ESTA rip off

slby

Hi
I recently applied for 4 Esta's to visit the USA. I did a quick google and found a site that looked like the official visa site. Stupidly I went ahead and applied. (I have small children and don't have much help or time). It cost £182. Later I found out it should only have cost $14 each so probably £40 for 4. The site does say it is an agent and I could have paid $14 elsewhere but in my rush I did not see this.
However, it does say you can have a refund if you apply within 15 days of purchase - which I did. However, it's been 10 days since I replied for a refund and I have heard nothing. I have called and emailed at least 20 times and I get no response.
Given that their terms and conditions say I can have a refund can my credit card company challenge this?
Feel so stupid for using this website - will teach me to rush things. Also they now have the passport numbers for my family plus my credit card details which is very worrying.

zagfles

See http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/copycat-websites

DTDfanBoy

zagfles wrote: »

See http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/copycat-websites

I'd wouldn't have hurt MSE to let people know where to find the correct sites instead of simply warning people that there are scam sites out there.

https://www.gov.uk/ provides most of the correct links if you want to avoid being ripped off, including the correct links to use when applying for online visas including ESTA

Pollycat

slby
you don't mention which website you used.

What does it say about refunds?
How long after you ask for a refund does it say you'll get it?

Some websites insist on you applying for refunds in a specific way.
Did you follow the procedures set out on the refund section?

If you've called and emailed 20 times in 10 days, I think this is a bit 'overkill' (but other posters may disagree).