netSpend: The Story of the Visa Debit Card We Did Not Apply For

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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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Guest's picture
David

I've had a net spend card for some time now. I got it through a local grocery store here in town. I can reload the card for free, pay bills online for free, use it when I want and how I want as a credit card for free. The only thing I pay is a 7.95 monthly service charge. Compare that to a banks 14.95 monthly service charge and all the other fees a bank charges and I find that netspend is a great value for me. Any issues I had were resolved immediately and they were few. I am very happy with my card.

Guest's picture
Cristina

I received a card yesterday. As someone who is very guarded with her credit, I was worried my information was submitted to an unauthorized company as a result of my recent home purchase.

After reading these comments, I realize it was a solitication request and my personal information was not compromised. However, it still rubbed me the wrong way. I simply chose to permanently opt out of preapproved/prescreened requests by completing the online form located at https://www.optoutprescreen.com. If choosing to permanently remove yourself from lists, you must also submit a signed copy of the form via snail mail.

Guest's picture
Guest

the bank backing this card is Metadata out of SD. Federal reserve needs this institution for a complaint, not the netwspend info.

If one is to file a comlpaint against the type of marketing they are doing, contact bb.org. This will put a complaint on file against the company.

I personally do not have an issue sending the card, my issue is that nowhere in the documentation does it state who provided the info to Netspend and this is a solicitation card (just like the checks). that is the info that needs to be in the solicitation letter.

Guest's picture
Guest

I just received this card in the mail. I had not idea as to how this company received my information. I am on my way to to becoming free of debt. Thus, I do not not need or desire such a card. I feel violated to have received an actual card asking for activation as if I had applied. I will never activate or think about activating this card. The deception in which financial institutions practice should be illegal.

Guest's picture
Mary

I hope someone can read this as a warning. NetSpend has a lot more issues than just the random mailing (I'm 19 years of age and received one yesterday).

NetSpend is obviously more than just a nuisance. Their service is ridiculously awful with fees after fees, and you can't forget their crumby customer service. But, most of you here know this anyway.

This post is about comments DEFENDING the card. They are all eerily similar. Consistent writing style, mentioning of the same crap about what the company does in a similar fashion, etc.

Small companies coming online to populated posts isn't exactly unheard of and is, indeed, quite common. So please be weary of those "defending" the card. Look for writings that carry the style of an online infomercial to know what to ignore. And be aware, at times, they tend to be sneaky "and start typing lyk dis" to make it seem less fishy.

If you see it, don't believe it. It's too eerie these comments would magically appear when this posting became popular :]

And for those considering this card, there are alternatives (better ones too) that have been mentioned. It takes a simple trip to a cashier or department store for the better options :]

Happy spending everyone! And to the teenagers like me who somehow get mixed up in this, ask advice from your parents or do the research online yourself. Money is a scary world :[

Guest's picture
Guest

Thank you for the article. I have spent the last 3 days trying to figure out where this card came from. I was expecting a rebate from Staples and a refund from my insurance company so I was afraid to shred it. I contacted both and both said it was not from them and that they send checks not cards. I did try to talk to someone at netspend and could not get a human on the line. I was not able to speak with anyone and the process asked for personal information which I was not about to give out to something I did not ask for in the first place. I read your article and immediately shredded it. Thanks, your article gives me peace of mind. Oh by the way, I don't use credit cards they are all just a scam!!

Guest's picture
DiscworldFan

Wow, some of these stories are horrible.

However, I have been a Netspend customer since 2008(ish) and have never had any problems with the service other than when my number was stolen during the Playstation hacking incident.

Fortunately the thief only had access to $30 and once I emailed Netspend, my card was blocked and a new one sent to me within the week.

Otherwise, I use the card for regular bill payments and all of my online purchases.

I am thinking that the unsolicited cards are fakes. We know the Chinese are excellent at copying anything they get their hands on.....

Guest's picture
jim

This is disgusting. Its bad enough to get unsolicited phone calls...but an unsolicited debit card takes the cake! I have this card here in my hand, and wondered if anybody else received one? And now that I've found this website, it looks like there are a lot of us in the same boat. Who are these guys? What gives them the right to use these kind of sales tactics? I tried to call them to tell them I don't want it and to make sure I don't receive any monthly service charges on this thing. I called one toll-free number and one regular (long distance number, with no luck at either one. I receive the same recorded message at each one. And in order to get any "help" you must first enter your card number. To me, that sounds like the same thing you'd have to do to activate some cards. Which is what I DO NOT WANT TO DO. And as shifty as the deal is, I'm sure once its activated they'll at least try to get 1-month of service charge from me somehow. So I didn't do anything (yet). I'll look up a consumer protection number and call to see what they have to say about this on Monday. And I'll make another complaint at the www.federalreserveconsumerhelp.gov link posted below. This really stinks. What creeps.

Guest's picture
Guest

I have an account with netspend and they mispelled my name and i had loaded money onto the card and they actually put a hold on my account and i couldnt get my money out and finally after several attempts to activate my account i managed to get it activated and when i used the card they charged me over 10.00 in fees and they stopped my account once again and told me the only way i could get the remainder of my money was for them to send me a check through the mail but they didnt correct the spelling of my name therefore i had a check i couldnt use. on top of that they decided to charge me a 5 dollar and change fee for their mistake. I will never use netspend ever again and I will not recommend anyone to use this card. If you do decide to use it beware of all their fees and bad service.

Guest's picture
Guest

What sort of information did they want to activate card? I thought you could just send copy of your driver's license.

Guest's picture
JTM93

Ok i would just like to say i am 18 and i live in an area where a good job is hard to come by and where few good banks exist. and honestly even if the card is unsolicited it probably came through a legitimate way. IMHO a prepaid card while it does have fees when you compare those fees to say a Credit Cards 10% interest a month and possibly a monthly membership fee a prepaid is very cheap. and i personally am looking at a prepaid debit card so my family can shop online as right now we are limited to what we can find in a store.

Guest's picture
Guest

I am so grateful to net spend for the card that I use. I have direct deposit with this card. It would not be possible without them. Every time I tried to have a bank account I was totally frustrated with their policies. If I went .01 over I got charged an overdraft fee. When you make a purchase with this card there are less fees than a regular bank. They do not force overdraft protection on people who cannot afford to make a mistake! This corporation has never let me down. They kept my account open with no money in it, until I could make a deposit. I have saved so much money, time and aggravation by using them instead of banks that make mistakes and don't correct them. Apparently you have good credit and plenty of money to spend. Net spend has enabled me to do so many things I could not have done otherwise. Regular banks are the scam and one of them is giving your information away...and NOT just to net spend.

Guest's picture
Jennifer T

Oh wow! They did the same thing to me! While nobody signed me up for theirs, I did discover some other discrepancies on my credit because of this tomfoolery.

Guest's picture
Chelsea

I stumbled upon this blog by accident but thought I'd weigh in on the conversation. I've been a Netspend customer for about 3 and 1/2 years and I've haven't had a problem. I use it to pay my bills and to shop online and I love it. I feel this card is a good option for me, I'm a single mom that can't afford to continue getting ripped off by banks with their teller and overdrafts fees, nor do I have the money for them to just take and claim to be theirs. I did have Bank of America and it was a nightmare. I wrote my landlord a check for my rent, one check, and BOA withdrew the amount on the check twice. When I took my back statement up to the bank and showed the bank manager my statement with the same check number deducted twice from my account she told me that I was mistaken, that they did not do that, even though it was right there in black and white. I had to call BOA customer service and finally they credited me the money they wrongfully took from my account but not before my check to the electric company bounced. Now I am on the list of 'do not accept checks from this person' at the electric company for something that was BOA's fault. Bank of America has just settled a class action lawsuit for their tactics in ripping people off so hopefully they will change their practices. I am sorry you all had problems but for me Netspend is a good thing, without it I don't know what I'd do. These days you have to have a card of some sort for bills and for the working class and the working poor this is one of the only options available.

Guest's picture
Guest

Ditto to what you and everyone else on this forum has said. Receiving this card in the mail was an immediate red flag for my wife and I, since we did not apply for it. It come across as an identity theft. Some one at netspend needs to take a good look at their marketing practices because this is the really disturbing. I hope they change their ways and fire whoever thought of this idea.

Thanks for posting this information. I will be filing a complaint.

Guest's picture
Guest

Thank you so much for writing about your experience!! I received a NetSpend Master Card in the mail and I reacted the same way. I initially thought that somebody had filled out a credit card application with my information. I was really scared! I'm relieved after reading this article. This company is disgusting. If this piece of mail ends up going to somebody else with your name on it, who knows what could happen!!

Guest's picture
Guest

I received a debit card from mygreendot.com, which I did not ask for. In order to find out about it, I called the number to activate. In order to activate they asked for my date of birth and my Social Security number. At once I knew that is a scam, they are trying to get all my personal information. I hung up and will destroy the card. Someone needs to put a stop to this.

Guest's picture
Guest

Just got one of these in the mail. Thought exactly same as author. Remember the post office uses credit card info to verify change of address to forward mail. So this could lead to id theft if intercepted. Shady tactic for a rip off program.

Guest's picture
Guest

Sigh... None of you even looked at the netspend site, did you? Well this supplied my day with a nice laugh. Thanks.

Guest's picture
Guest

I haven't used NetSpend and won't be using it, but from what I am reading, Netspend is simply a checking account with a slightly different look. It seems like some here might be confused, so I thought I would comment on the similarities and disadvantages that I see regarding a NetSpend card compared to a checking account.

Similarities:

1. $10/month for the card - This is the same as an account fee than many banks have with their account. Many times you can get a checking account with no fee.

2. Only spend the money that you have loaded onto the account - This is the concept of a debit card. While a credit card is debt, a debit card is spending the money you have in your checking account, just like the NetSpend card.

3. No overdraft fees - Unless they are letting customers continue to spend money after their account goes negative (essentially providing free credit), then I assume a NetSpend card stops working after going negative. Most checking accounts have the option of Overdraft protection, which will also block the account from spending too much.

Disadvantages:

1. ATM Withdrawals - $2.95 charged by NetSpend plus the ATM fees (often $2 or $3 for each transaction where I live). So regardless of how much you withdraw (even if it's only $20), you are likely going to pay $5-$6 for your money. A bank usually has it's own ATMs that often charge you nothing for using them, and some banks (such as my own) reimburse customers for all ATM charges, regardless of what company owns the ATM.

2. No Branches and cash/check deposit fees - Since there are no bank branches, they charge a fee when you deposit cash or checks. Banks don't charge a fee for depositing cash or checks. Bank branches also allow you to talk to meet with a representative in person if you need help. Calling a customer service line is your only option with NetSpend.

3. Other fees - Fees for checking your balance by phone or having no account activity don't exist for most bank accounts. NetSpend charges $.50 for a balance inquiry and $5.95/month for "account maintenance" if you don't use the card for 90 days.

Many people don't have the option for a checking account. While a checking account is likely less expensive (as long as you shop around to find a good account with overdraft protection and low or no fees), a NetSpend card can be a good option for someone that can't get a good checking account.

Guest's picture
Qwanna

I see no problem with this, If you do not want the card Don't use it! It is just as simple as that. If you do not wish to use the card do not activate it. Yes when you call to check your balance Netspend charges 50cents, however if you go on-line its free. There are some ups & downs, like everything eles in this world. It amaze me how people find the silliest things to talk about, other than whats really important. NetSpend do not force people to use the card.I don't see how they can do that you either do or you don't. WoW Smh......Come on!

Guest's picture
linda davis

I like the over draft opion. I need help be twin pay dearest so it helps me get by. So thanks a lot netspend . For getting me by.

Guest's picture
Guest

My husband and I both have Account Now accounts and an unsolicited Net Spend card was sent to me a couple of months ago. I haven't activated it as yet because I'm still using my Account Now card. They sent me the card because they are one of Account Now's affiliates. My daughter uses Net Spend and is very happy with it as well.
My husband just opened a Net Spend account a few months ago and hasn't had a problem at all. I will be activating my card soon also. Yes, they do charge a little bit for service calls etc..but we haven't spent any money because we haven't had to speak with anyone in customer service to complain about anything and we check our balances ONLINE for FREE. We have checked their fees and they are WAY LESS than what the banks charge. I think having a bank account is a rip off...their fees are outrageous. Our payroll checks are deposited directly into the debit card accounts and the money is there for us right away to use with no hassle.
And like I said before, check your balance online for free and only use the phone if you have a question or complaint and need to speak to a rep. It's a no-brainer as far as I'm concerned.

Guest's picture
Guest

Oh and one more thing...If you don't want to spend withdrawal fees at the ATM..then get cash back on a purchase when you go to the store. Supermarkets usually will allow you to take out up to $200 cash at a time. So go buy a piece of candy for a dollar and take out $200. I haven't spent a dime on withdrawals as yet, because I don't use ATMs
See?? ANOTHER NO BRAINER!!!!

Guest's picture
hollyhill

well I am quite happy with Net Spend. They are quick to resolve disputed charges and they did not mail me a card. although Rush has so has account now who is account now? for goodness sake they sent seven year old daughter one. shame....

Guest's picture
Guest

It is just a way of advertising. The card is useless unless you activate it. The fees are more reasonable than that of many banks, if you have credit issues like I do. It is a sort of shocking approach, to just send someone a card with their name on it out of the blue, but it is fairly harmless. I don't like the fact that they charge you to speak with costumer service, but I don't like the fact that Microsoft does it either. They can be reached on their website for free. Chopping up the card and asking them to sop sending you mail could solve this problem.

Guest's picture
Guest

I love my net spend card! It's free to check my balance online and only 2.00 to load! It costs me NOTHING to use. I get pre-paid cards sent to me all the time. No big deal, I just throw them out because their fees ARE ridiculous. I've used net spend for five years and have NEVER had a problem with my money being loaded or used. I use my card online to pay bills and purchase merchandise. I swipe my net spend card everywhere they accept Master Card. I love it!!

Guest's picture
e-consumer

if receiving an unsolicited debit card with ur name on it offends u so much, its ur own fault that u received it. netspend can't GET your information unless YOU GAVE IT OUT URSELF to one of its affiliates such as u applied for something on junk mail like publishers clearing house, or u filled out one of those "WIN THIS CAR SWEEPSTAKES!" cards at the grocery store or you bought something or got something for free online and didn't read the fine print that ur information would be given out or sold to its affiliates. that's how netspend got your information so don't blame them; that's how they market just like any other company would. all they have is your name and no account unless you activate it.

netspend is a legitimate company and its NOT ONLY for underbanked people. its also good for people who have had nightmares with conventional banks as i have. i have a regular checking and savings accounts at HSBC bank however i only use those accounts to pay bills and accrue savings. it made me real uncomfortable to use my checking account for both bills and leisure spending so i opened another checking account through HSBC. however one day i bought a netflix subscription which was supposed to be free for a 30 day trial but they charged me for the first month by mistake so it withdrew more than what i had in my checking account. HSBC charged me $35 insufficient funds fee. i called the bank up and i told them it was suppose to be a free trial but i also told them i didn't put overdraft protection intentionally on this account so if charges try to come through without me knowing and there's nothing in the account, it couldn't overdraw it. well, to my surprise, HSBC told me that ONLY is applicable to face-to-face, swiped, purchases, not anything you buy online or bill payments. so having no overdraft protection will serve me no good because i hardly ever buy anything in a store unless its groceries; i'm a pure online shopper. Netflix refunded me the accidental charge and luckily HSBC refunded me the NSF fee as a one-time courtesy but that made me really paranoid. the bad thing about HSBC is that although they have online banking, they do not have account status texting nor when i view my account online, i cannot see any pending purchases, only purchases that have posted to my account. so HSBC pretty much sucks when it comes to real time banking. when i buy things i dont see them on my account until 2-3 business days later which is a huge problem because i have to keep a check register old-timey style so i dont lose track of purchases. god forbid if i forget to document a transaction.

i had never heard of a pre-paid debit card prior (other than unreloadable disposable gift cards that i got every year for christmas), i thought debit cards were only issued from banks, so i would use my checking account debit card very very carefully (more like "paranoidly") after the whole netflix fiasco. i found out about netspend through a co-worker of mine because she said she gets her paycheck 3 days earlier than i was getting through my bank. i asked her how was that? and she told me through her netspend card. so i looked into it and thought this is the answer to my prayers and signed up for one online.

i've now had netspend 2.5 months with a portion of my direct deposit going into it every month and i love it. i now use it for my leisure spending without feeling paranoid. since i do alot of online shopping, i was elated to find that i can even create a "virtual" card number that i can use so if someone happens to steal my card number, i can deactivate the virtual card number without having to terminate my whole account. it keeps my true card number safe from hackers as long as i dont give out my real card number, which i dont.

while there is a monthly fee of $5 for the kind of netspend account i signed up for, u do get cash back on purchases which is paid monthly as well. so if u can get $5 in cash back to offset the monthly fee, then ur essentially paying nothing for the card. in addition, they have an extremely high yield savings account of 5% APY, which is also FDIC insured, that i've turned to using over my HSBC online savings account which has .8%; there is no minimum or maximum balance that u can save on the savings account so the sky's the limit and the 5% APY has been that amount for about 5 years now; its not promotional. even if u have no desire to use the card because of the monthly fees, u can still just only use it for the savings and pay nothing.

i use netspend to protect my official bank account with HSBC so i dont have to worry about hackers gaining access to my life's spending or funds being accidently withdrawn from my account like my netflix ordeal. i'm also not so paranoid about spending because with netspend i have text alerts and can see my real time transactions unlike with my bank. i've never had any problems with deposits to the card and even though u do have to pay to call, i've had no reason to call them yet so i use their web site exclusively and usually get an answer within 24 - 48 hours. one time i sent an email i got an answer in only a few hours and on two occasions, i sent emails and THEY called me back themselves.

there's lots of perks with having the netspend card, and its certainly NOT only for the underbanked, so don't knock it before u try it. maybe you might not use it, but dont go around telling people to run away, claiming its some kind of scam when its not. if receiving a card with ur name on it freaks u out, then how about not giving our your personal info in the first place because thats clearly what u/your husband did, or netspend wouldn't have even known of your existence.

Guest's picture
Yaima

It is incredible! But This article describes the same situation that we got at home one month ago. Even I got angry with my husband because I though that he gave his information to somebody. How is possible that this company has gotten his information?

Guest's picture
e-consumer

simple. he DID give out his information to someone whether he remembers it or not. Netspend can't pull ur info out of a hat; thats the only way Netspend can get it.

ironically, after reading this article, jus a few days ago, i too just received the random Netspend card i didnt ask for, in the mail with my name on it, albeit it was spelled wrong, even tho i already had one. turns out last month when i went to a check cashing store a few weeks earlier, they had signed me up for a netspend card without me knowing. i know it was them because the lady had spelled my name wrong on the card i filled out to cash my check but since it was a one time check cashing thing, i didnt bother to tell her she spelled my name wrong.

so if u've gone to a check cashing store then thats one of the ways u may get a netspend card as well.

Guest's picture
Tracie

The "guest" with the pink emblem must be an employee as I have seen post after post calling people "whiny babies" over and over again and with poor english at that. This is a serious money to some people. Your name calling is insulting and unwarranted. If someone is concerned (even more so than you are) about their credit worthiness due to CRIMINAL INTENT from a person OR COMPANY..then they have very right to sound off and not be called names. After all there are a few I could choose for you, "whiny baby" person, but I'd like to think I'm above that reproach. Your words speak volumes or in your case, lack of substance for name calling is always used when there is no longer a case for a legitimate debate. FAIL!

Guest's picture
Guest

We LOVE Netspend and have had an account with them for four years. It has been a lifesaver for us. We have questionable credit and this was the only way to be able to pay for things on line and not go into debt. I have never had any problems with them and they DO NOT over charge. I believe that you are being OVERCHARGED by your bank and credit card companies. I pay $5 a month to use their service. How much are you being charged to use you checking, savings, and credit cards every month... and I am not going into debt. If the money is not on there... I can't buy it.

Guest's picture
Joel

We also received an unsolicited netspend card. When we called in to ask about it, the representative told us we had been referred by a friend. We asked who the friend was and he wouldn't tell us, claiming they are required to keep their customers' information confidential. Of course, we didn't activate the card!

Guest's picture
Guest

Someone was able to close my account, not even being on the account. customer service said anyone can close an account if they know your information

Guest's picture
E-CONSUMER

well ... thats the same with anything if someone knows your information -_-
not exclusive to netspend accounts

Guest's picture
Guest

I received a netSpend "credit" card also. I was puzzled by the fact that it looked like a legit credit card but we did not apply for it. How can they do this? After reading further it seemed like a scam to get monthly checks like your social security checks, salary checks etc. directly deposited with them. Which raised questions because we only direct deposit one check. Can they find out this private information or are they guessing by your age? I did some research online only to find that it is like a prepaid debit card with fees not a credit card as I thought at first impression. So if you receive one of these in the mail, my suggestion is, that you do your research thoroughly before you activate a card that may not be what you think it is.

Guest's picture
Guest

I got that card today and have the same feeling....

Guest's picture
Guest

I have used a Netspend card for years without any setbacks or dissappointments,their fee's are told up front and are no more rediculous than a banking institution(i.e.-having to pay a fee to cash 1 of their own checks recieved from someone with an account there) or credit card company,its all in what you personally manage.

Guest's picture
tRISH

I received one today in my 8 year old sons name.... He never signed up for one either.. But they don't answer calls it seems nor can I get a fax out...

Guest's picture
Guest

I had a bad experience with NetSpend I went into Usa Checks Cashed in San Bernardino,Ca I thought they would have a Westren Union there but they didn't and thinking to save $12.50 I purchased prepaid for the $14.95 these are start up fees that the women started to tell me about only after.While I was there they had trouble loading the payment onto the card and I cancelled it because I felt that since the rep on the phone for Net Spend didn't know what he was doing my $400.00 may not get refunded but as I asked for a refund the lady said I would have to do it in the mail then changed her mind did a partial refund I did get $400.00 back plus the $8.00 but I lost $6.98 because in order for her to do the refund it's considered a transaction so I had to pay $2.00 for fee to use and I had to keep the card so there went the rest of that.I was lucky to get out of there with the rest of my money and just lose $6.98 let me tell you Westren Unions $12.50 didn't sound soo bad at all from now on.Beware NetSpend seems like a scam with added fees here and there to use it.

Guest's picture
Pamela

I just received a NetSpend Visa card in the mail, along with a "myfreerxcard". I am disturbed as I nor my husband would ever apply for a card such as this. It is going through the shredder right now. I tried to call the number, but the automated "Sally" kept saying you had to activate the account first before yiu could speak to a customer service rep. What does that tell you right there. I am just flat out disturbed that the world is so full of scams such as this. I will report this to the AttorneybGeneral of Washington State, and I will also be writinv netSpend and letting them know.

Guest's picture
the hypno toad

how can this be considered a scam? they are straight forward & unambiguous about what the card is. until you activate it & deposit money in the card (which is actually a bank account) it is nothing but a piece of plastic with your name on it...worthless to you or anyone else. I'm sure the AG in Washington state has better things to do than be bothered with your paranoid over reaction.

Guest's picture
Guest

I've had a Netspend card for years now... no problems yet. It works better than a bank issued debit in that there is no personal info attached to it, and theives can only steal what's loaded (which hasn't happened as of yet)... so it's actually safer online. So their blanket-marketing awakens the conspiracy theorist in you - so be it. When birds land on your lawn are they then trespassers that need punished as well? Wow......

Guest's picture
Guest

I got a netspend card because they promised you would get your social security 5 days earlier then you do with your bank. What a mistake I made. This card is a rip off! They have upped their fees several times in a couple of years. The give different "priviledges" depending on where you got your card, ie: lower fees, cash advances, etc.

Starting 3 months ago my direct deposits started coming later and later. I got an email last week telling me my money would be n my acct today 4/30. No money. Others were posting on facebook and twitter they called netspend and were give so many different stories it would have filled a novel.

DO NOT USE THIS CARD. REPORT THEM.

Guest's picture
Guest

I just got one at my address, but it wasn't for us. When I called to say that the other party would not be receiving their card, they were confused and couldn't seem to figure out what I was asking. So I'm shredding the card.

Guest's picture
Unclouded

I've used Netspend for several years of online purchasing and had no problems whatever. I requested the card, though.
I did receive an unsolicited Western Union debit card several years ago.
Terms allowed Western Union branch managers access to card account records, including purchases, so I shredded it unused.

Guest's picture
Korrina

I recieved a prepaid Netspend debit card in the mail too; that I didn't apply for. And I don't know how they get your info. It's a little odd and scary. I'm going to cut mine up. If you read all of the paper work that comes with it; it will tell you that you get carged $1.00 every time you use the card as credit. And $2.00 every time you use it as debit. That's a scam. I alredy have a bank and bank card. And they don't caharge those fees like Netspend does. Sincerely, Korrina

Guest's picture
Guest

Anyone who is reading these comments, is using the Netspend debit card and doesn't understand why some people are concerned about this service, please go to this page and read some of the problems other Netspend users are experiencing. You may have been using your card, so far, with no difficulty but that is no guarantee that you will not have a problem in the future. There are legitimate concerns with this company. Every company is in business to earn a profit and this one seems to be accumulating a large number of complaints. Even bad, unscrupulous companies have some customer's who are happy with their services. This does not prove that they are completely legitimate in all of their business practices. It should be possible to offer this type of service to those who wish to make use of it, for whatever reason, without causing the difficulties some of the customers of Netspend are encountering.
Please don't criticize the legitimate concerns of others because you have never experienced any difficulties with Netspend's services yourself. Hopefully, you won't ever have the troubles the people on this page are reporting. Please read this in order to be informed of what could happen to you as a Netspend customer.
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/credit_cards/netspend.html

I would also like to encourage all Americans to stop criticizing America and Americans. We as a Country and as Citizen's have been a source of much good in the world over our short history. We have also made mistakes. Please don't let those mistakes outweigh the good we have done. We can continue to do good in the world with the fabulous wealth and resources we have collectively, and with the amazing system of Government we have inherited. Please leave out the stereotypes such a "lazy Americans" etc. Let's stop putting ourselves and our fellow Americans down. That won't assist us in continuing to share the benefits of our incredible inheritance of Freedom, for the good and advancement of the interests all the people of the world. We are truly blessed. Let us be thankful and remember the good we have been able to do, in order to do even more good. Please remember, there is some good in every one of us. Thank you for allowing me to express my views.

Guest's picture
Cherish

I am reading some of these commits and its crazy how stupid some people are. First of all I have been a netspend customer for 5 years and I have been a very happy customer. Those debit cards are not fake or a scam. I also have a saving account with netspend. I pay bills and have my pay check deposited. I like netspend better than my wells fargo account. Those of you who are tallking bad about the company need to research it in full. If you get a card from them just cut it up and that is it.

Guest's picture
Guest

I have used Netspend for several years now and it is great. I have never had any problems and even used it overseas. You have to actually have your personal info to activate it. It may come with your name on it but that doesn't mean anyone can just load it and tarnish your name. You still have to set up the account. Also, it is not a credit card. There is no way for anyone to ruin your credit or steal from you with this card because it is PREPAID. you don't apply for the card. You buy one and then set up your account and they send you a new card with your name and exp date after you set up your account. No one is stealing anyone's identity.

Guest's picture
Guest

Hi well I don't get why they would send a card to someone that didn't apply for 1, but I've had a netspend card for a year and for me its great mainly because I can't get a credit card as they all say I have insufficient credit history. Lol:-D how do they expect me to have credit history if I can't get credit? I never understood that! Anyway for me and ppl like me prepaid cards are great for online purchases and things of that nature but yes .50¢ everytime u call is a bit ridiculous that's y they offer online service free but sometimes u do need a person to talk to and that's crazy

Guest's picture
Guest

It is now 2012 and they are still sending out these cards. I received one in the mail today except it is a Master Card but still from the same company Netspend. I tried to call them to let them Know I didn't request this card and they will not talk to you unless you activate it. DON'T FALL FOR IT.

Guest's picture
Guest

I have 2 netspend accounts (mc & visa) & have for many years and found them very useful and a very secure way to make transactions and am very pleased with the excellent service provided for a rather small fee. You load only the $ you want to use & the transaction is instant and completely isolated from your other accounts. The card can't be activated without verifiable info to prove your idendity and is a very secure and instant way to transact $ online & via wire transfer without involving your larger & more vulnerable accounts. The website is very intuitive & user friendly and makes it quite simple to use the card for a variety of services whenever you dont want to provide access to your bank accounts or lines of credit & well worth the small fees involed. I am a very pleased long term netspend customer.

Guest's picture
Guest

How about getting something from NetSpend addressed to a person who doesn't even live here.

Guest's picture
Guest

...it's simple; If you don not want the service
1) don't activate it. 2) don't add money 3) don't buy anything with it 4) shred it

Guest's picture
Guest

My husband and I both use the netspend cards...... They are wonderful, and make direct deposit, shopping, paying bills, and ordering things online so much easier, as well as faster!
You people that for some reason think that receiving an inactive card with your name on it, (bought by a corporation from another, which they almost ALL do), is the same as having you bank account stolen, are insane....... You people with your high and mighty
"platinum credit cards", should get off of your high horse, and quit complaining to the extent it makes it hard for the rest of us to get something as simple as a debit card.....
Get over your selves, life will go on, throw the card away, or not, who cares, no one, seriously, no one

Guest's picture
Guest

I have to agree with the last post...I LOVE LOVE LOVE Netspend. I have had several credit, debit, and a few pre-paid debit cards. Because I made some bad judgement mistakes with my checking account as a younger person, the only bank account I could obtain is a savings account, with a atm card without a Visa/MasterCard logo. This made it difficult to do many of the things I want. NOW, I get direct deposit weekly on my Netspend, and am literally AMAZED at how unbelievably awesome netspend has been for my needs. I pay $5 per month for unlimited FREE card transactions, and they even allow me to over-draft $85 per week if I need it for a $15 charge. If I use that more than 3 times in 1 month, they do not charge for over-draft. They have paid me $20 and another person whom I referred IMMEDIATELY in both of our accounts...they even accidentally paid me $40 for referring my wife, and did not take the extra $20 they over-paid! THEY ARE AWESOME...BEST PRE-PAID ACCOUNT, with features on their website, as a Premier Customer which I never would imagine...like $1 to send a money order online for a bill??? Those go out in the mail the next day, and they pay for postage...my wife and I transfer money back and forth for free when we want to...my Dad loads my card for a loan for $2.50, and NOTHING is more immediate! They notify us immediately of any transactions via email and cell...THEY ROCK!!!! NOT ONLY WOULD I RECOMMEND THEM TO ANYONE, I WISH I COULD PERSONALLY REFER ALL OF YOU SO THAT WE COULD EACH GET A FREE $20!!! They have monthly offers, which reward me with cash % for using the card where I normally would...like Burger King, etc...ANYONE THINKING OF GETTING ONE...GET IT! We are awaiting a notification of over $1000 direct deposit tomorrow morning from my work...and we CAN'T WAIT for the e-mail to arrive!

Guest's picture
Guest

I think what those who like Netspend don't realize is that those who receive a card in the mail when one was not requested become worried about identity theft. I received one for my 12 year old son! I was extremely concerned that someone had stolen his identity. I appreciate finding this article and seeing that this is a marketing strategy. I'm glad that this service works for some people, but remember you requested your Netspend card, we did not. I have shredded the one issued to my son, for obvious reasons!

Guest's picture
Guest

i have had netspend for over four years now and i have never had any problems with them at all. I pay 10.00 dollars a month and i can use my card everyday fourty times a day and only be chrged 10.00 dollars a month. i too was sent there card and i activated it and loaded it up and was fine and any time i had a dispute on my account it was fixed and taking care of in 72 hours or less. guess thats just me i have never jhad any problems with them

Guest's picture
guest

Save yourself the headache an hassle by applying for any other card. I am suprised visa lets them get away with this. The whole staff an resolution dept. should burn in hell those thieves.They belong in jail if they want too steal from us. They will be hearing from my lawyer soon enough

Guest's picture

"Save yourself the headache an hassle by applying for any other card. I am suprised visa lets them get away with this. The whole staff an resolution dept. should burn in hell those thieves.They belong in jail if they want too steal from us. They will be hearing from my lawyer soon enough"

um is this a bot? visa let netspend get away with what; they didn't do anything. they stole what from us? if u are a person and not a bot, read the article before replying please because what u said makes zero sense. i've had my netspend account for several months now, never had a problem and the only thing they "steal" is $5 a month if u get their premium plan to use the card with unlimited swipes. which is completely a fair price seeing that regular banks now are charging monthly fees for checking accounts now and some as high as $8 a month. the only difference is with netspend, u wont get any checks, but who uses checks anymore anyways? the last time i wrote a check was like more than 5 years ago. no point in using checking accounts now if u have a debit card.

Guest's picture
Sergio

I received a MasterCard from Netspend. Now that I read your blog, I will cut it up in pieces.

Guest's picture
Jaclyn

My husband and i are current card holders of netspend. and i will say that that is very weird that they did that to you. they havent done that to us, or anyone else that we know of that uses netspend. this is the first i have heard of negative things regarding them. i have alot of pre paid cards, because of my mom stealing my identity when i was a child i use and apply for them to help raise and fix my credit. and in order for me and my husband to get a net spend card we had to go online to apply and even then i had to google pre paid cards.

i will say out of all of them i like netspend the best, as long as i dont have to deal with there customer service. and i never call to check my balance, i go online. plus i really like how for every person i refer that gets and uses the card one time, i not only receive $20, but they also receive $20. quick way for me to make some money. lol i am disabled and due to surgerys and what not that i have had and am about to have, my doctors wont allow me to get a job at this time. boy i cant wait to go back to school!!! well i hope that if you ever do apply for a pre paid car in the future you find the best ones that suit you. i also have an account now card, a green dot car, a buy right card, and a RUSH card. those are probably the only pre paid services i would ever tell any one else to try. i also enjoy the fact of netspend that if i dont use the card, i dont get charged. account now wont charge you a monthly fee if you dont use it either. but i am sorry for yours and your husband bad experince. i will say netspends customer service is the worst. but they do have some service reps that are good. well i wish you a good night. :-)

sorry for annoying you with my life story lol

Guest's picture
Guest

I recently received a card in the mail, however it was sent to a neighbor's address. It was directly from Netspend. My Postal deliverer noticed my name at another address, and because she felt a credit card through the envelope, she suspected a potential ID theft scheme. She handed it directly to me with her warning. I did a Google check and read the above post and figured that Netspend was soliciting me. However less than a week later I get a similar card from PayPal with whom I have an account to facilitate online purchases. Again, it was handed to me from my Postal deliverer. It too was addressed to a neighbor's house - a different address than before but a number off. I was given a similar warning. Because it was from PayPal, I had stronger suspicions and contacted PayPal using my online account page as opposed to the info that came with the card. I got bounced around to a few operators, but PayPal acknowledged that "they" sent the card. I confirmed that my address was correct on the PayPal account. I made it known that I did not order any direct deposit debit card of any sort through PayPal. I was apparently dealing with a couple of "outsourced" operators and I kept demanding to speak with security. Somehow, I ended up with an "insourced" operator who said he was with security and we seemed to understand each other better.. more like my needs were being met. I learned that this card was actually and Netspend card affiliated with PayPal. Nothing suspicious. But I learned also that the cards sent through the mail AND THIS IS IMPORTANT!! was a permament card to replace a temporary card purchased at a local convenient store. It was opened with a minor cash deposit in my name and the addresses listed on the envelopes when mailed to "me." Bottom line regarding my calls was that Netspend is aware of my name being used to open Netspend accounts. They closed the two accounts and suggested that I take defensive measures throught the credit bureaus. It might seem innocuous as to why an ID thieve would open a direct deposit debit card if they are the ones who have to put money into the account. When in fact, it's these accounts where they can divert monies from one of my accounts through direct deposit to a debit account in my name to which they have a temporary card. I don't believe that they cared about a permanent card. I am still going through an investigation to see where I'm vulnerable or have been ripped off. Hopefully, the scheme was caught in time. However I don't feel confident that some theft has been averted. I'll see...

Guest's picture
Guest

I received a NetSpend at my house with someone else's name on it. Called and left a message with their Law Enforcement Related issues #.

I will be giving this information and this blog link to my US Senator, at our weekly lunch.

Guest's picture
Guest

They are not a very good company. Their business practices need to be redone. They need to be regulated BIG time. They said, they have been in business for 10 years, but some how I do not believe them. They said, they sent me several emails requesting required documents. But I received only one email from them and it was sent 7 minutes after the hour long call was ended. Whoever they are or were, they need to regulated. The whole industry needs to be regulated. UGGGH.

Guest's picture
Leo

I recently received a debit card in the mail from netSpend. I have never received an unsolicited credit/debit card in the mail before, so I was shocked to receive this. At first, I thought my identity was stolen and that someone applied for this card on my behalf. It wasn't until finding this website that realize I am not the only one.

I'm sure many people have the same reaction of shock, imagining the possibility that their identity was stolen.

Other posts by other users claim that this mass-mailing by netSpend is legal.

Legal or not, shame on netSpend for continuing to shock people with unnecessary debit cards. They have successfully wasted my time and are probably wasting the time of thousands/millions of other Americans. I certainly will not be doing business with them, ever.

Guest's picture
Robert Maturo

Wow talk about making a mountain out of a molehill. Are you serious?

Just throw the damn thing away. It amazes me how many people freak
out over junk mail. That is what a receptacle is for.

Guest's picture
Cedric

I have been using NetSpend for over six years and I have never had a problem with them. To the contrary, they have been a valuable financial asset to me. I have had to call back a couple of times to get an english-speaking agent to resolve an issue, but have always had a favorable outcome to the problem. I give 'em an A.

Guest's picture
NetSpend nightmare

NETSPEND!!! You gotta listen to this one... Ok so I did purchase a prepaid card from them... they require that you show ID and SSN before sending a permanent card. Having done all that i get home and find out the card i just bought had not been "fully" activated. LOL yes after i give them my money for me to spend on this card they will not allow me to use it... I then talk to their CSR in Singapor or somewhere... and they ask for a copy of my ID and SSC and so i send it only to get blocked from my card the very second i attempt to make an online purchase. THEN... i have to wait til MONDAY before I can do anything about it bc the dept that blocks the card isnt open to unblock the card on Saturday...Long story short im getting all of my money back off of this card NEVER using it again a,d they made my wknd horrible with their BS policy over MY cash money that i obviously had to pay them to get the card to use it for online purchases.... You would think its a safer way to go without risking you very personal banking info... But of course its a bigger headache than a regular bank NetSpend sucks...and so does their customer service.

Guest's picture
Linda jackson

Well you missed the boat! NetSpend is the best thing since sliced bread! Too bad for stupid people!

Guest's picture
guest

Just got a netsoend card today. I looked it up online and saw all these negative reviews. Glad I didn't go for direct deposit. Cards has been destroyed. Thanks for the heads up

Guest's picture
robert douglas

I just receive tonne in the mail and did not reguest for.but I'm a net spend customer and have been for seven years and they are very good I lost my card and somehow they use it at a gas pump till
All the money was gone. They replace all my money and gaveme a new card. But never gave a card withoutasking???? That is strange I still have the card that came but not activate it. You must pay a fee for it(the card) so be careful.

Douglas

Guest's picture
Ed B.

I suspect they got my information from me setting up an account with mint.com, and I'm curious if anyone else that received this card uses mint.com to help manage their finances.

Guest's picture
yourcrazy

Netspend is a prepaid card and does not require an application lol you can get one at any gas station. Stop freaking out I've had one for years and have no complaints. Just cut it up and move on if you done want it lol

Guest's picture
Stephen Bradley

And???? What are you talking about? They aren't charging you for anything, it is mail marketing. Just throw it away. It is not a credit card, it does not affect your credit rating, so what do you care? I hate it when companies send credit cards, but this is like sending a gift card with 0 balance, and if you want to use it you put money into it, if you don't you don't and throw it away. Your social security number is not attached, and none of your assets are tied to it. I get much worse things from Chase, Wells, Bank of America, worse calls from bad credit collectors that aren't even calling for me. This is completely innocuous compared to all that crap.

Guest's picture
Stephen Bradley

Uhm, Me again. Netspend got your husband's name from one of his friends, by the way.

Refer a friend and you'll each get up to $20 loaded onto your NetSpend prepaid debit card. There's no limit to the number of referrals you can make!

You can blame your neighbor for why a company is trying to do business with you. Also, anyone can access records of where you live along with publicly listed phone numbers. People need to stop freaking out. It's crazy, there is nothing that attaches to your SSN on these cards.

Guest's picture
Guest

I received this card in the mail on 11-15-2012 and was totally baffled. I showed it to my husband and he researched it online and came up with this site. Thank you for explaining this because the fact that it was a real card that I had not applied for really threw me for a loop. I am going to shred it. It never ceases to amaze me how people scam other people. Do they ever stop to think about how they would feel if it was done to them? Unbelievable. It is really scary how clever they can be. You are wise to doubt everything which is a shame but it just may save your bacon.

Guest's picture
JGA

My wife received one of these cards. I have no clue how they obtained her information because she is not working and currently has no credit cards. Having worked in law enforcement, I told her to shred it. Credit cards are not handed out as if they were coupons. Never accept a credit or debit card that's sent you. Reputable banks will never practice the issuance of debit or credit cards in this manner.

I feel really sorry for the victims who have fallen prey to this company's sinister and fraudulent way of doing business. I will personally contact the FBI to ascertain if this type of action falls within their jurisdiction. I will also contact the Federal Reserve Protection Agency as suggested by "GUEST" at http://www.federalreserveconsumerhelp.gov/FormComplaint.cfm

The rest of you should do likewise because this sort of activity must not be allowed to proliferate.

Guest's picture
Mike M.

So you got some junk mail from netspend and you freaked out??

Really? If you dont want the card throw it away.. Theres no value to it, and no liability on your part if somebody stole it from your trash.

Cant believe the things some people get upset about..

Guest's picture
Beverly

I also received one of these unsolicited cards. I called and asked why I received this card that I had not requested. I was told they would cancel account. I'm shredding the card.
To Guest: You obviously have credit issues and need this card. For those of us who do not have credit issues it is a great concern to us when we start receiving unsolicited cards with our name on them whether they are credit or debit cards. We work hard to keep our credit in good standing and don't need someone sending cards to our homes that can be stolen and used. If this card is so great why don't you use your name when you post comments on this?
THIS IS A SCAM DO NOT ACTIVATE AN UNSOLICITED CARD OF ANY KIND. IF YOU WANT A CARD IT SHOULD BE ONE YOU HAVE APPLIED FOR.

Guest's picture
Eckstein

I have used NetSpend without any issue for years. Their service is unmatched when it comes to prepaid debit cards. It's not like they stole anything from you. They sent you a piece of mail.... that's it. What's the issue?

Guest's picture
Guest 285

Thank you so much for posting this! Thank the rest of you as well for your comments on this place! I may be strange, but I didn't find that it felt like I was violated, or anything of the sort. I have been looking for a separate account to keep some money set aside in for emergencies, and when this came in the mail, I was considering using it...until I poked around. I thought it was odd that I would get an actual card (normally they don't do that if you don't apply) Thank you all so much! You saved someone that really doesn't need another financial downfall, from falling into another one!!

Guest's picture
Guest

I've had nothing but GREAT experiences with Netspend! I honestly do not see what the big deal is or WHY you are so upset about them sending you a card that is NOT ACTIVE? Like you said yourself, how could someone use it for fraud if THEY would have to put money on it AND Netspend told you that it was NOT active unless YOU activated it?

Netspend cards are a great way for parents to put a set amount on money on a card for a college aged child (with the benefit of being able to monitor it online) among other circumstances. Also, a cardholder need not pay fees for "each" transaction. A low one time monthly fee of $5 (less than most bank account these days) will cover pretty much all transactions (other than ATM fees but you can even avoid these by simply doing "cash back" at POS) so I still do NOT see WHY you are ranting?

There are MUCH bigger problems that are actually that...a problem. Netspend is NOT one of them...in my honest opinion.

Guest's picture
Tess

Are these people that are complaining about Netspend serious, or is something SERIOUSLY wrong with them? If you received a card in the mail with your NAME on it...big deal! That is NO different than the hundreds of other "offers" you will get in the mail! When some people said they called and were asked for their SS # (or when they tried to sign up), well duh, of course! That's because Netspend does NOT have THAT INFORMATION UNTIL YOU GIVE IT TO THEM TO OPEN YOUR ACCOUNT!

NOTHING is fraud, NOTHING is wrong with what they are doing and NOTHING about Netspend is a scam! The thing that I find MOST troubling is HOW MANY of you people are ready to lynch a company you know NOTHING about...and didn't bother to find out the FACTS BEFORE opening your mouths! Lucky for you that Netspend doesn't SUE all of you for SLANDER...Wow!

Guest's picture
Allen

Well, I too received a "netspend" pre-paid card in the mail. I have had a credit freeze on my credit file for 2+ years, so I haven't applied or had the need to apply for credit since then. On the bottom of the paper with the card attached it stated that they received my name and address because I indicated an interest in receiving offers similar to this one. First off, I never give out my information to anyone unless it pertains to an existing account I already have open. I have already determined that it was not due to that. Another thing that is disturbing is the fact that they advertise that you can have your tax return deposited directly to the card. With the amount of people (especially in the south florida area) who have had their tax returns done without their consent - due to stolen SSN's, that automatically raises a red flag with me (before you go on saying that it is B.S., last year my aunt went to file her taxes only to find out someone from a hospital had stolen her SSN and filed a fraudulent tax return in her name).

Now, I have no problem with the concept of a pre-paid card as I know they have value to some people. Just don't send me one BECAUSE YOU THINK I WANT ONE. Also, I have never had a legit credit card company send me an ACTUAL credit card in the mail that I can go ahead and activate, so this tactic is shady at best.

Oh, and I called their customer service (866-930-9924 gets you direct to a live person) and would't you know it...a representative from india who was about as helpful as having a pet rock. Just another reason to not support a loser company like this.

Anyone who is defending this company probably works for them...

Guest's picture
Guest1342

I just got one in the mail today and I certainly didn't apply for it. I panicked at first because how could something just send me a card I didn't apply for? That's how I came across this article. I guess at least I have the answer now as to why it came, but... the fact that it's not just a fake card or an advertisement for one is sort of terrifying.

Guest's picture
Guest

I recently received a prepaid netspend card and I freaked out too. To those praising the card the point is we were sent real cards with our names on them. That would freak anyone out period. I'm shredding mine up and and sending in a complain. No company should try to lure in customer's this way.

Guest's picture
Guest

thanks to everyone who has given their comment to this thank you to both the positive & negative comments because the positive comments have actually changed my mind about activating it...because I no longer have a bank account so when I do get a job it shall be a very big help to me & my family!!!!! thank you all

Guest's picture
Msriigz

I got several emails saying I was "approved" for a Netspend card and "click here to activate your card"--which I did not, since I was not even aware of Netspend. I too got an unsolicited card in the mail a few days later, which I promptly shredded. To whom do you report this company??

Guest's picture
Emma

I received sn e-mail that my card is "on its way", I called them outraged as I never ordered a card. Long story short I spoke to a bunch of people who could barely speak English, not one of which could answer my questions and finally a supervisor named Tony who said that they do not have my e-mail address in their system (yet I received an e-mail from them), but he kept assuring me that my account would be closed. He was assuring me that they don't have my ss#, yet that's the first thing they asked me for when I first called them. I am appalled that this is legal, I was terrified thinking that someone stole my identity. Regardless of the fact that it is a Debit as opposed to Credit card, this cannot be legal!!!! How does someone have a
The right to print a debit card in my name without my approval? ??? I am still in in shock, disbelief and am beyond furious. I need someone to explain to me....how is this legal???? And I have yet to receive this stupid card, so I'm freaking out that it will get into the wrong hands.
P.s. I find it awefully convenient that 90% of the positive feedback is from anonymous guests....

Guest's picture
Guest

WE HAD OUR TURBO TAX REFUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $6300 SENT TO THIS VISA NETSPEND CARD. WE GOT THE CARD IN THE MAIL FINE. ABOUT A WEEK LATER THE MONEY WAS DEPOSITED. I USED THE CARD TWICE THAT EVENING BUT THE NEXT DAY WHEN I TRIED TO USE IT, IT WAS DECLINED. YOU CAN IMAGINE MY HORROR WHEN I WAS TOLD MY ACCOUNT WAS CLOSED AND THEY HAD NO IDEA WHY OR HOW BUT THE MONEY WAS GONE. I LATER FOUND OR I SHOULD SAY THEY CONSOLED ME AFTER 16 PHONE CALLS W/PEOPLE I COULD NOT UNDERSTAND THEY ARE SENDING THE MONEY BY CHECK TO BE RECIEVED IN UP TO 20 DAYS. HIS WILL BE UP APRIL7 SO I HAVE NOTHING TO DO BUT WAIT AND IF IT DOESN'T COME BY THE 7TH OF APRIL, WHAT DO I DO? THIS IS NOT A SMALL AMOUNT OF MONEY AND I AM SICK AND GROWING OLDER BY THE DAY. I DON'T FEEL IT'S FAIR TO TREAT PEOPLE LIKE THIS AND BY VISA NO LESS. ANY ADVICE WOULD BE APPRECIATED AND I PRAY VISA READS THIS.

Guest's picture
Guest

Thank you for sharing your experience. I've just received an email from Netspend that my card should arrive in the mail any day now. I went through the email multiple times to make sure I didn't miss something that stated it was just an offer.
The first thing I thought of was identity theft, like your husband did. It's the worst feeling...Sadly, we'll keep seeing more financial companies pull this stunt.

Guest's picture
Guest

Thanks so much for writing this! I received an email from them today saying that the card I had requested should be received shortly. I didn't request a card, and - as the spouse of someone who's been a victim of identity fraud - I am gravely concerned that an unsolicited card will be dropped in an unsecured mail box. If the card is activated by someone else, we will again be in the position of trying to clear our credit record. I was gravely disappointed to see that the Better Business Bureau gave them an "A" rating. I intend to let them know why I think they're wrong.

Guest's picture
A.

Well, the BBB isn't going to care that Netspend is sending cards out like that. Why? Because they're COMPLETELY ALLOWED TO DO SO. You idiots gave your names and addresses to companies that sell them, they probably even TOLD you they were selling them, but you were too lazy to read something that you agreed to it without knowing that. Netspend is one of the companies names and addresses gets sold to, so they send you a prepaid debit card without you asking for one. OH NO! First of all: They didn't use any serious information, just your name and address. Second: The card is worthless until you activate it. Third: When you're 18 and get credit card offers in the same fashion is that horrible? Are you going to call the BBB on...oh...ALL THE MAJOR CARD COMPANIES IN THE WORLD? This Netspend thing is actually LESS bad than Credit Card companies doing that because once credit cards are activated they can be charged up and cost you a lot of money if you aren't smart. The netspend card can't even be used until it's activated AND money is put on it.

Trust me, you all are whining about something ridiculous and stupid that is perfectly legal, probably your own fault, and just makes you look like you have nothing better to do in life than whine about petty things. Stop. Get a life. Please. Stupid people are insanely irritating. Oh, and, go ahead and contact the BBB; they'l tell you the same thing I have.

Guest's picture
A

Why does it matter that they sent you that card? You GAVE your name and address to a company who works with Netspend and somewhere along the way gave them the okay to sell said information. Since Netspend is a pre-paid card, all they need is a name and address to open an account and send a card. There was no harm done. They gave you the option of opening an account without having to wait for the card. Since you didn't want the account, you didn't activate the card and no account ever existed. Why is that so horrible and outrageous? People like you just want something to get pissed and rage about. It's NOT that big of a deal. Petty.

Guest's picture
Guest

Look people:
1. Netspend is a Prepaid DEBIT card, not a CREDIT card. No one can use it until money is loaded onto it. It's safe for people under 18, good for people with bad credit, etc.
2. I've had this company for 5 years. I've had ever paycheck and tax return put on it. I've never had a hold, never had any problems at all with my money.
3. NETSPEND CAN'T STEAL YOUR IDENTITY. They're able to send you cards without you signing up because all they use is your name and address. No other important information. You people give this info out and give the okay for others to sell it, so it goes to Netspend. Then you get pissed and freak out when you get a card in the mail. Come on, now.

Guest's picture
Guest

Thanks for posting this. I got an email that said they were sending me a card. I was totally confused. Now I'll just throw it in the burn barrel when it arrives. Thanks!

Guest's picture
Guest

thank you for writing this. I was worried as to why I received this card and was happy to find this post.

Guest's picture
Guests

For me it was an option to receive my tax refund, it was one of three options offered by Turbo Tax. I got my refund deposited on the card in 16 days, and have used it since as a debit card. I have never had a problem with it and was never charged for checking the balance (on line).
I suppose there will be fees, then again, what financial institution does not impose fees?
Having said that, since the money was deposited on the card, and me using it, I have not been subjected to any fees.