First off, I want to apologize to anyone I may have called during the time I worked at Biltmore. This is most definitely a scam boiler room operation. The lists are bought and sent out mass mailed. When I was hired I was told that is was a select group of professionals that contsructed the list and mailed it out, that I would only talk to professional people in every field. I spoke to deli counter clerks to doctors and lawyers. Mostly blue collar people. It hurt me to hear them get all excited and then hear the diapointment when the subject of money came up. In our sales meetings we were told to sell to everybody and not to disqualify anyone because of their position. We were given a carefully written scripted and told to fastly go over the price structure so that the $199 extra charge was not heard too clearly. Everything was set up for a scam. The "customer service" dept was 3 or 4 girls out of a rehab program and told not to refund any money or cancel any orders. This co. is also Cambridge Who's Who out of NY. This co. wa started by the same people who had to leave NY.Their front man is a real jerk named Eric. He is a rude obnoxious piece of work that someday will get a real good beat down from one of his former workers. This co. needs to be investigated. Again sorry for any sadness I may have caused. I worked there for 3 months and finally had to leave.
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Thanks by: Anonymous
I too received this invitation. I filed it in the circular file. I am an Admin! I have no real status and thought, how did they get my name!
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Who's Who Don't Know What's What by: Tom
I'm thinking it might be more fun to play along just to see how far they'll go. You can pretend you're really dumb and excited as all get out to purchase every goodie they offer, wasting their time, then once they become anxious to nail this moron, you make some lame excuse and exit stage right. I suspect it will bug them plenty. I got a letter from the "real Who's Who" several years ago. They send you this long form much like a job application where you must list all your credentials and so-called achievements in order to be considered for inclusion. I couldn't figure it out and sent them a bitter note, instead, stating that while I've had my share of achievements, none have garnered much attention from anyone who seems to count. I concluded with something like, "until all those currently deciding who's who are replaced by an enlightened group of folks who don't have their collective heads up their butts, then I'm afraid I'll continue to labor in relative anonymity, but thanks for thinking of me." I don't know who recommended my name to them but I have no idea why they thought I ought to be included. What's really ironic is just how much one's apparent success and official recognition actually depends on all this tooting of your own horn. It's all one big cruel joke.
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How did they get my name/address by: John in Louisiana
Wonder how they are getting their mailing list. Glad I searched and found this site. It made sense to check since I had never heard of Biltmore Whos who. Sorry so many people got scammed.
John
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Yes, I believe its BUNK! by: Anonymous
I also got the letter. Had a feeling right away it was a scam. Glad I checked and found this website. I am an Aircraft Structure Mechanic. Its a respectable and challenging career, however, mixing with Executives and Professional Women....not in this day and age. The honoring of "Rosey the Riveters" was due during WWI & WW2.They were Great Women! Thanks for this website
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A Scam...If I Ever Heard One by: Anonymous
I am a veteran who works in the medical field as a medical assistant and patient advocate. I do charity work and donate to the red cross. It is so sad that this day in age that someone would scam people who works so hard for other people who struggle. I am severely disappointed in my experience with them. To honor someone for all they do only to take them for all their worth. Shameless!
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Professional and Business Community Dung? by: Anonymous
Yes, I'm a Community Professional apparently. Raising beef cattle has its' moments. Sometimes covered in the elements and animals worst (one of the special eligeable 5 percent). Glad I read this site prior to spending much time researching the Biltmore Who's Who, it has made it very clear what to do with the fancy letter from Mandy Lowe.
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Thanks for the information by: Anonymous
I appreciate everyone sharing their experience/perspective. My Biltmore "congratulations" letter just went into the recycle bin.
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Well this sucks by: Liz J.
I got the letter yesterday. My sister had gotten into the Who's among High School Students and it turned out to be legit. I thought that this might also be. However, I am graduating from UNM in four days and I did not want to be tricked before I had a set job. Currently I work in a library and I will no longer have the student status to be able to continue working there under the agreement the library and I have. I knew that we have legitimate Who's Who publications with in the Library collection so I tried to locate the Biltmore Who's Who. If it existed as a legit publication then it should have been in our collection. UNM has the largest book collection in the State of New Mexico and they have all of the legitimate Who's Who Publications with in the catalog. I do not have any other proof that the roster is fake, but I figure that if you are doing well at work or in your business then why risk messing it up by trying for a long shot. Desperation leads to regrets.
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Great value! by: Mandy Lowe
The Biltmore Who's Who is a valuable tool for people from all walks of life!
It sounds like a small, select group of you had a mediocore expierence with Biltmore. I apologize for not meeting your expectations. You should expect more from Biltmore. Please call and we will be happy to resolve any issues you have have.
I hope you all will check us out, it's a great book and will provide hundreds of contacts helping you grow your business beyond it's potantial!
Best Wishes and welcome to the Biltmore Who's Who registry!
Mandy
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My answer would be "yes" by: Anonymous
We had just recently made reservations to visit the Biltmore Estate so when I saw the envelope I thought it was a confirmation notice. Then I noticed the "who's who" and the Fl. address. When we read the letter, we got a good laugh...as my husband said...if he was such a great professional in the business community, why didn't they already know what he did for a living? I think I just may return their post paid envelope, but can't decide whether to put the shredded letter in it, something else equally worthless, or send it empty.
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Thank You by: Anonymous
I have read a lot of comments and just wanted to thank everybody.
You all are professionals as you appear to have done your homework as did I prior to responding to their letter.
I will obviously shred it. Thanks again.
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I feel like an idiot by: Anonymous
Lucky me, once I heard the price quotes it was like I finally woke up from my trance. It took a while for her to get to the price quote and then the whole conversation went into the toilet. I told her I actually thought I was being honored for my professional achievements and to hear that there was a cost involved made the whole thing reek. While she countered with whatever bs she was programmed to spout I was googling this site. Should have come here first. I have to remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
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Odd findings... by: Anonymous
I got the letter at work and did a little research and came up with one very odd recurring issue. On a number of different sites, an anonymous poster with a loose grasp of written English seems to post MANY glowing, gushingly positive remarks about Biltmore. This isn't your average bad grammer or incorrect spelling but the same style of English as a second language-type poorly written English. A PR hack working the internet? Just thinking...
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Received Letter Too by: Anonymous
I received a letter from them a few months ago. It didn't mention money however it struck me as strange because I don't have a resume or bibliography posted anywhere online so I wondered where they had obtained information that might qualify me for such an honor. I should write them back and say something like "You made me many joy of tears. I sorry my English not good. Please I need job."
LOL
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What a Big Scam! by: Anonymous
My husband got the letter today. He said great someone thinks I should be in the Who's Who. I am so glad I looked at this website and found all the comments from other people. we both thought it was a scam. I wish there was a way to get those people back.
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OMG by: Anonymous
Well, me like so many others is glad that I came across this site. I must admit I was quite honored to receive this acknowledgement as I am quite active in my professional and personal life.
The kicker for me was when I went to www.biltmorewhoswho.com and tried to click on the link to find out the criteria for being nominated, it never connected me to another page. All other links on that website seemed to work except for that one.
I will now be shredding their bogus correspondence!
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Thank You ALL!!!! by: Kevin
I printed out all of the blogs that are on this site. I am going to put it into the envelope that they gave me and mail it back to them with all your comments. I know this is a scam, I just wish there was a way to scam them back. I am not an eye for an eye type of person, but I feel bad for all the hard working people that got duped out of their hard earned money and were emotionally raped. Those people that fell for their tactics, don't feel bad. Scams come in all forms and some people just....well get scammed.
Look at all the people that fell victim to Bernie Madoff. Granted these people are not that sophisticated, however we are humans and we have all made stupid mistakes.
Thanks to everyone who contributed to this site, it proves that most people are good at heart and took the time to warn those of us who may have fell for their B.S.
Peace and Love to you all.
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What do you mean? by: Stephen Ramsden
I for one think it is a high honor to be listed among the "thousands of professional achievers in your geographical area".
Reminds me of the King of the Hill episode where Peggy Hill takes the "genius test" on the internet and pays $900 for the registry which happens to be published by the same people who sent her the letter.. Then Luanne and then Hank also pass the "genius" test. Then the dog accidentally hits the keyboard and she too is a genius...
What kind of moron would reply to this crap?
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Biltmore Who's Who Scam by: Anonymous
So the Publishing Director believes my profile would make a fitting addition to the Biltmore Who's Who Honors Edition. What a hoot.
The logo on the invitation letter raises a red flag too. They use a curly capital B that looks a lot like the one Biltmore Estates uses. Compare the two online.
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Biltmore by: Anonymous
This is so sad, people getting scammed with these kind of things. I got that letter and had already figured that they were going to make you pay for a membership and I am not in the position to be nominated for anything like this. This is really sad for people.
I hope that scammers realize that one day that if they scam someone, they will also be getting scammed one day.
I don't know about this being a big scam other than what I am reading here, but I am not going to find out. I hope people are reporting them so that this can be investigated.
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Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight! by: Wayne
I own my own company, and as an artist who works from my home in Colorado, I received one of these letters.
Oh my, what an honor!
To be selected as a PROFESSIONAL, well, it took my breathe away, I can tell you! (heavy sarcasm here...)
Glad I read this site.
Going to send the envelope back with a piece of paper that say's the FBI is on to you scammers!
Oh wait postage is at an all time high, maybe I'll just ignore them!
Thanks a bunch all of you who wrote in!
A Grateful Wayne
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BOGUS BOGUS BOGUS by: Karen
I received the letter, and had received a phone call from a woman named Amy Reid. She tried to get me to pay for the platinum or gold membership for a price of 795.00 and 589.00 respectively. I told them I would not be interested in paying for any membership. When I told her I was not interested, she became "indignant" and told me she had never dealt with a woman like me who would "walk all over her words" in the 15 minutes of my time. Then I realized I was about to be duped for money. DO NOT GIVE ANY SS#'s or Credit card numbers. You will be promptly ripped off. Registrations for recognition of achievement should be free! Do not part with your hard earned money now or ever, this is a scam.
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Go ahead but...... by: Anonymous
Do not send your original letter back because it has your info. Just send a blank paper saying Gotcha or No thanks and mail it off.
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This takes the cake! by: Anonymous
So I got this letter from Biltmore who's who. I was choosen to represent the professianal and business comunity of my home town (at least they knew what home town I lived in). OH! Yeppi one might think.
I found it really funny that I am a stay at home mother of 4 and have not been active in the work place for almost 9 years. SO Biltmore, is this the professianal and business comunity you speak of?
Nice to be Honored as a "professianal and Business" stay at home mom!
What a joke they don't even know who they are sending these scams out to. I knew the instant I opened this it was a scam. I try to hit up websites such as this one to let others know as well.
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Who's who scumbags by: Albuquerque, New Mexico
I received the letter today and as stated by other sane people,I felt that something was wrong. I noticed that they didn't know what I did for a living and that was the red flag for me. Something so personal, as being nominated by my piers, piers that didn't know what I did for a living? Thanks for the excellent web site! Another one bites the dust and ends up in the shredder!!
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Thanks Also! by: NC Belle
I received this same letter and I work in the insurance field and thought this was linked to the fact I'm completing my CPCU. However I wasn't sure WHO exactly nominated me and my boss is very good about mentorship of other women, which is why my company paid for the CPCU to begin with! So I was sure if she or someone in the legal field I work with nominated me, they would have mentioned it. I'm active with Toastmasters & United Way so I knew there was a chance it was from actual accomplishments, but I'm glad I found this site...apparently a lot of others who are community leaders are as gullible as I am! wow! BTW, not all Who's Who guides are bogus...I was in Who's Who in American Colleges & Universities and I STILL 20 years later get referrals and honors from that book! But you know who nominates you for that one too...
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Phooey by: Anonymous
I have to admit I was deceived by the letter. I typically can spot these scams quite easily, but I let my guard down and my pride speak. After graduating in the top 10% from veterinary school and having recently been nominated for similar awards, I did not find the letter unusual. Also, I vaguely remembered something about Who's Who. It wasn't until the phone calls started that I realized this was not as prestigious as I had thought. They are very persistent and leave lots of urgent voicemails about publication deadlines. Now I'm wondering exactly what information I mailed in response to the invitation. Oops.
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Saved From A Scam by: Derek From Perry Hall, MD
As I was filling out the information card to accept this "prestigious honor" it occurred to me that it was unusual to be nominated for professional recognition, yet the company did not know what I did or who I worked for (asked me to fill it in). I decided to check on this one and found this site. THANK YOU!!! Sites like this make it more and more difficult for scam artists to steal from honest, hardworking Americans.
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DO THIS TO SCAMMERS by: The Wiz
Every one who visits this site to discover the truth needs to do the following. Waste the Biltmore Who's Who company's time and money as they do to so many. I propose we all get together and introduce them to the Oron Family.
Imnota M. Oron, Ura M Oron, Wha Tam Oron, N. Otam Oron, Tooman Eem Oron, Helofa M. Oron, Gul Ablem Oron, Wast Edm Oron, Uish Edm Oron (You Wished) etc. Be creative and use fake addresses, or some like 1600 ______ Washington DC and others like that. Make a game of it and make them waste a lot of time entering stupid data into their databases.
There are other families too like the Stu Pidic family line or the S. Cam, C. Rap, S. Hit, G. Ulables, N. Otudei, family, call their number and get the salesperson on the phone and talk about a ton of exagerated accomplishments, ask about the weather, go to their web site and overload with the same crap.
If you ever wanted to get back at a scam artist company, this one has opened themselves wide open. Make your calls before 7am on cell phones with free early calls, or try calling them collect, I don't know if that one would work, but it might be fun till they catch on.
Once they begin paying people for entering more worthless information than legit information they might just close up business and go away. Of course the best part will be all those FREE accounts they publish in their book and on-line that gets sent to others who once they see such large families with these names, they will catch on, quicker than Biltmore is likely to.
Well I think you all get the idea. Stick it to them, make up credit card numbers, if they are not processing them instantly, as many people here have indicated by being able to cancel cards prior to charges being recorded, it means they are simply filling their database with the card info and then processing all at once at a certain time each day (to get a discounted CC processing fee).
Make sure when you talk you keep them as tied up as possible with the largest possible sale. Ask about extra copies of the books for friends and family, or plackards for all your (Imaginary) Corporate Offices, that kind of info, the sales people will really get into recording all the stuff you are ordering. Ask if you can get it gold plated, dipped in chocolate or with a free case of beer.
Well, I plan on calling them 6:00 tomorrow, my cell phone has free minutes till 7:00 am, and trying to see how much of their time I can waste, I'm unemployed and looking for work isn't getting me anywhere, so I may as well have a great start for my day. Have fun all, and DOWN WITH THE SCAMMERS!!!!!!!
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Save Yourself - RUN! by: Kathy
Excellent site - lots of great comments.
It's important to remember that though the internet helps a lot to "research" suspicious invitations and offers; your best bet is to pass on pretty much everything! NEVER give your bankin or credit card info to someone who contacts YOU. YOU should contact (or be able to!!) THEM. Only make investments and purchases into those programs and products that you have thoroughly investigated.
I we've all discovered that it's much too easy to lie on the web with VERY professional looking or "official" (HA!) sites backing up the wonders of an organization. It's as bad as the full page infomercial ads in the newspapers, magazines, and now on TV.
I smelled the proverbial rate as soon as I got the letter and starting digging on line just for fun. Even before all the posts I've seen I was confident the "no cost to be listed" line was a fib if not an outright lie. I read on one of their promotional sites that less than 5% of US adults qualify for this (prestigious) honor. REALLY? How special. Do you know how many people that would be? I'm guessing somewhere over 10 million people. If they only scammed an averge of $10 per person these people could probably buy their own island!
How so many "professionals" can be so smart and yet still so gullible...there are no short cuts people.
Follow the advice of Dave Ramsey and Clark Howard.
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Thanks For The Heads Up!!!! by: Mandy From Kansas
I was contacted by the who's who and I had a gut trembling feeling that I needed to talk to my husband and research a bit further before spending that kind of money!!! Thanks to this sight I stopped in my tracks! I was so close to taking a huge gamble on a bad scam that could have broke the bank!!! My advice is to listen to your gut, and always talk to your spouse before investing that Kind of money. If the so called consumer on the other end of the line can't wait then its not worth it!! It's important to protect your pocket book from Scam artists like this, be cautious and always research everything!!!
Thanks for the heads up!!!!
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God Bless You! by: Anonymous
I was contacted by the who's who and I had a gut trembling feeling that I needed to talk to my husband and research a bit further before spending that kind of money! Thank the heavens for this sight because I was so ready to take a huge gamble on a bad scam that could have broke the bank! God bless you, and for those that have been bitten, may God protect you from any more harm. Thanks for the heads up!
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Thank You Dave Ramsey! by: Anonymous
I received the letter and did mail it in. Gil has been calling me for three weeks and my work hasn't given me time to go through the "interview", but today I did. After all of the "you are an awesome candidate" and "you should feel so honored" crap, he told me it would cost $799 + $199 for the book. I told him that I would like to review it more and that he could mail me all the information and then I would decide. He was very persistent that there was only a short timeframe before I wouldn't be eligible and I knew something was up. For that kind of money, they would be willing to wait and send any and all information if this was for real. I recently went through Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University Course and this is one of the biggies that Dave discusses. If someone calls and tells you that there is a limited time for their offer, it's a scam. Thank you Dave Ramsey! Gil plans to call me back at 9:00 tomorrow morning to "give me time to make my decision" and I'm looking forward to the call. :)
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Garbage In, Garbage Out by: Anonymous
Thank you all so much! I have put my Biltmore letter in the shredder, where it belongs.
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Yes by: Anonymous
What a bunch of @$&%! Destroy the letter if you receive it. They are scam artists.
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Scam or Not? by: Anonymous
With the economy the way it is people are trying everthing to survive. Although, the airline tickets look like the may materialize I am not in the position to plan on going anywhere all to soon. The same conversation was told to me and the price was reduced to 179.00 and a shipping fee 0f 29.99. The representative was as far as receiving my cc# which I made an excuse that I was driving and it was not with me. The urgency for the sale was imperative however, being a sales person myself (professional Decorator). I needed time to Google this and thank you for the web site I feel the "cons" have it!!!! you saved me money that I do not have to get business I will not get!!!!
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Glad I Found This Site! by: Anonymous
I received the congratulations letter that I had been nominated for Biltmore Who's Who. If anyone I know would have nominated me for anything like this, they would have notified me in advance. That was my first red flag, then after finding this site, I shredded the letter and disposed of it!
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Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! by: Phoenix, AZ
As everyone has posted here, I too received the same letter. I felt very honored at the thought of being recognized. Now, I'm just feeling foolish! Thank you for this website and for everyone that has posted their experiences. I am so glad that I Googled instead of mailed!!
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Biltmore Who's Who is a Definite SCAM by: Benjo
Like many others I was accepted as a member then told it would cost $382.00!.
I asked them to reverse the charges as I wasn't interested in their membership club and instead they charged me an additional $199.00.
I have repeatedly called to get the charges reversed, but the Billing Department never answers the phone.
I finally had to get my credit card company involved and they have launched a formal investigation into Biltmore's devious and deceptive practices.
If they call you, HANG UP THE PHONE!!!!
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Received My Letter by: Anonymous in AZ
I received the letter yesterday in the mail regarding my "nomination". I was skeptical since I don't own my own business and I'm not an executive. Not to mention they don't tell you who nominated you. After reading the comments on this site and many others, I will follow my initial instinct and run this letter through the shredder.
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Feeling Stupid by: Anonymous
I just joined yesterday for the $189 rate and after getting a bad feeling about it, particularly when I had tried to tell the representative that I'd like to think it over, he had lots of excuses...that there were hundreds of candidates that he needed to contact and he couldn't possibly call me back, it had to be now. I changed my account number on the credit card and am waiting to see if the charges appear or not on the account. Keeping my fingers crossed. My husband is not pleased, identity theft is a concern.
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This Day and Age by: Wes
Unfortunately, I have been exposed to so many scams and fraudulent behavior I immediately was skeptical when I received this letter today. People today really need to GUARD their personal information like it is gold. You can not really trust anyone or any organization fully. The less information there is about you out there the less of a chance you have of being robbed and defrauded.
I have gotten to where I don't even answer my telephone anymore if it is a phone number I do not recognize because as soon as you connect with a person, if you aren't careful, you could give them personal information that they could use against you. I also try to limit who gets my bank account information whether it be by me giving them the account number or writing a check or using a debit card. I NEVER write checks for anything with the exception of my local utility company (and that is because it is the only form of payment they will accept).
I don't even use debit cards because a debit card is tied directly to a bank account. It's too risky. I only use cash or credit cards to pay for things, and I keep a very close eye on my credit card statements. It would even be a good idea to rotate among a few different credit cards to make sure unauthorized transaction do not pop up.
If you have not contacted anyone about some service or organization then be VERY skeptical and do some research before you start dealing with anyone. GUARD your information folks. There is abundant fraud all around us.
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FEATURED MEMBER SCAM by: Alisa
I just got off the phone from a a call from Joyce at Biltmore congratulating me on being selected as a featured member on their website for one year and with that all these gifts that they want you to pay $399 for.
She asked me how happy I was about this wonderful opportunity and I told her not at all. I proceeded to tell her about my calling and receiving no reply, the scam reports, nor directory, etc. which she had an answer for all of it.
Claimed that I must have spoken to some one in customer service because they upgraded me to a lifetime member, wavied the shipping fee, yada yada yada. I told her that I would need to verify this by checking my records at home and I would get back to her. I also stated that I was not accepting this wonderful opportunity. She gave me her number which I can bet if I called it would go to voicemail.
Previously, I did exactly like most of the postings have reported, agreed to the original offer, checked the internet afterwards, called the customer service number I was given by Biltmore, sent emails and left messages, cancelled credit card before they could bill me.
They still sent the welcome package and showed my account as paid. I filed this all away because I do not intent to use something I didn't pay for.
This site and others that allow posting of scams save many people from making very expensive mistake. Thank you!
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Thank Goodness For This Page! by: Anonymous
I would have been one of the people to fall into this scam if it wasn't for websites like this! Thank you to all of you for your honesty because you have saved me! I only hope others get online and check the credit of these scam artists as well.
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Almost Got Duped! by: Darrahl
I had the interview this morning and he of course told me I was accepted. He then starts telling me about all I get for my $799 platinum membership and that I will also be charged $199 for the hardcover book.
I told him that I could not afford that much money so he talked me into the 3 year deal for $399 plus shipping and handling $428 and then in a couple of weeks another $199 for the book. I felt bad about this and googled Biltmore Who's Who and found this site and boy am I glad I did.
I called them back and was directed to leave a message and my phone number and they would call me back and this didn't set well with me so I called the credit card company and told them what had happened and closed the account before they had a chance to bill me for anything. Thanks guys for this site you saved me over $600.
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Just Got Off The Phone Interview by: Anonymous
I got the letter because I just got a new business license from my courthouse. This is how I believe they got my contact info.
I remember my uncle being some sort of "who's who" though I am sure it wasn't "Biltmore" so I decided to send the the letter in.
I just had my phone interview and the woman congratulated me and told me everything I was going to receive, blah, blah, blah... then she goes on the tell me about the memberships and the membership prices which ranged from $799-$299.
I told her that I wanted to check them out on the web before I committed to anything and she said she needed an answer from me right away. That's when I smelled the rat.
I said please hold on for a couple of minutes I need to check my finances. Actually I got online and checked their status among consumers.
THANK YOU SO MUCH for having this website!!!! I returned to the phone and told her I read that they were a scam and she said she was shocked, that she had never heard anyone say this to her before. She then offered me a one year trial membership for $199 and the plane tickets blah, blah... I told her I don't need plane tickets that I had enough frequent flyer miles to last me the next five years to which she replied "this just isn't for you then you can have a basic online membership for free" then she hung up on me.
Thank you again for this site and saving me the embarrassment of being listed in the "everyone who's who has been scammed book."
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A Bunch Of Bull by: Anonymous
Yeah, I received a letter as well and decided to do the research since I don't even have a job! (although i should receive recognition for the incredible ability to hold my alcohol)
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Thanks to all of you . Tampa FL by: Anonymous
I just opened a letter from Biltmore Who's Who. I felt something was wrong so I went straight to the internet to Google them. I discovered this great site. Special thanks to everyone who took the time to share their experience. If I had any thoughts about responding it's gone. This letter is going in the trash and yes it is a scam. They tell you its free then hit you with the real deal.
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I did it! by: Anonymous
Yes, I talked them down to $179 for a liftime membership and they sent me 4 airline tickets (2 trips, 2 tickets each) to any of the 55 or so places you can go.
You have to stay at the hotel or resort to use the airline tickets. I'm sure they have a LOT of people that forget or can't afford the trips, so they rake it in. I knew it was a load of bull when they were telling me how great I am and that's why they wanted my "bio".
I'll save two airfares on two different vacations and I have a family of four, so did get something out of it.
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Biltmore scam by: Anonymous
I have recently received phone calls from Biltmore. As I hesitated to accept any of their packages, the price did continuously go down. I have received 3 phone calls from them thus far, but havenot committed to anything. Right now I am stringing them along. I am very glad to find this site, because I must admit, I was thinking about it. One thing that did make me hesitate was the fact that the man told me that I couldnot call him back because he was always moving and I wouldnot be able to reach him. Thanks again for the info.
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Yes it's a scam folks by: Gil K.
I got the same letter as another person from the infamous Mandy Lowe, and immediately knew this was a scam. Thanks to everyone for verifying it.
I took a crayon, wrote (with my "other" hand) the words "NO - Stop sending" in the letter, put it and the original envelope in their return envelope, and will be sending it back to them in the morning.
Those who are looking for a way to network with other professionals should check-out LinkedIn (linkedin.com). They're kind of a professional's version of Facebook, can be used in its basic form for free, and to do more advanced things the price is a whole lot more reasonable. Seriously, who will look in a "who's who" book in these days of the Internet?
I'm not affiliated with LinkedIn in any way, just enjoy using their service for free.
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I Got Smart Eventually by: Dummy
My story is much like everyone else's. $799 for the platinum lifetiime membership, including 2 round trip air fare tickets on any airline i choose and they don't expire. $199 for the leather bound book that will come out next year. after giving a CC #, it really bothered me for the rest of that day. I checked my CC and saw that the charge had not yet been processed. I called the CC company and explained. My account was closed and a new card is being issued. Who knows what other charges could have been made to my account just because I was dumb enough to think it would be nice to have my name in print in a nice book!!! I'm not usually this gullible!
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That was a close one by: Anonymous
I googled Biltmore while I was talking to the Biltmore representative and up comes this discussion page. Thanks so much for posting this warning before I grabbed the checking account number for the representative. Whew...that was a close one!
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THANK YOU by: C Sager
I've gotten this letter 3 times and this is the first time I've looked into it. Glad I did. Thanks to everyone.
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Nice Try! by: Anonymous
I just got off the phone as well. When I advised the gentlemen who first showered me with praise for my accomplishments that I prefer to see the product first and think seriously as to how or whether I would derive any benefit from this paid advertising of myself so-to-speak, he went from pushing the $700 platinum lifetime, to the $500 5 five year plan all the way down to the $300 3 year plan with the free plane tickets carrot. My instincts kicked in and I knew what this was. A whole lotta Bull@%#. Just getting off the phone courteously was a challenge. I had asked who "nominated" me. They quickly skirt that question by saying some "committee" choses. I can see how perfectly intelligent people would feel its easier to blow $500 and sign up than to have the more unpleasant side of the conversations. In this economy that $500 represents a lot of other more important things. TIP#1: DO NOT FILL IN AND RETURN THE INVITATIONAL LETTER! You're inviting someone into your checking account. Nothing more.
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Just Got Off The Phone by: Anonymous
I just got off the phone with a representative. I didn't like the strong-arm tactics and decided to research the company. I'd been taken in by the name "Biltmore", due to an implied affiliation with the Biltmore Estate in Ashville, NC. Thankfully, I did the research. Thanks to everyone who has posted their experiences.
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THE LETTER by: Anonymous
I just got the letter, filled it out and then my wife asked me to google it. I thank all of you guys. The letter went straight to the trash.
TRASH IT
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Just got my own letter by: Maggi
Just received a letter from Biltmore. Decided to get online and look them up to see if they were legit. I wondered how they got my name (been published, but wouldn't put myself up there with Executives and such). Thank goodness I didn't fall for this scam and thank you everyone for telling your stories.
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Waste Their Money Too by: Anonymous
Do what I did. When you get one of these unsolicited letters, they send you a postage paid envelope to send back your confirmation letter. Instead, send them a no thank you note in their postage paid envelope.
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Biltmore Who's Who is a scam by: Anonymous
Yep. Just got off the phone with them. While listening to the speal, and not having really done any major accomplishments like getting anything published, or public speaking engagements, which were some of the questions asked, I was informed that I had been accepted. When I began questioning the lady she started to act skittish. All the while I was looking up Biltmore Who's Who on the internet. Doing a Google search all kinds of websites came up screamng SCAM! When I told her this, and that I wasn't going to give her my cc number, she gave me all kinds of stuff about this was my one and only chance. I said goodbye and I hope that is the last I hear from them.
K.I.
Hawaii
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Scam by: Anonymous In NY
Thank you for this information. I also received via U.S. mail an invitation stating this was a free networking service. The rep offered me numerous packages; platinum for $789, Gold for $589 with a 3 year membership, and as I continued to hesistate and ask for references, she dropped the price to $189.
Needless to say, I did not give a cc. I am glad that I googled this site!
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Glad That I Now Know by: In Florida
I received the same letter and I filled it out because it said it was free. I get a call from a Gary Noble "interviewing" me and said he had the honor of approving me into the club and what an honor it was. Then he asked for my credit card number for a lifetime membership to charge $789. They said the membership comes with personalized certificates and my name in a whos who directory. They also offered airline tickets! I gave them my cc number, but thank goodness that there was a fraud alert on my card and it declined all purchases over $100 that month including this one. Now the same company is harrasing me at work and my cell phone asking for another credit card. I told them I had a debit card and they asked for that, too. This was when I first began to become skeptical. I asked to do installment payments and they refused, kept insisting on a credit card. Thank goodness I decided to do some research! I am NOT giving them anything! Beware.
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Thanks for the Heads Up! by: Anonymous
I got my letter today. Needless to say, after all of these comments, mine is going in the trash!
I feel bad for the folks that have had so much grief over this alleged scam!
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Biltmore Scam Probably by: pennsylvania professional
I received one of these "Biltmore" letters in the mail. I got suspicious when they had used my OLD married name as I had changed my name back to my maiden name over 7 years ago. All my professional license and such are also changed.
When I googled the "company" i was glad to see that there was a lot of question as to whether they were a scam. If in doubt, throw it out, and I did!!!!
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Biltmore Letter Scam by: Anonymous
I also received the following letter from Biltmore Who's Who;
Dear _______,
You were recently chosen as a potential candidate to represent the professional and business community of _____, TX in the Biltmore 2009 Honors Edition of the Who's Who Among Executives and Professionals.
We are pleased to notify you that your candidacy was formally approved January sixteenth, two thousand nine. Your confirmation will be validated within seven business days following our receipt of your enclosed Verification.
There is not cost to be listed. However it is by committee invitation only.
The Publishing Committee selected you as a potential candidate, based upon your current standing as well as criteria from executive and professional rosters. Given your background, the Publishing Director believes your profile would make a fitting addition to our Honors Edition publication.
Once finalized, your listing will share prominent space in the Biltmore Registry with thousands of fellow achievers across the nation, each representing individual accomplishment within their own geographical area.
Our Registry confirmation deadline for January candidates is February 27, 2009. To ensure you are included in our next edition, we must receive your Verification mailed back on or before that date.
Mr. ________, on behalf of our Committee I salute your accomplishments. Welcome to the Biltmore Who's Who roster.
Sincerely,
Mandy Lowe
Registry Administrator
I am thankful to all that took the time to report their dreadful dealings with this organization. Thanks to you, my letter went directly to the trash saving me untold headaches.
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My experience by: Anonymous
I was contacted first via an unsolicited letter in the mail. When I showed interest by sending the form back, Who's Who eventually called me. I was asked "qualifying" questions and then told that it would cost over $700 to be in the book. When I told them I could not afford that, they lowered the price to $280, which my c. card declined for a lack of funds. Told ya I could not afford it!! The next month they sent me the welcome packet with the seal and I bought the membership for $180.
I have been using the who's who as a networking tool to inform other members about my business. This was started very recently, so I can not know whether good contacts have been made yet.
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Biltmore/Cambridge Who's Who SCAM by: Anonymous
My credit card company is currently investigating the charges ($717.00) these people charged to my credit card. I was scammed too after receiving the same letter stating I was "nominated." Then the telephone interview from Cindy where I was "accepted." Stupidly I agreed to the gold $589.00 membership and the $99.00 plaque. Then I get a faxed statement for $717.95 with shipping charges and a "no refunds" statement and an additional charge of $199.00 to be charged to my card on the 15th of the next month. I called immediately to cancel the order based on the additional unauthorized charges. I called three times and left messages on three different voice mails which all said they would call back within 24 hours. The next day I received a call from Carolyn who became very defensive and informed me she could not cancel the order, i would have to speak with her manager. Then Sandra C, the manager calls who oddly sounds just like Carolyn and Cindy. She was unbelievably rude even using foul language, speaking over me, interrupting me and arguing incessantly. She offered to remove the shipping charge and the mysteriuuos $199 charge. I told her I did not want to do business with her company at all. She said it would take two weeks to get a refund and I informed her I was not paying in the first place. SHe continued to scream and argue with me until I finally told her "lady I am through discussing this with you" at which time she interrupted and screamed at me not to "call her a lady." Funny, huh, since she certainly isn't a lady. I finally hung up on her. I called my credit card company immediately. Three weeks later BWW sent me the "Welcome packet" with a bill for $589.00. I sent the whole thing back with a note saying this purchase was unauthorized. Then the credit card bill came in with $717.95 charged to my account from these people. I called my credit card co. and the customer serviec rep I talked to on the day of my conversation with Sandra no longer worked there and they had no record of the charge not being authorized. I'm so angry with them and myself and will fight this thing to the top. In the mean time, I've had to cancel my credit card and I've lost a lot sleep. I will never fall victim to this stuff again. Oh, by the way, my husband recieved a letter from Cambridge Who's Who just a few weeks ago. The body of the letter was word-for-word identical to that of the Biltmore Who's Who letter. Same "free listing" claim, the whole nine yards. A report to the Attorney General's office is next. If that doesn't work, I'll climb higher to stop these people.
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Thanks! by: Anonymous
Received this letter yesterday and will now throw it in the trash. Thanks for the heads-up!
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Biltmore Scam by: Anonymous
I also received a Biltmore Who's Who invitation scam. I thought it may be nice resume line or wall plaque. Of course, it does not mention any type of fees associated with the nomination. Then, I was harassed at work by numerous phone calls and then hit up for upwards of $998 for a platinum membership. Similar to time share sales pitches, they try to tell you that you have to make a decision on that phone conversation (which screams scam). Of course, I did not do this, yet they do call back to try to get me to sign up for a lesser membership ($189) trial period. While I was on the phone with the Rep, I did a Google search and numerous scam sites popped up immediately. It is best to never send back the card and avoid the hassle.
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Your lucky by: Anonymous
I wish I had googled before handing over my money. They got me for almost $700. I agreed to the membership but not the hardcover book for $199. They went ahead and charged my cc for the book anyway. When i called to complain they said they would credit my account within 24 hours, a week passed and I saw no money come in. I called three times, no one returned my phone calls. So I emailed them. Suddenly, "Sandra c" emailed me stating a credit had been issued. She even gave me a false transaction number, I still have the email correspondence with her.
I have since filed many complaints with different agencies with this organization. Don't be scammed like I was.
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I was harassed by Biltmore Who's Who! by: Anonymous
I have had an experience with this company and it definitely was NOT a positive one. Just like you mentioned, I received an unsolicited letter in the mail congratulating me on my accomplishments and letting me know that I had been recommended to be highlighted in the Who's Who special member directory.
At first I felt proud to receive such recognition for all my years as a dance instructor, but I was also very skeptical. Unfortunately, I decided to send in my information thinking that it wouldn't hurt to talk to someone to find out more about what they were all about.
There definitely wasn't a problem with regards to being able to contact an actual person. Ever since I gave them my number I have received repeated phone calls from them trying to get me to join as a member for a fee. The thing is that the original letter never stated anything about there being a fee, so it definitely left me feeling like I was being deceived.
They never got me to send them any money, but the telephone harassment sure is irritating. I have told them repeatedly that I am not interested only to have them continue to call. I sure wish I would have done a google search before I ever even sent them any of my information.
Please be careful if you ever receive this kind of letter yourself.
