FTC complaint

I filed a complaint with the FTC today. I'm so disgusted with Adobe's subscription model, and now that they've confirmed they will never update CS6 and there will be no CS7, I'm convinced they're taking advantage of their monopoly position and are not acting in a manner which benefits consumers. I'm not complaining about the existence of a subscription model, but that there is no alternative and therefore it amounts to extortion, since the work created using the products is no longer accessible after the monthly payments have ended. Here is my complaint, and I urge others who feel the same to file their own complaint at - FTC Complaint Assistant
"Adobe is the Market leader in professional Graphics Software, particularly their CS/CC Suite of products which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, Lightroom, etc. They have no real competitors to these products and have enjoyed a near monopoly in the marketplace for decades. Their proces have reflected this as their boxed/downloaded perpetual license software suite cost into the thousands of dollars and was the subject of many complaints from graphics professionals. For many years they had no choice, and sank thousands into new versions every few years in order to keep up with the demands of the industry. I am a professional Photographer. I have purchased the CS Suite many times over the course of my 25 year career, paying the upgrade price when a new version appeared on the market. It was a cost of doing business. Although Adobe had a near monopoly, at least I could always choose when to pay for an upgrade. If I couldn't afford the fee, I could wait and make due with an older version for a while until I could afford it. I always had the option to walk away with what I had purchased. This happened once or twice. However, that is sadly no longer the case since Adobe has switched to a subscription model. Adobe's last "perpetual license" was in May of 2012. Since then, their subscription model requires a monthly payment of $49 for the software suite. Simply put, in order to remain competetive in the graphics industry, one must pay this fee in perpetuity, and if one ceases the payment, the software product no longer functions. There is no longer an option to choose when to upgrade or to "walk away" with the product you've purchased, and Adobe is no longer offering feature updates or bug fixes to their CS6 suite. My complaint against Adobe charges them with coercing perpetual payments for a product which enjoys a monopoly postition with a majority market share, and ceasing support for their product if the monthly "extortion" is not paid. At the very least, they should be made to allow "perpetual license" of the current release of the CC software to be purchased for the difference between the full retail value (based on previous upgrade costs of the full suite) and the sum of the comprehensive monthly payments made to date. This is the only way to assure that a customer has something to show for their investment and are able to access their work made using the software after the time comes when the monthly fee is no longer worth the price. Essentially Adobe should be made to offer a "rent to own" model. Without such a model, they are taking advantage of their monopoly position in the market and it is not in the consumer's best interest. Thanks for your consideration."

1) Pirating was overblown, everybody knows that. Adobe used that as their motivation and everybody who knew nothing about it bought the story. Total bs. People who were stealing the software were overwhelmingly those who didn't need it and would never have bought it, except for those who were able to try it before trial periods existed and then went and bought it. If anything, pirating contributed to Adobe's success. And CC is just as hackable today as ever.
2) If you're using Photoshop 7 today then you really don't need Phototshop. I take it you're not a photographer.
3) You'll "pay the monthly fee for as long as it makes sense". See? You're implying you have a choice. You don't, not if you need the software. You don't have that choice. And again, you're begging the question. Are you paying attention? "How does it make sense to force a business...?" Well, ask the FTC. They've forced hundreds of businesses to restructure their business model when it was discovered they were taking advantage of a monopoly position in a manner that didn't benefit the industry or consumers. THAT'S THEIR PRIMARY FUNCTION. Seriously are you reading anything I've written? You keep asking me things I've stated several times.
4) CS6 Master collection UPGRADE price is $525, not $2500. You're not paying full price every time you upgrade, are you? (Again, you seem to not know much about what you're saying here). And most people don't buy the whole Master collection (although Adobe advertises just as you do that the subscription is giving you access to all the tools - that you'll *never* need). The upgrade price for the Design Premium collection is $375. Design Standard is $275. So for $30/mo, in more or less one year, you're paying more for subscription than you would have for the perpetual license. ONE YEAR. So, yeah, I guess Adboe counts on people who doodle for a living to not be so good at math.
5) What incentive does Adobe have to provide all these feature improvements that you think you'll be getting on CC? Everyone has to pay anyway, so they can continue their slow update habit of late and everyone will keep paying because THERE ARE NO ALTERNATIVES. I keep asking you to name one, just one alternative to Photshop. You don't seem to know any and yet that's the cornerstone of your argument. Come on, just one!
Adobe got you and millions others on their hook thinking they were getting such a great deal, "because $30 is less than $2500, right!?? Right!" But it isn't. And thanks to doodlers who can't do math, we're all stuck with it. Well, that's not right. The FTC can do math. Very well. it's just up to us to tell them that we're getting screwed. And boy, are you getting screwed.
edit: I'm trying to be helpful here. Just fyi, rubenixx, to compare the cost of CS6 upgrade (assuming you really need the Master Collection at $575), if you had been using CC for those two years since CS6 was released you would have paid $720 on CC. You and everyone else will be paying more in the long run.

Similar Messages

I am considering sending in a FTC complaint

I, like many others on here, now have unwanted apps restarting and running in the background constantly after the froyo update. Some people may not care about background apps and think the update is a "success", but I believe that non-system-critical apps should only be started by me. If Verizon/HTC/Google thinks that this will make me want to use Amazon MP3, skype mobile, etc. more, then they are wrong.  In fact, the more I see these services running on my phone the more I dislike them.
This post isn't completely about the update itself but more about the principle of not having entire control over what to install/run on our phones. I understand if we cannot uninstall the system critical apps, but we should at least be given a choice on the non-critical ones, and to have the apps constantly run themselves is simply ridiculous.  The people who are hurt most by this are the consumers, who are wasting their time doing hard resets, taking out their batteries, etc, while being stuck with battery draining phones.

tsklin wrote:
I, like many others on here, now have unwanted apps restarting and running in the background constantly after the froyo update. Some people may not care about background apps and think the update is a "success", but I believe that non-system-critical apps should only be started by me. If Verizon/HTC/Google thinks that this will make me want to use Amazon MP3, skype mobile, etc. more, then they are wrong.  In fact, the more I see these services running on my phone the more I dislike them.
This post isn't completely about the update itself but more about the principle of not having entire control over what to install/run on our phones. I understand if we cannot uninstall the system critical apps, but we should at least be given a choice on the non-critical ones, and to have the apps constantly run themselves is simply ridiculous.  The people who are hurt most by this are the consumers, who are wasting their time doing hard resets, taking out their batteries, etc, while being stuck with battery draining phones.
That's up to you, but this has to go deeper than just Verizon. This will go down to EVERY manufacturer of software electronics in the world. I wish you good luck on your conquest and it could very well succeed.
Amazon MP3 is from Google which using Android you so love to use is provided in their TOU that you will ahve it installed. That goes for Twitter, Facebook, Google Goggles, and the likes.
If you understand how Linux systems work you will find those apps may be in ram, but actually doing nothing for your or against. Linux systems love things in ram, and any empty ram is wasted ram. We are not talking Windows OS where you want as much ram as you can free. It's a different mindset.

Blocked Account- Registering Complaint to FTC

Dear Friends,
I noticed so many threads within the community regarding account being blocked or suspended by Skype without any reason and not refunding the amount paid for subscription. I too faced the same problem within 3 days of starting paid subscription with Skype. Upon contacting customer support via email, was informed that I violated Terms of Use, would not let me know my violation either, and did not entertain my request for refund.
It is a fraudulent business practice by Skype, especially accusing sincere customers of violations without any evidence is extremely offensive. After getting no assistance from Skype on this issue, I called up my credit card company and they assured me to refund the money paid to Skype. I also reported this issue to Federal Trade Commission at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&panel1-1
I am sure if we all register a complaint about such practices of Skype to FTC or consumer complaint reporting agency in your country, a proper action will be taken against Skype and also prevent other customers from such fraud.
Thanks for joining me in raising awareness about this issue.

I will also make a FTC complaint and reach out to Skype/Microsoft executives on LinkedIn.
My account was recently blocked after making a UK phone call from the USA, as I've always done. I've had Skype for over a decade and have been paying Skype World Unlimited for years.
I cancelled my Skype World account today, and am actively asking for my Skype Credit to be funded in full -- over $20 worth.
After a merry-go-round of forms, this is the email I received was simply a copy and paste:
Shame on you Skype, and everyone that works here.
On Sep 4, 2014, at 4:48, "Skype Customer Support" <[email protected]m> wrote:
Hello,
Thank you for contacting Skype Customer Service!
I understand that you need your Skype account and missed a conference call because your account is restricted. However, as much as I want to help you, I cannot unblock your account due to restricted activities within it. Skype take's every user's account security seriously and we will automatically suspend your account whenever we detect certain activities that it identifies suspicious.
If you have further questions do not hesitate to contact us again.
Thank you for choosing Skype!
Best regards,
Krystyne B.
Skype Customer Service
Visit Skype for more updates, news and tips.
Dear Krystyne,
I will be forwarding this email to Skype's management team in a carpet email and registering a complaint to the FTC.
Please list exactly what suspicious activities I have done with the account besides call phone numbers that I daily call.
Please refund me the total amount in my Skype balance and discontinue the monthly subscriptions that I am paying for.
This is a recurring issue for your users who complain about this in your forums.
You have given me nothing substantial besides a cut and paste response for the customer service merry-go-round.
Sincerely,
Sent from my iPhone

Link to Federal Trade Commission Complaint Site

If you feel that you are getting screwed by customer service, here is the FTC complaint site:https://www.FTCComplaintAssistant.gov/

LawSchoolGAL42,
I apologize for the delayed response. I have sent you a private message to further assist you.
You can click on my name (Comcastcares) and click on "Private Message Me”.
At the top of each Forum page you will see a small envelope
This is the icon for Private Messages, referred to as ‘PM’s’. A Private Message is a way to communicate in private, to another User, Moderator, or Administrator out of public view in the Forums.
The gray envelope icon will have a number next to it if you have any new messages waiting.
To open a PM to read it, double click on the envelope. If you click on the white envelope a window will open with tabs for your Private Message Inbox, Sent Messages, Friends, Ignored Users, and Compose new Message. You can also access this area by clicking on the Username in a Thread or post. By default, Private Messages are enabled. You can disable this feature in My Settings>Preferences> Private Messenger.
http://forums.xfinity.com/t5/Billing/Price-increas/m-p/2542019

Battery drain after 2.2 update (Exchange Active Sync users or those who use a calendar on the phone)

A lot of folks are having "issues" with battery life after the over the air (OTA) update and there has been much speculation as to the cause. My frustrattion level increased with each new post I read that did not reveal a resolution. The back and forth banter about FTC complaints (that was an interesting escape from the battery problem but not very helpful), new apps running from startup (I don't like 'em either), Linux really working better with all these programs running (don't really care as long as the battery level isn't drained after an hour of just sitting on the counter) just made matters worse.
I would like to share with you my experience and hope that it helps some of you who have taken the time to read my post. First, let me say that the cause is not due the the "bloatware" applications that were installed during the OTA update.
Secondly, the primary purpose of my handheld is for voice calls but running close behind is my need for immediate email, contacts and calendar information (which is configured through Exchange Active Sync). If you are not using your phone with Active Sync or updating a remote calendar like Google), you can stop reading this post.
I noticed that the yin/yang (sync) icon at the top of my screen kept popping up more than usual after the update. Looking through the items I have set to sync (Menu -> Settings -> Accounts & Sync), I reviewed all the things I have set and disabled the sync settings for the things I did not want. After disabling the "Backup Assistant", "Google", "News", "Stocks" and "Weather", I thought for sure the issue would be resolved. Not yet. When those adjustments didn't change the frequency of the sync, I decided to look at the Exchange Active Sync and to my surprise, the culprit was revealed - the calendar was stuck in a sync loop (syncing over and over). I disabled the "Sync Calendar" feature and the phone stopped it's maddening attempt to refresh the calendar.
I let the phone cool off and thought that I could get by with manually toggling the option to sync the calendar but I couldn't accept that was the only way this thing would work. I removed the Exchange Active Sync account and created a new one. After the new account was verified, it attempted to sync mail, contacts and calendar but this time, there was a error that occured during the calendar sync. Instead of repeatedly attempting to re-sync, an error message that stated "Client/Server conversion error". At this point, the calendar sync loop was no longer a problem (wasnt' draining the battery) but now my calendar wouldn't sync at all.
To fix it, I cleared the data in the Calendar applications (Menu -> Settings -> Applications -> Manage applications -> All [tab at the top]). Scroll down the list and open each of the Calendar items and click the "Clear Data" button.
(Credit goes to "Brenny" at AndroidForums.com for the post that explains how to clear the Calendar Data)
It seems that adjustments made to events before the update were kept in the phones local storage. After the update, the calendar data in the phone's cache was not matching my remote calendar and appears to have been the cause for my battery drain. After performing these steps, everything is back to normal. Good luck!

Super frustrating, I know. Do you use Exchange Active Sync?
If so, you might be having the same issue that I've explained. Since making the adjustments (clearing the data from the Active Sync components like mail, contacts and calendar), my battery life is back to normal.
Try clearing the data (see first post in this thread) and let me know what happens.

Unacceptable Billing Practices

I have filed both an FCC and a FTC complaint on Verizon Wireless for their craziness, just want to make that known before I start, as well as a BBB complaint.
So here's my story, and to make it short, first off I made a payment to Verizon wireless 5 - 8 days BEFORE suspension of my services, and was still suspended (granted, this payment wasn't for the full amount) when services were suspended 5 - 8 days later after the payment, I called in and was informed by a "Supervisor" that my services shouldn't have been suspended as I did make a payment just a few days back, services were suspended for a total of 1 1/2 hours.
Upon my services being turned back on Verizon Wireless has fined me $15 per line ($45 total) for re-activation, which I have not paid, and will not pay as I feel that Verizon is being unreasonable when their own employee admitted I shouldn't of been disconnected after making a payment a few days before suspension.
Just curious if I can get in touch with someone in wireless who can help with the $45 and hopefully have it wiped off my account as I have been a loyal customer with Verizon for over 7 years on a family plan, this is the only time in that time frame service has ever been suspended due to non-payment, and I've paid Verizon enough money throughout my lifetime with the company (Wireless only, I've been a FiOS customer twice as well) to buy a new car, or 3 - 5 used cars, and happily continue to pay as the service is rock solid, but if this continues I guess I'm going to have cancel services and go with another provider as this is just ridiculous to be charged $45 for 1 1/2 hours of suspension time, when I was suspended right after making a payment, and even had the entire bill paid off within 2 days after the suspension.
In addition I've called and gone through the normal support channels, to which I was given the only option of half of the fee's being removed, I feel that I shouldn't have to pay the fee's as I shouldn't of been suspended in the 1st place.
Thanks,
Matt
Thanks for your time guys, and I know this isn't really the right place for this stuff, but I'm just hoping you can connect me with the people who can, otherwise I guess I'll have to go through the FTC and FCC, as well as possibly send my story on to the news media about how Verizon treats it's most loyal customers.
>>Personal information removed<<
Message was edited by: Verizon Moderator

Well see that's the thing, this wasn't negligence, as I didn't just not pay the bill, I paid a good chunk of it, problem was Verizon called me to setup a payment option after that (1 - 2 days later?) and wanted a GUARANTEE that I pay the rest of the bill in 5 days, to which I had informed them, at the time "I do not get paid until the week after this, so I cannot guarantee this payment within 5 days, I do have a $600 check coming from my nephew (loaned him $1,200 for X-Mas) which should be here by tomorrow or the next day, but as he's shipping it from Afghanistan, I cannot fully guarantee this time frame because anything can happen, and I don't want to lie to anyone and say yes I'll pay it in 5 days no worries, when I don't get paid till next week and therefore cannot for sure say I'll have it"
At this point the representative tried bullying me into payment constraint of 5 days or loss of service, I informed him again of the same thing, and then said if they want to set it for the day after I get paid (to ensure the check was in the bank) then I would happily agree to that and have it paid by then... After about 30 minutes of this over and over with the rep I finally just told them "Do what you need to do, but do not disrupt my service as I've already paid on it, and that's the only guarantee I can give that the rest will get paid on the date previously mentioned" they kept pushing for a date, I just told them thanks for their time have a nice day.
And if the supervisor is wrong, then where in the world do you think that a company lying to you is acceptable? If anything, the $45 should be credited for that reason alone, for being lied to and led to believe everything was ok and not my fault, then only to be hit with bill shock, and get told over and over it's my fault and that Verizon was never at fault, so now I have to deal with 2 different stories from the same company? That's complete **. I don't run my business that way, and I'm sure if I did over half of my customers would probably stop coming around... Where this makes sense to anyone is beyond me...

Advice with Time Warner / Focus Receivables Management

Very likely that's the case then.

snooze_sensei wrote:
I'm trying to rebuild (2nd time) my credit. I had it fixed last year, but Focus Receivables pounced after I bought a new car and placed a previously un-listed and re-aged account from Time Warner. Despite the account being from 2010, they placed it as 2014. I disputed the account, and simply got a "consumer disputes this information" line added to my report (worthless). I asked for DV, and got NO response. I filed a complaint with the FTC, and the complaint was closed as "debt valid". Problem is, I can't even seem to PAY this debt, no matter how valid it may be! Focus has never sent me anything by mail. I have sent them DV request by mail with my current address, and also provided my address via the FTC complaint. I also emailed their debtor email address with my name & address requesting they send me information in regards to the debt they have listed under my name. Absolutely no communication from them. How am I supposed to pay them? I tried calling Time Warner directly, but they can't find the account. The phone rep suggested I go to the local Time Warner store and they "might" be able to find the account. However, the "local" store is 100 miles away because I moved out of area! Has anyone had luck with paying off an old account (5 years) at the local store and having it marked paid or removed? Honestly, as much as I'd like it removed, I'd even take it being marked PAID. Many mortgage lenders will not lend to you if there is ANYTHING unresolved on your credit, regardless of score. So this is completely forcing my hand and I'm going to have to rent for another 6 months or year until I can get this resolved. Therein lies the issue. A DV imposes a cease collection bar until they provide you with validation. It does not require removal of any reporting. The DV has placed you in "limbo". They cannot legally deal with you until they provide validation. The fact that TW can't seem to find any information may be the reason for the delay in validation. In order for them to make any kind of deal with you, the DV will need to be rescinded.

Reward card scam

Hello ,
I am sorry about the issues you had with getting the reward card. We will be glad to help. If you could please send us a detailed message by clicking here. Be sure to include your name, account number, phone number, and the best time to reach you.
Keep an eye on the at the top right corner of your screen for a response.
In the meantime, let me know if you have any other questions or concerns!
-David T

If you look at the topics on this forum and other ATT boards, you will see that this is an ongoing problem that ATT can't seem to solve. ATT owes me $250 in gift cards. I finally got tired of their rude customer service and calling their customer service both wireless and cable AND their rewards center customer service. After months of trying to resolve this, I finally placed a complaint with the FTC and in my complaint referred to this board and other boards showing that this problem is common and on-going. I have two cellphones, internet, and cable TV with ATT. When I signed up online, I was promised $400 total in Rewards Cards. I was supposed to receive certain amount for signing up for cable, another amout for signing up for internet, another for signing up for those two online, and an extra mount for already haveing two cell phones with them. When it came down to it, I never received the notifications in the mail telling me how to redeem my cards. After calling the reward center customer service, I was about to get $200 in cards. The customer service agent claimed that she didn't see the other $200. Really?! That led to dozens of calls to the general customer service trying to figure out how to get what ATT promised me. Every time I called, the agents that answered would give me a different excuse or different reason as to why I haven't gotten the cards. All of them claimed that they could not see what promotion I was offered. Again, really?! So, when customers log in to their website to pay a bill and an offer for additional service pops up, ATT does not keep track of what they are actually offering customers? Not only this, but the email confirmation I received when I signed up for the internet and cable didn't have what was offered to me either. That's so convenient. So, when customers complain about not being given what they were offered, there is no way for customers to prove the offer because ATT does not include in its confirmations what they actually offered you. Nor does what they offered you show up anywhere on your account online. To make matters worse, the last time I called to try to get this straightened out, an agent offered me a $50 gift card to upgrade my TV service. Being stupid, I accepted it. Do you think I got that one either? No! So, all in all, ATT owes me $250 in rewards cards. Don't waste your time and energy trying to settle this with customer service. You will never get anything resolved dealing with them; even after months of calling them to try to straighten things out. Just file a complaint with the FTC so that ATT can stop scamming their customers with these offers of gift cards that they don't intend to actually give to their customers. I filed my complaint online with the FTC about two weeks ago and I'm waiting to hear back from them. After this gift card debacle is taken care of, I STILL have to settle another thing with ATT. A few years ago, at another apartment, one of their servicemen damaged my landlord's property while installing cable and internet. I had to pay my landlord out of my own pockets for the damage they cause. One of their regional managers told me that the installation charge and my first month's bill would be taken care of by ATT. I thought that they took care of both of those charges as they promised. A few years later, I'm adding another cellphone to my ATT wireless account and was told by an agent that I had an outstanding cable bill with ATT and that I would have to pay it before I got the phone. When I asked her the account number and address where the account is listed, lo and behold, it's the address where their tech damaged my landlords property. Turns out that ATT never took off the charges for the installation and the first bill. So, I was forced to pay over $200 just to add the new phone. That's the next issue I have to deal with when it comes to ATT and I'm sure that one won't be resolve either and that I'll be forced to file another FTC complaint. Thank goodness I kept the pictures of the damage and the emails between me and the manager regarding it. Otherwise, as with the gift cards, I'd have not proof. Being an ATT customer is such a hassel. Can't wait until my current contract is over on the two cellphones I have. I plan on going to another cell phone provider and changing my internet and cable to another provider as well. ATT has wasted so much of my time and energy with their horrible business practices and useless customer service.

Misrepresentation of International Roaming Capabilities of GoPhone. Intentional?

I filed the following fraud complaint today with the US Federal Trade Commission. (Text appears below my email signature.)
I would perhaps not have filed the complaint if I did not go through the SAME process of research today, asking AT&T about the International Roaming capabilities of the GoPhone—as if I were intending to purchase the phone today. In actual fact, I made the purchase back in February….. six months ago. What I found today was that I was given the SAME mis-information as last time, leading me to believe that the phone could be used for International roaming.
It’s hard to know for sure, but given that six months have passed since my initial purchase, it appears that AT&T is INTENTIONALLY misleading customers regarding the roaming capabilities of the GoPhone. It’s likely, if not certain, that you do provide the correct information elsewhere on your web site; however, you effectively hide this from the consumer. Unless they spend lots of time scouring your web site (which is not a reasonable expectation), or unless they know EXACTLY what questions to ask, they would not discover the GoPhone’s limitations prior to purchase. (By the way: Various references made on the web site referring to Canada and Mexico do not make sense unless and until you understand that these are the ONLY two countries where International Roaming applies. Then, it all becomes clear... but why would I even think that?
I have also discovered another consumer practice of yours which I consider to be deceptive. This one is not as serious, but it’s annoying nevertheless, and I hate to be made to feel like a fool: When I discovered 4 or so months ago that my MotoG GoPhone was locked, I applied online for an “unlock code”, and was turned down… learning only then that there was a six-month waiting period. I then contacted AT&T and spoke to a live representative to explain that I NEEDED the phone to be unlocked immediately. She took my information and cheerfully and confidently told me that I would be sent the requested “unlock information” within a few days. A few days later, what I actually received was another rejection, telling me that the phone had not yet been in use for six months. I thought there must have been some misunderstanding, as she seemed so confident I would be sent the unlock code…. so I (insanely) repeated the process, with the same EXACT outcome. (Same cheery, positive response with all the gratuitous “politeness”, followed by a rejection).
Today, I went through the same exact request with a live agent, just to see what would happen, and she cheerily and confidently told me I would be sent my unlock code within a few days. There were no “Maybes”; no caveats. I don’t yet know for sure the results of today’s test, but frankly, I am expecting the same rejection…. because although it’s now been 6 months since I’ve owned the phone, I happen to have spent 6 weeks in Saudi Arabia, where the phone was useless to me. Thus, of the 6 months, it’s been in use with AT&T for only 4-1/2.
I believe (although I cannot prove) that the live agent KNEW in advance that my application would be rejected, but rather than telling me that (and having to deal with potentially unpleasant consequences), she deceptively led me to believe my application would be accepted.
I find this sort of consumer deception shameful. I have wasted HOURS of my valuable time trying to get truthful, accurate information from AT&T, and in the end, I had a phone that COULD NOT BE USED for the purpose for which I purchased it. What’s more, my strong feeling that AT&T should be held accountable for this deception led me to waste another 2 hours today filing a complaint with the FTC.
This is all the more frustrating to me because before this all started, I had an older UNLOCKED Samsung GoPhone from AT&T that suddenly stopped working, and I had to purchase the Moto G as a replacement. Having had the Samsung, however, did me no good. I thought I did my “homework” before buying the Moto G, but you were able to pull the wool over my eyes. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. (That’s the little witticism that former President George W. Bush muffed during a press conference, except that in my case, I don’t think it’s funny at all, especially because you’ve been able to fool me REPEATEDLY.)
I don’t know what will result from my FTC complaint, but I hope that one way or the other you will provide accurate, factual, and COMPLETE information to your customers, who deserve the truth, the WHOLE truth, and nothing but the truth.
And you might also want to consider the effect of these sorts of shenanigans on customer loyalty. Let me give you a little hint: It’s not good. Please do not provide links to the correct information, as if this were a mistake on MY part. I did my best, and unfortunately, so did you.
Sincerely Yours, TRANSCRIPT OF AT&T Chat. [Note: I replaced the Agent's name with "AT&T", because I do not feel it's their fault, and would not want them to be implicated. Many times in such matters, it's the person low on the totem pole who gets the blame. This strikes me as a "marketing strategy", which is done all the time in sales. ] AT&T: Welcome to AT&T Chat. While we connect you to an agent, please share how we can help you today? Me: I have a question regarding Motorola Moto G GoPhone.... It says that it is Quad GSM bands "World Phone". I travel internationally, and want to be sure if I buy this phone, I can use it internationally. AT&T: Hello, this is _______ with AT&T! I'll be happy to help you today. May I ask who I have the pleasure of chatting with? Me: My name is Jeffrey L AT&T: Jeffrey you will be able to use this device international Me: That's good. Can you explain to me how this would be done? AT&T: Let me get that information for you. Would you mind holding a moment as I do that? Me: I will wait. AT&T: It's a world phone which means anywhere in the world you will be able to use. You will need a international plan Me: How do I get an international plan? AT&T: Will this be for a GoPhone Account or a regular account? Me: Well... This is GoPhone we are discussing... so I suppose it would be a GoPhone account. I don't have a regular account. In any case, it would be for this specific MotoG phone.] AT&T: To see all of the GoPhone international options, please Click Here. AT&T: To get started, please click on the device of your choice and then click “Add to Cart”. I will guide you through the checkout process and will be here to answer any questions you may have. Me: No... I think that's enough information for right now. I will make the purchase later. Thank you, though. AT&T: You are Welcome! Have a Great Day! AT&T: Thank you for visiting ATT.com today. Thank you for chatting with us today. The agent has left this conversation. For further questions, please click the chat button located on the right side of the screen.

My conscience is clear. My inquiries were made in good faith. I simply was not given full and complete information. Both the phone itself, as advertised for sale by AT&T, as well as the Go Phone service itself, promise the ability to use the phone internationally. If you think the fact that the phone works in Canada and Mexico satisfies this nuanced wording, that's just lame. The international dialing code for Canada is +1, for crying out loud.... same as the USA.
I couldn't use the phone with another SIM, because it was locked,... Which it does not say, unless you go to the page for how to unlock the phone, which you'd never even know to do until you discover that it's locked. (DearCustomer, Ha-ha! Gotcha! --Fondly, Your Friends at AT&T).
And what you said is simply FALSE! The page the Chat Agent referred me to led me to a description of international roaming for non-Go Phones, where it shows all the countries in the world where AT&T provides their overpriced roaming services. But you can't subscribe to these services with the Go Phone, which it does NOT say. This was NEVER made clear. (DearCustomer, Ha-ha! Gotcha again!).
I appreciate when you get a brand new phone for free, or at substantially reduced price when signing a contract, this justifies the phone being locked. This is not the case for the Motorola Moto G. I could have bought an unlocked version cheaper at other sources. I ordered it from AT&T just for convenience, never suspecting it was locked.
I approached this transaction in good faith, believing I was getting the information I needed, and believing I could use the phone internationally. The Go Phone and service may make a lot of sense for domestic customers, but touting it as providing international roaming is deceptive. I find it a bit difficult to believe you are defending this practice by blaming and attacking the victim (that is to say, me!).
Well... Live and learn. In this case it was a costly lesson for me.

When is the Unlocked Iphone 5 releasing in the US???

I have been waiting since 3 months to buy an Unlocked Version of the Iphone 5, if someone from apple just tells me when it releases?, that would be great.
I am really finding it hard to manage my work and studies without a smart phone so i want to buy the best asap.
I dont want to buy from other countries, i know Unlocked is released in other countries too...

The reason you're having trouble getting an unlocked iPhone 5 is that the U.S. carriers operate proprietary networks and bully the manufactures preventing unlocked options for a period of time. The FCC needs to step in and stop this practice. Its ridiculous to think that one has to buy phones over and over if you must change cell carriers. If a carrier overloads their network and you cant make calls or get incredibly slow internet service then you have to live with the poor service or spend the money on another phone. I actually experienced this issue.
The reality is that the phones are capable of working on all networks. Its a policy and database that keeps it locked to a vendor. The vendors will try to convince you that the phone is specific to their network. Yes, each vendor has specific network specifications defined in the phone software, but this can easily be changed to the vendors specific specifications. The iPhone has the hardware to support all of the US carriers. T the best of my knowledge Apple is not dedicating a manufacturing line for each vendor with specific cellular radios for each. It wouldn’t make economic sense.
Can you imagine what it would be like if you purchased a laptop or tablet and it was locked into a specific WIFI network. Oh you can only run this laptop on Cable Company wireless. There is no difference. The cell carrier should lock the customer into their service by providing a discount for 2 years of service. If their performance fails then the customer should have a way to exit form their contract.
If you really want to change this poor business practice, then go online and file a formal web based complaint with the FCC and FTC. If enough people complain, a law will be put in place to force fair business practices.
FCC Complaint Link:
http://www.fcc.gov/complaints
FTC Complaint Link:
https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/FTC_Wizard.aspx?Lang=en
Keep pushing back. If enough people complain, this will change.

File Complaints at FTC for forfeited Skype Credits...

I lost my Skype acount. I have skype credits in them (I have proof to show that I purchase the credits). I am filing a complaint at FTC (https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/) to see if I can get the money back. For those who have similar problem, may be you can do the same.

I lost my Skype acount. I have skype credits in them (I have proof to show that I purchase the credits). I am filing a complaint at FTC (https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/) to see if I can get the money back. For those who have similar problem, may be you can do the same.

Filed a complaint with FTC

Dear friends after my horror with Verizon I have finally filled a complaint with FTC
https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/
i would encourage other customers who have had a poor experience with Verizon and Nexus to do the same.
Dear FTC,
this complaint to bring to your attention the poor customer service Verizon is rendering to its wireless customers. I had the misfortune of purchasing a new cell phone with a 2yr contract with them late last year, it was a Samsung Galaxy Nexus phone which was recommended by the Verizon sales representative. Soon after getting the device I started having issues with dropped calls 3-4 times each day, I did some research and found that many other Verizon customers with this device wee having similar problems.
I then started calling Verizon Tech support and was told that they are looking into this problem and subsequently they replaced my handset 3 times however I continued to have the dropped call issues with this phone as did other Nexus customers, this is not a signal issue because in this very house my previous Verizon device worked fine and so does my wife's cell phone(no dropped calls).
After my third replacement also did not work I called Verizon again and was told to wait for a software update which was going to fix a software glitch I waited for this update but unfortunately even after the update the problem continued, I was in the meantime offered to exchange my Nexus for another device Razr Maxx, after everything else failed I called in to get the replacement, the Verizon customer service guy agreed to send the replacement and asked me wait for a few minute to get a confirmation number, after a few minutes he came back to say that his supervisor had taken back the replacement offer as Rzar Maxx so too expensive, after this I sent an email to Verizon Customer service (email below)
This letter is to bring to you attention the absolute worst customer service experience I have had with Verizon Wireless over the last 6 months.
I had called to start a new account 6 months ago and wanted to buy an I phone 4s, the customer service agent persuaded me for 30 minutes and urged me to buy the "brilliant new Samsung nexus" , I did buy this device upon his recommendation, however I do wonder now that did he or Verizon have any other motives??. Since the day I bought this phone I have had 5-6 dropped calls a day, and have been in constant touch with your tech support, I have been sent 3 different handsets(Nexus) but the problems remained, finally I was told that ICS 4.0.4 uldate is about to come and will solve this dropped call issue, or I could swap this phone for a Rzr Maxx this was offered by Miss Rachel one of your senior supervisors, I told her that I have $300.00 in Nexus accessories and will wait for the update and if it fails to fix the problem will request Maxx or Galaxy 3.
The ICS update happened few days ago and made the problems even worse, as a result I called it to the customer service (on 06-08-12 @ 7.55pm) and asked them to send me the promised Razr Maxx, they agreed to do so took confirmed my address and 2 day shipping method for $6.99 and asked me hold for confirmation, five minutes later they turned around and said Maxx for way too expensive and they cannot honor the previous offer and will send me a Razr (non maxx), this is really as low as you can get in my opinion in terms of customer service, first you sell me a device which i never wanted, the device is riddled with problems, you promise a replacement and when time comes back track from it.
I would really like to get a clear written explaination in this matter, if it is worth your time, you have the permission to access all my account notes.
kind regards
Prashant Singh
after this email I was emailed by Verizon Customer service promising to rectify the mistake and send me Razr Maxx - email below-
Dear Prashant,
I am so glad you took the time to write us about your experience. When I read what happened, I was truly disappointed. I realize that things go wrong sometimes when it comes to technology. However, at Verizon Wireless, we are empowered and expected to go above and beyond for our customers. And I deeply apologize for each of the issues you experienced, and that we did not exemplify this approach in your situation. I would have called to apologize personally but it was too late. My name is Tracey and I hope you will allow me to rectify this situation.
It is my goal to get you a RAZR Maxx replacement sent out tomorrow. I work at 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM tomorrow and will try calling you at 5:00 PM EST. The last thing I want is for you to feel that we habitually offer poor customer service. There are some things outside our control of course. But I feel it is my job to take care of everything that is within my control. I pride myself on providing my customers with the experience and respect you deserve. And I assure you, I will handle this issue personally.
I hope you can accept my apology on behalf of Verizon Wireless in the kind spirit which I offer it. I truly appreciate your business and I will contact you tomorrow, Sunday, June 10th at 5:00 PM to process your replacement order. If I do not reach you, I will text you and you can respond with the best time to call back.
Sincerely,
Tracey
Verizon Wireless
Customer Service
I patiently waited for the Razr Maxx to arrive the mail came today but to my amazement it was another Nexus, I called Customer service again and they said they could not do much at this time, I am completely frustrate for being provided a third grade equipment after paying a premium price for this device at their sales representative recommendation and paying $125.00 each month for 8 months for a extremely poor quality equipment which drops calls several times in a day, this problem is not isolated and the web is full of customer complaints about this device.
I would urge FTC to kindly spare sometime and look into Verizon's poor customer service and inability to honor their written promises.
many thanks and kind regards
Prashant Singh

I too have experienced this. Purchased the phone on launch day, and since then I've experienced nothing but problems, having the phone replaced 6 times, Despite Ice Cream Sandwich being an amazing operating system, this phone is the worst piece of equipment I've ever had the displeasure of owning. Everyone of them has a weak antennae design resulting in bad reception, dropped calls, and 4G speeds half that of every other LTE phone. plus the extraordinarily poor battery life, and bizarrely large energy consumption that causes the phone to drain faster then the AC wall outlet can charge it should be more then enough reason for Verizon to recall these things entirely. Making matters worse is the fact that they only send you refurbs, and in my experience, each one of the replacements I received only gave me new problems to deal with (defective screens that look like old newspaper photos, etc). Ive been begging VZW to exchange it out for a Razr maxxx for 4 months and they refuse, and will only offer the regular Droid Razr. Considering I already have 3 Samsung batteries for the Nexus (its the only way I can make it through the day and have a working powered up phone) there offer of the old Razr is in no way a solution. It's also notorious for its poor battery life, and to make matters worse, the battery isnt removable. At least Im able to swap in a new battery when my Nexus gets low!...
I found a place online that pays 200 for the Nexus. Selling it to them then probably going to use the cash to pay the early termination fee, then Im going to Spring for the unlimited data and a Galaxy S3-Im also grand fathered into the unlimited data plan, so now I cant even upgrade and get a phone I want without losing that feature and that one feature is the only reason Ive stayed with VZW at all

File your Complaints with the FTC and FCC!

I have filed complaints with the FCC and the FTC online. Verizon has been deceptive in implementing the new policy change regarding unlimited data. Verizon needs to be above board with this issue and stop trying to trick everyone who assumes they are "grandfathered in" with their unlimited data. File your complaints today!

What has been deceptive about it? If you purchase a subsidized phone, you will lose your unlimited data. If you migrate to the Share Everything plan, you will lose your unlimited data.
Seems to be pretty straight forward.
If you continue on your current plan with the same phone, you ARE grandfathered in and will continue to get your unlimited data. If you purchase a new phone at full retail or activate a phone from another source, you ARE grandfathered in and will continue to get your unlimited data. Both of these could change in the future, though. Contrary to popular belief, being grandfathered in does not mean FOREVER. As of right now, this is the case, though.

Need help on how to file a complaint

I've never had to complain against a utility before - but on 9/30/10 I was given a price guarantee for 2 yrs for my landline by "chris" in Tampa, FL - and my bill keeps going up. I spoke with Andrea in Escalations today who told me that my bill can go up any time for any reason and that Verizon doesn't have to abide by price guarantees. When I asked for assistance, she said that she couldn't do anything, that there was no supervisor higher than her to talk to (really? I was speaking with a VP or President???) and that she had no ideas about how to resolve my issues (namely being promised a price by a Verizon employee who assured me that the price was guaranteed for 2 yrs). She would not offer a credit, would not let me speak to anyone else and refused to do anything. I've read lots of complaints about customer service and Verizon - but this is a fraudulent pricing practice and although I'd rather not file complaints with the FCC, FTC and California Public Utilities Commission - I'm not sure what to do at this point.

How would you expect this to work if you didn't give "filename" a value?

How do I submit a complaint to Verizon Wireless?

I have been a customer of Verizon's for over 15 years, and just recently learned that I was paying $90 per month for a wireless service plan that I could get for $60 per month. It shows how little Verizon values its (long term) customers that Verizon would not contact me to let me know that I could get a significantly better deal. Verizon is happy to send me advertisements about other products that I could purchase, thus increasing my monthly bill, so it's not as if this type of courtesy is beyond their capability.
When I called customer service to switch to the cheaper plan, I was informed that the only way to register a complaint was to do so through the customer service representative. There is no way I can validate that the rep actually did as I requested. Does anyone know another way in which customers can express their displeasure with Verizon's practices short of filing a complaint with the FTC or the BBB?
Thanks,
Rebecca

rhanovice I understand the importance of benefiting from the best deal! We appreciate your loyalty throughout the many years & we always want to ensure you're satisfied! Promotions and plans do change, but I'm glad you're on the best deal now. Submitting feedback through our Customer Support is one way to ensure your position is submitted, however you can also write a letter at http://vz.to/1hZj5dj
AshleyS_VZW
Follow us on Twitter @VZWSupport

FTC complaint

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