Gripe / ‘Free’ Gifts Cost Consumers’

“Congratulations, we are delighted to inform you that you have successfully completed the first two stages and have now made it to the final stage of the “ZZZ Sweepstakes.” You are guaranteed to win one of the following awards.”

Oh no, not another one. My curiosity, however, is piqued since I never sent anything in to the first two stages. I know there is a gimmick to all of these “awards,” and every once in a while I am curious to find out what it is they want from me.

I call a toll-free number on my congratulatory note. My friendly salesperson proceeds to divulge to me the magnificent details of the wonderful gifts I have just won in addition to my award: jewelry I probably won’t wear; trips to places that aren’t on the top of my list but are OK; a discount coupon book; a Home Safe alarm that I am too young to need but might not be a bad idea for parents, and a special new camera, which at least has possibilities.

And all of these free items for only $698.50 to cover insurance, taxes, shipping, and handling. Which taxes? What insurance? I don’t know about you, but a gift should be a gift.

Last, but not least, you need to decide right now. No chance to change your mind. No time to consult the spouse. It is now or never and they usually want your credit card number to boot, something you should never give out over the phone to someone who calls you, according to fraud experts.

I am tired of these offers that clog up our mail system and cost us plenty. The objective of a company is to make money.

The only good thing about these promotional offers as far as I am concerned is that they employ people like the friendly receptionists who answer the phones.