine subscription and was under the impression the payment would be 66.00 for the year. After the first payment came out a letter was sent stated the subscription would cost me 66.00 a month for 12 months which is absolutely insane. I am a 19 year old full time college student and can not possibly afford that. I immediately contacted the company to try and cancel the subscription but was given the run around.This company is a serious ripoff and should be shut down.Desired Settlement: Cancellation of subscription

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

Review: I called this company to cancel the membership of 24 months payments off $33.20. I informed them that financially it's not possible for me to continue paying. The rep told me that well the information is gone to the magazine publishers and we only allow 3 days to cancel. I have read a lot of complaints about this company after the fact and this company is not a trust worthy company like I thought. All I want is to have the membership cancelled. If this company is all about making sure the customer is happy, then this is the best way for me. The rep told me we don't have a cancellation button, but we do have a switch button if you want to change magazines. This is how they get over on people. If this company is not approve by the Revdex.com. They should not be in business. It's been over a month and I haven't received any magazines yet, but payment is being taken out in advance. I just want out.Desired Settlement: I would like to cancel membership with company and any dealings with this company. It clearly shows that this company has been complained about on numerous occasions and I now see why. What to do to get out of this trap?

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9496398. [redacted] placed his

order with our company on March 6, 2013, during a two-call process; the final

call was recorded with his permission. Please be aware that an order is not

processed until the terms of the service are agreed to upon two scripted phone

calls. We use a two-call process to ensure that the customer fully understands

the terms of the service.

Ms. [redacted] called our customer service department to cancel. Our customer service

representative explained to her that she was past her 3-day cancellation.

Our customer service department received a call from a publishing company. The

caller stated that they had received an email from Ms. [redacted] stating that she

wanted to cancel and Ms. [redacted] was making threats against the company.

After careful consideration we elected to close the account although Ms. [redacted]

admitted to ordering the magazines. Ms. [redacted] was called and notified that her

account had been cancelled and that she would receive the magazines for 1 year

for the 2 payments that she had already made.

To date Ms. [redacted]’s account is closed. Ms. [redacted] will have no further transactions. If

you should have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

ml>

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 9496398, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Regards,

This company called me repeatedly one morning, when I finally answered the phone the representative proceeded to talk fast and not allow me an opportunity to ask questions.

When he saw that I wasn't falling for his line,He called me

a [redacted] rd.Before I could respond to his statement

the coward hung up.I tried calling back but only got a busy

signal. This company needs to be shut down!!!

Review: Was contacted by company for sales of periodicals and decided that I would be interested in the offer. I then explained that I would try and have the school I work for pay the subscription. I then, big mistake, gave them my debit card number but explained I did not want them to charge my card. I explained that I needed a bill so I could give the school the necessary paper work so they could set up a contract with the school. I called them twice to tell them not to use my debit card for payment, but they did anyway. I then cancelled my card and have been getting harassed by them and now a debt collector stating that I owe them $600 some odd dollars.Desired Settlement: I want them to stop harassing me and I dont want to be bothered with this bill again. I am also demanding that my near perfect credit that I have worked so hard for not be effected by this matter.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: 9550868. [redacted] placed

his order with our company on May 27, 2012, during a three-call process; the final call

was recorded with his permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon three scripted phone calls. We use a three-call

process to ensure that the customer fully understands the terms of the service.

During the recorded conversation the verifier went over the magazines, the 12

consecutive payments of $66.41, total for the full term of service, verified the Visa card

provided by Mr. [redacted], and also asked his permission to process the monthly payments

to the Visa account each month. Mr. [redacted] replied yes. The verifier also went over our

three-day cancellation policy, the estimated time of delivery, and also had Mr. [redacted]

verbally verify his mailing address.

Mr. [redacted] admits in his complaint that he did order magazines. He also states

that he told us not to charge his card. It was explained to Mr. [redacted] that the first

payment had to be processed through his Visa card and after that he was more than

welcome to send in his payments by mail as long as we received the payment before his

due date of the 25 th of every month. It was also explained to Mr. [redacted] that we would

send him out a welcome packet in the mail and that it would have all the information

about the payments along with the magazines ordered and a magazine list. The welcome

packet was sent out on May 28, 2012. We did not receive this information back and it

was sent to the same address as on this complaint. Mr. [redacted] did not send in his 2

payment by mail so his Visa card was again billed. Mr. [redacted] than quit paying for what

he ordered.

At this time I have elected to cancel Mr. [redacted]’s account, as it is apparent that

Mr. [redacted] is not going to keep his end of the deal and pay for the magazines he has been

receiving for the last year. There will be no further correspondence from our company.

Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Coutrywide Periodicals LLC

Consumer

Response:

I guess I am not entirely sure what the company has decided to do with my complaint. If I do understand correctly, they are canceling my account and have decided to drop the payment? If that is so I will agree to their resolution, but their story is not entirely true. I explained to them in 3 phone calls that I did not want them to charge my credit card and that the only way I would accept to this contract is if I could have the total amount of the the contract sent to me so my place of employment could pay them in full. I told them that I was not going to be paying for this, just setting up the account. I have read many reviews about this company pulling the same stunts on a lot of people and I do not think they should have this ability to do so. Unfortunately I do not have any paper work or recordings of phone calls with them. The only paperwork I have received from them was the final bill of $600 some odd dollars. They did record all phone call conversations between us, or so they told me they were all recorded. I have no doubt that if the recordings could be accessed, that it would clearly show that I did not want them charging my credit card. So, if they are willing to drop their accusations I am fine with that. But, I don't think they should be allowed to trick people into their little scams.

Review: This company called on my cell phone on 12/22/12. I misunderstood what I was agreeing to and ended up apparently ordering many magazines. The cost came to $66.41 a month for 12 months, which I also did not realize by the phone call. After the call, I wanted to cancel, so I called back that evening but no one answered the phone. Then my husband called them on Monday and they refused to let us cancel just stating that they had my voice recording that I agreed to this. We spoke with our credit card company and together we tried to call Country Wide Periodicals to cancel and we were also unsuccessful. The credit card company did stop payments however. I am still being billed by Periodicals and wish to terminate the agreement but have been unsuccessful in doing so.Desired Settlement: I would like to terminate the agreement and stop receiving past due notices.

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: [redacted] filed by Ms. [redacted]

[redacted]. Ms. [redacted] placed her order with our company on December 22, 2012,

during a three-call process; the final call was recorded with her permission. Please be

aware that an order is not processed until the terms of the service are agreed to upon three

scripted phone calls. We use a three-call process to ensure that the customer fully

understands the terms of the service.

During the recorded conversation the verifier went over the magazines, the 12

consecutive payments of $66.41, total for the full term of service, verified the [redacted]

provided by Ms. [redacted] and also gave us permission to process the monthly

payments to the [redacted] account each month.

The verifier also went over our three-day cancellation policy, the estimated time

of delivery, our toll free customer service number, and also had Ms. [redacted] verbally

verify her mailing address.

Again, Ms. [redacted] spoke with three separate people regarding any order and

everything was done with Ms. [redacted]’s permission.

I have elected to close Ms. [redacted]’s account, as it is apparent that Ms.

[redacted] is not going to pay for what she ordered. There will be no further

correspondence from our company by mail or phone. Should you have any further

questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Regards,

Review: I went out of country and travelled this summer after graduation so have not had access to my checking account or internet at times. After returning from my trips, I had seen a deduction in my bank account each month since May 2013 for some magazines. I don't really read magazines unless at a doctor's office, so don't know why I would even be charged for this or how this account got started. I called my bank and they had my card number changed so no further fraudulent charges could be made. It is October now and I just received a phone call from this Periodical company stating that I had a delinquent account and had to pay or if I wanted to cancel had to pay $664 that was left on my account or continue with monthly withdrawals. I stated to them that I did NOT make this purchase and asked if I could cancel but was told that I only had three days to cancel after the initial purchase (that I never made) was done. How could I have possibly cancelled if I never knew this purchase was being made in the first place! They claimed to have a phone recording of the transaction but after hearing it, I know for sure it wasn't me; all I heard was someone saying "yes" and "yea" to the questions being answered.I have now called my bank about the fraudulent charges and will be making a police report tomorrow. Hopefully, with these reports they will see that I am not a liar (or a fool as [redacted] had pointed out to me during our conversation) and that they need to learn how to run a proper business and stop scamming.Desired Settlement: I would like a refund, but I believe my bank is taking care of that for me. I also want my name cleared from any debt with this fraudulent company. An apology from the rude workers there, ([redacted], [redacted], and [redacted]... although [redacted] was least rude out of the 3 despite calling me a fool). An apology from the manager, [redacted], who was the rudest manager I have ever come across. A removal of my phone # from their call list along with anyone in my family. Should not be in business (Scam).

Business

Response:

In reply to: [redacted]

I am writing this in response to Complaint Id: [redacted]. [redacted] placed

her order with our company on May 6, 2013, during a three-call process; the final call

was recorded with her permission. Please be aware that an order is not processed until the

terms of the service are agreed to upon three scripted phone calls. We use a three-call

process to ensure that the customer fully understands the terms of the service.

During the recorded conversation the verifier went over the magazines, the 24

consecutive monthly payments of $33.20, total for the full term of service, verified the

[redacted] card ending in 7557 with a CVV of [redacted] provided by Ms. [redacted], and also asked

her permission to process the monthly payments to the [redacted] account each month. Ms.

[redacted] replied yes. We do ask the customer for the CVV code for security purposes,

since the CVV is only present on the physical card itself.

The verifier also went over our three-day cancellation policy, the estimated time

of delivery, our toll free customer service number, and also had Ms. [redacted] verbally

verify her mailing address in which is the same address that is listed on this complaint.

Ms. [redacted] states in her complaint that she spoke with the manager [redacted]

[redacted]. Ms. [redacted] has never spoke with [redacted]. Ms. [redacted] spoke with the

manager of the billing department and his name is [redacted] but he is not [redacted]. At

no time was anyone in our company rude with Ms. [redacted]. Ms. [redacted] was angry that

no one would cancel her order and kept calling repeatedly.

I personally spoke with Ms. [redacted]. I played the recorded conversation and it

was definitely her on the recording. I also asked Ms. [redacted] when she was out of the

country and she stated it was in July. This order was placed in May. I also asked Ms.

[redacted] to verify her address and she stated you already have it. I asked her how do you

know if it is not you? This upset Ms. [redacted]. Again we would not have the security code

off of the back of the card if Ms. [redacted] did not place the order. I informed Ms. [redacted]

that if she still insisted that it was not her that placed the order than she should file a

policy report and than once we received that we would go from there.

I also want to point out that not one time has Ms. [redacted] called to state that she

was receiving magazines that she did not pay for. You would think if some one started

receiving magazines in the mail and they never ordered them that they would call and

find out where they were coming from.

If Ms. [redacted] feels that someone is rude to her I apologize for that, although

there is a difference between being rude and being stern and stating the facts.

To date Ms. [redacted]’ account is active. Should you have any further questions,

please do not hesitate to contact me.

Respectfully,

Compliance Officer

Countrywide Periodicals LLC