Publishers Business Services ripoff, deceptive, dishonest Altamonte Springs Florida

I was contacted at work by "Pat Agbuis" a representative of what I now know as Publishers Business Services, on 4/29/04. She purported to have a survey & asked me to participate as it would only take a few minutes. I did. Mistake #1. Then she quickly moved on to the sales spiel. I listened. Mistake #2. I subscribed. Mistake #3.

The next day a "Diana S." called to verify the conversation and subscription order placed. Unfortunately, instead of cancelling then & there, I validated the information she was seeking. Mistake #4. Diana S. did state that the subscription(s) could be cancelled after 180 days. I believed her. Mistake #5.

Today (5/6/04)I received the invoice/contract in the mail, along with slips of paper like "Your Record of Tape Recorded Verification of Our Telephone Offer," which states, in part "Verification is tape recorded only with customer's permission." "Tape No. 13139." Additionally, the following is included on the magazine order sheet: "Reel 13139, Side A, 036 to 078."

Also included is an explanation of the magazines I "ordered." None of which are of any interest, but were the only ones sales representative Pat Agbuis offered. It's not her fault I said yes. I should've hung up on her after the "survey" questions ended and the magazine spiel began. This explanation also spells out the true costs involved, which show what a bargain it isn't! Plus it states, "We also have a non cancellation policy during the term of this agreement."

I allowed myself to be roped into something I have absolutely no interest in. I was duped. The practices employed by this company, its managers and employees, and its telephone representatives, as far as I am concerned, are unprofessional (unless you're a professional rip off artist), unethical, dishonest, and disgusting. But not necessarily in that order. And, I intend to fight back.

I understand they're members of the C of C. I also understand they've had many complaints filed against them. Mine will join those. And I will do whatever I legally can to get out from under this. Any help you can provide is appreciated.

Live and learn! But it's tough doin' it the hard way!

Al
Simi Valley, California
U.S.A.