Verizon Wireless, Verizon Premium TXT Messaging scam Internet

Another Verizon Wireless 3rd-party, premium text message rip-off:  Hadn't been paying attention and found $29.97 charges over past few months for "Premium TXT Messages" on my wife's number.  Called Verizon and, as reported elsewhere, they said they weren't responsible but I should call MM Text Alerts (800.235.7105) and All Mobile Alerts (888.703.6285), which were the companies billing me.

Both companies said that a "code" was sent to the phone number and had to be entered on the website for them to start billing.  Wife totally denies doing this and I believe her because she has zero interest in the messages being sent.  She said she sent multiple "STOP" responses to these companies (as explained on http://support.vzw.com/faqs/Premium_TXT_and_MMS/faq_premium_txt_and_mms.html) but they hadn't quit.  Of course, since they're not on Verizon's "approved" list, I guess they can just ignore the code word "STOP".

This is likely a facebook thing and I'm about to drop-kick it.  Check out this facinating op-ed on how facebook games are the portal to riches: http://www.techcrunch.com/2009/11/01/how-to-spam-facebook-like-a-pro-an-insiders-confession/

As for refund, MM Text Alerts said they can only return 50% of the charges -- I think that's BS, but was in no mood to argue further at the time.  All Mobile Alerts was much more accomodating and returned the entire amount billed.  Both companies are sending checks instead of crediting the Verizon account.

Seriously, if they can't credit through Verizon, then they shouldn't be able to bill through Verizon.  This setup is just ripe for rip-offs and Verizon should better protect their customers by requiring an opt-in to these "services" instead of forcing an "opt-out" once the damage has been done.  It's obvious to me that there's some sort of kick-back Verizon gets for allowing this bill-through and they have no interest in stopping it.