Skip to main content

Cookies on BBB.org

We use cookies to give users the best content and online experience. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to allow us to use all cookies. Visit our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Manage Cookies
Share
Business Profile

Marketing Consultant

apnTech

Complaints

Customer Complaints Summary

  • 196 total complaints in the last 3 years.
  • 60 complaints closed in the last 12 months.

If you've experienced an issue

Submit a Complaint

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

Sort by

Complaint status

Complaint type

  • Initial Complaint

    Date:10/27/2023

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    On September 28, 2023 I reached out to APN tech to get my business on voice search through ******* Siri, etc. and paid $680,00 to do so. I was told that if my business did not show up or I was not satisfied, I would be given a 100% refund with a 30 day time period. The minute I handed over my credit card info, the began a hard up sell to another service that would get my business shown more. Immediately, a red flag went up. I said no and they have continually tried to get me to purchase. They have done nothing but take my money. I spent so much time on the phone with them going over key words and areas of service that was supposed to help me show up on voice search. They claim I am now searchable, but this is not true. The only time I show up is if you ask for me directly by name. I have always shown up that way as I am ****** verified. I have continually and within the 30 day window asked for a full refund only to be told they fulfilled their end of the agreement. This company is a fraud and needs to be shut down. I am usually a much better consumer and do my research before purchasing, but these people are very good at convining you. Had I done my research, I would have seen the MANY consumer complaints against them for the same thing. All I want is a refund because I certainly did not get what I paid for.

    Business Response

    Date: 11/07/2023

    We appreciate your recent email on October 24th regarding your business's visibility on voice search and your previous interaction with our marketing specialist. We're committed to addressing your concerns professionally and empathetically. Our representative attempted to contact you on October 25th, but due to understandable frustration, we couldn't resolve the issue during the brief phone call.
    In subsequent emails, we clarified our 100% approval guarantee and explained your business's voice search registration. We noticed the absence of a Yelp page for your business and provided detailed instructions. Your expressed frustration prompted us to reach out via email. We reinforced our refund policy and noted your business is registered on voice search platforms. To optimize your key terms, creating a Yelp page is essential. On October 26th, our representative responded via email, offering assistance in creating your Yelp page. We understand your frustration and are here to assist. If you have more concerns or need help, please reach out. We're committed to your satisfaction.

    Customer Answer

    Date: 11/07/2023

    I was never informed that a Yelp page was necessary when signing up for your service.  You have since credited my money and I consider this matter closed. 

    Business Response

    Date: 11/16/2023

    I hope this message finds you well. We appreciate your engagement with our team and value the opportunity to address the concerns raised in your recent interactions with us. Our representative reached out to you on October 25th via phone, aiming to clarify the significance of having a Yelp listing for your business. While Yelp is not mandatory, we strongly recommend it as a means to optimize your key terms and enhance your online visibility. Following the call, detailed step-by-step instructions were emailed to guide you through the creation of a Yelp page. Understanding the importance of clear communication, one of our managers also reached out to you later that day, reiterating the benefits of having a Yelp listing to optimize your business's key terms. Additionally, on October 24th, another email was sent by our representative, emphasizing the significance of a Yelp listing for your business.
    We understand that you chose to dispute the charge on October 26th, and we confirm that the funds have been promptly returned to your account. We apologize for any inconvenience this situation may have caused. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we remain committed to providing assistance and guidance. If you have any further concerns or questions, please feel free to reach out. We appreciate your understanding and the opportunity to address this matter.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:10/20/2023

    Type:Service or Repair Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I entered into an agreement with this company to advertise my business. They walked me through all of the steps and assured me that the keywords used would show me listed. My company is listed on internet as ***************************** ****************** and that's what is on my business page but my company also abbreviates it to ***************************** AGC but it shouldn't matter because they promise using keywords will drive business to you. if you're asking 'hey Siri show me realtors near me' or 'show me houses for sale in ************' they assured me that my business will show up and that is a lie! Their whole premise is that you will show up on voice search using keywords. I trusted that they delivered exactly what I was promised AND told when I had it all set up by the gentleman on phone that my business would be listed. He even said everything is good to go. I trusted that. I was wrong. I do not show up and their biggest argument is that my business shows up under two different names. Here's the thing I'm part of ***************************** company that goes by both of those names and again if you're using voice search to find a service it shouldn't matter because according to what they offer it only takes keywords. They also said I didn't need Yelp but he strongly encouraged it. I told him on the phone that I was likely not going to do Yelp and he said 'Ok won't be a problem' They are nothing but a scam and offer 100% money back guarantee but will refuse. If you read other complaints they have the same complaint as myself and this company will use that because they know they can't deliver. APN Tech I would like my money refunded.

    Business Response

    Date: 10/27/2023

    On October 23rd, ****** reached out for assistance regarding issues with her business's visibility on voice search. Our representative verified that her business was indeed registered on voice search; however, her information was not effectively reaching its potential audience. It was apparent that her business lacked the necessary visibility to achieve the desired results.
    It's essential to clarify that voice search registration involves us submitting our clients' business information, and once this data is submitted, it cannot be retracted. Additionally, voice search directories require a complete business profile to effectively disseminate information to users engaged in voice searches. These directories may encompass platforms like ****** Business or a basic Yelp page. Furthermore, inconsistencies between the information in our software and our clients' business profiles can negatively impact their visibility.
    Unfortunately, due to ******'s understandable frustration, we were unable to convey this information during our previous conversation. We genuinely empathize with her frustration and share her enthusiasm for optimizing voice search functionality to its full potential. We are committed to working together to address this issue and enhance the performance of voice search for her business.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:10/18/2023

    Type:Service or Repair Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I have had there SEO service for a few months. I have not received monthly updates and I am not noticing any difference. I understand *** can take time however I decided to cancel since I was told I can cancel at any time. The problem is that you have to cancel by phone only and they do not give any direct lines. All calls go to an answering service where w are told that they have a 72 hours time frame to call back. There is no way to cancel and they will continue to bill you. Since I have not gotten any monthly reports as promised I am curious if they ever do anything except just take money and make it impossible to cancel. In what world are you only allowed to cancel over the phone instead of in writing and then they dont give you a rep or phone number other than an answering service. They are impossible, unreliable and appear to make money off the unethical cancellation policies.

    Business Response

    Date: 10/20/2023

    After reviewing the account, it became evident that ****************** initiated a call on October 12th to discuss a cancellation request. Unfortunately, all of our representatives were engaged in ongoing phone conversations at that time. Subsequently, on October 13th, one of our account managers attempted to reach out to ****************** via phone, but they were unable to establish contact. A voicemail was left, and an email was dispatched to express our willingness to assist further.
    As of October 17th, we had not received any response from the client. Consequently, we sent an email suggesting that it may be advantageous for ****************** to remain in the program for a duration of 6 to 12 months. This recommendation was made because we work with multiple platforms, each of which updates on its own timeline, and ****************** had only been in the program for approximately four months. In this email, we also offered to waive the November payment as a gesture of goodwill to ***** the client's listings the time they need to achieve optimal visibility. Within the same email, we provided our contact number and asked the client to reach out if they decided to discontinue the service.
    On the same day, the client responded, expressing his inability to reach us directly by phone and requesting that we contact him instead. On October 18th, we made another attempt to contact ****************** by phone, but once again, we were unable to establish a connection. Consequently, we left a voicemail and sent another email. In a subsequent outreach effort on the same day, we managed to connect with the client. During this conversation, ****************** expressed his frustration at our previous communication challenges and conveyed his decision to cancel the account.
    We promptly processed the cancellation and sent an email confirmation on the same day.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:10/13/2023

    Type:Order Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    Contacted by company about voice recognition search optimization. Agreed to a one time fee for services and company took way too long to reply to emails, sometimes months between communication. Have seen that APN is a scam and a lot of people are having the same thing happen to them. We never approved recurring charges, never signed anything agreeing to any work beyond the one time fee. We want a refund.

    Business Response

    Date: 10/16/2023

    We acknowledge that you recently reached out to discuss the chargeback initiated with your issuing bank. As you've mentioned, you filed a dispute with your bank, claiming that we did not provide sufficient information, which led to the denial of the refund for your monthly payments. We appreciate your concerns, and we'd like to address this matter.
    It's essential to clarify that we have indeed provided the services as agreed upon. During our previous communication, there was a verbal agreement regarding the monthly payments, and we have a record of all calls made during our interactions. This verbal contract serves as evidence of your commitment to these monthly payments.
    In response to your expressed intention to pursue small claims if a refund is not granted within a week, we want to emphasize that, according to our policies, we are unable to issue a refund while the chargeback process is ongoing. We will comply with the chargeback regulations and provide all necessary documentation and communication to your issuing bank.
    We understand your frustration in this situation, and we genuinely hope for a swift resolution. Please be aware that, as you mentioned, the client is requesting a refund due to the outcome of the dispute with the bank. We remain committed to addressing this matter according to the established procedures and regulations.
    If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through this process.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:10/05/2023

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    ResolvedMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I paid APNTech $348.00 to be listed on multiple voice search platforms over 3 months ago. I was told it would take 3 to 4 weeks and my business had not been listed. I called requesting a full refund as promised and was only offered $100.

    Business Response

    Date: 10/16/2023

    apnTech completely understands the frustration the customer is going through. They reached out to cancel their service and request a full refund because they felt dissatisfied with the results achieved so far. After carefully reviewing the situation, I regret to inform you that we can only provide a partial refund of $100. This decision is based on the work we have already invested and the services we have provided up to this point.
    It's important to note that there are factors beyond our control, such as time frames and the speed at which listings are processed. Despite these challenges, the customer will still benefit from the lifetime syndication, which will eventually yield positive results. In recognition of the customer's frustration and inconvenience, we are offering $100 as a gesture of goodwill.
    I understand that the customer agreed to this resolution, but it's completely normal for them to feel upset about the situation. I reassured the customer that the $100 refund will be processed within 7 to 14 business days. The call was then concluded.

    Customer Answer

    Date: 10/16/2023

    The partial refund was paid but I do not accept the partial refund due to services not being completed as promised.  I will only accept a full refund

    Business Response

    Date: 10/20/2023

    On October 20th, we initiated contact with you to address any concerns related to client's Voice Search Registration. Our investigation confirmed that "Peet And Repeet Steam Cleaning" is currently active on voice search, substantiated by multiple screenshots provided to the client. Client noted an absence on ****** devices, and we pinpointed the issue to your ****** business page, which is encountering complications, thereby affecting your visibility on voice searches through ****** devices. We have dispatched an email outlining instructions for the client to ***** us managerial access to your ****** business page, allowing us to conduct a thorough analysis, even if it falls beyond our standard responsibilities. Our commitment remains steadfast in achieving visibility for "Peet And Repeet Steam Cleaning" across all voice search devices.

    Customer Answer

    Date: 10/20/2023


    Better Business Bureau:

    I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me.  I will wait for the business to perform this action and, if it does, will consider this complaint resolved.

    Regards,

    ***************

     
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:09/13/2023

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    Sold a service and then was getting spam emails from them for add-on services. They had not completed set up of the account. When that call came, I explained I could not move forward with their service. I requested the refund and was told that a refund could be processed within 72 hours. Later I got an email denying this. Since then I have been harassed by phone. They claim info has been processed, however, I never completed the setup call.

    Business Response

    Date: 10/16/2023

    apnTech called the client to address their concerns. The client expressed a desire for a refund because their business couldn't authorize voice search for ***** apnTech explained that even if an immediate refund were possible, her information could not be retracted. Furthermore, we can't process refunds until the three to four-week timeframe elapses. The client was upset, cited negative reviews, and expressed displeasure with our business. She refused to work with us and decided to dispute the charges with her bank before hanging up.
    Another agent attempted to assist her as well, but the client remained unresponsive. We also left a voicemail and sent an email, offering further assistance.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:09/13/2023

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    APN advertises that we can cancel the service at any time. I have been trying to get in touch with them for weeks. They don't return phone calls. I ask for $129 be refunded for **** services and no other charge be made in my credit card

    Business Response

    Date: 09/28/2023

    On September 19th, one of our APN representatives, Dakarai, had a conversation with ****, the owner of ****'s ************** Services. At approximately 9 AM Pacific Standard Time Our representative ******* reached out and investigated ****************** reason for cancellation. ************** initiated a conversation with *******, expressing his concerns about the limited visibility he had experienced and his current financial situation, which fell short of his expectations. In response, we reminded ************** that we had initially set the expectation for him to remain in the program for a minimum of 6 to 12 months. It's important to note that only about 4 months have elapsed since he joined the program. We established the expectation for the program's duration based on the fact that we collaborate with platforms that update at their own pace. Given that the internet landscape undergoes daily changes, this timeframe aligns with the dynamic nature of online platforms. We emphasized the necessity of allowing these listings sufficient time to accrue more value, which  ******* and ************** agreed to have already witnessed progress and growth within the program, despite the relatively short duration of their participation. We also took the opportunity to highlight the various benefits of our program. After a constructive discussion, we successfully negotiated an agreement with **************, and he has decided to continue his participation in the program. This development signifies the continuation and strengthening of our partnership with him.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:09/05/2023

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I purchased this advertising from APN Tech. They promised to get my business on voice recognized on all major search engines. They also stated if I was unhappy for any reason I could cancel within 30 days. I agreed They sent me an agreement after charging my card. I asked for a refund within the 30 days and they stated that wasn't possible. They do not follow through with their promises and give false information.

    Business Response

    Date: 09/07/2023

    We appreciate your feedback and understand your concerns regarding the registration of your business on Voice Search. After reviewing your case, we want to clarify a few points. Firstly, we have indeed registered your business for Voice search, and we provided proof of the services rendered. However, we noticed that your business name on one of the accounts populating on ***** differed from your full business name. This discrepancy occurred due to multiple Yelp listings associated with the same phone number and address. It's important to note that Yelp is a primary data source for ***** to populate business information. During this process, they cross-reference the data provided for voice search registration. This resulted in the issue you've experienced. On September 6th, we attempted to reach out to discuss and resolve the issue. Unfortunately, the conversation took an unpleasant turn due to the tone and demand for a refund. Our intention was to assist and clarify how this discrepancy affects your online visibility and voice search.
    We remain committed to helping you address this matter and improve your business's online presence. Please let us know when you're ready to work together to resolve these issues.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/21/2023

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I was told that I was upgraded to a better package plan then the basic for the price of the basic but every time a rep. ***** they talk about how I have the basic plan and just try to upsell me before I even see them put together the package I have ordered I feel like this buisness is just trying to scam people out of there money

    Business Response

    Date: 08/22/2023

    I reached out to ****************** around 2:35 PM Pacific Standard Time on August 21st in an effort to address and resolve his concern. During our conversation, ****************** indicated that he was unavailable to speak at that moment. I informed him that he is welcome to contact us back the following day anytime between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM Pacific Standard Time. He assured me that he will reach out during that timeframe. We share ********************** eagerness to resolve this matter promptly and will await his response with patience.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/11/2023

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I purchased a service through APN tech to get my business listed for voice search on the internet with engines like siri, ****** home, cortana etc... Before purchasing the service we did a live search with terms like "find a welder in ***********" or "metal fabricators in *******, ** and my business was not listed. After purchasing the service I went through the online business interview where their agents tried to upsell/force other products on me because my business "wasn't listed in other searches they performed" I informed them that I was only interested in the voice search and was promised that after 2-4 weeks my business would show up in searches like we tried "welders or metal fabricators in ***********" Its been well over 6 weeks and I've reached out to the company for their guarantee policy and they responded with a visual snap shot of a voice search for my company by name which was ALWAYS showing up before and not what I purchased. They seem to think that they fulfilled their guarantee but clearly they have not. They make false promises in hopes to upsell you on subscription services. They need to credit me my fees in full for not meeting their end of the deal.

    Business Response

    Date: 08/17/2023

    An apnTech representative initiated contact with ****** to address the issue at hand. Regrettably, our attempts to establish communication and resolve the matter were unsuccessful, despite our shared eagerness to do so. We remain committed to finding a resolution and will patiently await ******'s response or further communication from him, enabling us to proceed accordingly. 

BBB Business Profiles may not be reproduced for sales or promotional purposes.

BBB Business Profiles are provided solely to assist you in exercising your own best judgment. BBB asks third parties who publish complaints, reviews and/or responses on this website to affirm that the information provided is accurate. However, BBB does not verify the accuracy of information provided by third parties, and does not guarantee the accuracy of any information in Business Profiles.

When considering complaint information, please take into account the company's size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm's responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints.

BBB Business Profiles generally cover a three-year reporting period, except for customer reviews. Customer reviews posted prior to July 5, 2024, will no longer be published when they reach three years from their submission date. Customer reviews posted on/after July 5, 2024, will be published indefinitely unless otherwise voluntarily retracted by the user who submitted the content, or BBB no longer believes the review is authentic. BBB Business Profiles are subject to change at any time. If you choose to do business with this company, please let them know that you checked their record with BBB.

As a matter of policy, BBB does not endorse any product, service or business. Businesses are under no obligation to seek BBB accreditation, and some businesses are not accredited because they have not sought BBB accreditation. BBB charges a fee for BBB Accreditation. This fee supports BBB's efforts to fulfill its mission of advancing marketplace trust.