To Pay or not To Pay? Dilema

[DELBOY]

Hi,
Like many others I am plagued with the dreaded Platte Bill. I have to admit that I visited the ‘GETFILMSNOW’ site, (am a sucker for a FREEBIE) after being directed there from another site. Unfortunately, I did go through the registration procedure (can’t remember how many steps)but did not agree to any specific Fees. I did not read/view any instructions which stated that a fee paying service would automatically continue after a ‘Free Trial ‘ period. Additionally, I did nor receive or view any terms which stated that the Trial period was for 3 days only. I did attempt to view a few films during the period, but the quality of the films was terrible, all in a stop/start sequence. I only ceased my membership after receiving an e mail notifying that the Trial period had expired.
I would like to point out that I have never viewed or read any instructions which clearly state the length of the ‘FREE TRIAL PERIOD’, and have only been able to view page 1 of their Full Terms and Conditions.
I have e mailed Platte Customer Services and have telephoned the Program Removal Team. They stated that it was not their fault, but MY OWN FAULT that I could not view their terms etc. I argued that how was I to know how many pages of Terms and Conditions should be available for viewing? When viewing the Subscription Utility Bill, by pressing the Control, Alt and Zero keys I always get just a blank form. There are no current, nor any canceled subscriptions shown. Unfortunately, I am unable to print that form.
I have now received a written letter requesting payment of the £29.99 Subscription fee within 14 days, otherwise legal proceedings will be initiated.
HELP, should I pay at this stage, or continue the fight.

Many thanks,
DelBoy

[ForumFriend]

To date, Delboy, we are unaware of anyone receiving more than threats of legal action (including supposedly 'presubmission' forms downloaded from the Small Claims Court).

The consensus appears to be that Platte would not want their business model to be scrutinised by the Courts.  Of course, this is only an opinion at this stage, but there are forum members who received letters like yours many months ago and against whom no further action has been taken.

It would be helpful if you were to put in a complaint to your local Trading Standards office about your concerns as such complaints help to build a picture of the problem for consumers.