Progressive Business Publications

Review: I requested a free newsletter to my email to see what the publication was about. I then received a phone call from them wanting to know if I liked it. I told them I did not have time to look at it because my daughter had been in the hospital, they called me a couple more times asking if I had looked at it and again I had told them I had not had time to. I then starting getting invoices saying I owed 299.00. I do not want this and did not want a subscription only the free news letter. I have emailed them and left messages and have not heard back.Desired Settlement: I would like them to cancel the account they set up and make sure there is a zero balance.

Business

Response:

September 23, 2013

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for your email of 9/23/13 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received on 9/19/13. After review of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.

Please note that, our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the address, asking for the month and day of the person's birth date and asking for the person's email or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours, as well as to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that needs to be made.

Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Office Mgr, placed an order on 6/19/13 for our CFO & Controller's Alert publication. We were provided with birth date information as [redacted], as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policy. Our computers show that the confirmation went through without any problems.

The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 2-month period of time.

Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests.

With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.

As a courtesy we cancelled this account on 9/19/13 as they requested when they contacted us that day. There is no money due or owing on the account.

Please know that we do business continually with thousands of companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and excellent customer service.

All of our contact information is in our newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.

Feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at ###-###-####.

Thank you.

Review: Company constantly calls for payment for a safety bulletin that was solicited via soliciting calls to our company.The bulletin was not wanted or used. When asked for a signed document for approving the agreement, they stated they had phone recordings. We do not approve anything via phone only paper. Receive approx 1 -2 calls per week. Over and over explained our policy and [redacted] and [redacted] from [redacted] who call on behalf of Progressive Business Publications become very short.Desired Settlement: stop pursuing this bill of $299.00

Consumer

Response:

My name is [redacted] accounts payable for [redacted], let me know what other information we can forward to you regarding progressive business publications and [redacted]

Review: Progressive Business Solutions allegedly spoke with one of my employees and stated the employee ordered a subscription to the Safety Compliance Alert. The employee who supposedly ordered the publication is the accounts receivable clerk and has nothing to do with safety. She does not remember ordering the publication over the phone and cannot find an email confirmation the company states was sent in May. The company cannot provide a confirmation of the email or supply a recording of the order. We have not received any publication to date. As the CFO I would not pay the invoice and we were sent to a collection agency.The collection agency stated the company has a roster of companies nation wide it calls continuously. The collection agency had [redacted] removed from the roster but we had to pay the $299 invoice. We are a nonprofit and as such have a fiduciary responsibility to our donors regarding their donations. After my discussion with the collection agency my AP clerk informed me this same company had tried to entice him into ordering the publication and he finally called and told them no.Desired Settlement: The only outcome I desire is Progressive Business Publications issue me a check in the amount of $299. It is my belief the organization did not order the publication and the organization has never received a publication.

Business

Response:

December 19, 2013

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for your email of 12/18/13 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received on 12/17/13. After review of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.

Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on.line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the address and asking for the person's email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours, as well as to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.

Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Accting, placed an order on 5/10/13 for our Safety Compliance Alert publication and she provided us with her email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policy. Our records show the email went through without any problems.

Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 5-month period of time.

Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show that we ever received a cancellation on this account or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.

With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.

However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5 months, 2 warning notices plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.

As a courtesy we did contact the collection agency on 12/19/13 and they advised us that they have received payment in full of $299.00 on 12/17/13. They have reinstated the account so that [redacted] will receive the remaining issues of the one year subscription. Once the account expires there will be no further issues, invoices or renewals sent. There will be no ramifications due to this account being turned over for collection and there is no money due or owing on the account. Once the collection agency has been paid there can be no refunds made.

We initiated a request on the same day that the company name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.

Please know that we do business continually with thousands of companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and excellent customer service.

All of our contact information is in our newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.

Please feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at ###-###-####.

Thank you.

Review: We received an invoice for product never ordered or received, stating that account is over 90 days past due and unpaid bills are referred to a collection agency.Desired Settlement: Stop sending fraudulent invoices phishing for payment for goods never ordered or received.

Business

Response:

March 6, 2014

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for your email of 3/5/14 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received on 3/3/14. After review of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.

Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the address and asking for the month and day of the person's birth date.

Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Office Mgr, placed an order on 10/10/13 for our Administrative Professional Update publication. We were provided with birth date information as [redacted]. Prior to ending the call we clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked cancellation policy.

The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 4-month period of time.

Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests.

With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.

As a courtesy we cancelled this account on 3/5/14 as requested. There is no money due or owing on the account.

We initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.

While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our

cancellation policy. We found several different trial subscriptions had been accepted before; 2-paid in full accounts while other accounts were cancelled as we instructed without issue.

Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.

All of our contact information is in our newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.

Feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at ###-###-####.

Thank you.

Review: Receiving collection calls and threats for a subscription that was neither ordered, nor desired.Desired Settlement: We are not paying for something we did not order. I am familiar with this company and their unscrupulous business practices, as I have fallen victim to their scam once before.

Business

Response:

April 7, 2014Dear [redacted]:Thank you for your email of 4/4/14 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received 4/3/14. After review, of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on-line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the person's mailing address, asking for the month and day of the person's birth and asking for the person's email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours, as well as to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Dir, placed an order on 9/3/13 for our Nonprofit Board Report (packet of 5 newsletters per month) publication. We were provided with birth date information as [redacted], as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policyThe birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 5- month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows in this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving a cancellation request or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that is required is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return that to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5-months, 2-warning notices, plus an additional 30-day "wait period" the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.As a courtesy we contacted the collection agency on 4/4/14 and advised them to cease collection and cancel this account. They have assured us that this will be done. There will be no ramifications due to this account going for collection and there is no money due or owing on this account.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy.We have initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of companies who regularly place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in the newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Please feel free to contact our Customer Service Department you have any further questions at ###-###-####.Thank you.

Review: I receive a call from a collection agency stating that my company was in collections for "the Selling Advantage" publication that they claimed I subscribed to. I notified the collection representative that I never subscribed to this publication. She explained that Progressive Business Publications says they spoke to me in September of 2013 and I agreed to receive the publication for the first month and can be charged if I did not cancel. I do not recall speaking to a representative and this is something I would never agree to, I do not do this in my personal affairs and would not agree to this in business. I feel these are always trap agreements that are misrepresented. The collection agent stated that they were emailing me the publication as well and provided an incorrect email. The invoice that my company received stated that the publication was being received by 5 people which is also not true. My company is in the process of paying the invoice to avoid the collection report.Desired Settlement: Refund company money and permanently remove the company and myself from contact and/or solicitation databases.

Business

Response:

April 14, 2014Dear [redacted]:Thank you for your email of 4/11/14 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received 4/10/14. After review, of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on-line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer and they include verifying the mailing address, asking for the month and day of the person's birth date and asking for the person's email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours, as well as to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that **. [redacted], Mktg Mgr, placed an order on 9/18/13 for our Selling Advantage publication for 5-copies of the annual subscription and he provided us with a birth date of [redacted], as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked cancellation policy. We do show that the confirmation letter went through without any problems.The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 5-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by **. [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, online programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving a cancellation on the account or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5 months, 2 warning notices plus and additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.As a courtesy we contacted the collection agency on 4/14/14 and advised the agency to cease collections and to cancel the account. They have assured us that this has been done. There will be no ramifications due to the account being turned over for collection. There is no money due or owing on this account.We asked if they had received payment on this account, as **. [redacted] states in his complaint and they said they have not received any type of payment on the account. Be advised that once the collection does receive payment there can be no refunds made.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found other trial subscriptions had been accepted before and were cancelled as we instructed without issue.We initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If the company's name is misspelled or the zip code incorrect, our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, please call and we will remove that version too.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of companies who regularly place repeat orders due to their continued satisfaction and excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in our newsletter. It contains our address and toll free telephone number. We, also have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at ###-###-####. Thank you.Cordially yours,

Review: Company states that we ordered services and we did not. there is no record they will provide so show this.Desired Settlement: void invoice

Business

Response:

August 14, 2014Dear [redacted] :Thank you for your email of 8/13/14 regarding the above referenced agency complaint that you received on 8/5/14. After review, we would like to respond to your letter with the following detailed explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer and it includes verifying the mailing address.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Quality Mgr., placed an order on 12/19/13 for our Quality Manager’s Alert publication. Prior to ending the conversation we clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked cancellation policy.Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletter and invoices over a 5-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows in this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving a cancellation request or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that is required is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return that to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry’s general custom. However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5-months, 2-warning notices, plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.As a courtesy we contacted the collection agency on 8/5/14 as he requested the day he called us and advised them to cease collection and cancel this account. They have assured us that this will be done. There will be no ramifications due to this account going for collection and there is no money due or owing on this account.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in the newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour /7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Please feel free to contact our Customer Service Department if you have any further questions at [redacted].Thank you.Cordially,Sylvia N. Dir. Of Subscriber Services

Review: According to this company, they are billing us for $240.00 of services that were never delivered. This company according to Revdex.com has over 1000 compliants with on 8 resolved. I have received a bill for the $240.00 which according to the Progressive Business Publications stated that I have received 4 newletters and "unlimited access to paid subscription site." I have never agreed to accepting this newsletter nor have I ever received any publications. Plus why would I pay $240.00 for a newletter I am not interested in. According to our company Finance Director, this has been an ongoing issues with this company of charging us for something that we did not order nor received.Desired Settlement: Please void current and any future charges. Please delete our information from all computer systems associated with this company.

Business

Response:

September 18, 2014Dear [redacted]:Thank you for your email of 9/17/14 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received on 9/16/14. After review of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the address, asking for the month and day of the person's birth date and asking for the person’s email or fax number so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours. This serves to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Fundraising/Develop. Asst, placed an order on 5/5/14 for Our Foundation & Corporate Funding publication. We were provided with birth date information as 6/29, as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policy. Our computers show that the confirmation went through without any problems.The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 1-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry’s general custom.As a courtesy we cancelled this account on 7/1/14 as they requested via U. S. Mail. There is no money due or owing on the account.We initiated a request on 9/17/14 that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found many different trial subscriptions had been accepted before; 1–paid in full account while other accounts were Cancelled as we instructed without issue.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of Companies who place "repeat” orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of Our contact information is in our newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at [redacted].Thank you.CordiallySylvia N. Dir. Of Subscriber Services

Review: A representative of [redacted] contacted the small non-for-profit that I work for today stating that the Agency owes Progressive Business Publications $260 or so for some newsletters that she claimed I ordered. I did not order these publications, but they claimed they had my birthday which they used as confirmation for placement of the order. I did not authorize this company to send my Agency any publications. They offered to "settle" with the Agency today for $100. Rather than "settle," I have filed a consumer complaint with the Attorney General of Kentucky and this complaint with your organization. The person who contacted me today is named [redacted] and her phone number is ###-###-####Desired Settlement: I do not want Progressive Business Publications or any of its affiliates to contact me, my staff or my organization, [redacted]

Business

Response:

October 23, 2014Dear [redacted]:Thank you for your email of 10/23/14 regarding the above referenced agency complaint that you received on 10/21/14. After review, we would like to respond to your letter with the following detailed explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the mailing address, asking for the month and day of the person’s birth date and asking for the person’s email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours. This serves to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Exec Dir, placed an order on 4/3/14 for our Communications Bulletin For Managers & Supervisors publication and she provided us with birth date information as [redacted], as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked cancellation policy. Our computers show that the confirmation went through without any problems.The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the Conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletter and invoices over a 5-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows in this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving a cancellation request or mail returned as \undeliverable”. If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that is required is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return that to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry’s general custom. However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5-months, 2-warning notices, plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.As a courtesy we contacted the collection agency on 10/23/14 and advised them to cease collection and cancel this account. They have assured us that this will be done. There will be no ramifications due to this account going for collection and there is no money due or owing on this account.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found 3 "risk free” subscriptions had been accepted before and all were cancelled as we instructed without issue except this account.We have initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.Be advised that we will be happy to respond to any complaint received from any State office with this same information when we receive it.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of companies who place “repeat” orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in the newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour /7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Please feel free to contact our Customer Service Department if you have any further questions at [redacted].Thank you.Cordially Sylvia N. Dir. Of Subscriber Services

Review: Billed for a newsletter that we didnt order or requestDesired Settlement: Discontinue any newsletter and zero our account balance

Business

Response:

See Attachment:

Consumer

Response:

[A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response. If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]

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: Progressive Business Publications issued an invoice to a collections agency for $299 for a 1yr subscription to a newsletter that was a few pages long and capable of being folded in to a normal business envelope. Personally speaking, $299 for any subscription is ludicrous for an individual, and that is not something I would ever authorize.

When originally contacted, I was offered 5 issues of a complimentary newsletter and distribution would continue providing I wanted to continue with the product.

According to Progressive Business Publications, several emails were sent to my personal email and several invoice letters were sent to my home. None were ever received.

According to Progressive Business Publications, they supplied 10 newsletters. I spoke with the representative from Progressive Business Publications, and after explaining that none of these were received, she explained that the only option was to charge me for the 10 issues that they had sent out reducing the total from $299 to $150.

I explained that I was uncomfortable paying for something I did not receive, and further expressed that their business practice is the tech equivalent to "slamming." Additionally, she was unable to answer the question: If it was up to me to cancel, how was I supposed to be able to cancel the subscription if I never received any of their mailings?

At that point, she said there was nothing further she could do for me.Desired Settlement: My total owed to this company should be $0 and this should in no way impact my credit rating.

I did not authorize them to bill me. I may have been coerced in to a 5 issue trial, but I did not authorize paying hundreds of dollars for a newsletter that is smaller than a child's homework.

Business

Response:

November 11, 2013

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for your email of 11/11/13 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received on 10/29/13. After review of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.

Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the address, asking for the month and day of the person's birth and asking for the person's email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours, as well as to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.

Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], IT Mgr, placed an order on 3/20/13 for our Information Technology Adviser publication. We were provided with a birth date of [redacted], as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, Including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policy. Our records show the email went through without any problems.

The birthday information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 5-month period of time.

Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show that we ever received a cancellation on this account or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.

With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.

However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5 months, 2 warning notices plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.

As a courtesy we did contact the collection agency on 10/29/13 as he requested when he called our Customer Service Department that day and advised the agency to cease collections and cancel the account. They have assured us that will be done. There will be no ramifications due to this account being turned over for collection and there is no money due or owing on the account.

We initiated a request on 11/11/13 that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.

Please know that we do business continually with thousands of companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and excellent customer service.

All of our contact information is in our newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.

Feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at ###-###-####.

Thank you.

Consumer

Response:

While I have had no verbal contact

Review: We did not order or agree to a trial of a product called the Environmental Compliance Allert. Alleged by PBP they made a phone call to our employee [redacted] in which he agreed to a trial offer of this newsletter, to be canceled or billed. He did not agree to the trial offer, and the next time we heard fom them was a phone call from [redacted] in [redacted], NY saying we had been reported to collections for failure to pay. We had to back track to fill in the gaps to understand what was even going on- and the best we can conclude is the phone call wheedled some information out of [redacted] that they used as the basis for starting the subscription. We did not receive or use their product, much less have any interest in receiving it. They could not provide the original confirmation email they stated they sent. We refuse to pay without proof of actually ordering this newsletter.Desired Settlement: We would like the charges removed and any invoiced deemed null and void. Any reporting of this situation to credit agencies must be corrected. We would like official confirmation to this regard.

Consumer

Response:

From: Revdex.com of Metro Washington DC <[email protected]>

Date: Tue, Apr 22, 2014 at 4:25 PM

Subject: Fwd: Complaint # [redacted]

To: [redacted] <[redacted]>

---------- Forwarded message ----------

From: [redacted] <[redacted]>

Date: Tue, Apr 22, 2014 at 2:49 PM

Subject: Complaint # [redacted]

To: [email protected]

The company Progressive Business Publications has dismissed all claims and charges against us.

Thanks.

###-###-#### Ext. [redacted]

Information in this message and any attachment is intended solely for the above named recipient(s).

Review: I authorized no purchase of any kind from this company. The Revdex.com shows a record of 2232 customer complaints filed against this business in the last 3 years, with 1524 having to do with billing/collection issues. This record demonstrates a pattern of customer complaints alleging billing for unordered merchandise, identical to my complaint. I did not authorize via the telephone, in writing, or through any other means, a trial subscription, free, or complimentary copies to be sent to me. No product from them was received by me, and no invoices were ever received. I have received an invoice titled '2nd notice - Payment is Overdue' , dated 5/17/2014, from the company alleging I placed an order for a one year subscription, and that 4 issues were mailed. and that I have had access to EnvironmentalComplianceAlert.com for 8 weeks. However, no order was ever placed with them for a one year subscription to a publication called 'Environmental Compliance Alert.' The company sells its publication through telemarketing solicitations that appear suspect and unbusinesslike, which undoubtedly has led to the high number of customer complaints about the company's sales/billing/collection practices with the Revdex.com. I checked their website, using the account number they provided on the '2nd notice' invoice, and found no information in the 'account' except my name -- there was no information as to the date the subscription was allegedly ordered.Desired Settlement: This business must cease contacting me with a goal of trying to collect money for a nonexistent account. I request that my name, address, and telephone number be removed from their computer files.

Business

Response:

June 5, 2014Dear [redacted] :Thank you for your email of 6/3/14 regarding the above referenced agency complaint that you received 5/30/14. After review, we would like to respond to your letter with the following detailed explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders With a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on-line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding Our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the mailing address, asking for the month and day of the persons birth and asking for the persons email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours. This serves to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], EnvirHealthSafety Dir . , placed an order on 3/12/14 for our Environmental Compliance Alert publication and we were provided with an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policy. Our computers show that the confirmation went through without any problems.The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the Conversation took place. Once the Order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 2-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industrys general custom.As a courtesy we cancelled this account on 6/4/14 as requested. There is no money due or owing on the account.We initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found many, many different trial subscriptions had been accepted before; 16 paid in full accounts while other accounts were cancelled as we instructed without issue.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of Companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in our newsletter and it Contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour 7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at [redacted].Thank you.

Consumer

Response:

[A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response. If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]

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 was contacted over the phone at my place of business and asked if I would like to receive a free "What's Happening in HR" newsletter. I was told that it was a free trial, and that I would not be charged for the newsletter. I agreed to have them send me the free newsletter, as it was easier to agree to that than to get them off the phone. I asked specifically if there was anything I needed to do to cancel or make sure I wouldn't be charged and they told me there was no action required. The call concluded with them verifying my date of birth in order to prove that they had spoken with me. I have not received any newsletters, and recently received a call from Progressive Business Publications collections for an outstanding invoice of about $230.00. They stated this invoice was sent to my company, and that I was required to pay it. I did not agree to subscribe to their newsletter and should not have been charged.

Progressive Business Publications used coercive tactics to mislead me into thinking I have to pay a subscription fee that I didn't agree to.Desired Settlement: I would like all charges to be dropped and to never be contacted again by Progressive Business Publications.

Business

Response:

November 24, 2014Dear [redacted]:Thank you for your email of 11/24/14 regarding the above referenced agency complaint that you received on 11/20/14. After review, we would like to respond to your letter with the following detailed explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of Cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the mailing address and asking for the month and day of the person’s birth date.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Staffing Spec, placed an order on 4/14/14 for our What's Working In Human Resources publication and he provided us with birth date information as [redacted]. Prior to ending the call we clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60- day, no questions asked cancellation policy.The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletter and invoices over a 5-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to him at [redacted], CA [redacted]. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving a cancellation request or mail returned as `undeliverable”. If we had we would have Cancelled the account immediately.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that is required is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return that to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry’s general custom. However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5-months, 2-warning notices, plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.As a courtesy we contacted the collection agency on 11/24/14 and advised them to cease collection and cancel this account. They have assured us that this will be done. There will be no - ramifications due to this account going for collection and there is no money due or owing on this account.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found 3-different `risk free” subscriptions had been accepted before. All those were cancelled as we instructed without issue except this account.We have initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of companies who place "repeat” orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in the newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour /7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.

Consumer

Response:

[A default letter is provided here which indicates your acceptance of the business's response. If you wish, you may update it before sending it.]

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: Progressive Business Publications has forwarded information to [redacted] stating that one of our former employees ordered a newsletter from this company and we have failed to pay the invoice. I filed a complaint in 2012 against the same company for the same offense. In 2012 however we did receive several issues of the unsolicited newsletter; we have not received any issues since informing [redacted] of the complaint we filed to the Revdex.com.Desired Settlement: This 'business' should be out of business. How many companies or individuals pay when threatened by [redacted]?

Business

Response:

See Attachment:

Review: Progressive Business Publications called me under another service name, [redacted]. I was skeptical of the call to begin with. They solicited their service, from my understanding a free service. I was not interested. They were very pushy. I told them I was very unfamiliar with their company and product. I suggested that they email me their company and product info. They responded that they can not send any info out unless I provide my birthdate. I said I would absolutely not provide my date of birth because my wife has been a victim of identity fraud. I said sorry, not going to happen. They were still very pushy. I asked again as to why a date of birth was needed. They responded that it was their policy, and that I could cancel at any time. All I asked for was information about their company and service to be sent to me. Again, their response was provide a date of birth and then info will be sent. Anyway, had I known that [redacted] was actually Progressive Business Publications I would have hung up immediately. A few years back another employee of my organization fell victim to them. Some how a former employee signed up for a publication. A four page newsletter worth $200. Still scratching my head over it. I vowed never to let my organization fall victim to this again. Back to current events. I am receiving calls about an unpaid subscription service for Administrative Professional Update. Never seen it, but I can imagine it is probably 4 pages in length just like the one from 5 years ago. I feel strongly that Progressive Publications is an unethical organization, using manipulative methods to secure their sales.Desired Settlement: If Progressive Business Publications continues to reach out to my organization, I will consider reaching out to an attorney. The [redacted] needs to be removed from their call list indefinitely. If we ever need a service of theirs, then we will reach out to them.

Business

Response:

See Attachment:

Review: We've received an invoice for the first time, stating that it's the "2nd notice and that payment is now overdue." Also that we "have already received 4 newsletters" (which we haven't, nor did we authorize to receive them) and that the "generous 60-day cancellation period has expired!"Desired Settlement: We don't want to receive any more invoices from them................or any newsletters.

Business

Response:

November 29, 2013

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you for your email of 11/26/13 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received on 11/25/13. After review of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.

Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the address, asking for the month and day of the person's birth date and asking for the person's email or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours, as well as to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that needs to be made.

Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], Public Works Dir, placed an order on 9/17/13 for our Environmental Compliance Alert publication. We were provided with birth date information as [redacted], as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policy. Our computers show that the confirmation went through without any problems.

The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 2-month period of time.

Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving mail returned as "undeliverable", if it had the account would have been cancelled immediately.

With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.

As a courtesy we cancelled this account on 11/26/13 as requested. There is no money due or owing on the account.

We initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.

While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found 3-different trial subscriptions had been accepted before by [redacted] and those accounts were cancelled as we instructed without issue.

Please know that we do business continually with thousands of companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and excellent customer service.

All of our contact information is in our newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.

Feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at ###-###-####. Thank you.

Review: When I spoke with the rep they said they would be sending me information regarding their product, when in actuality they began sending it to me. I was really not interested, so I junked their emails and threw away what I thought was their advertisements. It turned out she signed me up for 30 day free subscription that required a cancellation that I was not even aware of when I agreed to the "information" to be send to me.Desired Settlement: We would like for the the subscription to be canceled and the invoices to be voided out without payment to them.

Business

Response:

March 6, 2014

Dear [redacted]:

Thank you. for your email of 3/4/14 regarding the above referenced complaint that you received on 2/24/14. After review of our detailed electronic records we would like to respond to your letter with the following explanation.

Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the address, asking for the month and day of the person's birth and asking for the person's email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours, as well as to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.

Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], A/A, placed an order on 7/17/13 for our Administrative Professional Update publication. We were provided with a birth date of [redacted], as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked, cancellation policy. Our records show the email went through without any problems.

The birthday information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 5-month period of time.

Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows on this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show that we ever received a cancellation on this account or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.

With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that needs to be done is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return it to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry's general custom.

However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5 months, 2 warning notices plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.

As a courtesy we did contact the collection agency on 3/6/14 and advised the agency to cease collections and cancel the account. They have assured us that will be done. There will be no ramifications due to this account being turned over for collection and there is no money due or owing on the account.

While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found several different trial subscriptions had been accepted before; 2-paid in full accounts while other accounts were cancelled as we instructed without issue except this. [redacted] does state in this complaint that she threw all the information we sent away.

Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and excellent customer service.

All of our contact information is in our newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour/7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.

Please feel free to contact the Customer Service Department if you have any questions at ###-###-####. Thank you.

Review: I received a call from PBP in January regarding a Human Resources newsletter/publication, they had a 60 day free subscription. On 7/21/14, I received a collection call from [redacted] regarding an outstanding invoice of $299. I explained that I recollected a phone call, but never received the newsletter, nor an invoice. I was told they had my email and my date of birth to confirm my identity. I asked for an invoice, which ICR produced from PBP with my last name misspelled. I was then told an invoice was sent directly to my attention, in addition 5 were sent to A/P. I contacted my A/P department and they have no record of ever receiving any invoices as well.Desired Settlement: I wish for PBP to remove this from collection, I never received the newsletter nor an invoice to have the opportunity to cancel this subscription. This business is disgraceful in their tactics.

Business

Response:

July 31, 2014Dear [redacted]:Thank you for your email of 7/30/14 regarding the above referenced agency complaint that you received on 7/29/14. After review, we would like to respond to your letter with the following detailed explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the mailing address and asking for the month and day of the person’s birth date.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], H/R Mgr., placed an order on 1/8/14 for our What's New In Benefits & Compensation publication and she provided us with a birth date of [redacted]. Prior to ending the call we clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked cancellation policy. Our computers show that the confirmation went through without any problems.The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the Conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the newsletters and invoices over a 5-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows in this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving a cancellation request or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that is required is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return that to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry’s general custom. However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5-months, 2-warning notices, plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.As a courtesy we contacted the collection agency on 7/30/14 and advised them to cease collection and cancel this account. They have assured us that this will be done. There will be no ramifications due to this account going for collection and there is no money due or owing on this account.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found many, many trial subscriptions had been accepted before; 3-paid in full accounts, 2-of which were renewed for 5 plus years, while others were cancelled as we instructed without issue.We have initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of Companies who place repeated orders due to their continued satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in the newsletter and it Contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour /7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Please feel free to contact our Customer Service Department if you have any further questions at [redacted].Thank you.Sylvia *. N[redacted] Dir. Of Subscriber Service

Review: I recvd a call from a collection agency on 10/24/14 regarding an outstanding invoice I had from Progressive Business Publications from March. I explained that I never have ordered anything from them, never received product from them, nor had I recvd any invoicing from them. I contacted Progressive Business Publications on 10/29/14 to complain about this. I spoke w/ a Nikki in CSR who tried to tell me I did order the product and they had my date of birth as confirmation. I stated that in past years I had ordered from them 1x so they of course have my DOB and mailing address on file. I stated that every time their company has called here since I have told them "no" to ordering anything from them. I told her that they have called so frequently trying to push their services that I know for a fact they start the call "we are recording this for training purposes" so I told her I wanted to hear the call in which I allegedly ordered the product as confirmation. She denied having such a recording. I told her I wasn't paying for it and that I have had issues in past w/ their company sending items that we haven't ordered and I have had to send the invoice back marking "CXL - do not send anything to this address again". After arguing w/ her she finally stated she would cxl the service and invoice and call the collection agency to stop recovery process.Desired Settlement: I looked up this company's website and came across a number of internet postings of individuals who have been stuck in this same FRAUD SCAM w/ this business. It is ridiculous that they have they opportunity to send your company's information to collection agency when you haven't requested the product and then you have to spend your day calling to get this cxld. Their practices are fraudulent and something needs to be done about it. It is pretty sad when the collection agency agree they are w.

Business

Response:

October 30, 2014Dear [redacted]:Thank you for your email of 10/30/14 regarding the above referenced agency complaint that you received on 10/29/14. After review, we would like to respond to your letter with the following detailed explanation.Please note that our primary method by which we secure orders is by telephone solicitation. In such cases, our representatives take orders with a 60-day right of cancellation to a 1-year subscription to one of our newsletters, books or on line programs. We have very stringent quality control procedures regarding our representatives making this offer. These include verifying the mailing address, asking for the month and day of the person’s birth date and asking for the person’s email address or fax so we can send written confirmation of the order within 24 hours. This serves to encourage contact with us if there are any mistakes or changes that need to be made.Regarding the specifics of this situation, please note that [redacted], H/R Mgr., placed an order on 3/19/14 for our What’s Working In Human Resources publication and she provided us with birth date information as 6/21, as well as an email address. Within 24 hours of the discussion, we sent a confirmation letter that clearly restated the offer discussed, including the liberal 60-day, no questions asked cancellation policy. Our computers show that the confirmation went through without any problems.The birth date information is obtained, in part, to verify the conversation took place. Once the order was placed, the same computer system sent the book, newsletters and invoices over a 5-month period of time.Thus the goods that were ordered by [redacted] were sent to the same address that shows in this complaint. This computer system records and tracks all confirmations, invoices, on-line programs, books, periodicals sent and cancellation requests. It does not show ever receiving a cancellation request or mail returned as "undeliverable". If we had we would have cancelled the account immediately.When [redacted] called on 10/29/14, she did confirm that all the information we require to start a risk free subscription was With all telephone orders placed, if the ordering person does not find the information helpful, all that is required is to write CANCEL on the invoice and return that and the book to us or advise us any other way and the subscription will be stopped with no payment required, as is the publishing industry’s general custom. However, if neither paid nor cancelled after 5-months, 2-warning notices, plus an additional 30-day wait period the account may be turned over for collection. That is what happened in this instance.As a courtesy we contacted the collection agency on 10/29/14 as she requested and we advised the collection agency to cancel this account. They have assured us that this will be done. There will be no ramifications due to this account going for collection and there is no money due or owing on this account.While researching this complaint we did find that this company has done business with us in the past and is aware of our cancellation policy. We found many “risk free” subscriptions had been accepted before; 2-paid in full accounts while others were cancelled as we instructed without issue except this account.We have initiated a request on the same day that the name, address and telephone number be removed from our computer files. This action takes approximately 30-days to process. In business we hesitate to say the company will never receive another mailing from us. If any company information changes our computers may not recognize it and something may go out. If that should happen, simply call us and we will remove that version, too.Please know that we do business regularly with thousands of Companies who place "repeat” orders due to their continued Satisfaction and our excellent customer service.All of our contact information is in the newsletter and it contains our toll free telephone number. We, also, have a 24 hour /7 days a week voice mail system due to the large amount of calls we receive daily from our coast-to-coast subscribers.Please feel free to contact our Customer Service Department if you have any further questions at [redacted].Thank you.Cordially Sylvia N. Dir. Of Subscriber Services