Synapse Retail Ventures through Loehmann's signed up for free magazines and charged to my credit card without authorization pasadena, California

In Mid January of 2011, I went to Loehmann (discount dept store) in Pasadena to shop. As I was checking out, I was told that as a great customer by Loehmann's cashier , I was eligible to get 3 months risk free magazines through their VIP program. I was told, "you don't have to do anything. after reviewing the magazines and you don't like it. You just call to cancel. They don't have your information to charge..which magazines do you want?" I should have known that it is too good to be true.

In March, I received a post card from Synapse Retail Ventures through Loehmann's magazine program, it stated "If you do not wish the subscriptions, you will need to call by April 18 to cancel. Otherwise, the account number you agreed to be billed for your selection will be charged semi annually. cancel anytime after you have been charged and receive a refund of unserved issued "based on your total term of services. "

I contacted the 800-733-3169 prior to my deadline. I was told "no problem".

It is 5-17-11 today and I continued to received from the 3 magazines (Cosmopolitan, People, In Style). I decided to contact the 3 magazines directly to ensure cancellation. I was told, "due to your cancellation is today. You will be charged for the ones we have already sent".

What the hell? First of all, I never authorized for magazines to be charged to my bank. I only use my visa to buy my purchase at Loehmann's. I had no idea they have authorization to give my personal bank account to another third party without permission. Also, what is the point of calling the 800 prior to deadline if they don't cancel anyways. Why do I have to attempt so many efforts to stop this and still get charge?

There seem to be something fishy and illegel about this.......Does Loehmann get kick back from Synapse Retail Ventures for signing up their customers?? All I can say is Loehmann is no longer a place I will shop. I don't trust their practice of business...very fradulent to me...I am very unhappy