Hosting with Dreamscape Networks aka Crazy Domains aka Discount Domains aka Freeparking? It may be a good time to reconsider. This is no longer a local Kiwi Company and support appears to be all in the Philipines. From our personal experience? It’s the worst ever. We don’t trust our services hosted with these companies. Cheap is as good as you pay for it. Time is not cheap and you will spend hours on the phone sorting things out from our experience.
Choosing a reliable and trustworthy web hosting and domain registration provider is crucial for the success of any online business. Unfortunately, not all companies uphold ethical standards and transparent practices. One such company that has recently come under scrutiny is Crazy Domains, owned by Dreamscape Networks. In this article, we will delve into the allegations of misleading practices and discuss the consequences faced by the company.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has fined Dreamscape Networks a total of $56,340 for its deceptive practices. The ACCC alleges that Crazy Domains, a website operated by Dreamscape Networks, misled customers by offering two products as “free gifts” without clearly disclosing the auto-renewal and associated fees. Additionally, the company allegedly misrepresented its domain privacy product, claiming it would hide customer information when, in fact, it did not.
Between October 2019 and July 2023, Crazy Domains advertised a “three-month website builder” and an additional domain registration as free gifts. These products were automatically added to customers’ shopping carts, giving the impression that they were receiving something extra without any cost. However, the ACCC found that these products came with an unlabeled auto-renewal feature, which would charge users once the free period ended. The lack of clear information about ongoing subscription costs for these so-called free products led customers to fall into a subscription trap.
Another issue raised by the ACCC relates to Crazy Domains’ domain privacy product. The company claimed that this product would protect customers’ personal information and prevent hijacking. However, investigations revealed that the product did not hide contact names or email addresses from the public domain, contrary to what was advertised. This misrepresentation not only deceived customers but also compromised their privacy and security.
The ACCC has taken these allegations seriously, emphasizing the importance of businesses providing accurate information about the products or services they offer. ACCC Commissioner Liza Carver stated that subscription traps are a concerning form of conduct, and the ACCC will not hesitate to take action against businesses that employ such tactics in breach of the Australian Consumer Law. The fines imposed on Dreamscape Networks serve as a reminder to companies to prioritize customer satisfaction and transparency.
The allegations against Crazy Domains and Dreamscape Networks have brought to light numerous customer experiences that align with the ACCC’s findings. IT NEAR U, migrated its services to Discount Domains, a part of Free Parking and Dreamscape Networks, and encountered the worst possible service. The frustrating experience lasted for several months, with poor support and apparent obstructive behavior when attempting to move services away. Another customer faced service disruptions due to bugs in the Discount Domains portal. Even after transferring all domains, the domains are still listed, potentially causing confusion for customers when their domains lapse.
With the knowledge of these misleading practices, it becomes imperative to choose a reliable and ethical web hosting provider. When evaluating your options, consider factors such as transparency, customer reviews, and the company’s track record. Look for providers that prioritize customer satisfaction and clearly communicate all terms and conditions, including any auto-renewal or additional fees. Researching and comparing different providers can help you make an informed decision and avoid falling into a subscription trap.
The fines imposed on Dreamscape Networks and Crazy Domains by the ACCC serve as a warning to companies engaging in misleading practices. The allegations of offering free gifts without disclosing auto-renewals and misrepresenting products highlight the need for transparency and honesty in the web hosting industry. As consumers, it is crucial to be vigilant and choose providers that prioritize your best interests. By staying informed and making informed decisions, you can protect yourself and your business from deceptive practices.
Remember, your online presence is a valuable asset, and entrusting it to a reliable and trustworthy web hosting provider is essential for long-term success.
Web hosting company fined for misleading customers at checkout
Crazy Domains owner fined for so-called “subscription traps”
9 News: Web hosting business stung with $50k fine over alleged checkout ‘trap’
Crazy Domains parent fined for misleading ‘free gifts’ promotion
Web hosting business pays penalties for allegedly misleading customers about ‘free gifts’
Dreamscape Networks pays $56k in penalties for misleading ‘free’ product claims
ACCC – Crazy Doamins pays penalties for allegedly misleading customers with ‘free gifts’
Who doesn’t like free gifts? The ACCC, that’s who!
IT NEAR U – Buyer Beware: Dreamscape Networks | The worst domain registrar?
Dreamscape Acquires FreeParking as another Brand and Discount Domains is a brand of Free Parking.
Acquignosis Magazine: Crazy Domains Fined by ACCC – almost AU$60k
Oakmont Strafford Journal: Crazy Domains Fined by ACCC
Best Service Magazine: Crazy Domains Fined almost $60,000 by ACCC
Catbird Seat Magazine: Web Hosting Company Crazy Domains Fined
Best Company Magazine: Dreamscape Networks Fined for Misleading Customers
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