Previously, we reported on potentially deceptive behavior by United Marketing Group in connection with clandestine Internet and telemarketing “sales” to consumers following a purchase from an otherwise legitimate retailer. However, it appears that United Marketing Group may have teamed up with Discover to deceptively charge small businesses for unwanted “Merchant Technical Solutions.”
A number of small businesses have reported mysterious charges for $49.95 appearing on their Discover Card statements that are cryptically described as “UMG*MERCHANTTECHSOLUT.” It turns out that these and other similarly ambiguous charges are for programs run by United Marketing Group; apparently, United Marketing Group and Discover have become “business partners” in connection with these offerings, and it appears that United Marketing Group and Discover may be working in concert to deceive businesses into “enrolling” in these programs without their knowledge or authorization.
Many small businesses report receiving a call from United Marketing Group (although the callers sometimes identify themselves as being associated with Discover) informing them that they will be sending technical information and requesting an address verification. These calls are often not made to the business owner; the caller states that he or she understands that the person answering the phone is not authorized to make purchases. Nonetheless, charges begin appearing on the businesses’ Discover account. Others report that United Marketing Group “slams” their phone bills with unauthorized charges for these services.
If you have been charged by Discover or United Marketing Group for services you did not want or authorize, please contact us to discuss your legal options.