Complaint Review: NEXTEL Communications

Nextel Communications recently started advertising for text messaging by sending a text message to their service members touting the benefits and price of this new service. The message stated that the recipient would not be charged for receiving this message and the price and benefits of the service.

The next billing cycle I was, in fact, charged for receiving their advertising! I called customer service the next day and they told me that by opening the message (the equivalent of answering my phone) that I had agreed to pay for the charges. The charges a mere .15 cents seem hardly worth waiting 10 minutes to talk to a service rep until you consider that Nextel has over 10 million subscribers or 1.5 million dollars in additional fees to spam their own network.

I am currently shopping attorneys to file a class action suit against Nextel, easy money I would think. Take a stand and punish them the only way they understand, $$$$ bottom line, I intend to do my part.

On a second note, unrelated to but equally egregious, Nextel began charging $2.83 a month for number portability 9 months before it is scheduled to take effect. It seems to me that should be an easy case for Deceptive Trade Practices. Imagine being forced to pay your car payment nine months before you buy and drive it. Nextel is bilking their customers in advance for services they don't provide. Something for nothing should be Nextels new slogan. Nextel, it's how business gets scammed.

David
Houston, Texas
U.S.A.