Instantcheckmate.com deceptive, challenging to work with, phone rep was pleasant California

An advertisement came via email that led me to believe all and any data about me was contained in the files this company had compiled. Curious, I fell into their trap and was further lured when they had my mother's name included as part of this "vast" compilation of data.

When I paid the $22 and change via paypal, I was led to the website where I had difficulty navigating (on a smart phone). I assumed that the website was not mobile ready/friendly, so I tried again on the desktop when I got home.

Easily got on to the website at home, the pages moved much more smoothly on desktop. So much for the complimentary information.

As I perused my "data", the only information was my birthdate, where I'd lived, erroneously contending my astrological sign, and an opportunity to pay ANOTHER $19.99 if I wanted to find out more!

When I looked at my mother's data, it had a big red exclamation mark next to her name where "criminal files" was located. Knowing she's never had so much as a parking ticket, I attempted to see what was there as well. Only to find out it would take another $19.99 to find out anything about her!

I may not be the sharpest h*e in the shed, but I had figured out this was a racket, scam, whatever phrase you want to use that describes a game plan to take your money for NOTHING in return.

I called the number, 866-490-5980, and had a conversation with their phone rep. The young man was professional, curteous, polite, and based on my own aggravation, he was quite patient.

After explaining the site wasn't for me, and that I believed it had no viable information, I requested a cancellation and a refund.

In no time at all, the cancellation was granted. The refund wasn't possible if "requested data wasn't satisfactory". (rough translation, if "you don't like us taking your money and giving you nothing in return".)

I explained that I had no intention of paying $22 for a website to tell me my own name, where I live and that I go by Ken as well as Kenneth. Some day I may need someone to explain that to me, but today I d**n sure know who I am and where I live!

After a used car salesman's "I've gotta check with my supervisor, can you hold for a minute", he returned as promised and offered the compromise of 50% refund. "Because we understand your situation".

I explained that he did not understand my situation, and that I could quickly and easily contact the Attorney General's office if I did not receive a full refund.

After a bit more discussion, paypal is suppose to be refunded.

We'll see...