Messages

1

Getty Images Letter Forum / Re: Masterfile Corporation

« on: November 19, 2010, 12:00:38 AM »

Thank you Mr Michelen,

Your counsel is so appreciated!
I will make the changes as you listed and lay low and see what happens.

Thank you
Doris

2

Getty Images Letter Forum / Re: Masterfile Corporation

« on: November 14, 2010, 05:37:18 PM »

Hello Mr  Michelen,

I want to thank you again for your phone call on October 28th. As I told you it was my birthday and having your guidance made my whole day!
I took your advice and made a phone call to NCS Recovery on November 1st. "Ashley" is managing my file. This business must be "rinky-dink", even when answering the phone they don't have the business etiquette to answer with the identity of the business. However, I spoke to Ashley and discussed my limitations for paying the demanded amount of $2790.00. She asked me what I thought would be a reasonable offer, my response was "somewhere between 0 and the reduced Masterfile amount , $930.00. I offered $500-600. Of course she would have to get back to me after consulting with Masterfile. Two days later I call NCS to find out the offer (again, the phone etiquette was lacking). At that point I really wondered if this was a legit collection agency. Ashley comes to the phone, asks what I want. I  told her I was interested in the settlement amount from Masterfile. I also said I found their practice in greeting their customers less than business-like. Probably not the best way to start the conversation---"Dragon Lady" yells "what are you afraid Doris? Do you think I am trying to rip you off? (yes). Why don't you look up NCS info on the web and get back to me". Needless to say I have not called "Dragon Lady" back.

After multiple discussions around my dining room table, my husband is asking me why I don't close the business. The company is a LLC, so would I be held personally responsible for the demanded monies?
Honestly, this little business is a small service. My referrals are primarily "word of mouth". I am not website dependent. So closing this business through the state and feds, close the small bank account  and restarting in 2011 with a new name is not going to impact my future.
Oscar, I guess the big question is, should I secure your services to notify the "creditors" that the business is no longer in existence and there are no assets.
I will say it over and over, I would rather support your fund and drop these sharks on their nose than to pay the extortion money

I know you are a busy man. I will wait for your reply.

Thank you
Doris

3

Getty Images Letter Forum / Re: Masterfile Corporation

« on: October 22, 2010, 10:34:54 PM »

Good evening,
I emailed privately so I my be repeating myself. I so want to resolve this issue but I need some sound advice before I just write the check.
 I am now holding a letter from NCS Recovery Service demanding the full amount of $2790.00. What steps do I take now?
Really can this company collect this incredible amount of money or do you think I should offer a lower amount (the original $930 that Masterfile felt they could live with). Is there a magic number to get these people out of your hair?
I look forward to hearing from you. I think it is time to retain your services.
[email protected] or call 503-939-5315. Thank you

4

Getty Images Letter Forum / Re: Masterfile Corporation

« on: September 29, 2010, 11:53:45 AM »

Let me start by saying thank you for being available to assist all of us targeted by Masterfile. Sadly I am now part of the "family". I received the demand letter on September 13, 2010 for (1) image on my puny little web page. The demanded amount for this copyright infringement was $2790. It was amazing  (within minutes) how quickly the "agent" dropped the price to $930. I said I would look at the offer. Well it took the Bozo 2 weeks to push the right buttons and send the "agreement" to my email address. I promptly called and spoke to the agent. I mentioned I had done some research and really believe the "agreement" payment was excessive.  I understand this image was on my web page, but I didn't use it for any other sort of marketing (brochures, business cards etc).If ever there was an "innocent infringer" I qualify. Now, this is were I will admit my stupidity. I allowed my daughter's 18 year old boyfriend to create my little web page four years ago. No surprise I had him help me because my tech skills suck. I would have never even thought about copyright infringements because IT is not my specialty. Fast forward 4 years later and Masterfile enters my life. Any suggestions? The demand letter states I must pay $930 by September 30th. Should I counter with a mid range amount?
Any assistance will be greatly appreciated