AIG PROMOTIONS - BANK CARD EMPIRE For investment of $9995 guaranteed return in six months of $78,750. They do all the work, find leads, advertise, make calls, etc Phoenix Arizona

I was initially contacted by phone suggesting I had indicated a desire to supplement my income. First talked to Rebecca Shumard, the assistant manager, who turned me over to John, a salesman.

John explained the job as generating merchant accounts for the placement of credit card terminals for Bank Card Empire. I would be provided an instructional DVD, the help of the marketing team, a Website for credibility and leads from the company.

For a one-time investment of $150.00, a set-up fee of $19.95 , and $19.95 per month for a year, I would receive $200 for each terminal placed, and a residual income from the sales processed by each terminal. I could cancel my affiliation after one year, which sounded doable and I agreed. I waited several days for my instruction package to arrive.

Instead, my "coach" Victoria called with an entirely different package because I am handicapped and must use a walker. Her presentation was very professional and convincing, and absolutely guaranteed a handsome return on my investment. She convinced my to invest $9995.00 for a monthly income of $13,125.00, worst-case.

For that investment, my 10,000 leads would be contacted by professional salespeople, advertisment, placement and service would be provided for a period of six months, at which time I could reinvest or not - my choice. I was very hesitant, but was high-pressured into an immediate decision without time to consult with my husband.

I had to make a trip to the UPS store to receive a fax from them, which I was to sign and immediately fax back to them. It was authorizations to charge my two credit cards for $4000.00 and $5995.00 respectively. Unfortunately, I did as directed before having an opportunity to check on their credibility. I did mention that I was recovering from surgery, was quite tired and on medication.

My husband was livid when I told him what I had done, so now I am doing what I should have had the presence of mind to do first. I have contacted the credit card companies and will dispute the charges, and have already informed AIG Customer Service that I want to cancel and will dispute the charges. I was told, it was a done deal and no refund was possible. I hope they are wrong.

Charlotte Fishers, Indiana
U.S.A.