Apple Responds To Billing Issue, Sort Of
February 21, 2011
Previously, we told you about an annoying problem affecting select iTunes users when they attempt to make new purchases using the service. As if by random, certain purchases are being denied, while others are accepted.
The result is a frustrating denial of service, which comes with this strange message:
This problem happened to me, as it has to countless others. The resolution took seven days, from the time I originally emailed Apple to when the problem went away. However, it wasn't until today (three days after the resolution) that I received an email from Apple.
It reads:
"Dear Bryan, Thank you for your reply. Your patience is very much appreciated. I understand that you have been unable to purchase from the iTunes Store because your content purchase was declined. I am sorry for the inconvenience it has caused you. But, please don't worry, I am always happy to help you. I am glad to inform you that I have already re-enabled your account, so you should now be able to use it. If you have any difficulty signing in and making purchases with your account, please reply to let me know. Bryan, thank you very much for your great patience, cooperation and for being a valued iTunes customer. It is my pleasure to help you. Have a nice day. Take care! Sincerely, iTunes Store Customer Support"Naturally, what stands out is Apple had to "re-enable" my account. I didn't know it was inactive in the first place. After all, as Apple was denying certain purchases, it was charging my credit card for others. I'm happy the problem was resolved, even though I'm still unsure what was actually causing it. One cannot expect Apple to respond to each technical support request with a thorough explanation of what caused the problem. But, whenever credit cards are involved, thoughts of fraud are foremost in your mind. Since my credit card wasn't compromised, I'm satisfied. What do you think? Was Apple's response appropriate or too vague? Leave your comments below.