UPDATE / 12-18-2008 Issues With Receiving My Wifes Cashback From MS Live Search Purchases Fina

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 8:15AM

Looks like they screwed my wife for $720.00 cashback on her 3 purchases. Paypal said it was denied because all of the purchases were for the same thing thus abusing their cashback offer. Paypal is putting the blame on Microsoft. Does anyone have a number I can call to talk to Microsoft ?

"Hello **** ***********,

Thanks for using Microsoft’s Live Search cashback -- The Search That Pays You Back!

We regret to inform you that Microsoft is unable to pay the cashback savings you requested due to a violation of the terms of service of eBay or PayPal. If you have any additional questions, please contact PayPal directly, 1-888-221-1161.

Microsoft’s Live Search cashback Team"

Bochiman · October 5, 2008 8:19AM

Without more information, I won't make a judgement.

What was bought, were they all at the same time (same session), and what do the terms state (that people should read before doing anything)?

I've used it twice and gotten 100% of my monies delivered ($75 and $250).

Also...I'm confused by what you posted...your title says "Microsoft" but you then state that "Paypal" refused it. Which is it?

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 8:23AM

It was for 3 identical silver round purchases in the same session. I did the same with my account and got paid last week. In the "cashback Rebate Denied" e-mail that Microsoft sent they were saying to call paypal. After talking with paypal they put the blame on Microsoft.

mash · October 5, 2008 8:27AM

its one purchase per session

GFourDriver · October 5, 2008 8:29AM

I think I would use a better choice of words when I talked about my wife but thank you for the heads up.

adamlaneus · October 5, 2008 8:29AM

Oh wow. One purchase per session? Ouch.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 8:29AM

<< its one purchase per session >>

Well then I guess it's my fault but then why was one cashback not credited ? The system should have also caught this and wiped out the cashback credit before the purchase was made, which it did not. Very misleading......

I did the same exact thing with my account and received all of my cashback.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 8:32AM

<< I think I would use a better choice of words when I talked about my wife but thank you for the heads up. >>

Fixed

500Bay · October 5, 2008 8:33AM

I only made one purchase, and have 7 more days before my money is available.

I tried to use it again with the "30%" I read about here (I got 25%), and can't get it to show up again on my computer.

I really wonder if this whole system is really helping Microsoft win users?

GrumpyEd · October 5, 2008 8:51AM

In their rules it says they will tell you if it's excluded or if you exceeded the online session limit on the "purchase review" page before you commit.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 8:52AM

I just pulled this from the terms agreement.

"If you have exceeded the Online Session limit of permitted Cashback Rewards, eBay will notify you on the purchase review page of the "Buy-It-Now" transaction process."

Well.... all of the cashback discounts did show up in the purchase review page and were also listed as "earned" and said "Microsoft will initiate a payment to you in approximately 7 days."

I see someone taking legal action soon.

Bochiman · October 5, 2008 8:55AM

So, did you/she overpay based on the cashback? Or were these things you wanted anyway, and the price was ok and the cashback was a bonus?
That's how i tried to use mine...as a "bonus", just in case.

Sounds like things were done right, even if you got yours that doesn't mean that there wasn't a problem and yours should have gone through, or not.

When the purchases were being made, was there confirmation on each that the money would be saved? They do tell you before you commit.

As with all things, the devil is in the details....always read, and understand, the small print.

GrumpyEd · October 5, 2008 8:58AM

Did they allow it for the first of the 3 items?

I don't see any rule saying you can't get 3 of the same item, it says you would get it for the first one in the same session but sounds like if you used 3 sessions it should be ok.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 8:59AM

<< So, did you/she overpay based on the cashback? Or were these things you wanted anyway, and the price was ok and the cashback was a bonus?
That's how i tried to use mine...as a "bonus", just in case.

Sounds like things were done right, even if you got yours that doesn't mean that there wasn't a problem and yours should have gone through, or not.

When the purchases were being made, was there confirmation on each that the money would be saved? They do tell you before you commit.

As with all things, the devil is in the details....always read, and understand, the small print. >>

Yes, as stated above the savings showed up in the purchase review page and the cashback was listed as earned and "Microsoft will initiate a payment to you in approximately 7 days."

Paypal told me that Microsoft denied it because she pulled a "sham", only wanted the items because of the cashback. How the hell do they know that's why they were bought ???

Bochiman · October 5, 2008 9:02AM

<< Did they allow it for the first of the 3 items?

I don't see any rule saying you can't get 3 of the same item, it says you would get it for the first one in the same session but sounds like if you used 3 sessions it should be ok. >>

Yeah...I'm thinking there is something more to this, whether is was noticed or not.....as I don't think the same item is the problem.....what I keep tripping on is the comment made that paypal was saying "denied because all of the purchases were for the same thing thus abusing" the offer.
Same thing makes it sound like 1 item, not 3 of the same, almost like they think it was the "hey, you sell, and I'll buy, and we'll split the money" (not saying it was, just saying it sounds like it could have been interpreted).

Was it 3 separate auctions for the same type of item? 1 auction that had multiple for sale? Auction won/ended, then another set up, won/ended, then the 3rd set up?

Too many things missing to make conclusions.

PollywogRancher · October 5, 2008 9:02AM

That's it. Abuse the system. What do you expect with all these "free" money gimmicks? I bet you people are the first in line when the government is handing out the free cheese.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 9:07AM

<< 

<< Did they allow it for the first of the 3 items?

I don't see any rule saying you can't get 3 of the same item, it says you would get it for the first one in the same session but sounds like if you used 3 sessions it should be ok. >>

Yeah...I'm thinking there is something more to this, whether is was noticed or not.....as I don't think the same item is the problem.....what I keep tripping on is the comment made that paypal was saying "denied because all of the purchases were for the same thing thus abusing" the offer.
Same thing makes it sound like 1 item, not 3 of the same, almost like they think it was the "hey, you sell, and I'll buy, and we'll split the money" (not saying it was, just saying it sounds like it could have been interpreted).

Was it 3 separate auctions for the same type of item? 1 auction that had multiple for sale? Auction won/ended, then another set up, won/ended, then the 3rd set up?

Too many things missing to make conclusions. >>

It was 3 seperate auctions listed about 10 minutes apart. This was not a "scam" to split any money. Seller was just asked to set up the auctions 10 minutes apart so nobody else could buy them. I did not see this in the rules as being a violation ???

dan8402 · October 5, 2008 9:08AM

<< That's it. Abuse the system. What do you expect with all these "free" money gimmicks? I bet you people are the first in line when the government is handing out the free cheese. >>

This guy is great

Three great posts so far.

RWB · October 5, 2008 9:08AM

Could you post the tractor parts, please? The garden gnome photo cracked my monitor.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 9:09AM

<< That's it. Abuse the system. What do you expect with all these "free" money gimmicks? I bet you people are the first in line when the government is handing out the free cheese. >>

Did you sign on just to chime in as a smart azz ?

fc · October 5, 2008 9:11AM

another reason i have not used this offer. i just do not want the
headache.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 9:19AM

<< So, did you/she overpay based on the cashback? Or were these things you wanted anyway, and the price was ok and the cashback was a bonus? >>

Without the cashback it was a big overpay

GrumpyEd · October 5, 2008 9:21AM

"such sixty (60) minute period shall be referred to herein as an "Online Session"

"maximum of $200.00 per Online Session. "

Maybe they can use that rule to not allow 3 purchases 10 minutes apart.
That's why I asked if they gave it for the first item.

Still it seems they shouldn't have confirmed it at the "review" page and should have allowed the first item.

Coll3ctor · October 5, 2008 9:24AM

#1 - Maybe they can use that rule to not allow 3 purchases 10 minutes apart. That's why I asked if they gave it for the first item.

No, all were void.

#2 - Still it seems they shouldn't have confirmed it at the "review" page and should have allowed the first item.

My same thoughts.

Frankcoins · October 5, 2008 9:26AM

Most of you guys are abusing the system. If the goal is to encourage Microsoft live search, and once you find something on ebay, you search for something ELSE that was not found using Live search, but rather using ebay's search, that's abuse of the system, and you might or might not get paid. Then again, you could be accused of wire fraud.

Bochiman · October 5, 2008 9:34AM

Here's is what I am thinking from the extra info...

The cashback deal went into effect.
Many people benefited and more decided to scam the system.
Some checks/balances went into place (they had 60 days or so to do it since no payouts for 60 days) and, as with anything automated or done without all the knowledge, there are problems that happen....good/legit items get placed into the scam territory.

So, the same item, basically, in "new" auctions, 10 minutes apart, likely threw up flags for them.
I bet that it fell into the bucket of what i was mentioning ... 2 people collude to "sell" something between themselves just to get the funds. Not saying you/your wife did it, but with the additional info you gave, it is pretty easy to see how someone might suspect that.

So, it wouldn't have flagged, originally, but in an automated review, I can see how it would.

ibzman350 · October 5, 2008 9:34AM

<< I think I would use a better choice of words when I talked about my wife but thank you for the heads up. >>

Herb

GrumpyEd · October 5, 2008 9:35AM

They link it directly to ebays search.

link

darktone · October 5, 2008 9:37AM

that sucks!

nankraut · October 5, 2008 10:01AM

<< That's it. Abuse the system. What do you expect with all these "free" money gimmicks? I bet you people are the first in line when the government is handing out the free cheese. >>

Hello Newbie!!

Does "you people" include all forum members?? Your post seems to indicate a lack of basic intelligence, sir.

YaHa · October 6, 2008 10:38AM

I still don't understand this MSN cashback stuff. Can someone explain what the rules about sessions mean. Also on www.live.com where does one sign up? I went to the page and it has MSN window live id, and something else, where or which icon do you sign up at. Lastly what it the limit cost you must spend and not go over while using the MSN cash back. thanks.

commoncents123 · October 6, 2008 10:51AM

it it one purchase per session....

here are the instructions i posted here

Bochiman · October 6, 2008 11:09AM

<< Most of you guys are abusing the system. If the goal is to encourage Microsoft live search, and once you find something on ebay, you search for something ELSE that was not found using Live search, but rather using ebay's search, that's abuse of the system, and you might or might not get paid. Then again, you could be accused of wire fraud. >>

Well, your streak of BEING WRONG continues

YaHa · October 6, 2008 11:24AM

<< 

<< Most of you guys are abusing the system. If the goal is to encourage Microsoft live search, and once you find something on ebay, you search for something ELSE that was not found using Live search, but rather using ebay's search, that's abuse of the system, and you might or might not get paid. Then again, you could be accused of wire fraud. >>

Well, your streak of BEING WRONG continues

>>

Congrats on 17,000 posts seems like a sweet number.

Placid · October 6, 2008 11:31AM

Buying the same item multiple times from the same seller often results in denial.
I think it looks to ms as though you are either in collusion with the seller or are buying things just to resell.

Also try to avoid buying items from sellers that advertise the ms cashback in their listing. Something about doing so is againt eBay rules.
There have been reports of eBay shutting their auctions down and ms then sending denials to people that have purchased from them.

Some people have also got fake cashback denial emails.

Some have claimed they have got denials reversed after filing a bbb complaint against ms.

lope208 · October 6, 2008 11:47AM

<< another reason i have not used this offer. i just do not want the
headache. >>

Same reason I have not messed with this stuff either.

Just don't have the extra time or cash to tie up while hoping I get my cashback refund.

7over8 · October 6, 2008 12:41PM

guys, i wrote about being burned by MS Cashback already

I've been in a dispute with them over $250 cashback since Sept 17th, which was 90 days after my purchase.

Technical difficulties, MS says ebay must confirm purchase, ebay says its a MS problem........I sent all details, everything was done appropriately

Well, it's a Catch-22 with a bunch of boobs manning the bridge.........

Frankcoins · October 6, 2008 1:21PM

<< 

<< Most of you guys are abusing the system. If the goal is to encourage Microsoft live search, and once you find something on ebay, you search for something ELSE that was not found using Live search, but rather using ebay's search, that's abuse of the system, and you might or might not get paid. Then again, you could be accused of wire fraud. >>

Well, your streak of BEING WRONG continues

>>

Every rebate coupon I have ever seen, or even a coupon for 25 cents off a jar of mustard, warns about fraud if the
consumer attempts to redeem it without following the exact rules.

And so does Microsoft...

Microsoft may disqualify transactions, seek return of previously paid cashback rewards, refuse redemptions and/or close your account at any time if you participate in any fraud or abuse relating to the service (including conducting "sham" transactions or otherwise colluding with merchants), make any misrepresentation in connection with your participation in the service or do not comply with this contract.

koufax · October 6, 2008 1:55PM

I don't understand why people are saying that they are not even messing with this cashback offer. What do you have to lose. Over the last 4 days--I have bought 4 different items that gave me the full 200.00 dollars each--A total of 800.00 dollars cashback. If I get the money..GREAT. If I don't get the money--oh well. I needed these items anyways. So the way I look at it is it couldn't hurt to try. Besides I have seen tons of people across coin and sports card forums that had no problems and got there cash. I don't think its a scam. I just think you need to play by the rules.

pennyannie · October 6, 2008 5:00PM

I bought items that i would have bought anyway. Took about 20 extra minutes to set it up and read some of the fine print. So far they have deposited over 400 into my paypal account. I always make a little free time to get a little FREE money.

Bochiman · October 6, 2008 5:44PM

<< 

<< 

<< Most of you guys are abusing the system. If the goal is to encourage Microsoft live search, and once you find something on ebay, you search for something ELSE that was not found using Live search, but rather using ebay's search, that's abuse of the system, and you might or might not get paid. Then again, you could be accused of wire fraud. >>

Well, your streak of BEING WRONG continues

>>

Every rebate coupon I have ever seen, or even a coupon for 25 cents off a jar of mustard, warns about fraud if the
consumer attempts to redeem it without following the exact rules.

And so does Microsoft...

Microsoft may disqualify transactions, seek return of previously paid cashback rewards, refuse redemptions and/or close your account at any time if you participate in any fraud or abuse relating to the service (including conducting "sham" transactions or otherwise colluding with merchants), make any misrepresentation in connection with your participation in the service or do not comply with this contract. >>

And where does your "get accused of wire fraud" come in? Frank, face it, you just want attention and to scare people and make it seem you like know which end is up when you don't. Take reading comprehension. It says "if you participate in any fraud....". Says nothing about "wire fraud".

While I would agree there is fine print, and that some folks do try to take it way too far, it is nothing like the horrors that you spout.

Coll3ctor · October 10, 2008 4:19AM

I still have no answers on why this was denied. Microsoft live chat says they cannot help me and to e-mail my concerns to cashteam@microsoft.com. I have sent one e-mail on the 6th and one again today with no reply

ilikebuffaloes · October 10, 2008 4:41AM

If all 3 items were purchased from the same merchant, it looks like collusion. I'm sure that Microsoft wants to avoid transactions that are "staged". In other words if I posted something on the BST and found a buyer and the buyer and I agreed to put it up on eBay as a BIN so they could get the cash back offer, that is considered collusion. If you were the only bidder and the items were placed a few minutes apart. I'm sure that there is some type of algorithm that looks at this and your wife was flagged.

I'm not making accusations, I'm just making assumptions based on the posts.

edited for typos!

Frankcoins · October 10, 2008 5:29AM

<< 

And where does your "get accused of wire fraud" come in? Frank, face it, you just want attention and to scare people and make it seem you like know which end is up when you don't. Take reading comprehension. It says "if you participate in any fraud....". Says nothing about "wire fraud".

>>

My SAT verbal was 730. Any fraud where telecommunications devices of ANY KIND are involved is considered wire fraud.

http://criminal.findlaw.com/crimes/a-z/wire_fraud.html

Coll3ctor · October 25, 2008 1:43AM

Just for an update.... it's going on 3 weeks with no reply to my e-mails sent to cashteam@microsoft.com on the 6th and 10th (I also sent another today). No phone support and Live chat continues to blow me off saying they cannot help me and to e-mail cashteam@microsoft.com

UNBELIEVABLE CUSTOMER SUPPORT

darktone · October 25, 2008 1:57AM

maybe the guy you bought the stuff from said the wrong thing to MSN or Paypal?

Coll3ctor · October 25, 2008 2:04AM

<< maybe the guy you bought the stuff from said the wrong thing to MSN or Paypal? >>

Whatever the reason why won't they answer me

darktone · October 25, 2008 2:08AM

<< 

<< maybe the guy you bought the stuff from said the wrong thing to MSN or Paypal? >>

Whatever the reason why won't they answer me

>>

Probably my guess is they have all the information they need to close the case and they won't re-open it. I have had that with Paypal in the past.

Coll3ctor · October 25, 2008 2:10AM

<< 

<< 

<< maybe the guy you bought the stuff from said the wrong thing to MSN or Paypal? >>

Whatever the reason why won't they answer me

>>

Probably my guess is they have all the information they need to close the case and they won't re-open it. I have had that with Paypal in the past. >>

What happened to the box of KABOOMS

Coll3ctor · November 5, 2008 7:20AM

After 4 weeks of 7 unanswered e-mails I sent to Microsoft I get a phone call today. It was Paypal on the phone telling me Microsoft contacted them about my wifes denied claims and that they do not know why they were denied. They told me the decision was overruled and I should have the $720.00 in several days. Very good news if this is true

rgCoinGuy · November 5, 2008 7:32AM

Good deal, glad to hear you won on this one.

UPDATE / 12-18-2008 Issues With Receiving My Wifes Cashback From MS Live Search Purchases Fina

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***UPDATE / 12-18-2008*** Issues With Receiving My Wifes Cashback From MS Live Search Purchases Fina

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UPDATE / 12-18-2008 Issues With Receiving My Wifes Cashback From MS Live Search Purchases Fina