Storesonline Refund
If you are unhappy with you bought Storesonline and would like a refund, you can contact Storesonline directly if it has been less than three working days since your purchase.
For periods longer than that, you might want to considering contacting the following for help with your Storesonline purchase.
USA
Please contact your State Attorneys General for advice and help.
Full refunds for North Carolina residents.
Sued by AG of Illinois and Texas.
Violated Business Opportunity Fraud Act of Washington.
Banned by State of Maine.
Connecticut $130,000 settlement with Storesonline and Imergent.
If you are from Pennsylvania, please contact Stephanie.
New Zealand
If your refund request is refused, then take your case to a Disputes Tribunal. Use the Consumer Guarantees Act and the Fair Trading Act as the basis of your claim.
Australia
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission [ACCC]. They have previously conducted a class action suit against Storesonline on behalf of many consumers.
5 October 2007: ACCC commences proceedings against StoresOnline for alleged breaches of s. 87B undertakings
22 October 2007: StoresOnline found to have breached previous undertakings: Workshops to go ahead under new orders
30 October 2007: Federal Court orders StoresOnline to amend workshop presentations
on October 13th, 2007 at 12:01 pm
thank you Maritn for this site as a source of feedback for SOL experiences. For Canada citizens contact Dept of consumer and corporate affairs if you need to file a complaint, claim, etc.
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Gord Reply:
October 4th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
Yes, Medussa,, I am also grateful to Martin for setting up this site of exposure of StoresOnline. I so innnocently bought into the so called, “business”. However, I do not have anymore money to feed into this “business” I am going to contact Canadian Consumer and Corporate affairs. I paid off the Traverlers Financial in Vancouver, B.C. by getting a Line of Credit from my bank; that way the interest is lower. I went to the initial seminar as well as the workshop. I am attributing this to my not knowing what “right” questions to ask before I signed on “the dotted line”. I believe my Lord Jesus is going to help me get through this time of learning.
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Roxy Reply:
October 5th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Hey ! I am stuck in the situation of having to pay for SOL and I lost my job on Sept. 8, 2008. Even though I didn’t see the deadline of 3 days on the face of the contract where you are shown how much you would be paying a month, I asked the guy before signing it if the monthly cost is negotiable. He said no. He kept his hand over the inportant info so I wouldn’t see it and kept pointing to the signature line. It all is so well performed. They talk long enough to keep in their time line for renting the hall or where ever the workshop is and then move you right along. I have been in it since June of 2008. I can tell you that I have not seen so much stuff to read in all my life before getting through even the touring part. I would never do something this stupid if I had just took the time to find a business on line by researching or better yet take my boyfriend who is a web master. He was very upset when I showed him the bottom line of the price and then told me of lots that would only have costed $300.00. As a matter a fact I was scoutted by one the other day. I think I will check the Better Business Bureau out on them and give them a try. Anyways, Yes! Storesonline is a bunch of BS unless you can spend 8 to 10 hours for the next 3 months to read every thing. You might as well be reading an encyclopedia set.
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Said Reply:
December 7th, 2008 at 10:49 am
ok, so we all agree, SOL is not created for Canadians, now, let’s work together to ensure we can get our money back, or some part of if.
First we all contact the Canadian Office of Customers Affaires http://www.ic.gc.ca/epic/site/ic1.nsf/en/h_00014e.html and then we help each other untill we get our money back.
are you in?
George Li Reply:
December 26th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
If you want to bring your complaint to the federal level and follow what the Australian government had done to refund to StoresOnline buyers, bring this case to your nearest MP (Member of Parliament) office.
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on December 13th, 2007 at 1:16 pm
I recently sat in a conference in rich va. I thought the information that I recieved was great. Then after seeing the organizer that they said are valued at $149.00 I got leary. Then the mp3 player for signing up for money resources online was a deal. It was all to good to be true. At the end he said as we were all registering for money resources online that they ran out of cd-roms to and they would email us with our passwords. I waited until 12pm and i called myself she immediately gave me a password. i thought that was strange because she did it without asking me information which mean everybody has the same password. why take money from people For you little people in the back on the phone you will be the ones who one day go to jail. have a merry xmas
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on December 20th, 2007 at 3:42 am
I got sucked in by the sweet talk too. Just sign here, here and here. Never got to read the documents for 5 days and then 3 day cancellation policy was over. Now they won’t budge…even though I have health, family and personal problems. Thanks for the info here on this sight. Wish me luck!!!!
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on January 19th, 2008 at 9:52 am
My dear friend and I also got caught up in the StoresOnLine whirlwind. She is on a disability pension and I, a widow’s pension. Needless to say, we do not have a lot of resources. We both tried and tried and tried to make this work and to add insult to injury, they wanted even more money for mentoring etc. We’re talking about thousands of dollars. My friend is now in the hospital and is terminal. I tried to explain our dilemma to StoresOnLine, but they aren’t budging in regards to payments. I am seriously thinking of filing a Class Action Suit and would like to hear from anyone interested in joining me. My email is judy.mcfarland@yahoo.ca
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on January 19th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
I made this error in judgement in May of 2006. I stressed and stressed over it, but that changed nothing. I have had to put more money into building my site, but it is not with Stores On Line! Is anyone out there proceeding with legal suit? Take care everyone!
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on January 21st, 2008 at 8:03 pm
I am in Australia and I know that a class action was filed against Storesonline last year resulting in a $700 000 settlement to be distributed amongst those involved in the class action. I rang our Consumer Protection Association yesterday to see what I could do to get a refund on the six sites purchased and can lodge a grievance through the small claims tribunal. Is there anyone else in Australia who has done this already and what was the verdict?
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Ted Bain Reply:
October 9th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
Hi Mel,
how did you go with getting a refund from Stores Online?
I also bought 6 websites and paid over $13,000.+ for a marketing course through PMI.
I never received the help promised and haven’t published anything due to the lack of help from Stores Online. I wasted around $19,000. and would like to try to get something back. Can U advise me please? I’m a frustrated ex-believer in SOL.
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Robert H. Reply:
November 10th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
Hi Mel,
I invested about the same amount of money as you did. My wife and I invested about $10,000 including getting suckered into the PMI training. I was under the assumption they were going to help us build our Stores Online website and then show us how they did it. Instead PMI expects us to do all the work and then they are there to help if we need it. They want us to pick a Product Niche and then find a Dropshipper on our own also. My wife and I have no experience at doing this. What kind of mentoring is that? Anyway, I hope we can get something back out of this Class-action Lawsuit I have been hearing so much about.
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on February 4th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
On Jan.24,2008 I attended a ‘Storesonline workshop’ held at the Marriot Hotel in Panama City Beach, Fl. The second workshop was held on the 26th of Jan. I only signed up for the “Basic” program. I was told & in writing (contract) that ANY senior over the age of 65 (of which I am) was allowed ‘15″ days to change their minds. On Feb. 2nd, I contacted them & asked them to credit back my card the $50. down payment First she told me NO ,then after a “few words” she said I would have to contact another email address & send proof of my age …by sending them a copy of my birth certificate . I did try to contact the other email address ,of which was BOGUS & NO way will I send them my birth certificate. I have notified Master Card to ‘STOP PAYMENT on this account. I will also be following this up with a letter to the Fl. State Attorneys General office. I have a feeling I won’t be the only one.
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on February 7th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Please Help
Can anyone tell me if they are trying to get there money back from this firm from the UK England ?? Please contact me at brianwisdom61@yahoo.co.uk
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on February 17th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
I requested cancellation of my purchase from StoresOnline (from Workshop on 2/15/08), on page 1 of this website. Not sure if that was the correct page, so I am sending a duplicate request on this page. Thank you.
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on February 27th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Hi,
Does anyone know where to go for refunds in Canada?
Thanks,
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on February 28th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
I contacted my card issuer and had the charges reversed on the grounds that the product promised and the product delivered were very different. It was about 15 days after the purchase and I’m not over 65. Does any one know of the tactics and pursuit of Stores Online to have their contracts honored. They of course threatened Collection Agencies but I can live with that. I would certainly be interested in joining any Class action lawsuits that my be being put together here in the US.
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on February 29th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
I attended one of their seminars. glad I sensed that they were scam artists right from the time the doors shut and their “team” stood at attention all around the room.
What a way to make a buck.
I wish you well with the refund, hopefully a class action will begin soon.
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on March 6th, 2008 at 3:00 am
i purchased the product in Nov 07 and i,ve been trying eversince to no avail. unfortunately i did not do my research and regreting at leisure. any ideas on refund? i haven’t contacted them yet. Please help as the payments on financing is killing me for a service i cannot utilise
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on March 19th, 2008 at 9:59 am
SOL Is Now The World’s Biggest Scam :Hello to everyone,I am so very sorry to hear that this Saga continues ,now my Niece has become another Statistic ,who just recently this past Sept 2007. invested her savings into buying a 6 site ripoff extravaganza deal .Whereas she received 6 perfect Inoperable sites for only $5700 Total, not including all her Credit Card Interest Fees all this with an Added BONUS COMPANY’S SPECIAL 3 DAY NO RETURN HIDDEN POLICY CLAUSE !!! .
She now is trying to recoup her losses though , per my help, suggestion ,is now contacting the AG’s Office UT.,The Consumer Protection Service now serving Orem UT. As you really must attack Vermin where they live to get any positive results .Also if you did not know already I also found out recently that SOL does not operate or cannot make any sales to consumers even in their own home state of UT.Now hopefully this info should help some new prospect think fully before making one of the biggest mistakes of their lives.Sol is now dangling from a thin thread and maybe very close to having chains placed on their front doors in UT. It is also so very true that they are affiliated with the larger, more Fraudulent Famous Company aka PMI,could possibly even be a Div. thereof.So now If you do happen to ever hear the two names mentioned in the same sentence please hold onto your wallets and purses and run fast for the hills!!!
Good luck!
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on March 27th, 2008 at 1:03 pm
Stores Online
I am willing to pursue a class action lawsuit in the State of California and present a Petition to Investigate Stores Online with the State Attorney General. I would like anyone else interested in pursuing this to please email me.
ex_plor_it@yahoo.com
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on March 27th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
Update - State of California Attorney General, North Carolina, Illinois and Florida have all filed class action suits against Stores Online.
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on March 28th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Hi Erin, thanks for the update. I have added some additional links.
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on March 31st, 2008 at 10:10 am
A year ago my wife and I attended a seminar given by StoresOnline.com. At the time I had been out of work for several months and a bit desperate. By the end of the day we had signed papers to purchase 5 websites and gave them a down payment check for $320.00. We told them we did not have the $320.00 in the bank, their representative gave us a “system” for getting the money in the three days before they wouild cash the check. It didn’t work and I became concerned. We were to make monthly payments for 3 years for the balance. When we arrived home we looked over the package and things didn’t seem as easy as they had touted. I started doing some research and didn’t like what I saw. Early on the fifth day I discovered that they still had not cashed the deposit check so I put a stop payment on it and called to cancel the agreement. The VP who I spoke too said it was more than 72 hours and he would do anything he could to help but would not cancel the agreement. He said there was nothing he could do and I told him that he could simply tear up the agreement, which he refused to do. They continued to send bills, but I never had the websites and even sent back the kit they had given me at the seminar. On 3/28/08 I found that it was showing as a collection on all three of the major credit reporting agencies. I found this out only after I had been turned down for a refinancing of my mortgage and the reason given was the collection. The mortgage company said they could pay off the collection and include it in the loan. My point is that I never received any product, service, counseling or advice for the $7,200 they now say I owe. The original agreement was for about $5,300. What are my options, if any? I’d appreciate any advice you can provide.
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on March 31st, 2008 at 10:34 am
Hi Tom,
Which state are you in? Perhaps you want to contact your AG for help?
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on March 31st, 2008 at 11:24 am
I’m in SC. Someone told me to file in samll claims but I haven’t actually paid them any money. I am writing to the AG and Consumer Affairs Division. Thanks!!
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on April 1st, 2008 at 8:04 pm
I am trying to get my storesonline business up & running, what website do I go to to contact them & can I get a refund if they don’t contact me if after 3 days?
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on April 6th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
We are two sisters who very desperately needed to make some money. We attended a Stores on Line seminar in June 2007. We believed them when they said this was so very easy, even for computer illiterates like we are. We requested a refund. They refused and told us that we could get personal phone instructions, which did help us get the site up. Now we are paying monthly hosting fees to them in addition to dropshipper fees. We have yet to make a sale. We are at a loss. We keep spending more money and making none. We can’t even get recognized by the search engines.
Has anyone been successful in getting a refund? Is there a class action suit we can join. We are in the state of Kentucky and in a state of deep stress and anxiety.
Please help with any suggestions you may have.
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on April 7th, 2008 at 5:35 am
Having read the above reviews, are there any UK people who find themselves with similar problems with Storesonline?
If so, please communicate by email initially.
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on April 7th, 2008 at 7:22 am
The saga continues. After finding out that I had been turned down for a mortgage refinance because of a collection on my credit report, I called the company “Duvera”. During my converstaion with one of their reps it became clear that Stores Online, Duvera (collections) and Palomar (collections) are part of the same company. I have nothing of theirs and they have no money of mine but they refuse to remove the collection from my credit report.
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on April 7th, 2008 at 5:55 pm
Hi B and B,
You can try contacting your state AG.
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on April 8th, 2008 at 2:16 am
I’m paying £85 per month for a cash elephant I will never use. The’ve had £895 so far, I want it to stop.
Any suggestions please
Vincent, Ramsgate UK
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carlene antoine Reply:
September 29th, 2008 at 3:11 am
i am in the same boat as you vincent, i realised i have been duped but i have just been told that i have passed my 3 day cooling off period,which i wasnt even told about or made aware foo when purchasing the package and that i cannot get a refund, i was also told i cancel at anytime if i felt like it. but now i cannot,something needs tobe done.
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on April 8th, 2008 at 7:58 am
Vincent of Ramsgate, may I suggest that you visit website
http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk and see Returning or Cancelling Orders and 2nd. Para. of Refunds after cancelling.
If SOL provided finance, you may need legal advice.
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on April 22nd, 2008 at 7:05 am
It appears that storesonline no longer exhist. There is no connection to the website avaiable no online support. nothing. Does anyone have any news?
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on April 22nd, 2008 at 7:16 am
Hi Roger,
I have no problems with their website. Seems to be still working.
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on April 23rd, 2008 at 10:54 am
Yesterday I just signed up for the first $25 license seminar and have not attend the marketing seminar yet, can anybody email me what kind of problems I am going to see?
I read alot of comments about how StoresOnline still charges monthly hosting fees, they told us that you can turn on and off the hosting at any time, is that a lie?
I am in Canada.
Please let me know by email: peter99jansen@gmail.com
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on April 23rd, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Anyone know how to get a refund in Singapore for storesonline.com?
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on April 25th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
my and i also were high pressured to buy storesonline websites. is any in indiana filing a class action for we will sign. contact us at n9vsj_pbd@yahoo.com
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on April 30th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
Please contact me with your stories if you received a follow up call from someone claiming to be assigned to you as your “personal coach” and then wanting more money. Please take a moment a email me your story.
Judy McFarland
judy.mcfarland@yahoo.ca
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on May 6th, 2008 at 4:59 am
I was sucked into a purchase at a seminar in England, UK, in November 2007, and having unearthed “craters” in their claims, integrity, and competence, have ever since been trying for a refund. Phone conversations, numerous emails, and even letters, have all proved a complete waste of time. I have noted Brian Wisdom and M.Mercer’s contributions and also wonder how many other UK based victims are out there? Perhaps the OFT, BBC watchdogs, or even a class-action might be the next step?
Martin, may I take this opportunity to thank you for a great resource, and wonder if you know of any sources of redress for us UK victims?
Judy McFarland, I don’t know if this helps, but I was contacted by phone back in circa. February 2007, by a PMI employee called Clare, desperately trying to sell coaching services to me for twice my original outlay…needless to say the notion was laughed off.
jon@jenmedia.co.uk
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on May 7th, 2008 at 10:32 am
I purchased 6 websites back in March 2007. I brought them initially on finance, and the interest was very high, as well as the price of the websites, it was supposed to be the cheaper option buying 6. I was having to pay £190 per month. It was killing me. I took out a loan with lower interest rate to clear it. I now am paying £120 per month.
After reading the reviews, I am feeling a little foolish. Prices quoted (especially in the USA) seem to be so much cheaper. I paid £4100 for 6 websites, I haven’t made any money, and I am now thinking I may not make any. I have many ideas that I would like to use the websites for. Could anyone tell me is this the going price in the UK?
I have been waiting for over a year for the one day training workshop. I have called several times and I was told that I would be contacted. I was not. January 2008 I called again and found out there were no other dates. I was told they would not be visiting the UK until the end of the year. I was upset, that I was stringed along that way. Is there anything I could do? Money back, etc
I am not happy overal
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carlene antoine Reply:
September 29th, 2008 at 3:19 am
that is a lie they had one in july 2008 that i attended and have purchased but now i relaise it was a scam and now i want to cancel it and they would not let me do so.
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on May 9th, 2008 at 7:49 pm
Hello I my self got sucked into the trap, I attented their work shop in Jacksonville, Fl, I had my doubts about these people any way I went ahead and bought I site, no help was coming from them. Now I’ve got some personal issues where my home is down to one income with a new baby, want to cancel my account but I’am having a hard time. If anyone know about the law suit for florida state pls email me. robertdey@clearwire.net
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on May 12th, 2008 at 11:57 pm
I am a college student in the St. Louis Missouri area and my wife was lured in with StoresOnline.
I have now found that lawsuits have been filed by Attorney General Lisa Madigan in the State of Illinois and recently Florida Attorney Bill McCollum. (Along with the many other lawsuits in several different states including Connecticut where a $130,000 settlement was reached.)
My wife was led to believe that she could cancel at any time in case the online business did not take off. This was made very clear to her, as she had asked several times just to be sure. However, when she tried to cancel less than a month later, she was told that the 3 day period whereby she COULD HAVE canceled had long passed. Apparently, what she was told did not coincide with the fine print of the documents she had been given.
The explanation of the 3 day limit is inconspicuously hidden ON THE BACK of one of the many forms you fill out with the company, and they don’t bother to explain it to you or tell you where that information is or that it even exists. Furthermore it is a half page carbon copy form where you would not expect something to be on the back of it.
I am a full time graduate student with 3 more years to go in school and $55,000 in debt, and now I have an almost $6,000 commitment on my wife’s credit card with this company that charges 18% interest on the loan with absolutely nothing to show for it.
After my wife explained to me the way the papers were signed, I became very suspicious … but it was too late. Those signing line up in single file when they are ready for you to fill out the papers. My wife didn’t have an opportunity to read over what she was signing because she felt pressured by the line of people behind her. Even then, the 3 day right information is hidden when you revise the documents.
From the very beginning it was explained that companies would be happy to do “drop shipping” for you. While she had an idea for a product and a site, she knew that she would have to rely on drop shipping in order to pay for the extremely high costs for StoresOnline services. The problem is that these supposed companies who are willing and ready to do drop shipping don’t exist. Not one of the many companies that my wife has contacted is willing to drop ship.
Furthermore, we are constantly being bombarded fees that were not disclosed by the sales representatives, and we are constantly being bombarded by companies connected with StoresOnline that charge more and more money in order to actually make the internet marketing work.
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Candy Reply:
December 18th, 2008 at 11:33 am
I know what you mean I was in the same situation, I told them I didnt’ have the money in my bank, but they said will run it and see. It went thru, not knowing I had an over traf protection on my account and now I’m $540 in the hole plus $32 fee. I tried to call StoresOnLine for days finally I got someone after the 5th day. I asked for a refund they told me NO I had 3 days to do it. I explained but they felt I dailed the wrong number. I don’t know what to do. I had to close out my account. Every since I get this I’ve been in debit and haven’t made one cent. My husband was upset with me. It’s been causing alot of issues in the relationship. Please let me know how to resolved this. Candy
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Jaclyn Morgan Reply:
December 26th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
I am in a conflicting situation with StoresOnline as well, the seminar held promising results, even after sitting and talking with everyone most of the day. As with everyone here, we did not have the money to pay for the down payment of $250, the guys there told me that I qualified for under their program for monthly payments beginning this month. And to call on a Monday, after the 3 day cancellation date to do anything, including cancelling. Now I am caught up in this whole “You cant cancel” deal, I have a company Universal calling me threatening me because I put a hold on my account from StoresOnline. I got my bank to credit me the $250 due to a fraudulant claim. I need to find out who and where I can go to in New Mexico to get this canceled due to misrepresentation and false information. I feel like I am the victim! email me jax820@yahoo.com for information
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on May 13th, 2008 at 6:03 am
I just wanted to let everyone know that I have just been notified that Stores Online is going to close my account and remove all negative credit entries both for them and Duvera, the collection agency. I wrote to the Utah BBB and fully outlined what had happened including my reason for signing in the first place (desperation). As a side note I disputed all the entries on my credit reports, wrote the Attorney General for SC as well as Consumer Protection and AARP. I don’t know if Stores Online got tired of hearing from me or really wanted to do the right thing. The point is that you have to be persistent and go into great detail. The initial “I got cheated ” letters didn’t seem to work. Use names and dates and feelings as much as possible.
I’ll let you know if they don’t follow through. Good Luck! Feel free to contact me at soccio97@yahoo.com
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on May 17th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Has anyone in KY had this trouble? We would like to start a class-action suit or whatever might get the job done. We have written the AG, and we have contacted waveTV troubleshooter. If we are defeated, at least we will go down fighting.
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on May 18th, 2008 at 9:29 am
Hi all. I stupidly signed up for the 6 site deal. Tried unsuccessfully many attempts to get them up and running. Many pitiful attempts at getting online help lead to frustration, that lead to delays….. I requested help many times to no avail….then refund demands also to no avail. I did not know about the cooling off period. I wish now I did.
Anyway, I gave up on the idea, and after so many attempts to get help or a refund realised it was a futile effort. So a year went past. Then I thought I would try again to get them up and running. Only to find as a year had past, it would then cost me $400 AUD PER SITE JUST FOR “ADMIN COSTS” to get each one re-activated! And thats not including any other cost!! When I asked (online “help” as there was no ph contact) how the hell can they justify this for doing absolutely NOTHING, the “help” was cut off. So as angry as I was/am I figure without a big fight, there’s nothing I could do. Funny thing is, I just received junk mail in the post about one of their seminars on up the road t’moro. I am thinking about making an appearance……..take the “freebies” then make an announcement at the end to warn everyone! Well, revenge is sweet isnt it? Good luck and pls, if anyone in Australia has been able to get a refund please contact me.
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on May 19th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
Florida Sues Two Website Marketers
‘Business opportunities’ deceptive, suit charges
January 22, 2008
Stores Online
• Florida Sues Stores Online
• Consumer Complaints
—
• More Scam Alerts …
Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum has filed a lawsuit against two Utah companies for allegedly using deceptive practices to get consumers to buy expensive website-creation products and services.
Imergent, Inc., and StoresOnline, Inc., run seminars in Florida and other states at which they tell consumers they can make a fortune doing business on the internet with the companies’ software and related services.
According to the lawsuit, the companies mislead consumers into thinking their products are easy to use and that they will provide technical support and business partners.
“Many Florida consumers have been victimized by these types of get-rich-quick schemes and this type of behavior will not be permitted to continue,” McCollum said.
Imergent and StoresOnline lure consumers to seminars at local hotels and other venues with offers of “free training,” free meals and free gifts, the complaint alleges. Teams from the companies were in Central Florida late last year and are expected to be in North Florida in the near future.
More than 80 Florida consumers have complained to the Attorney General about the companies, which frequently make sales presentations in Florida. The complaints state that after paying thousands of dollars, consumers found the software and services were impossible to use and they couldn’t get the technical assistance that was promised.
Instead of providing help, Imergent and StoresOnline referred buyers to other companies with which they have contracts and, according to the lawsuit, these companies wanted consumers to pay thousands more. The lawsuit further alleges the companies failed to deliver on helping consumers find business partners whose products could also be sold.
The companies also have lawsuits pending against them by Attorneys General in North Carolina, Illinois and California. Other complaints have led to consumer protection agreements in Indiana, Louisiana, Texas and Utah, as well as Australia.
McCollum’s lawsuit is seeking compensation for buyers and penalties under the state’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. The lawsuit also calls for changes in the companies’ practices including full disclosure of the limited scope of technical assistance.
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on May 19th, 2008 at 10:40 pm
The purpose of this wiki is to allow reporters, law enforcement agencies, investors and customers and prospective customers to learn about the history of iMergent aka StoresOnline, aka Galaxy Malls. This is a company with many, many unhappy customers, and is the subject of legal actions in at least six states.
Testimonials
The StoresOnline Website is full of testimonials that make it appear easy for anyone to make money on the internet. But the fine print says “Testimonial results are not typical and your individual results will vary”. The links below reflect what typical results really are. Testimonials are broken up in the following:
Not Satisfied: 600
Neutral: 89
Satisfied: 95
Leave Your Testimonial
Getting A Refund
If you’re having second thoughts about having just signed up for a very expensive internet storefront, you may be entitled to a refund, and you most certainly are if it’s been less than 3 days since you signed a contract or gave them money. Click on the appropriate link below to get more information.
If you signed up in the last 3 days
It’s been more than 3 days, but you still want your money back
Additionally, there are a variety of actions against the company, some of these have provisions for getting a refund even long after the 3 days.
Current Customers
Based on their annual report, I estimate that StoresOnline has sold about 200,000 website licenses in the past 2 years at their seminars. However, there appears to be only about 20,000 StoresOnline-powered websites now, and about 1/3 of those don’t work.
Legal Issues
StoresOnline does its business by offering high-pressure seminars with well-presented stories about how easy it is to make money on the internet. Their sales people then convince people to spend thousands of dollars on their software package. Many states would describe this activity as a Business Opportunity, which has different disclosure requirements than simple software sales.
North Carolina, Florida, Utah, Illinois, Indiana, California and others have lawsuits against iMergent right now. North Carolina residents can get their money back by requesting it through the AG’s office. The company has been forced to refund money in several places, even after the 3-day “cooling off” period.
State Listings (Stories and Attorney General)
Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
[Reply]
Walter Misialek Reply:
October 21st, 2008 at 11:19 am
I also attended a seminar in Massachusetts in October 2008. I also fell for the scam that I could build my own website without any experience. I spent $6000.00 for the sites that I could not get up and running after countless hours and months of trying. It has been a year and they still call me to renew and try again. They want more monry. They would not even answer my request for a refund. All I get is someone who is my personal coach to help[ me spend more money for training over the phone. They must think I’m really stupid. I am a senior and would love to hear from people in Massachusetts so we could all let the Attorney General know what is happening. A class action suit is needed to recover our money like Connecticut did this past year. Storesonline is a ripoff from every angle you look at.
[Reply]
on May 21st, 2008 at 8:08 pm
I am here with some more update
[Reply]
Roxy Reply:
October 5th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
Hi Computerman,
I find your previous e-mail very interesting. But I had no idea that Michigan was on a list which is in your letter dated May 19, 2008. I have lost my job on Sept.8th and my boyfriend doesn’t make enough to cover all the needed bills and storesonline is not an option. I really have to do something I don’t want to. My payments are taken directly form my checking account. I have to sign a statement and give $10.00 to make sure they don’t take it . I only have the amount of what it takes to keep my account open. It is Ole Mother Hubbard bare. What do I do ? I only have til the 13th of this month to . My credit union will pay the 300.00 but then I have a NSF fee of 20.00. But that is still a small price to pay as opposed to having my credit ruined which I’ve worked for 4 years to get repaired without loans or debt helpers. I did it all on my own and using my own paychecks. It’s been a boaring life for a while of having any extra spend money. I have the Attorney General number and address but they said that it could be several weeks before hearing anything. You mention there are several provisions for getting a refund after that 3 day dead cool off . Can you give me that info.?
[Reply]
on May 22nd, 2008 at 9:19 am
Hi again
We are still searching for StoresOnline cusstomers who live in Kentucky. Please contact us and let us know if you want to file a class action suit.
[Reply]
on May 22nd, 2008 at 9:23 am
Computer man,
Will you please contact us and tell us what the other ways of getting a refund are. We purchased in June ‘07.
littlechickenb@aol.com
[Reply]
on May 24th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
I would like to know if anyone in Maryland has had any success in getting a refund. I purchased in Feb 07 and have yet to get a site up and running.
[Reply]
on May 28th, 2008 at 11:16 am
I would like to start a class action suit against StoresOnline for anyone in the state of Georgia. If interested, please email me @ stiles3@comcast.net
[Reply]
on May 28th, 2008 at 11:24 am
Hi everyone…this is the response I received from Storesonline regarding my request for a refund…any ideas on how I should reply?
This letter is in response to a Better Business Bureau (”BBB”) complaint filed by Ms. Cardinal against StoresOnline, Inc (”StoresOnline”).
We have indeed read the complaint Ms. Cardinal sent to your office and have read all the responses she sent. We have also responded to the claims she made.
We do want to assist Ms. Cardinal and resolve this concern but we need to be able to move past the same complaints that have already been addressed. I would be happy to consider an amicable resolution if she would present one. A full refund is not a middle ground and not warranted and therefore not acceptable.
I encourage Ms. Cardinal to present an amicable resolution after which time we will meet as a committee and reach our conclusion.
Mari Silva
Director of Customer Relations
StoresOnline Inc.
[Reply]
on May 28th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
Janice,
If there ever is a class action suit I would love to be a part of it. But for your response, if they are willing to cancel with no further payment due, that would seem fair. After all, we have paid something for nothing. I am willing to cut my losses and stop the payments altogether if they will negotiate that. What do you think?
[Reply]
on May 31st, 2008 at 9:59 am
Hi Janice I’ve tried that already, to have them cancel my contract and keep the money that I’ve paid so far. I wanted them to cancel my contract because of financial hardship and some medical problems, guess what my request was dturn down. I was asked to send supporting documents to prove my story which I did, and I was told my contract cannot be canellled, i have to keep the website or try selling it to someone else, which no one wants to buy nothing from storesonline even the people who works with them, they find all sorts of excuse not to buy it back. With that said I have to find another way out. I went ahead and close my bank account from which the company who collects money for SOL.
Since I’ve done that they keep calling.
There is lots of features that these scum bags talk about at the seminar that they dont support.
[Reply]
MSW Reply:
September 29th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
I am from Texas and am flat broke from SO and their dropshippers (the ones that SO said were free) turns out they are not, I have not had any success. I was told by one of their friendly reps that I couldn’t cancel my contract and that I wasn’t getting a refund. I signed up in February 08.
[Reply]
on May 31st, 2008 at 10:22 am
Hello everyone I’ve had my sister husband who build website and from what he told me that SOL is full of crap lots of fearutes that they claim to support dosent work and its not that easy for some like my self to build that web site. This is his web site http://www.k3designz.com, he is located in Guyana, South America he is really pissed with me for falling prey to SOL.
[Reply]
on June 1st, 2008 at 8:59 am
Started: Sun 01/Jun/2008 07:56 A.M.
Ended: Sun 01/Jun/2008 08:57 A.M.
Thank you for contacting StoresOnline Support. This is Mike. How may I help you today?
Hi Robert.
How are you?
hello how ru?
I am fine.
Thanks
I have a web site for sale will u buy it from me?.
You can sell your storefront but we do not recommend it.
why not
We do not have any reseller programs in place and do not give suggestions on price and so forth.
We would like to see you utilize your site because that is how you can obtain the best success with the service.
Our customer service department is willing to help you with any aspect of achieving your goals.
i am not asking about any reseller prog. what I am asking is if you would buy from me.
i would gave it to you without taking any money from you.
all you have to do is pay off the balance and its yours.
You do have the option of transfer of ownership.
so will u take over the ownership
I am sorry, I cannot buy your website.
why not?
dont u have web sites that is making lots of money.
if u are working with storesonline that should’nt be a problem for u.
Sorry for the delay.
Due to the company policy that I cannot share the information regarding this.
yeh right.. due to company policy…isnt is a requirment that the employees of storesonline must have website.
from what you r saying to me i guess you dont have any website.
I am sorry, due to company policy I cannot share any information regarding this case.
what case you r talking about.
Is there a case we r talking about.
I am talking about selling the website.
that has nothing to do with storesonline & comapny policy.
this is between U & I
if I was working there and there is someone who wants to sell me their website, once I have other site up and running I would buy it from that person, because I want to make more money.
Do you have any website at all?.
I am sorry. It’s company policy that I do not need to share it.
is it company policy that you cannot say weather or not you have a web site/s?.
you told me that I can transfer owership, but if the employees of storesonilne does’nt want to take over ownership, do yoy think anyone else will.
what is taking you so long to reply to my message?.
I am sorry. Due to some reasons my computer is very slow.
Robert
You can explain the advantage of the site and market this site to your friends
and you can ask them to buy iy
Once if you list the advantage, many people will buy this product
Since it is very usefull
i’ve try that option and no one wants to buy this product from storesonline
they are doing reasearch before they buy.
Ok, I understand.
We would be more than happy to help you to become a successful merchant. After all, that’s what we’re here for!
We want you to always feel the highest level of confidence and trust with StoresOnline.
and most of the reports I get back no one wants to do business with storesonline.
We have a wonderful product and a wonderful company backing it, but most of all, we have incredible teaching tools and information to help you understand how you can be successful on the Web.
That is what we are here for. We would love to help you!
yeh right, you sound like one of the presenters at the seminar
you guys make sound so easy, but yet you dont want to take over ownership
I understand your situation.
thats is all you are saying, so why not help me by taking over the ownership.
its gonna be much easier for you, since you are working there.
guess you are very successful on the web.
I apologize truly Robert, I really want to help as much as I can , but I dont have money to buy another one.
then that tells me that you are not successful at what you are doing, that is the web.
I have not yet finished building my website.
yeh right…every time i talk to one one you that is always the answer, my site is not finish, I just dont get it.
which means it is not that easy to build as was told at the seminar
I am working steady and hard to build my website so that I will get success.
so you think that no one else is working hard as you to get their site up and running?.
I am also one among them.
yeh right.
you guys are good.
Thank you for your appreciation.
Is there anything else I can help you with?
can you find some who will be willing to take over ownership.
I am ready to help you in giving the advise to build your website. But I am unable to find a person.
i have no knowledge of computers so how can u advise me when yours is not finish building as yet. think of that.
you can really help me if your was done and up and running and on the front page of google
and all the other search engines.
I can give you those ideas what I am trying to do on my storebuilder.
yeh right.
thanks but you cannot help.
You’re most welcome! I have the confidence that I can help you
-Robert dey has left the chat.
[Reply]
on June 10th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
I was suckered into this sorry escuse for an investment in Canada is there anyone in Canada who has sucessfully recieved a full refund? I am over 30 days anything I can do?
HELP!
[Reply]
Said Reply:
December 7th, 2008 at 10:59 am
So VES, any news on the refund? have you contacted the Canada’s office of consumers? is it worth going through them? any hope ??
I am over 8 months on this
:( 
[Reply]
on June 10th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Ves I don’t know how the law works in your country, but you can make a compliant to your attorney general, then write to the BBB of Utah and see what happens.
[Reply]
on June 14th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Hello to all,
I guess I could repeat all of what you have written, but I, too have been taken…I, to would care to sue these thieves…if any one bought in New Mexico and cares to files a class action…I’ll keep checking this site and go from there…as for me, I just quit paying them and told them, as the comment from computerman, they were of no help and they mislead me…as far as my credit…well, it’s not excellent anyway and I am working on fixing it up. FYI, I did write the BBB in Utah and they told me to write the BBB in New Mexico and just have it on file to this day. Have a nice day.
[Reply]
on June 14th, 2008 at 5:55 pm
I am in Winnipeg Canada. Why oh why did I fall for this great deal. Because I am living on disability and desperate to find a better living. I asked if I could count on my store to make the money to meet the payments, And was lead to believe that it was a good deal.
I missed the 3 day refund and spent 4 months fighting with the software to get my site up and in a profit situation. However the only people that appear to find my site are the ones that want me to pay them some more money to get it working. Well am not prepared to throw good money after bad so I canceled my site and stopped making any further payments. So now I am being threatened with pay or else demands, and I have NO MORE funds to call on. I don’t know what to do about it.
[Reply]
Debbie Reply:
November 25th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Hi Joy
I am in Abbotsford BC and have been trying to get a business going for almost a year. These people should be sued. All I get is phone calls from more depts, wanting more money….but this time for sure it will work. Yeah right.
If you hear of a class action law suit count me in
Debbie
[Reply]
on June 18th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
I too was a fool and bought into storesonline. I then gave it my best shot, and paid 3 payments, totalling over $1700. I tried to get them to buy back 3 of my sites, of course they said no, then I told them they would get no more money out of me, they could either take everything back or they would not get paid. To date, we have been sent to collections and we just ignore them. We were terribly misrepresented when we purchased and they promised us so many things, that didn’t materialize without added costs. Has anyone ever gotten them to give a refund, or even just accept their product back? we offered them to keep the $1700 we have already paid, we would give everything back to them, and walk away. They didn’t like it and refused. So here we sit, we just don’t answer the phone. If anyone is pursuing a class action, we would love to join. contact me at ddg7030@aol.com
[Reply]
on June 23rd, 2008 at 1:50 pm
I am looking for anyone in Massachusetts who was scamed like I was last year. I would like more people to join me in a class action lawsuit . w.walt@verizon.net
[Reply]
on June 28th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
I too was mislead repeatedly by this company. I’ve asked for, and been denied, any amount of refund. I had invested over $12,000 in this business before calling it quits. If nothing else maybe our complaints can keep anyone else from falling for these lies.
[Reply]
on June 28th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
Looking at all these coments posted as well as all the new ones on this subject can anybody please tell me why we have spent so much money with no return i am no expert ( i was lead to believe you did not have to be )
I have spent so much money on this all that i need most is some help on this to make it work this comes at a great extra cost as i have been aproached a few times what do you all think ????
Brian Wisdom
[Reply]
on June 29th, 2008 at 6:13 am
If any UK customers of StoresOnline who are totally dissatisfied with their situation, for whatever reason, breach of contract, or other, who would consider joining a class action against them in Utah, please contact me.
[Reply]
Harry Reply:
January 1st, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Hello M Mercer,
I am from UK and I am really dissatisfied. Can you please help to get the refund?
I have a finance scheme with them for unlimited hosting account (for 3500 GBP + 22% interest for 2 years).
Please please please please please please please heelllpppppppppppppppp so that I can get out of this mess. My four monthly payments (146 GBP) have been out from the bank already and I would like to have a refund of the down payment I made (800 GBP). This was required for the finace options and the decision was to be made there and there - as you all know how easy is to fall in the trap…
Is it OK if I instruct my bank to cancel the payment? Will there be any legal implications?
Please please please please help…
I would be really really greatful.
Harry
[Reply]
on June 29th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Dear all,
Thanks for this info.
Do you know who to contact if you subscribed to their stores express services only, and you like in the UK, England?
Please assist with thanks, since they do not reply, if you want to unsubscribe from them, even if you do not have used their site!
Thanks
Andre
[Reply]
carlene antoine Reply:
September 29th, 2008 at 6:11 am
I HAVE NO IDEA BUT I AM TRYING, i contact the attorney general in the Uk and this was his reply,week need someone in the UK to act for victims in the UK as those inthe states and australia are getting thier full refunds.
Thank you for your email, i have been asked to reply. I am sorry to hear of your story, unfortunately this office has no role in following up scams, the Attorney Generals is principal legal advisor to government and as such is unable to offer legal advice or assistance to individuals, i can only suggest that you seek your own independent legal advice. You say you have been a victim of this company and i would also suggest that you contact your local police authority and inform them of this, the attached link regarding internet crime may be of some use to you. http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/reducing-crime/internet-crime/ Regards James Ross
[Reply]
on June 29th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
Dear all,
Thanks for this info.
Do you know who to contact if you subscribed to their stores express services only, and you like in the UK, England?
Please assist with thanks, since they do not reply, if you want to unsubscribe from them, even if you do not have used their site!
Thanks
Andre
[Reply]
on June 29th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Brian Wisdom said, on June 28th, 2008 at 5:10 pm - I have spent so much money on this all that i need most is some help on this to make it work
If you get in contact with Sonia who has an existing SOL site that operates that she set up herself and operates fine, then she may be willing to help you. There are a few others on this massive forum who have also offered to help anyone stuck. Sonia says go to the 24/7 chat site and SOL will in fact help get it up and running. Find Sonia at http://www.xtremewetsuits.com/ and down the bottom of the page is the contact details. I am sure if you offer her a reasonable hourly rate she would assist now and then. But if you want it all for free, I doubt the world works that way.
[Reply]
on June 30th, 2008 at 5:08 am
Dear UKs
I have just stumbled on this site and am horrified, to put it mildly.
My husband and I attended the workshop on Wednesday last week (25th June) and spent the best part of the weekend trying to make sense of it. TODAY (30th) is our final (third) day to cancel. As I write I have decided to cancel per the fine print. It is now 12:07pm or 5:05am their time (mountain us) and I will back up my fax and email with a call at their opening hour of 7am or 2pm my time.
Any other UKers willing to offer me advice at this stage?
[Reply]
on June 30th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
I wish I had stumbled onto this site 2 years ago when I first signed up with Storesonline. I guess it’s too late for me now but maybe our comments can still warn others not to get involved with this company. Did anyone else from Mississippi fall for this scam or was I the only one?
[Reply]
on June 30th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Becky - Did you get a site up and running in the end, or just give up?
[Reply]
on July 1st, 2008 at 5:38 am
Yes, Bob
My husband and I had a wind chime site. We paid extra bucks to SOL just to have them help us fine tune it because they guaranteed us that would increase our sales. I think we sold a total of 12 windchimes over the course of a year. Not my idea of a booming business. We kept following their suggestions all the while sinking more hard earned cash into a sinking ship. We both feel we did our part to make this thing go but we feel we were cheated and lied to by this company, repeatedly.
[Reply]
on July 7th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Hi. I also fell for this back in Dec 2006. After 4 long months working on it day and night (literally), I finally published my site.
I ended up having to use SOL for hosting and their partners for my merchant account. To top it off, I found a dropshipper who would only charge me $20 if I didn’t buy at least $100 per month (didn’t think this would ever be a problem). Well, it’s been over 1 1/2 years and I only sold a handful of products. On a given month, I am spending $24.99 for hosting fees, $30 for merchant account (they charge $10 for statements even if you don’t want them!!), plus $20 for my dropshipping fees. Without adding the advertising expenses, I am out $65 each month. On top of it all, if I do want to drive any traffic to my site, I have to pay for it!!! I was shelling out at least another $500 per month to bring in traffic through Yahoo, MSN and Google pay-per-clicks!…
Well, for the longest time I didn’t want to give up on it. I didn’t want to face the fact that I had gotten scammed. I felt embarrassed to think that I had easily shelled out over $6K for absolutely nothing worth that much.
Today I decided to finally close my account. I called SOL and requested to stop the hosting. The rep wanted to know why and I was very clear with them on my reasons. He said that they were there to help me with my business, but again, it would come with added service fees. I told him that I would just take a break from it and then come back at another time when I have the funds to continue investing in my site. At that point he told me that once they stop hosting my site, I would not have access to it, unless I pay them a $10 monthly fee to work on it. I absolutely went crazy! Somehow, they will always continue to get $$ from you for as long as you keep your sites!
I don’t know what to do at this point. I feel like it is too hard to manage and maintain only 1 site, let alone 6! I know it may be too hard for me to get anything back from them, but I do want them to stop with this business. I don’t want others to fall prey to them.
Anyone out there contemplating investing in SOL, please don’t, unless you are willing to pay for life.
I live in NJ and would also like to hear from anyone here who has had similar issues with SOL. Please email me at nimaservices@aol.com if anyone is contemplating a class action suit against them.
Does anyone know if something can be done on a national level?
[Reply]
on July 7th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Stephanie
We didn’t last as long as you did with our site. I also didn’t want to give up. What a fool I feel like I am!
We are sending complaints to our state (KY) attorney general, Utah’s attorney general, and the federal trade commission. We have asked SOL for a refund time after time. They offer help with our site for additional fees, which we don’t have. I scraped the bottom of the barrel to get the $6,981 for the six sites.
We also would like to do something on a national level. If anyone knows how to go about this, please let us know.
Sincerely
B and B
[Reply]
on July 7th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
It still amazes me how many of us have been taken in by this company’s lies and deceit. Please, if you know of a class action suit, sign me up. We have to stop them somehow.
[Reply]
on July 7th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
It continually amazes me to see people call for a class action to sign up to yet they refuse to fund it….even in part…no wonder they lost their money to the SOL scam! If we set up a website for all to join a class action (not with lawyers driving it, who rip you off even more with their fees), but on a commercial basis, then who will join?
[Reply]
on July 8th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
This is ridiculous! The more I think about all this, the more frustrated I get. I have realized that after spending over $6k and over 1 year, I have nothing. I don’t even have access to work on my site, even to build a new one in the future (not that I probably would).
Was this ever discussed with any of you? Were you ever told that after 1 year, you would not have access to work on your site, unless it was hosted by them? Or unless you paid an “extension” fee to access your storefront?
Does anyone know if this alone would be a good enough reason to ask for a refund? Even after 1 year? Should I contact an attorney? How much do you think it would cost to start a class action suit? I am sure I would have more than enough of names.
How about this? How do you think SOL might respond if I use one of my sites to promote a class-action suit against them? Do you think they would host it????
Aaaagggghhhh!!!!
[Reply]
on July 8th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
I’m with you Stephanie! I wonder how much it would cost. How do we start? Where do you begin with something like this. Any suggestions, Bob? It’s not that I mind starting a class action suit. I just don’t know how to go about it. I’ve never had a problem like this before.
[Reply]
on July 16th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
If you feel you have been treated unfairly with your online store please give me a call, I can help. (206) 339-7988 Leave a message and I can give you an immediate response.
[Reply]
on July 16th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
If you feel you have been treated unfairly with your online store please give me a call, I can help. (206) 339-7988 Leave a message and I can give you an immediate response.
[Reply]
on July 16th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Helpline . . . your offer of assistance would be very much welcomed but, as you can appreciate, I am a little vary after this experience. Please identify yourself or provide me with a little more information on the nature/method of assistance at your disposal.
[Reply]
on July 17th, 2008 at 9:09 am
Helpline gave me some great advice on what to do next with my useless storesonline site.
Thank you Helpline
[Reply]
on July 22nd, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Is there a class action suit in Canada for Stores on Line.
It is the biggest waste of money that I did not need to spend and really could use a full refund.
[Reply]
patricia lazar Reply:
December 22nd, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Margo,
Please contact me - I want to start a class action suit in Canada.
[Reply]
Janice Reply:
December 22nd, 2008 at 3:00 pm
I am very interested in the class action suit. I can tell my story if required. Please count me in.
[Reply]
patricia lazar Reply:
December 22nd, 2008 at 4:01 pm
Hi Janice and any other Canadians who want to start a class action suit against StoresOnline. I am gathering names and getting a file ready for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Please send your info and complete stores to me at: patricia@enchantinganimalart.com
Thanks very much. We’re gonna get those bastards - I will not quit till I got my money back and hopefully put them all behind bars once and for all.
on July 23rd, 2008 at 9:28 am
We are from Texas and we purchased 6 sebsites from StoresOline on 2-5-2007 for $6,398.00 and on 2-16-2007 another $249.00. and on 3-22-2007 we purchased another phase of StoresOline called PMI (Professional Marketing Institute) to help you get on the front page of Google for an additional $6,670.00 with no help whatsoever. We would call StoresOline 24/7 with still no help. We live in Texas and is anyone filing a class action suite against StoresOline in this state.
Thanks,
bnagy50@gmail.com
[Reply]
on July 23rd, 2008 at 5:32 pm
We fell victim to Storesonline in March of ‘08 in Richmond, Va. It didn’t take me long to realize that we had made a huge mistake but unfortunately, it took us longer than the 3 days. What a rip off! There is not enough space here for me to list all of my complaints with this company!
Are there any other victims in Virginia? I would love to talk with you. Please contact me at mizbree@hotmail.com.
[Reply]
on July 31st, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Looking for anyone that went to one of their conferences in LI NY 2006. My husband and I also lost 6000. to SOL, but when I spoke to them I mentioned to them that they offered extra help by another company to help with the websites, that company charged about 9000. They mentioned that they do not offer those things at their conferences. But they did. I am sure someone else out there also heard of this.
[Reply]
on August 1st, 2008 at 2:31 am
Update to my post of June 30th, 2008 at 5:08 am.
Received full refund of £1,000 deposit 10 days ago. Was not easy. Found this site the morning of June 30th, our 3rd day after purchase. Horrified, waited until 5pm our time - 10am mountain time - to make first phone call to Utah to invoke our right to a full refund according to their fine print. Someone in their cancellation dept acknowledged we were eligible and it was be refunded to credit card in 3-5 working days. Immediately phone credit card company of position who requested we keep detailed notes. Several phone calls, lots of procrastination and just over two weeks later, the refund appeared my Barclaycard. But during this time SOL had the nerve to charge a hosting fee of £25 - all we did was complete our name and address in the software - and requested we produce a bank statement to get this refunded. What concerns me now is, despite my preparing a case file of documentation for Barclaycard and despite Barclaycard assuring me there is no need to cancel my credit card now, I believe there is nothing to stop SOL trying to adhere to the financial agreement we signed which carried a monthly instalment of £130 effective from 1 August. Today. Let’s see if Barclaycard are awake.
[Reply]
on August 1st, 2008 at 6:30 am
I am from Texas and went to the Storesonline conference and purchased 6 websites for over $6000 and went to another StoresOnline conference whice was about how to make more money and get on the front page of Google with a company called PMI. This was another way Storesonline scammed me buy purchasing the PMI package for an additional $6670. Has anyone out there been able to get a refund from Storesonline or PMI? Please contact me at: bnagy50@gmail.com
[Reply]
on August 1st, 2008 at 1:36 pm
‘Business opportunities’ deceptive, suit charges
January 22, 2008
Stores Online
• Florida Sues Stores Online
• Consumer Complaints
—
• More Scam Alerts …
Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum has filed a lawsuit against two Utah companies for allegedly using deceptive practices to get consumers to buy expensive website-creation products and services.
Imergent, Inc., and StoresOnline, Inc., run seminars in Florida and other states at which they tell consumers they can make a fortune doing business on the internet with the companies’ software and related services.
According to the lawsuit, the companies mislead consumers into thinking their products are easy to use and that they will provide technical support and business partners.
“Many Florida consumers have been victimized by these types of get-rich-quick schemes and this type of behavior will not be permitted to continue,” McCollum said.
Imergent and StoresOnline lure consumers to seminars at local hotels and other venues with offers of “free training,” free meals and free gifts, the complaint alleges. Teams from the companies were in Central Florida late last year and are expected to be in North Florida in the near future.
More than 80 Florida consumers have complained to the Attorney General about the companies, which frequently make sales presentations in Florida. The complaints state that after paying thousands of dollars, consumers found the software and services were impossible to use and they couldn’t get the technical assistance that was promised.
Instead of providing help, Imergent and StoresOnline referred buyers to other companies with which they have contracts and, according to the lawsuit, these companies wanted consumers to pay thousands more. The lawsuit further alleges the companies failed to deliver on helping consumers find business partners whose products could also be sold.
The companies also have lawsuits pending against them by Attorneys General in North Carolina, Illinois and California. Other complaints have led to consumer protection agreements in Indiana, Louisiana, Texas and Utah, as well as Australia.
McCollum’s lawsuit is seeking compensation for buyers and penalties under the state’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. The lawsuit also calls for changes in the companies’ practices including full disclosure of the limited scope of technical assistance.
Does anyone know of the Lawyers (AG), after reading some comments of (AG). If someone knows how I can reach them it would greatly be appreciated?
bnagy50@gmail.com
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on August 3rd, 2008 at 6:12 pm
I too was scammed by Storesonline back in 2006. After about a year and half and over $10,000, I decided to abandon my worthless purchase and rebuild my site with Yahoo. I am much happier now. My site still needs alot of work, but I have accomplished more in less time and with MUCH less money invested. I too would love to join a class action suit in Virginia. Is there one already?
StoresOnline is having another seminar in my town this week. I am seriously thinking about printing some anti-StoresOnline literature to hand out to their guests!
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Cornelia Reply:
September 22nd, 2008 at 11:23 am
Good afternoon,
Yes, I would love to join you in a class action lawsuit against Storesonline. Please contact me at my email account.
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on August 4th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
I also bought 6 websites last year. But just recently I found out that June’s pmt was received late (cleared 7/8)so Storesonline turned off my site. They are now refusing to turn back on unless I pay half of the remaining bal. of $3,173. Since I don’t have this kind of $, I told them where to go. Now of course I will get bad credit rating. I was never notified of any problem with pmt. either. I found out when I called to ask a question. Been 2 weeks and I still waiting on domain name to be released.
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on August 7th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
I live in the UK and have been trying unsuccessfully to get a refund from Stores Online for the last 2 years.
I would like to join Mercer in a class action suit against Stores Online.
Please contact me: camille_giacinto@yahoo.com
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on August 11th, 2008 at 11:06 am
any singapore victim here?
where do you complaint to get refund?
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on August 11th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Due to the great response we’ve had in resolving customer service issues with past and present StoresOnline merchants on these blogs, we wanted to publish the official StoresOnline contact information for those who will visit this blog:
Mari Silva
Director of Customer Relations
Stores Online Inc.
Phone: (801) 227-0004
Fax: 801-426-6712
Toll Free Fax: (888) 416-7370
Email: msilva@storesonline.com
We look forward to hearing from you.
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on August 12th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
There have been questions on the blog about getting in touch with Mari Silva. In order to contact her directly, you need to call 801-234-5976 or email her at msilva@storesonline.com. Mari is working with merchants and others who have questions about StoresOnline and seems to be very passionate about her work. She is someone you can talk to and get help from, so I recommend that you get in touch with her.
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on August 13th, 2008 at 8:45 am
not many tn
complaints why?
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on August 13th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
Very dissatisfied with StoresOline and PMI and would like a full refund of $13,367.00.
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on August 13th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
Is there a class action suit in Texas for StoresOline (iMergent, Inc.) and PMI. This is the biggest waste of money and would like a full refund of $13,367.00
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on August 13th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
I have not seen a recent class action suit in Texas. There was one in 2005. I did however sent an email today to the Attorney General that handled that case. See if I get a response.
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on August 15th, 2008 at 10:38 am
I to fell into the SOL scam , after working on my site for a year I finally gave up only to receive a call from them telling me that my free year of support had expired and I would need to fill out a form with my credit card # to be able to access my site. I’m from Ma. Is there anyone out there from my state doing anything. Please let me know. my e-mail is nellys413@yahoo.com.
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Walter Misialek Reply:
October 21st, 2008 at 11:50 am
My sites also have just expired this October.. They also have contacted me to renew and try again to get them up and running. We need more people to get together to and contact the Attorney General to help us get a refund from this scam they use to lie about how easy it is to start this web business in Massachusetts. There must be many people in Massachusetts that also have beeen taken advantage of like us. w.walt@verizon.net
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on August 15th, 2008 at 2:37 pm
Nell what you need to do is contact the Attornery General in Ma. and they will send you paperwork to fill out or you can go online and fill out your SOL scam complaint information this is what everyone else is doing and get your money back.
Good Luck
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on August 15th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
You would think we could bring something against them on a national basis. Seems like only a few are complaining from each state. We need to be loud and clear that we are all being affected nation-wide, not just on a state-by-state basis.
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on August 15th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Has anyone here contacted Mari Silva yet? What was your outcome. I am reluctant to contact her because I know it will just be a ploy for SOL to try to maintain my business so that they can continue to charge me for their customer support service. I already cancelled my hosting account and have been contacted by an SOL rep. telling me that they are willing to waive 6 months of their customer service fee… in order for me to have a chance to continue working on my site and republish it. Do they not realize that I am through with them? I don’t want to give them one extra penny.
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on August 15th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
I would like to publicly ask Ms. Silva from StoresOnline, what can all of us dissatisfied customers do, as a group to get our money back. We ALL share the same problem here, we feel we were conned at the presentations by SOL telling us how easy it would be, when in fact it has been anything but. I know you will state that we could have used SOL customer support, which I know most of us did, but it still wasn’t easy. In addition, there were so many more hidden charges and almost forced contracts with other companies (linked to SOL), like PMI, ECI, etc… which were never disclosed to us. We weren’t free to have other corps. host our site, without incurring additional fees from SOL… Or even use other merchant processors, other than ECI (which I know is a linked company to SOL). There were so many things undisclosed at your seminar, that if they had been, we would have been better prepared to sign a contract with you. How is it that if you guys are a reputable business, why can’t you have a better return policy? Is it because if you were to offer a longer than 3 day return policy, it would give the customer time to realize that what they were being told at the seminar, was a complete sham?
You seem so eager to want to help us out here, that’s why you posted your comment and contact info. I know I can ask you all this if I contacted you directly… but I think it’s only fair for you to publicly answer these questions for all of us here, since we all share the same frustrations, I am saving you some time in just issuing one answer.
If you don’t see it fit to reply to this post, I can only take it as a reassurance that SOL is really not willing to help us out, as you have stated.
Thanks for your time.
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on August 16th, 2008 at 6:43 am
Stephanie and others with questions,
I too feel quite taken in by StoresOnline but I wanted to let you know that I have contacted Ms Silva and she is looking into my refund request at this time. She is at least willing to listen to our complaints which is more than we’ve been able to get anyone at SO to do before now. I spent most of the day yesterday gathering all my information about my year and a half with SO and why I feel the way I do. Then I wrote a long email to Ms Silva telling her about my experience. I feel I have the proof for everything I said to her about the company. All she has to do is ask and I’ll be happy to send her copies of anything. I’ll keep you all informed as I hear more from her. I may be wrong but I think she really wants to help.
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on August 16th, 2008 at 11:49 am
Thank you Stephanie for your input it was a very strong opinion about how everyone feels about what SOL has done to everyone and yes I do feel this needs to be nation-wide, not just state-wide. We all need to figure out how this can be accomplished either by an Attorney that would work in behalf of all SOL, PMI, ECI, iMERGENT Companies and other costs and etc. and the Attornery file a Class Action suite against them. Hope to get input on these questions.
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on August 18th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Stephanie: here is my direct line 801-234-5976 - you may call me and we can go over your questions and issues. There is no blanket answer that will suffice the many different situations or needs of individuals - a blanket answer ends up being interpretted as too broad a solution and these concerns are of a personal nature to each person that I speak with. I offer the best solution that I can: a credible, live person who can be contacted directly, instead of a general statement and a generic customer service line. I look forward to your call.
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B and B Reply:
September 28th, 2008 at 10:17 am
I just sent you an email, 9-28-08. Please respond by personal email
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on August 18th, 2008 at 7:06 pm
I would love to hear back from anyone in this forum who actually gets Mari Silva to issue a refund.
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on August 18th, 2008 at 7:08 pm
I advised Silva twice that I was considering buying a SOL service site and to provide me with any reasonable explanation as to why I should do so given the comments on this si