Some time ago, I got an email about a CD based language education product. I thought it would be a good idea since my homeschooled son was interested in learning Spanish.
If I remember correctly, the cost was quoted at $19.99 and there was a 10-day trial period. How could I pass up such a deal?
So, I got the product in the mail, and my son tried it out and frankly, didn’t like it.
Considering how low the cost was, I decided to hang onto it in case my daughter might want to try it. About a week or so later, I noticed a charge of over $100.00 in my checking account! After investigating the charge, I found that the company I had purchased the language program from had charged me the additional money.
Upon further investigation, it was revealed to me that the $19.99 I had previously paid was, in fact, for the trial period. It was a paid trial period. Since I kept the product, they went ahead and charged me the full price. Funny, I thought, I don’t ever remember seeing that “full price” anywhere in the offer. Even if it was in the small print, it was microscopic to the point of not being visible to the naked eye.
I am telling this story because I am noticing this tactic is being used more and more online. And while many people catch the trick and demand their money back, many do not ever notice.
How do you prevent falling for this scheme?
- Remember, a free trial period should be free.
- The website should list the full price of the product.
- If the price is not clear, call the company and ask.
I have been a certified tightwad since I became pregnant with my first child and decided to find a way to stay home with him. I enjoy sharing my experiences in my journey back to financial health and planning for a future — which will include sending 2 kids to college and early retirement.
