How This Scam Works
1
Ads promote a 'free trial' of a product with only small shipping charges required.
2
Buried in fine print is an automatic enrollment in a costly monthly subscription.
3
The company makes cancellation nearly impossible — no working phone number, broken website links, or requirement to call during limited hours.
4
Monthly charges of $50-$150 continue until the victim's bank intervenes.
Warning Signs
Free trial requires credit card information for 'shipping only'
Terms and conditions are hidden or in very small print
No clear cancellation process or phone number provided
Company has no verifiable physical address
Charges appear on your card that you did not authorize
Real Examples
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How to Protect Yourself
Read all terms and conditions before entering payment information
Search for the company name plus 'scam' or 'complaint' before signing up
Use a virtual credit card number for online trials
Set a calendar reminder before any trial period expires
Monitor your credit card statements for unexpected charges
Take screenshots of the terms at sign-up as evidence
Frequently Asked Questions
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Help Protect Others
Share this scam report to warn friends and family.