PublicationsMax.com Internet Fraud & Thieves Evanston, Illinois

I got up yesterday and checked my account balance for my checking account. I only use a debit card for any purchases, no credit cards. Pay as you go.  So I pretty much know what comes in and what goes out on any given day. But, I just wanted to be sure what my balances were before I went out for a day of Christmas shopping. But, low and behold, what did I discover, but a debit hold for $79.00 from a company called "PublicationsMax.com".  I immediately called the bank, which informed me that there hands were tied until the transaction actually posted.  I promptly informed them that I had never heard of this company nor had I ever done any business with them.  I had looked them up on the internet prior to calling the bank, and saw the type of business, but since I don't receive any magazine subscriptions and had not purchased any could not imagine where they had gotten my debit card information in order charge me $79.00.  After reading their "Privacy Notice", I realize that they use 3rd parties to advertise and gather interest information. I then realized how they must have gotten the information.  But, why $79.00?  I have repeatedly tried the 888# to reach someone to rectify the charge to my card and keep getting a recording that either says, all agents are assisting other customers;please leave a message and someone will get in touch with you as soon as possible. Or a message that says try your call again.  I have been trying since 9:00 CST and it is now 11:45 CST. I have also left 3 messages, made dozens of repeat calls to get through and nothing.

These people are plan and simple internet FRAUDS & THIEVES! They need to be stopped!