T-Mobile cited for deceptive practices

It seems that the recently launched T-Mobile plan was actually a kind of a bait and switch offer, where in short you are not required to have a service contract, and they offer “no restrictions,” and “no annual contract,” this plan however, does not include a phone - which is a little important, but of course you have the option of buying one at a monthly rate that would extend over a two-year term. Which sounds a lot like a contract to me, also if you cancel early you are assessed an 'undisclosed' balloon fee, Bob Ferguson, the Washington State Attorney General 100% agrees that this is deceptive.

In a press release the Washington State Attorney General's Office filed a court order signed by T-Mobile and effective nationwide that will ensure the company clearly communicates the limitations of its new “no-contract” wireless service plans and allows customers duped by the deceptive ads to exit their contracts with no penalty.

“As Attorney General, my job is to defend consumers, ensure truth in advertising, and make sure all businesses are playing by the rules,” Ferguson said. “My office identified that T-Mobile was failing to adequately disclose a critical component of their new plan to consumers, and we acted quickly to stop this practice and protect consumers across the country from harm.”

All consumers who purchased T-Mobile service and equipment between March 26 and April 25, 2013, can obtain a full refund for their telephone equipment and cancel their service plans without being required to pay the remaining balance owed on their devices— as long as the customer cancels his or her service per the terms of the agreement, including returning the equipment to T-Mobile.

You can expect T-Mobile to be in contact if you purchased telephone equipment under the terms of their new business plan via e-mail to advise you of your rights.