The Ryndex

So, after been screwed over by Free (a French ADSL company) for the last hundred days, I capitulated and sent back their expensive Freebox — a triple-play television, voice over IP and ADSL modem.

Their business model was apparently to disconnect my phone line and then ignore me as much as possible, finally promising to “escalate” my complaint and ignore it at a higher level. They weren’t billing me, just ignoring me.

The French all suggested that I call their 0.34€/minute help line and rail against their poor service. I think this is a cultural thing, and I remind myself that it is only different, not worse to naturally expect that you won’t get any service until you scream bloody murder over the phone.

I suggested in my cancellation letter that they waive the 96€ cancellation fee, seeing as they have done nothing for me, ever. I doubt they’ll go for that; there’s nothing in it for them as I will be terrible publicity regardless.

So I informed my bank (in writing) that I objected to any automatic withdrawals originating from Free Haut Débit. I fully expect that my bank will charge me for this service, while screwing it up and paying Free whatever they ask.

This is convenient because otherwise Free will pass my account to a collection agency, probably with whatever surcharges they pull out of the air.

Regardless, now I have a phone number, a phone bill (which is essential for getting my residence card) and one day soon… Internet.