Some eligible Vonage  consumers will  receive refunds

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By Laura A. Bischoff, Staff Writer Updated 7:09 AM Tuesday, November 17, 2009

COLUMBUS — Vonage, an Internet-based phone service, will give refunds to eligible consumers who filed complaints about Vonage between Jan. 2004 and March 16, 2010, according to a multistate settlement reached Monday, Nov. 16.

Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray signed the settlement for the state.

Consumers had complained that it was nearly impossible to cancel their Vonage service. It turns out Vonage paid its customer service representatives incentives for keeping patrons from canceling. The settlement puts strict limitations on this practice and requires recording and verification of these phone calls, according to Cordray’s office.

Also, Vonage will be revising its disclosures regarding offers of “free” services, money back guarantees and trial periods.

Ohioans may file complaints about Vonage online through www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or by calling (800) 282-0515.

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