posted on August 9, 2000 01:57:49 AM new
I am presently having a very bad experience with WebSwap, where I've been an active member since its earlier days. A few days ago on August 1, 2000, WebSwap introduced new regulations which require all members to provide credit card information as of that date. I had not been previously notified and did not have any idea that I would need to provide credit card information. I have established a very good WebSwap rating as a seller and have been using the site successfully without a credit card since first becoming a member in December 1999.
On checking in at WebSwap on August 1st I found that I was unable to access my account or check my listings unless I first provided credit card information. I do not have a credit card and cannot obtain one due to personal reasons so I am locked out, my hands are tied behind my back. On the very same day of this new regulations announcement I received a standard notification from WebSwap, notifying me that a query had been received on one of my listings, and I then attempted to follow the normal procedure of replying to the waiting customer through the site. Unable to read the query or post a reply to the customer through the URL provided by WebSwap, I wrote WebSwap Customer Support explaining my situation, and asked what steps I should take. I received a vague, routine reply, stating that I would need to provide a valid credit card number, and that they were sorry, there was nothing they could do.
While still trying to deal with my increasing frustration, on August 4th I received a second WebSwap message informing me of another query to another of my listings. I wrote WebSwap Customer Support again, receiving another unaccommodating reply, only to be told in as many words, too bad, that unless I provided credit card information, I was plain out of luck and there was nothing they could do. I am sitting here with over 100 items listed for sale at WebSwap, being notified by WebSwap of potential WebSwap buyers who still have access to my listings and are making offers, and I am unable to make contact with them and can do nothing about it.
So, getting more frustrated, I wrote them again. I explained the situation once more, and expressed my great displeasure at the way I was being treated, not being able to contact my customers. I told them it was unacceptable to have my good rating and reputation put at risk by WebSwap and again asked for direction. I also pointed out information in the "fine print" in their Terms and Conditions information "revised on July 31, 2000", where it is stated that "the amended Terms shall automatically be effective 30 days after they are initially posted on our site", and I questioned whether on not I would have these 30 days in which I might access my listings and finalize them at my own convenience, or at least permit me to contact my WebSwap customers who were waiting for my reply. I have not heard a word from them since.
Yesterday, August 8th, I received yet another notification of a potential sale at WebSwap and now feel my only option is to speak out. I fully understand and accept the fact that rules are rules, but I feel I do have a valid complaint. There are no WebSwap message boards or forums where I can be heard so I appreciate very much the chance to voice my opinion here. Being prevented by WebSwap from replying to my customers there is frustrating enough for me but most certainly for my customers as well. I will not allow WebSwap to threaten my hard-earned reputation at WebSwap or anywhere else on the Internet for that matter, where I am not being given a chance to defend myself.
If anyone has any suggestions as to what my next step should be, or even the smallest measure of guidance, it would be greatly appreciated.
posted on August 13, 2000 08:39:46 PM new
I KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN, THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO ME, LUCKLY I HAD A CREDIT CARD. JUST ABOUT ANYONE CAN GET A CREDIT CARD YOU CAM GO HERE http://www.creditnet.com/cc.offers.html AND FIND ONE THAT DOES NOT HAVE A ANNUAL FEE AND YOU ARE CHARGED NOTHING FOR JUST HAVING IT. GOOD LUCK!!
posted on August 15, 2000 12:54:03 AM new
Thanks very much for your help. I am in Canada, and unfortunately the one option at the site is not suitable. I've gathered other information there which may be helpful so am working on that. Thanks again, very much appreciated.
posted on August 31, 2000 02:05:03 PM new
I saw a free auction-barter site that has no registration or annual fee, AND does not use credit cards because everything is free. It's a nice site with good a volume of things on it. Check it out at tradeaway.com
