Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.
Press Release

For Immediate Release

Warning: Beware of Deceptive Invoices For Magazine Subscriptions

April 16, 1997 -- The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Huntsville, AL warns consumers of a mailing that has spread throughout Northern Alabama and possibly beyond. Residents are receiving solicitations that appear to be invoices for magazine subscription renewals. Bureau file information shows that Associated Publishers of America, Inc., of Memphis, TN is mailing what looks like an invoice for a new order or renewal of a magazine subscription. The notice indicates that the company services over 600 publications, "acting as a go-between to facilitate service and increase customer satisfaction."

The BBB in Memphis, TN suggests caution when dealing with this company. The Bureau's investigation has determined that this company has no affiliation with the magazine publishers referred to in its solicitations. The BBB of Memphis, TN has been unable to determine a physical address for the company; the Memphis address is only a mail drop. Associated Publishers of America has not responded to two requests by the BBB for basic information about the company.

A local consumer contacted the BBB after he received the bogus invoice from Associated Publishers of America, Inc. for a two-year subscription of Fortune Magazine at $114.00. He advised the BBB that he had already paid for his magazine subscription four months ago on his credit card, at a much lower rate.

The BBB advises consumers and businesses to carefully review any invoice that comes to your home or office before paying. If you receive an invoice that appears to be questionable or from an unfamiliar company, contact your local BBB.

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