Freedompop Undisclosed charges, no customer support Internet

Really, a free phone with 500MB of data?  I knew it was too good to be true.

I got the phone simply to use the data with my Escort radar detector.  I already have a reliable phone.

I did not expect much.  You get what you pay for.  This company, however, is ridiculous.

  I carefully selected all choices to remain free, without monthly charges.  I ordered a phone from a $79 link.  I was charged $129.  I sent an e-mail to FP which went unanswered.  I called customer service, and perma-hold yielded no help.  I hung up after 20 minutes.  I followed the link again, and the sale went through for $79.  I called my cc company, and was credited the $129.  The e-mail was answered 8 days later, saying I could cancel an order.  The first order never showed as fulfilled, so I did not bother.

 The second order went to "processing" pretty quickly.  The phone arrived after 18 days, though the usage month began the day I placed the order.  I could receive no incoming calls for the first few days, but that seems to have sorted itself out.  When the month expired,  I was charged a $9.99 "monthly fee."  Called the CC company again, disputed the charge and cancelled the card to prevent further charges / abuse / fraud / whatever you choose to call it.

  It looks as if I was given a months free trial of "Premier" service, which is $9.99 after the first month.  I was charged after having the phone 12 days.  I called customer support.  16 minutes on hold, a guy answers, puts me on hold for a few minutes.  Said he is looking into it.  I thought I am put back on hold, but am continuously prompted to do a customer service survey.  After 5 minutes, I answer the survey questions, and am promptly disconnected.  22 minute phone call, no results.  I sent an e-mail, to which I expect no response.

  If you ever want support, or a question answered, this is not the company for you.  I have now called the CC company to get my $79 back.  I'll stick with my Verizon phone.  I never thought anyone's customer support could make Verizon shine.