Reach out and touch the sewer

As you may recall, I signed up for an AT&T Wireless account in June, fully expecting to add a new line in July. At the time, it cost $10 to add an extra line, and I thought that was their normal rate. When I heard rumors that it was a limited time deal, I called customer service, and the lady I spoke to told me that the promotions were subject to change at any time, but that that one would PROBABLY still be good in July. This led me into a false sense of security, and instead of adding the new line right away (which I'm sure I would have done if she had impressed a sense of urgency upon me), I waited. Now they've raised the rates, and I really can't afford to add another line at the new rate ($20). Today, I talked to people in customer service and the add-a-line department (including a supervisor in that department), emphasizing that I found what I was told earlier to be misleading. They said there was nothing they could do, and that she DID say "probably." To me, though, "probably" implies a positive. I think having constantly changing promotions with no ending dates is bad business anyway, but when I'm lured into thinking that it a particular promotion WON'T expire before I need to use it, that's inexcusable. I would adivse anyone who reads this to stay away from AT&T Wireless. I doubt this will do any good, not only because it's unlikely that anyone in the market for a new cell phone plan will read this, but also because I would imagine that most other cellular companies do the same kind of thing. I want to do what I can to get the word out, though. If anyone knows anything else I can do, please let me know. I'm considering reporting them to the Better Business Bureau, but I don't think anyone even listens to them in this day and age.

While I'm on the subject, I could point out the stupidity of people who act like a cell phone is a necessity in our society, when the prices are too high for many of us. I suppose that's the American way, though.