netSpend: The Story of the Visa Debit Card We Did Not Apply For
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Neil T / Flickr This week my husband received an unsolicited Visa debit card from a firm called netSpend. It was certainly an odd experience to receive a card that looked official instead of a pre-approved application packet. This is my story of shock, anger, and finally disgust at the practices of this financial firm. (See also: Credit Cards vs. Debit Cards: A Comprehensive Comparison)
At first, I was confused as to why my husband would open an Visa debit account without telling me. So I asked him if he applied for this card. He was bewildered and said, "No! Did my identity get stolen?" I was equally confused because the card has to have money loaded onto it to be worth anything so it would be worth nothing to identity thieves unless they managed to steal the card after we load money. Additionally, this card came to our address, and it does not make sense that an identity thief would send what they want to steal to us.
So I read the enclosed letter, and it says that some partners of netSpend recommended my husband for the Visa debit card service. The problem is that my husband did not apply for this card, so it does not make sense that a new card is now here waiting for his activation. Even if other financial firms sold his name and address to partners the most they should do would be to send a fake credit card along with an application. So I researched this company a little bit online and it seems that it has sent out cards to other people who did not apply for the card. There is also a slew of other complaints against this company regarding how it handles customers' money.
The next day I promptly called netSpend and asked them to close down this account. According to the representative, someone at netSpend thought that our household needed a Visa debit card, so they sent us one. As long as we do not activate it the account does not exist in their system. Basically, the representative was admitting that we did not apply for the card. By shoving an unwanted card onto us, netSpend pretty much lost any chance of having us a customer in the future.
In conclusion, this is probably the most distasteful customer acquisition tactic I have ever seen because it really made us feel a bit violated. Credit and debit cards are not supposed to be given out like candy and I hope netSpend realizes that. It seems that netSpend's business is basically to get people to deposit money onto its cards and then slowly wittle away peoples' money with fees. When I called their toll-free number it says that it costs 50 cents just to check your balance! So it does make sense that they want as many people to deposit cash onto their pieces of plastic as possible. However, telling people to activate cards they did not apply for is definitely not the way to go.
If you're actually looking for a good prepaid card, we have a list of the best prepaid cards.
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The card is GREAT. YOU NEVER GET HIT WITH A $37.00 bank fee. If the money's not there you can't spend it, look at a Bank statement and figure the fees. It's the best thing to give a 15 year old to teach them responsabilty.
I had just received one too and have filed a complaint. This is just scary
um recomending a friend or someone you know is a part of the program...its one of the options you get with your account you can recomend somone or set up a card on your own account for them i think that recomended or set up a card for him..and incedently the card dose not have any money on it untill you activate it with you your desired amount...
Stop freaking out. no one has your SS number. Just like any other credit card mailing, they get your name and address from a list. If you were to call and activate it - they would get your SS number as you would THEN be opening a checking account. NetSpend is the GREATEST prepaid card out there. I have a regular checking account - which part of my pay goes to for paying bills and savings. But my spending money, grocery money, etc goes to my netspend card. This allows me to track exactly how much I have at all times (if something is pending, it shows me immediately and takes it from my available balance). I cannot go "under", no extra fees, just $10 a month. Each of my children have one of these cards as well. With a simple text message i can transfer money to any of them and it is available for them in seconds. Simple, easy, no extra fees, no NSF, perfect. Even for those making plenty of money, this is a great service. If you do not want it - don't call to activate. Again, they do not have any information other than your name and address. That is why they are not worried about sending them out. There is no "risk" even if someone else was to get "your card" before activation. They would need your SS number to activate it, and then they would have to put their own money on it. It is prepaid. If you do not load money on it - you have nothing to lose. P.S. - I get my direct deposit 4 days earlier than I do with my Bank of America account.
I personally have used Netspend for over 5 years now and have had no problems. I use the $1 per transaction fee schedule because I don't use my card that much. It's very convenient and the alerts give me a piece of mind. I love it!!
I received a netspend card as well and what really bothers me is that it already has my full name on it. It should be illegal to send out cards with peoples names already on them. That's identity theft right there and waiting to happen. I tried there customer service number but no one picked up. I live in Austin Tx where apparently there headquarters are located and I will be seeing the attorney general and BBB first thing in the morning on Tuesday 6/1/10. This is ridiculous! Do not activate this card.
the thing to remember is that a card like this is an offer and there is no identifying information like a social in the system... this is not a credit card. Also the receiver of the card has to add money to it, its not an identity theft. Check the Better business bureau and you'll see the ratings of the company (yes i am an employee)
check out the company and compare with a standard bank...netspend has nothing to hide and goes above and beyond traditional banks
I have 2 netspend cards and I have not had any problems with them except for one time. I ordered my permanent card and 2 weeks later still did not recv it. I called and they sent me a new one within a week. Yes there are fees that come along with the card, but there are three options to choose from. Paying $1 per transaction. Its great if you don't use it very often, or just to pay a few bills. There is the $9.99 a mnth fee. And there is the $69.99 a year. That is great if you use it a lot. Now there is the $3.95 fee per load. But if you use it to pay bills and you shop at Speedway then you get a free load. This is a great alternative to checking accounts bc you can't necessarily over draw it. And if you do happen to overdraw it there is no fee for doing so. I've been with netspend for over 3 years and they never sent out any 'random' cards to me. Which I see how it could be upsetting to recv an actual card in the mail and not know anything about it. But good side is it does not affect your credit either.
This is completely ridiculous. Netspend sends their cards out, to solicit business. They are one of the best prepaid services around. I have been with them for 5 years, and know many people who use them to direct deposit their paychecks. The cards they send are not activated, nor can anyone use them since they are PREPAID and at the point your receive them THEY WON'T HAVE money on them. People who aren't educated or knowledgeable in certain areas, should not post things such as this. This can pursuade others who aren't aware of Netspend's benefits to not give them a chance. Yes, you have to pay for inquiries, but their fees are so low it shouldn't be that big of a deal. **I am a very happy Netspend customer **
Just received (6/1/10) my card and was a little confused. Thank you for posting this information. I think the card can be a good thing for some but for myself... NO. I am NOT their target market and do not appreciate the unsolicited card. To me, this is a very unprofessional and desperate company for new clients/customers. Run...
I received an offer just the other day from Mastercard...with a pre-approved amount. with my name on it. all anyone had to do was go online and activate it. Is Mastercard also desperate for business? Netspend is not just for people who can't get a bank card or bad credit, it's great for kids away at college who you still support financially. Maybe you don't want them to have a card directly linked to yours in case the lose it or just need quick cash for an emergency. It's great for high school kids to show them how to manage their money & use a debit card if they have their own job. just load their money- and when it runs out, they're broke. They can track all of their transactions online & it breaks it down to show them what they're spending most of their money on. they can pay their car insurance, cell phone bill, etc.
I have been a NetSpend customer since 2004 and it has been at a great advantage for me. I got 1 for each of my kids when they were minors due to being very active in sports, I wasn't always able to be there to give them snacks or money to eat after events, so by getting them a card, they could buy something to eat and drink instead of doing without. I had no problem setting up accounts for them, as I had problems with the local banks due to their age. As stated by Callahn, Electricfuneral, CHAD, Economic Downturn, and Terrel, this is a pre-paid debit card service. In my opinion, it is better than having a checking account at a bank. My card has been honored at hundreds of places and for hundreds of transactions whether renting a car, booking hotel reservations, buying airline tickets, going to Las Vegas to eating a gourmet restaurant or just at whataburger. You control your spending, you are charged either $9.95 monthly or $1.00 per transaction, which ever method you choose and you can always change it if you want. I make alot of transactions so the $9.95 monthly fee works better for me. You can set up an account online to view your account history and all transactions and it's free instead of calling them for your balance which will cost you .50 cents. I closed my checking account with a well-known bank due to headaches and discrepancies with my account and all those fees they charge for their benefit and I can get an account anywhere if I want. The best thing I love about NetSpend is access to my money once it's direct deposited. I get access to my money right away, they do not make me wait. Like right now at this minute, 10:40a text message alerted me that my account was credited the amount of my payroll check and is available for use and payday is not until Tuesday, June 15 for everyone else! I always get access to my money before any of my co-workers do. I could go on and on but, all I can say to you skeptics is if you don't want the card, then just shred it or cut it up! END OF DISCUSSION! Don't make a big deal about it, nobody has stolen your identity, the card has no value or significance if you don't activate it. I work with a Criminal Justice department and this is no scam. I currently have in my possession 4 NetSpend Pre-paid Visa & Mastercards (debit) 2 for me, 1 for my daughter and 1 for my son. Thank you NetSpend for a great resource!
My deceased sister had a Netspend account. When she was put on Life Support,
being her Power of Attorney, both Medical & other) asked them to Close Her Account
until further notice, since her purse was lost in transit between hospitalizations.
THEY DID NOT !. When she passed (May 2010), I called again to have them make
any funds payable to the Funeral Home, since she had NO LIFE INSURANCE. They gave
me a list of of paperwork to fax them, including notarized power of attorney, death
certificate, notarized photo ID of power of attorney, and who to make the check
payable to. I faxed 9 PAGES to them including the Newspaper Obituary. They said a
check would be sent within 20 Business days. After 20 days, I phoned and they had NO RECORD or the info I sent them, so I REFAXED the info, which is now 10 PAGES. A man phoned and asked me who to make check payable to. When I told him the Funeral Home, he said HE COULDN'T because he is not the Executor of the Estate ! Then he said he would call me back in 15 minutes, which turned into 2 days. After calling NETSPEND countless times, they told me they couldn't talk to me because I was NOT THE CARDHOLDER (someone gigling in the background like this is some joke ! )
I had already faxed info, Social Security Number, Date of Birth & Death of my sister
and all information they asked 30 days ago !! Then this Rudy guy finally called me back and said the CREDIT DEPARTMENT won't let him send the check to ME or THE
FUNERAL HOME, because now I should go to PROBATE or ESTATE COURT, pay $150-
$250 dollars to become Executor of my sister's estate !! THEY NEVER TOLD ME THIS
INITIALLLY IN THE 10 OR MORE TIMES I SPENT TALKING TO THEM !!!! They are
dragging their feet about a little $1,200.00 that my sister owes the funeral home
for her Burial Expenses. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THIS COMPANY OUT OF BUSINESS or
FINED. Monday, I will call all of the consumer complaint television stations and radio
stations, plus my Congressman, because this is no way to treat a GRIEVING FAMILY.
Meanwhile, I just received an additional bill from the Funeral Home, because her funeral
was a month ago, and there is still an outstanding balance !!!!
Signed,
FED UP
My deceased sister had a Netspend account. When she was put on Life Support,
being her Power of Attorney, both Medical & other) asked them to Close Her Account
until further notice, since her purse was lost in transit between hospitalizations.
THEY DID NOT !. When she passed (May 2010), I called again to have them make
any funds payable to the Funeral Home, since she had NO LIFE INSURANCE. They gave
me a list of of paperwork to fax them, including notarized power of attorney, death
certificate, notarized photo ID of power of attorney, and who to make the check
payable to. I faxed 9 PAGES to them including the Newspaper Obituary. They said a
check would be sent within 20 Business days. After 20 days, I phoned and they had NO RECORD or the info I sent them, so I REFAXED the info, which is now 10 PAGES. A man phoned and asked me who to make check payable to. When I told him the Funeral Home, he said HE COULDN'T because he is not the Executor of the Estate ! Then he said he would call me back in 15 minutes, which turned into 2 days. After calling NETSPEND countless times, they told me they couldn't talk to me because I was NOT THE CARDHOLDER (someone gigling in the background like this is some joke ! )
I had already faxed info, Social Security Number, Date of Birth & Death of my sister
and all information they asked 30 days ago !! Then this Rudy guy finally called me back and said the CREDIT DEPARTMENT won't let him send the check to ME or THE
FUNERAL HOME, because now I should go to PROBATE or ESTATE COURT, pay $150-
$250 dollars to become Executor of my sister's estate !! THEY NEVER TOLD ME THIS
INITIALLLY IN THE 10 OR MORE TIMES I SPENT TALKING TO THEM !!!! They are
dragging their feet about a little $1,200.00 that my sister owes the funeral home
for her Burial Expenses. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THIS COMPANY OUT OF BUSINESS or
FINED. Monday, I will call all of the consumer complaint television stations and radio
stations, plus my Congressman, because this is no way to treat a GRIEVING FAMILY.
Meanwhile, I just received an additional bill from the Funeral Home, because her funeral
was a month ago, and there is still an outstanding balance !!!!
Signed,
FED UP
so what...why are you getting your panties in a wad? they sent u a debit card, not a credit card!...if u dont want to use it, throw it away. it's not like someone can steal it and start taking money from you. you spent a lot of time and effort into making your experience with netspend sound alarming and scary and in fact what they are doing can actually be a convenience for a lot of people who needed a debit card in the first place. yes, lots of fees, but you dont have to use it.
It's an issue because they send it to young teenagers, such as myself, as well. They have disgusting fees that build up quickly that they don't speak if in their packaging. Those who aren't knowledgeable will get sucked in right away. You can get other cards right away from a STORE with YOUR APPROVAL. Yes, it's smart marketing, but when you think about it, it's kind of cruel to the ones uneducated in this field :/
I too received a NetSpend Visa card. I had something around 7 dollars on it. I bought a 6 dollar game online, that ended up charging me 7 dollars, leaving me with one cent on the card.
I don't mind, considering I didn't sign up for it. I use an AccountNow card that I actually did request, and don't believe NetSpend to be a trustworthy enterprise.
I just received an email (from "netspend@netspend.com") asking for all my information (F/L Name, Card Number, CCV, security question AND answer, etc.).
I don't recommend NetSpend to anybody. It is not a secure form of e-currency.
in regards to the email NO COMPANY will send a request like that in an email it is a scam un connected to the company
Thanks for the article. I just got a Netspend card in the mail and immediately worried that I had signed up for something that I didn't want. I hated the idea that I might have to spend my time getting this account deactivated if it indeed was linked to me in some way. I don't like getting unsolicited things in the mail that waste my time and cause me to worry.
I just received a NetSpend card in the name of my aunt who passed away 3 years ago. When I called the company I was told the card was ordered online but they would not tell me WHO ordered it online. I find this practice distasteful and borderline fraudulent. I will definitely follow the advice of the previous guest and file a complaint with the Federal Reserve.
You know what's even better? My other half and I signed up to get one, and when in the process of activating the card they told us they needed us to fax them a copy of our social security cards and birth certificates, fishy eh? We totally dropped it after that.
i been wit netspend for 6 years and i can say that i haver no issues i have had wells fargo and they take your money .1 penny over and blame u have 36 over drft fee netspend does not happen so you all are makeing a big deal for nothing GREAT COMPANY AND I NEVER HAD A ANY ISSUES IN FACT WHEN I HAD A OSSUE WIT SOMEONE TAKEING MONAY IT WAS RESLOEVD IN A FEW HRS NOT DAY AND IT WAS ON A FRIDAY
Has anyone reported them to the BBB? They wanted me to deposit money then if I used the card to "keep the account full" so what they were trying to do is blur the lines between a "Prepaid Debit Card" and a "Secured Credit Card". Can you say Shady business practices? Here is a little info maybe some can find it useful if you already know the difference between prepaid debit and a secured CC then disregard... Thanks MYK
Prepaid Debit Card = just like a bank you deposit money then use your card and it comes right out of your account. No interest is added to any charges it is "just like cash".
Secured Credit Card = Is an account you open with an initial deposit($500 ex.) and that is your "limit". You'll receive the card w/$500 limit and go use it, once you get your monthly statement(s) you see the charge(s) and just like a normal credit card you have to pay a minimum(w/Interest) or pay in full. Your initial deposit is basically a "security deposit" that you get back once you close the account or THE ISSUER TAKES when you dont make payments. This is nice for financial beginners HOWEVER you should go to YOUR bank (which might give you a small amount if interest on your deposit) to set up the account.
AT NO TIME should a "Financial Institution"(using that loosely) just send you a CC, secured CC, Debit card or even a replacement card without notifying you first well in advance.
I too have a NetSpend Visa debit card and I love it. I've had my card with them for over 2 years and have no complaints. Unlike my bank that looks for any reason to charge a NSF fee, NetSpend doesn't charge NSF fees. My husband and I have our paychecks direct deposited and the funds are available two days before the Friday payday and we love it.
I don't understand the hold or block being put on certain accounts. There has to be a good reason. You folks that are having problems need to contact your state's Attorney General or an attorney. Take them to small claims court, state your case and get your money back.
Just got a Netspend debit card in the mail. It was unsolicited so I googled it coming across this blog. Following the guest who said to call the Federal Reserve Consumer agency. They told me that I needed to call the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) and they could handle the complaint. 1-800-842-6929 I will do doing that first thing in the morning (they are closed now). Thanks for posting so others have an idea of that this is.
I have had a Netspend account for 10 years. Never ever had a problem with the company. I think you should just chill. I get invitations from credit cards all the time, so how is this different?
I also received a debit card in the mail and it seemed alittle odd to receive a debit card that I had not applied for and from a company I had never heared from. So I decided to do alittle research before I decided to use it. After reading so many compaints it doesn't seem as though netspend is a scam, but it is a complany that is very janky and uses many unfair practices. That's how many companies like this one survives, it gives good service to the majority of it users while still making their money through fees. On the other hand the scam comes in with the other 20 or so percent that they steal money from. I have had a simular experience with another company. They do this to stay in buisness, the customers they have with good experiences refer other people and the cycle continues. Also, to the ones complaining about not being able to get a checking card because of bad credit I don't know what your doing wrong because I've filed for bankrupcy and I have 2 check cards from a bank and credit union.
Different company, but my THIRTEEN year old son got something very similar. When I called to ream them out, I was told that name and address are public record, and that it is legal to send him this "free" prepaid card!
Wow. I've used Netspend for about 6 years now. I've never had any problems. A little disheartening to hear your story, I guess since then they've come up with new methods of courting customers. I use it for my kids, with a regularly scheduled amount loaded for pocket money purposes, etc. They charge me a flat fee of $9.95 per month for usage, but other than that, nothing else. I've never really had to use their customer service, so I can't speak on it, although I do know that they outsource to Asia. With other companies, I KNOW how frustrating that can be.
I'm really careful with information that I share online. Everything these days is becoming more and more linked, and then sharing info between companies. Even Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites, if you notice are pairing up with practically everyone. Youtube and Google, for example. There's always the option of "sharing" your posted comments from almost every forum. If you think about all the intimate info that your Facebook has about you, and connect that with the info Gmail collects (search history, etc.) they have all they'll ever need to know. I believe come of this information is often-times sold for marketing purposes. This is how they may deduce that a debit card may fit your lifestyle. Pretty scary.
I have been a netspend user for several years. Before using netspend, I got into some financial trouble with my bank and way overdrew my account. The account was closed and I now owe the bank more than $600.00! (which I am paying off using a netspend card) Having a Netspend debit card has helped me to pay bills/debts that can only be paid online, or must be paid with a visa card. I load the money needed each week to pay the bill at my local currency exchange, and then the money is withdrawn from the card by my creditors. It has made things a lot easier for someone like me who has made mistakes in the past to get back on my feet financially.
I can also use my netspend card on ebay to pay for things through paypal. While I have to admit that the 1.00 transaction fee is a bit annoying, as is the 2.00 loading fee (I hear it's as much as 5.00 elsewhere), I must admit that I wouldn't be able to put my credit back together, and pay my debts quickly and easily if it weren't for this card.
If Netspend sent unsolicited cards with peoples names on them, then that could be a problem if someone else got a hold of that card and activated it. Most currency exchanges do not require an ID to load money onto these cards. Case and point, I went on vacation, and still needed to load money onto the card so that my creditors could be paid on time. So I gave the card to my mother and asked her to do it for me. She took the card to the currency exchange and had the card loaded with money without problem or hassle. While a persons money is not being stolen here, it can still damage a persons credit if the card was not activated by the person who's name appears on the card. So if you receive an unsolicited card, and do not wish to use it, THEN DO NOT ACTIVATE THE CARD. SHRED IT!
Yes i have a Netspend card actually i use to sale them at a place i worked. The reason they would just send out the card like that is, it doesn't effect your credit or anything its pretty much like like having cash in hand. And when you activate the card they do ask for a social security number to have for security purposes incase you have any questions about the card. they offer fee plans like 9.95 a month for unlimited purchase transactions. I actually work at another job now but still have my netspend card and I have my direct deposit from my job go right onto my card and it is wonderful. You never have to worry about overdraft fees. You can sign up for instant alerts so as soon as you swipe your card you can get a text message or email or even both stating how much you spent how much is left where the purchase was made at and the time.
I just received a card today. It really freaked me out because I'm still a teenager. I really think that what they are doing is really creepy and I want them to quit doing it.
I have used Netspend for almost four years and have yet to have a problem with it. The fifty cent is only taken out when you actually get your account balance but have never been charged to my account for anything else. I don't think thats bad when everything else you access is taxed with fees. For example my Credit union account has a fee for checking your account over the phone and it is a whole lot higher. Comcast charges you $3.00 to pay your bill over the phone, 2.00 to pay it with the automative system and suprisily free to pay it online. This is appauling because you are already giving them a boat load of money and the fees should be included in that.. Any way back to Netspend, I always since having the card put a portion of me tax money ( a sizeable amount) on it to have easy access to it without having to go into my bank account and have never had any problems with that. Believe me, I am deffinetly the type who checks everything little cent I spend and check it again before the next time I use my card.
What surprises me is how the lady reacted to reccieving a card that wasn't activated, there was no balance and could do nothing wrong. Real credit card companys send credit cards that are active with a balance if they feel your credit is worthy and all you have to do is call and enter a number thats is accesible to anyone who has the card in their posession to be able to use it. Those credit cards are tied into your credit and financial history. I don't think Netspend is wrong for advertising, because thats all it was. Some people need to live be my moto "DON"T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF" and I do mean SMALL STUFF!!!!!! What harm can a practically dead card do?
I received one in the mail as well. I read the terms, found out it was a reloadable debit card and not a charge card, cut it up into twenty pieces and threw it out in the trash. I think they sent one to everyone on their address list (bought from places that you do business with). If they had checked first, they would have saw that I already have a VISA and a MasterCard with sky-high limits and would not need their services to begin with. This info is available to marketers (minus your account numbers, social security number and mother's maiden name) with your name and address for marketing purposes.
If anyone thinks that netspend is a fraud you are all wrong. It is a pre paid debit card... you can't apply for it. These cards are sold at a lot of check cashing places and even amcott used to use them before they came out with their own type of pre paid debit card. Believe or not you are safer to have a pre paid debit card rather than a back account. With this card people can't screw up your financial history! It's pre paid not a credit card! I have a regular bank account but I have this for online purchases so that people can't wipe my bank account. I only put money on it only when I buy online.
BTW if anyone did their reseach on the company you would know that it's not fraud. Also, please tell me how a pre paid debit card would be a fraud? In what ways would they screw you over? They are just like any other company... they want to make money just like you.
Another thing that is funny is that I worked telemarketing when I was in college and people fall for more fraud **** over the phone with a cold call rather than on their own. Done hate telemarketers, people that get ripped off by them are suckers.
Listen up all ye who are complaining about Net Spend. After reading all your complaints it seems that the recipients of the un solicited DEBIT cards are angry because its a DEBIT card and NOT a CREDIT card. there is no available funds for you to spend. Educate yourselves about a Prepaid Debit card and a Credit card. I have been with netspend for more than 8 years and any adjustments (you guys call it problems) was taken care of over the phone right away. I use it for any and all Internet purchases. Its great and safe.I will never use my bank card or Credit card on line. i am sure we have all received unsolicited mail with our names printed on them these mailings from Net Spend are the same its just printed on plastic.
I did not receive a card from them, I asked them to send me one. I love my NetSpend card. I have a portion of my paycheck direct deposited to it, and the funds are available a full day and a half before payday, which is excellent, because by that time I'm severely BROKE and need the money. They do have ridiculous fees, but I just do an ATM withdrawl and take all the money out so I have cash, so there is only the one ATM fee. It is not a credit account, and is not reported to the credit bureaus. It is very convenient for me.
Im with the people who said there is nothing wrong or scam-ish about the firm. I received a card in the mail with my name on it and was happy because it saved me the time of having to fill out an application. You people are waaaay over reacting it's NOT a credit card it's a debit card... BIG difference, maybe those of you who like to research should research that! If you do not activate the card there is no harm done to you at all what so ever. And even if you do activate the card you can only spend what you put on it. I think it's a great alternative to a bank account because there are no overdraft fees and best of all i get my paycheck two days sooner than everyone else and i dont need to call in to check my balance as i can check it whenever i want online for free not to mention the sms text messages i receive for every transaction made with my card. I think some people just need to find something better to do with their time than complain about things that arent that serious. All they are trying to do is help you out, a simple no thank you and some scissors to cut the card in half is all thats needed. GOD BLESS!!
I signed up for Netspend prepaid debit card with doing some research (obviously) and I was going to activat it, but it said to provide social security number and dat of birth and I did not feel comfortable doing that. So i decided to just close my account, but when I tried to do this online, they said I needed at least 5.95 in my account to close it. If I don't provide my information then it is not activated right? So I can just cut up the card and throw it out as if it never happened and I don't need to worry about it right?
Ummm. To be honest I think you are making a mountain out of a mole hill. I have a netspend card and have had an account for over a year. I get direct deposits; I do all my banking online FREE (it's only a charge if you call), I have no overdraft fees and they even cover me up to 10.00 if I go over on a purchase. They sent you a card; so what? It has absolutely no value and NONE of your personal information unless YOU activate or give it to them. I think this post was a waste of space and energy and you should probably be writing about something that actually counts. This is in no way fraudulent, unless they activated an account and gave you charges for it. SMH
I don't understand why some of you are so angry. Unfortunate things happen whether you possess a debit card, credit card, or neither. If you receive an unsolicited card, just trash it. Unless there is money in your account, it's dead plastic. I have several of these cards and I love them. I can shop until I drop, without having to worry about a credit card bill. It's also a great way to discipline yourself, and keep your spending under control. Your can obtain one card to pay all your bills, and another card to pay yourself. This works well for me.
Also, I've discovered that having a card without the worrying of a bill, has actually taught me to spend less. I rarely deplete my disposable income card. I won't pretend to understand the psychology of it, but it's as if the ability to purchase tempers the desire to purchase. Go figure.
Swopes
They are upset because someone is stamping their names onto an account and sending the card to them.
You can shop with cash, you don't need a credit card.
Just because you benefited from the invasion doesn't mean it's not still an invasion.
I have had Netspend card since 2004 and I have never had any problems with it. I have deposited over 6000.00 at a time on it and never once have had a problem getting my money off of it. It is so easy for me to have a netspend account then one through the bank. And as you all complain about the fees, what company these days doesnst charge you some type of fee. Everyone is money hungry these days. For the people receiving thses cards in the mail, just throw it away. They don't have any of your personal information. Just you name and address and possiblely you phone number and that's only because someone else sold your information. People there is so much going on in the world today receiving a none activated pre paid debit card isn't gonna hurt you... netspend your great and thank you for everything!
IT'S NOT A CREDIT CARD it's a prepaid Debit card get it PRE PAID everyones so quick to jump at the ohhh no someone stole my identity or this is a scam crap yes maby it was unsolicited but the only information they have is your name and address wich I'm sorry to say if you have ever done anything online millions of firms already have that info hell when you set up a home phone service your info is given out how the hell do you think telemarketers call you by randomly dialing numbers out of the air??? if you read the fine print in the letter you still have to activate it and put money on it to use it and when you activate it you supply them with all your info IE social security number and such I have one use it every day Love it and would recomend it to everyone have had no problems with it
I don't see what netspend did wrong here, if anything you should be mad at whoever suggested your husband for the card, netspend is only providing the service its a PREPAID DEBIT CARD its pretty much like having lent in your pocket if you don't load it with cash, even when activated its worth nothing so don't have a cow man..... If you believe it's a scam then the financial system as a whole is a scam as its ran the same way as any major bank...........in other words stop trying to bash a company for sending you the card that it thought you could use you might be broke anyways.....
the netsend card is great "if you use it right". i have 3, one that i keep money on & two that i use for buying things online & paying bills. by me transfering funds to one of my two other cards when i need to buy or pay a bill online helps keep my money safe. there's no fee to transfer money to other card & a $1 fee each time i buy or pay a bill. but there is a $3 fee to put money on the card. i don't use it at stores or atm's, only online. when i do something online i find out the total price add $1 & then transfer the money to the card that i plan on useing "no more & no less". so if for some reason i am charge some extra fee it won't go or this they try to charge me later for something, they won't get it, becuse the card will be at $0. all in all they are cheaper than a bank & one more good thing they text you each time you or someone else adds or takes money from your card "now most banks won't do that". if you use the card right you can save & be safer. do the math, it may be right for you.
I just received a text from MY own phone number --"Your NETSPEND CARD has been placed on HOLD. Please call us at 877-875-8770. Thankfully I read this before I called and got suckered into this scam. Its so scary as I am young and there is so much I still do not know about finances. Where did they get my information. Why is it okay for them to TEXT me? I did not apply for anything. I never even heard of NETSPEND until this text. Creepy tactic that makes me MORE than wary. There should be some sort of regulation for this abuse as that is clearly what it is. Taking advantage of people by telling them a card that they never even applied is on HOLD -- What is worse is that it was 10:30 at night. UGH
Dollar Financial Group (DLLR) - parent company of the Money Corner and other check cashing stores throughout the world pushes these cards these like crazy on people (especially of lower income) that come into to get their checks cashed. But each associate gets paid out a bonus of $5 for each card sold. I think the customers should be aware that the person behind the counter is pushing them because they are getting a payback for each card sold.
Xin Lu,
Thank you for your story. I also received an unsolicited card from netSpend this week in the mail. While I know very little about the company, and even though it is a prepaid card that requires money to be pre-loaded, this is very concerning that they would send the in the mail without any clear reason for why it was sent. In my opinion, this is a dangerous practice that can lure unsuspecting individuals. In response I have called the company that I have identify theft services with and requested that they make sure I am removed from pre-paid and pre-approved credit card offers. I also have shredded the card and offer.
--Concerned Citizen.
I had the same thing happening to me, i received a card from Academy Bank.
I did not call them yet
Netspend doesn't normally send these out.
THIRD PARTY companies, however, do allow you to click a checkbox when you are filling out forms and submitting w/o reading what you "ACCEPT".
A lot of the "Click here to get a free iPhone" banners will take you to pages where you have to enter name, address, etc. those sites require you to fulfill a number of offers to get your free "gadget". One of these "offers" that people agree to without paying attention is the NetSpend card.
It's NOT spam or unsolicited if you clicked "accept" while not paying attention on some website a few months prior to receiving the card.
I have a netspend card and I LOVE it. It is FREE to check your balance online, as with most credit cards (and all my other cards charge a fee for using their phone services). It actually IS attached to a bank account, one that you can use with paypal, direct deposit and other bill pay services. The only fee I pay is $9.95 a month, plus $3 when I load my card at an ace location. Since all of my transactions are direct deposit onto the card, or completed via paypal, my only real charge is $9.95 a month. There is no REAL credit card company that can boast that low of a fee schedule. It seems you only valid complaint here is that they sent you the card without you soliciting it. Other than that I have to disagree with your line of attack. I have had my card for several years and am a completely satisfied customer.
I ALSO GOT ONE OF THEIR CARDS THROUGH THE MAIL TODAY WHICH I ALSO DIDNOT APPLY FOR.I CHECKED INTO A PREPAID DEBIT CARD BECAUSE I AM HAVING TROUBLE WITH MY BANK .THE BEST THING TO DO IS CUT THE CARD UP THROW IT AWAY BECAUSE IT WILL COST YOU MORE IN THE LONG RUN TO HAVE IT. BUT THIS IS ONLY MY OPINION.
I also recieved a card and shredded it immediately.
I do keep getting e-mails from them that I do not see how I can "unsubscribe"to.
This is a case of making a bunch of hooey out of a non issue. These kind of cards are more for people who do not qualify to have a bank account. Did you know that banks have the right to close your account for no reason, the terms state it is at their discretion? It happened to me because my employer got into it with the manager at a branch over a deposit and at her discretion she closed all the accounts associated with that company, which included my only checking account. We all got a black mark on Checksystems with a flagged entry, so no bank account for me anymore. I went to my nearest check cashing place and got a netspend card. It has worked out well for me and keeps me within a budget. Its not all encompassing evil, its a product and can be utilized in different ways.
I got a card and it said in the letter my local bank recomend this and what was worse they had my bank name and type of account. It went on to say just activate and bring the secound page sighned to the bank and the bank will link you accounts. I though that my little small town bank won't do this, but I ask them and they said unless you tell us otherwise by law we can sell your info. So, I had them proptly stop selling my ifo to scamers and the teller tried to ensure me that all banks do this and we only send your info to affilates and othe companies we are partners with. Plus she said when you first sined up we asked you if we could share your info with the our partners and I said I didn't you sennd me scams. That didn't seem right that if I didn't tell them otherwise basically the bank could sell my info. I had a small savings account at anouther bank out of town so it stay saving, I thought I ask them if they heard of that and turned out they have simalier policy, but the lady said for your protection I can't put your requset in over the phone you have to come in person and requset we don't share your info. I said why if someone wanted steal my info they woudn't block it, but she said that how it works. I just think they knew I woudn't gen there right away and wanted it on as long as possible, but I couldn't belive that any bank would just sell your personal information to the highest bider or the bank executives friends. They should just assume people don't want there info shared.
I got a text that my net spend card had been deactivated. The trouble is I never had a net spend card and did not know who they were and the number 7042487728 they said to call is not a working number. I am reporting this to the federal trade commission. I think this is a bunch of scammers and they will be stopped.
I've received three netSpend cards in the past two weeks at my house. They all had unknown names on them, with the first name "Jimmy." I'd imagine that an unsavory company like netSpend, located in the Texas sticks, thinks that if they make up enough names starting with a hick first name they'll eventually hit paydirt
stop tripping, prepaid card places do this all the time, its not activated until u activate it, throw it in the trash if you dont want it. Its theyre wasted paper, not yours.
I received a NetSpend card through the mail which I did not want nor order. So I decided to look them up on Google and when I type their name in NetSpend scam pops up which gives a big red flag for me. I am glad I read the comments about this company because it doesn't sound good at all in fact I am going to call to report them. I still don't understand how they got my name and address which concerns me and is an outrage.
i have been using netspend for like 2 years now but i did go online and applied for it so i can do online shopping with it. i put money on it atleast once a week and they have always been good to me. i will continue to use netspend.
I have had Netspend for years, and been very happy with them. You can check your balance online for free, without paying a fee.
Same thing happened to me today... Netspend Debit Mastercard. Cutting it and throwing it away. Tnx for the info.
You guys are definitely over reacting to nothing.... I have been a Netspend user for 3 years now. They are essentially a bank, which handles your money, and gives you the use of a debit card with online account access, direct deposit, money management tools, savings accounts, etc. They do everything a bank would do except charge you outrageous amounts of fees for transactions and overdrafts. I pay 5 dollars a month with unlimited transactions, and 2 dollar atm cash withdrawls. Compare that to the 60 dollars a month average I was paying in overdrafts with Chase for my poor money management skills, and a retard can figure out the math. I'm almost disgusted by your distaste for this company because I have never in my 3 years dealing with them had any sort of issue. Do a little more research before kicking a reputable company in the nuts. Just my 2 cents.
I, too, had a horrible experience with this company. I purchased three of their prepaid Visa cards for my wife for anniversary, Christmas and birthday gifts. I was suipposed to go online to activate the cards, and being a novice at these type of cards, did so. I balked when asked for my SSN, though, as I really didn't see a need for them to have that info when I had already paid the $50.00 plus a $3.95 charge each to have the Visa gift card, or so I thought. I has taken me nearly two hours total on the phone, with me eventually always gtting to the pint of practically shouting on the phone to have them activated without my SSN so my wife could use them. It's been a horrible experience, and I would tell anyone to run, don't walk away from this company. Never,never, never again!
I don't understand why you people balk at giving your information to a BANK, but then cry about identity theft...When you walked into your Brick and Mortar bank, what information did they ask you for? I know that if I have a question about my account these are the things they ask for to make sure I am the cardholder once there is money on the account..A financial institution is a financial institution and MUST ply by FDIC rules. Especially when they are backed by them. 20 Million Americans used Netspend in 2009 alone, 2 years later I'm sure there are more then that, thanks to their referal program, none the less would I put my money where any Tom, dick or harry could get to it? HECK NO!!!! And my SSN is not something that can be keylogged since I NEVER use it online!
I can't believe how uninformed some of you complainers are. Somewhere, at some point you signed up for something and they sold your name and address to Netspend. Since it's a prepaid debit card, it has no value at all without being activated and loaded. If you don't want it, trash it.
And the woman who started this thread commited a federal crime by opening her husband's mail. Heck maybe that was the card he was going to give his mistress and now he got caught.
I started using Netspend so I would not have to use my main account on the internet and for my monthly play money budget. Then I started noticing my play money was coming in days ahead of my bill money. I've switched Netspend to my main account and have had no problems. Paycheck comes in 1-2 days early, $5.00 monthly fee, if I need to send a Moneygram I just point and click. Heck they'll even mail a money order for you.
If one were to look, they would see the issuance of unsolicited cards is how the multi-billion dollar conglomerate Visa got started. I don't know how I feel about it, but i do know that it is nothing new or shocking.
I agree the fees and tactics aren't very fair. But I only use mycard for the 5% savings account which there is not fee to use since I can load money for free at HEB. 5% is a crapload for a saving account with no minimum balance and no fees to put money on it.
There is nothing wrong with the company. They get your information the same way junk mail does. Also this is not a scam cause you can only use what you loaded on to it. They are a good ideas to use when ordering over the phone or Internet cause they can't empty your entire checking account out, unless you load your whole checking account funds onto this card. Also since you have to put money on it in order to use it, if loaded and used regularly this can help rebuild your credit. If you have filed or know someone that has filed bankruptcy then you know you will get a ton of these prepaid card offers once you file. If you do decide to use one then do your research to make sure there are no monthly or yearly fees or a fee if your account doesn't have the minimum funds.
I activated a new netspend visa debit card, put $100. on it, tried to use it an hour later for a series of small online purchases with Amazon.com and found all orders cancelled because of no funds on the card. When I went back (with my receipt) to the CCS cash office they said that the balance was 1 cent, that Amazon.com had a hold on it. Netspend will not respond to any online or telephone enquiry and Amazon.com admits that someone hacked into "the system" and ordered a very expensive item using my netspend account (which is not a credit card). EVen though they admit I am not at fault they will not release the hold on the card and netspend will not respond. I'm still trying to figure out how to get my $100. back.
As far as people getting upset about fees @ Netspend... you pay 10.00 a month to use it. why call & pay .50 to check your balance when you can text them & get it right away? I choose to get a text every morning just to know how much money i'm starting my day off with. this actually came in very handy when i dropped my wallet @ TGI Friday's one night and didn't even realize it until the next morning. The first thing i did was check my text & saw that no money was missing so, I called TGI's and they had it. An ATM shut down in the middle of my transaction & said that I'd gotten $200.00 when I hadn't. All i had to do was fax a letter explaining what happened to Netspend & they put the money back on my card until they could verify with the ATM company that they were over that amount. they could've said said "tough" and made me wait until they knew i was telling the truth but, they didn't. My card has been blocked before when i've been on the road traveling but, i called & they lifted it, right then. American Express does the same thing to my husband at times. It's to protect you. i
i got a card in the mail too. Since it was mailed to my address and my name is on it, I'm sure it must automatically have my ssn on file as well (like greendot cards require). I wonder what would happen if I tossed it in the trash, someone found it, called and activated it, added money and then proceeded to buy p_orn and/or fund illegal activities under my name....no thanks. shredding it.
also they were telling me to load my refund on there... yeah right
why are you so sure they have your ssn number? yeah, they'd need that if you ACTIVATE the card, put money on it, and want to use it.
I received an e-mail stating that a netspend debit card was being sent to me. When I called the contact number, the person told my my e-mail address did not exist in the system... How can that be possible when they sent me an e-mail and supposedly sent me a debit card... this sounds shady and I do not appreciate the practice
Well ive been using netspend for over 3 yrs now and the only issue Ive ever had was when they put a hold on my account after a direct deposit of $9,000 in which I had to provide them proof of where the funds were coming from. It was a small inconvenience. I love it and I get my pay check earlier with my card.
There's a whole lot of comments/complaints from people that have either never used the card, or only used it a few times. I'm been a netspend customer for years after a family member trashed my credit. they've been a lifesaver, and the fees aren't even that bad. I pay $5 a month so I don't have to worry about the fees, and the interest I earn on my savings account (also through netspend) just about takes care of that!
You guys are getting pieces of plastic in the mail with NO personal information besides a name. you need to ACTIVATE the card in order for them to need/ask for your SSN, etc. otherwise they don't have it! my friends and family with "real" bank accounts get that crap in the mail all the time- we would all love to stop getting junk mail, but these places ARE places of business, afterall.
I just can't recommend netspend enough. I read alot of people saying their kids were sent these cards- these are great cards for kids to use, i imagine, because you can turn off overdraft spending.
yeah i got a net spend card so i could buy a computer off the internet, i was able to do that with the temporary card i got at purchase thankfully. then what followed was a a series of emails showing netspends complete lack of good business ethics and some rather scary things, such has being denied a permanent card because i had exceeded the amount of cards netspend allows its customers, even though this was my first one. I was able to buy some groceries with the remaining money, and now i think its out (haven't been able to check my balance after they denied me further service). This cards going to the degausser at work, then to be cut into little pieces, and netspend will never see another dime from me.
Had one of these for years (I got mine from a store). The interest rate on the savings account for this account is ridiculous - 5% apy!!! Sometimes an unsolicited product is worth looking into :) I don't think they should be reported, as they are not using any information other than what is public record (name and address).
Good luck all!
I had one. A charge came up in it from a hotel miles from where I was. When I called NetSpend, they refused to take it off.
They also charge $1 every time you use the card as a credit card, and $2 every time you use it as a debit card. Even if yu make a $1 purchase, it can end up costing you $2 or $3.
Same thing here. Unsolicited mailing. It is smarter to know and follow your own credit score and accounts. t wouldn't hurt (if you can afford it) to have credit tracking by all three major credit vendors. Especially with so many corporate data system breaches, you think you're not a target? This kind of sneaky business tactic is approved by your government, so you do the math. I shredded my ridiculous pre-approved application and card immediately after I followed up on this scam.
Same here...just received an unsolicited Netspend card in the mail and am shredding it right after I type this.. Their wasted effort and money..
This card was sent to my 17 year old daughter. I think it is a shame to just send debit cards to young people. This is a good way to ruin their credit.
I'm with you, blogger. It ticks me off that they send out things like this unsolicited. I'd be surprised if netspend didn't send its customers here to post all the positive stuff... It's hooey! Thanks for writing about your experience!
I USE MY NETSPEND CARD ALL THE TIME AND I LOVE IT. NO BANK, NO OVERDRAFT FEES, NO RUDE BANK TELLERS, AND NO HOLDING MY MONEY. AS SOON AS I LOAD THE CARD THE MONEY IS AVAILABLE, UNLIKE MY BANK. I WILL GLADY PAY 5.00 PER MONTH TO HAVE THESE SERVICES AVAILABLE TO ME. GET OVER IT AND SHRED THE CARD IF YOU DONT WANT TO USE IT.
it's 2 years after this blog was posted not sure if anyone reads it anymore or not, but I wanted to add some insight as a customer since the year Netspend opened.
In the very beginning we used this card as a prepay, to keep our regular account separate from our online purchases. in 2006 I did experience 1 time of my card being blocked because of a possible fraudulent deposit, which WAS my fault as I didn't set up my pay pal the right way, I had to send a copy of my DL to them and I was up and going in an hour. 5 years later, netspend has really evolved, they offer regular banking services at a very low fee, 9.95 a month, with all the tools I need to budget my expenses and even start to develop a nice padding for my family. We use ACH, their keep the change program and money tracker to see what we are spending and where and on tight months we can cut the areas we are frivolous in. Netspend has REALLY helped MY family get on our feet.
When I first signed up I was in a slum lord rental, barely able to pay my bills, Now, I bought a home as a direct result of all the budgeting items they offer.
As for the solicitations, I have had other companies do the push card, before, so long as you don't deposit money and activate the card your fine...Activating a card with netspend is not just an auto line the first time you activate (at least now) It is with a representative just like at a bank. only on the phone. You must show your true identity as well. Don't know if it's because this post is old, but Netspend has really grown up over the years and as a 8 year customer I can say I am satisfied.
I called Netspend today and told them I wanted to cancel the d@mn account since I didn't ask for it in the first place. "Alex" said I could just cut up the card. I never once gave the card number out or any personal info, including my name. I then promptly told "Alex" he could relay to his bosses they were a bunch of a$$hole$ for this kind of business tactic. AVOID NETSPEND!
LMAO, Visa and Captial One and Citi (group) send out the exact same cards to EVERYBODY, and you guys want to bash the ( USED to be the only card service with barely ANY fees... lmao, I feel ya that you didn't sign up for it... but did you sign up for that Visa CREDIT CARD, that I'm sure you, like us all, get damn near twice a week..... THINK before you act strictly off of emotion... I say this just because I've been a netspend customer *voluntarily* for over 5 years.. I had an overdrawn balance and stopped using the card.. then I needed it for an engine purchase on eBay ( Banks wouldn't talk to me because of a 100 dollar mishap 3 years prior to that.. which was paid promptly YET still could not get a bank account until I started my business...) even after 3 years of a negative balance I WAS NOT CHARGED A DIME THE WHOLE TIME... so that's my story, hope it brings a little clarification.. you receiving that card is nothing more than marketing strategy that has been used by companies since before we were even born. If advertising in your face is a bothersome... leave America... cuz that's how we make our money
Got the same thing today in the mail for both my husband and myself. I called NetSpend and they wanted the card numbers so they could take us off their mail list. Refused to give the numbers because I didn't want an 'accidental' activation issue. So... cutting them up and filing a complaint with the attorney general's office in Texas.
I want to thank you for writing this article. I just received the same card and I did not apply for it. I tried calling the company and I could not talk to anyone unless I activated my card. It just did not feel right. You helped me with my decision to put the card through my shredder and spead the word about this company. I am going to file a complaint right now!!!
Wow! This is quite an extensive discussion covering literally YEARS! Anyway, thanks for an explanation of how it works. The VERY fine print on the card I got DOES detail all of the charges discussed here (I literally had to get out my madnifying glass to read it.)
I'm not getting into the whether it is good or bad argument, but I DID want to point out that the card I received today (unsolicited of course) was in a name I have not used in well over 10 years or for that matter, ever! It's a combination of my birth first name which changed upon my first marriage (Napoleonic code... you all in the south will understand) and my first married surname which changed 11 years ago when I got remarried. So I never actually had the name shown on the card. But it came to my current address where I did not live when my name was even somewhat close to that. Makes you wonder where they got their information.
I'm surprised they have not been investigated for possibly aiding terrorism or drug trafficing with it being so easy to obtain cards in names other than your own (I read an earlier post that said they got one in their Pet's name?!), and easily transferring money to another card in a ficticious name (The table actually shows there is no fee for that!). Has anyone checked their credit report to see if this card shows up on it? If it does, then what does destroying it (or using it) do to your credit score?
I just received a Netspend card in my name yesterday, and after a quick search on Google, and from your article, I have concluded that this is a spam. I'm not activating this and I surely will not be using NetSpend or "...The Bancorp Bank, Inter National Bank, and MetaBank™..."
I recently signed up for a prepaid phone card through Straight Talk, and this NetSpend is a prepaid debit card so I have a pretty strong feeling that Straight Talk was the one that shared my information with NetSpend.
I have been using a Netspend visa for about 2 years now and I have had no problems whatsoever. My paycheck is deposited into my account and I can use the card to pay for whatever I need, or I can withdraw the money from an ATM. The fees are about average, so no complaints there. I can check my balance online or via text message for free. Even a call to the 800 number to check my balance is free. I can deposit cash at many locations, such as Walmart or and Western Union. Since you are provided a routing number and account number for direct deposit, I use my Netspend account to pay for auction through eBay's Paypal. I can also pay bills online that would only take checking account information and not credit/debit cards, like my electricity bill.
This card is an excellent alternative to a checking account for people like me who have direct deposit and can't get a regular checking account for whatever reason. I understand your frustration at receiving the card unsolicited, but sometimes a companies attempt at advertising isn't always what we would consider ethical. That doesn't make the company bad or malicious. The card they send is worthless and only a means of advertisement by the company. They have no personal information other than your name and address which thousands of other companies already have. You don't provide them any other information until you agree to their terms. I know identity theft is a real thing and a big concern this day and age, but lets get some facts before you panic about an advertisement.
I also received an unsolicited Netspend card. This is the first time I ever received an official looking credit card requesting activation when I have not applied for the card or have an existing card that was expiring. In my opinion, this is highly deceptive. It should be reported to federal agencies.
Are you serious? Every credit card lender does this kind of crap, not just netspend.
My concern is, if you've never used a NetSpend card, how do you know it's not a good way to go? Another thing is, it's a prepaid card. This means you have to put money on the card first, before you can even use it. As long as there isn't any money o it, no one can use it.
I was so pissed off when I received this card! This is the first google search result, and thank you Xin Lu for posting it. I just spent some time on the phone with them, which was an act of congress without activating the card. Every phone step you have to activate your card, and no response leads to disconnect. Press 1 if you do not know your card number, but then you have to put in the card number, but it doesn't activate it, it just goes to a customer service representative. I was able to find out that "cheetah" was the company that provided NetSpend with my personal information. Who the heck is Cheetah??? I will be reporting this as the first comment suggested (the url is wrong, so go to that url but change the last cfm to com). I'm still so pissed off because I have excellent credit. I will be pulling my free annual credit report. They assured me that unless I activate the card nothing goes on my credit. They claim they don't have my social security number. I'm sure everything they told me is a lie!
I love all this drama about netspend when they are probably the best company there is for getting transactions done via VISA without being raped by banks. You can't overdraft with this card, its limit is set by the amount of money you load into it, and the fees are so cheap its ridiculous to even bother with a bank. I think your all a bunch of women who want to be part of the group mind and gaggle about your awful experience with receiving a card in the mail. Its so horrible how the card came, and you had to spend 2 seconds destroying it. With netspend I don't get charged 36 dollars and they don't ever bounce a single transaction.
Now go back to watching Alex Jones and Fox News and stop hating on a company trying to help you out.
All of the positive comments about netspend are obviously employees or owners of netspend. Who goes around looking for negative posts about a company so you can share your positive experience and how much you love the company. Give us a break. This company is a fraud and scamming people who cannot get a real credit card. And wake up people, a card like this is not a good idea. And there is no legit credit card company who is going to hold you accountable for fraud charges or stolen credit card info. It is safe to use your real visa or mastercard on the internet, much safer than this netspend crap. If you get screwed buying something online do you really think netspend is going to protect you and get your money back??? If you think netspend is a good company and are happy to see a credit show up at your house you never asked for then you deserve to lose your shirt to this rip off service.
I've been a client of netspend since 2006 and maybe twice had a very resoluble issue. You don't have to pay the "check your balance fee" you can check it free online or get their text service that comes right to your cell. I always get my paycheck a day early with this card and NEVER have to worry about shady bank practices where you pay for something, the bank withdrawals the money then puts it back in your account hoping your account will get low enough so that they can take the money again, sometimes Months later and charge you fees. There are no hidden fees with netspend. You know exactly what your getting when you sign up. I applied for the card and so far( knock on wood) have been very happy with it.