Full Exposé and Reviews of Divvia, Unity Payments, CDN POS / Canadian POS Corporation, and Elavon: What Every Merchant Needs to Know

Merchant service providers should help businesses operate smoothly, securely, and transparently. Unfortunately, our experience with Divvia, its related brand Unity Payments, its former identity CDN POS / Canadian POS Corporation, and their partnered processor Elavon, revealed serious issues that every business owner needs to understand before signing anything.

This article serves as a complete investigative review, combining first-hand experience, publicly visible patterns, and industry concerns to provide a comprehensive warning to merchants.

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1. CDN POS / Canadian POS Corporation: A Troubling Reputation and Likely Rebranding

Before Divvia existed, the same business operated under:

• CDN POS

• Canadian POS Corporation

This earlier version of the company accumulated approximately 70 Google reviews with an average of 1.2 stars, which is extraordinarily low for any business.

A 1.2-star rating is almost unheard of and indicates major systemic issues such as:

• Poor customer service

• Misleading information

• Failed expectations

• Disputes and unresolved complaints

Based on the review history, business patterns, and the timeline of brand transitions, it appears that CDN POS / Canadian POS Corporation likely changed their name and rebranded to Divvia and later Unity Payments because of the very bad reputation they built under their original names.

Rebranding can be legitimate, but in the payment processing industry, businesses often rebrand after accumulating negative reviews, which should raise immediate caution for merchants.

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2. Divvia's Current Reputation Continues to Raise Concerns

Under its current name, Divvia has:

• 239 Google reviews

• An average rating of 3.6 stars

For a merchant services provider handling sensitive business information, a 3.6-star rating is far from ideal and suggests ongoing customer dissatisfaction.

When a company with a historically poor reputation re-emerges under a new name, but still shows mixed and concerning reviews, merchants should be extremely careful.

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3. Divvia's New Arm: Unity Payments

Divvia also operates under another active brand:

Unity Payments

This appears to be another continuation of the same business line.
Multiple names, shared operations, and overlapping complaints strongly suggest restructuring rather than true improvement.

Businesses should always be cautious when a merchant services provider operates under multiple names, especially when previous identities are associated with unfavorable reviews.

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4. Our Application Incident: Errors, Incorrect Information, and a Decline

We signed up with Divvia through their agent, Nick.

Our application to Elavon was denied, and after reviewing their submission, we discovered:

• Incorrect details

• Information we never provided

• Statements we did not authorize

• Errors that were introduced during submission

These errors directly caused the application decline.

When a provider handles financial information, accuracy is non-negotiable. Errors at this level reflect poor internal controls and should deeply concern any business relying on them for payment processing.

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5. Divvia's Troubling Instructions: "Do Not Contact Elavon Directly"

Divvia instructed us:

• Not to contact Elavon

• Not to send Elavon documents

• To let Divvia handle all communication

• Claiming they have "people who know how to get applications approved"

This raises major red flags about transparency and integrity.

Merchants should never be blocked from speaking directly with their payment processor. A reputable provider encourages transparency, not secrecy.

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6. Elavon's Role and Their Disturbing Partnership Choices

Elavon is a well-known payment processor, yet:

• Elavon's Google reviews show 34 reviews with a 1.9-star rating

• Many Elavon complaints specifically reference

  • Divvia

  • CDN POS

  • Unity Payments

This means:

• Elavon is aware of these issues

• Merchant complaints are not isolated

• Problems have existed for years

• Yet Divvia remains an active reseller for Elavon

This is alarming for any merchant who expects strong oversight from a major processor.

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7. Elavon Terminated Our Account Without Explanation

When Elavon terminated our account, they wrote:

"In accordance with the Terms of Service, Elavon shall have the right to terminate the agreement in whole or in part, at any time with or without cause."

They provided no reason for termination.

This means:

• Your account can be closed without cause

• Your business can lose payment processing instantly

• You may not receive any explanation

• There is no guaranteed dispute process

This is extremely unfair and dangerous for any merchant reliant on stable payment processing.

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8. Why Merchants Should Exercise Extreme Caution

Based on real experience and publicly visible evidence, merchants should be extremely cautious when dealing with:

• Divvia

• Unity Payments

• CDN POS / Canadian POS Corporation

• Elavon

Core concerns include:

• Application errors and misinformation

• Attempts to block direct communication with processors

• Multiple rebrands likely tied to reputation damage

• High volumes of negative reviews

• Sudden account termination without cause

• Lack of transparency

These practices can result in:

• Financial loss

• Frozen transactions

• Business interruptions

• Long onboarding delays

• Reputational damage

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9. Where to File Complaints

If you have had issues with any of the above companies, file complaints with:

Consumer Protection

• Better Business Bureau (BBB)

• Consumer Protection Ontario

• Competition Bureau Canada

Financial Regulators

• Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC)

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB, USA)

• Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC, USA)

• Regulators overseeing U.S. Bank and Elavon

Additional Channels

• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

• Provincial or Federal Privacy Commissioners

• Small Claims Court (if financial loss occurred)

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10. Additional Platforms to Post Your Reviews

To strengthen public awareness, also post reviews on:

• Trustpilot

• SiteJabber

• Yelp

• ComplaintsBoard

• PissedConsumer

• ScamPulse

• Reddit: r/smallbusiness, r/legaladvicecanada

• Merchant Maverick

• CardPaymentOptions

• POS and payment service review blogs

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11. Warn Others Through Business Networks

Share your experience in:

• LinkedIn business groups

• Facebook small business groups

• Local Chambers of Commerce

• Canadian small business associations

• Industry-specific forums

• Startup communities

• POS and payment processing groups

• Local business networking events

Your story may prevent another business from experiencing the same problems.

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12. Final Thoughts: Transparency Is Essential in Merchant Services

Choosing a merchant service provider is one of the most important decisions a business owner makes.

Based on our direct experience, combined with overwhelming negative reviews and concerning patterns across multiple brand names, Divvia, Unity Payments, CDN POS / Canadian POS Corporation, and Elavon should all be approached with serious caution.

Our experience was extremely negative, and we hope this detailed article helps other merchants avoid similar issues.

401 Games Vaughan Reviews: Price Match Hassle, Store Smell, And Customer Experience

401 Games Vaughan Reviews: Price Match Hassle, Store Smell, And Customer Experience

Store details

• Business name: 401 Games Vaughan

• Full address: 7700 Keele Street, Unit 6B, Concord, Ontario, L4K 2A1, Canada

• Phone number: 905 660 4464

• Website: https://store.401games.ca

401 Games is a well known Canadian retailer that sells board games, trading card games like Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering and Yu Gi Oh, as well as sports cards and other collectibles. This article shares our personal experience and adds to the growing list of 401 Games Vaughan reviews, focusing on price matching and the in store environment.

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Our Visit And First Impressions

When we walked into 401 Games Vaughan, the first thing we noticed was not the games or the shelves. It was the smell.

The store had a very strong, unpleasant odour that resembled heavy body odour that has built up for a long time. It was not a faint smell in one corner. It was in the air as soon as we entered and it stayed noticeable the entire time.

There were many people inside, easily around 80 or more, sitting at tables and playing games. It is clear that 401 Games Vaughan is a community hub with tournaments and events. That explains the number of people, but it does not excuse the level of smell that we experienced.

Right from the beginning, the environment made it difficult to feel comfortable browsing slowly or staying for a long time.

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The Pokémon Price Match Situation

We went to 401 Games Vaughan mainly to buy a Pokémon Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box. Before going, we had checked prices online and found the same product cheaper at another Canadian store, Chonky Collectibles, with a difference of about 10 dollars.

Because 401 Games advertises a price match policy, we decided to buy the product from them and ask for a price match instead of going to the other store.

According to their own policy (summarized in plain language):

• They say they will consider matching the advertised price of major Canadian competitors.

• The competitor's product must be in stock and listed in Canadian dollars.

• The price match must be requested and approved before the order is placed.

• All price match requests are considered case by case, at the discretion of management and ownership.

This sounds reasonable on paper. The problem is how it played out in real life.

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What Actually Happened At The Counter

Here is what happened step by step.

1. We showed the staff the lower price for the same Pokémon Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box at Chonky Collectibles.

2. We asked 401 Games Vaughan to price match that lower price.

3. The staff member, who was very friendly and professional, told us he had to call the owner to get approval.

4. This turned into a long wait, even though the price difference was only around 10 dollars.

5. During this wait, we were just standing there, stuck in the middle of the process, in a store that already smelled very bad.

In the end, the owner did approve the price match. To be very clear and accurate:

We did buy the Pokémon Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box from 401 Games Vaughan after the price match was finally approved.

So the complaint in this review is not that they refused the price match. The complaint is about the hassle, delay, and lack of clear process for something as simple and small as a 10 dollar difference.

It is reasonable to ask: if a 10 dollar difference causes this much waiting and requires the owner to be called, what happens if the price difference is 50 or 100 dollars or more. How long would customers have to stand around and wait then.

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How The Hassle Changed Our Shopping Plans

We did not come to 401 Games Vaughan only to grab a single item and run out. The original plan was to:

• Look around the store

• Possibly buy more Pokémon products

• Maybe even grab other games or accessories while we were there

The store has a lot of potential for serious gamers and collectors, and normally this could lead to a bigger purchase and a positive review.

Instead, two things combined to change our plans completely:

1. The strong, unpleasant smell in the store made it hard to feel comfortable staying inside.

2. The long wait for a simple price match, just because staff had to reach the owner, created unnecessary stress and frustration.

Even though we did end up buying the Elite Trainer Box from them, we did not stay to browse more and did not buy anything else. We left the store feeling upset and disappointed, not because of the final price, but because of the overall experience.

This is an important part of honest 401 Games Vaughan reviews. The sale was made, but the way it was handled likely cost them extra business that day and possibly in the future.

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Credit To The Staff, Problem With The Policy

To be fair, the manager or staff member who helped us was very friendly, kind, and professional. He was clearly doing his best within the rules that have been given to him.

Our criticism is aimed at the policy and the way the store is run, not at that individual employee.

• It is unreasonable that staff have to call the owner for a small price match and leave customers waiting.

• The policy creates a bottleneck and makes what should be a quick decision into a long process.

• This is especially problematic when the store environment is already uncomfortable due to the smell.

In other words, the frontline staff are not the problem here. The problem is the rules created by ownership and the lack of empowerment for staff to make fast, basic customer service decisions.

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Store Smell, Air Quality And Health Considerations

The second major point in this review is the store environment.

The smell was so strong that we could not comfortably stay any longer than we had to. This is not just about being picky. In a crowded indoor space, bad air quality and strong odours can become a health and comfort issue.

In Ontario, employers have general duties under occupational health and safety laws. One well known provision is in the Occupational Health and Safety Act, section 25(2)(h), which requires employers to take every reasonable precaution in the circumstances for the protection of workers. That obligation is written for employees, but the same conditions directly affect customers who are in the same environment.

We are not saying that 401 Games Vaughan has legally violated that section. That is something only a regulator or court could decide. We are simply pointing out that in a space with:

• Dozens of people sitting for long periods

• Limited fresh air flow

• Strong persistent odours

it would be reasonable for the business to:

• Improve ventilation and air circulation

• Use air purifiers suitable for the size of the space

• Clean carpets, chairs and surfaces more frequently

• Consider basic hygiene reminders for long tournament sessions

From a customer point of view, it felt like the store had not taken enough practical steps to prevent the kind of smell we experienced.

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Legal Context For Pricing And Representations

Since this is a detailed review, it is worth mentioning some of the legal framework that exists in Canada and Ontario around pricing and how things are represented to consumers. This section is general information only and not legal advice.

Competition Act (federal)

• Competition Act, section 74.05 deals with situations where a product is advertised at a certain price and then supplied at a higher price than the advertised one.

• Competition Act, sections 52 and 74.01 deal with false or misleading representations and deceptive marketing practices, including misleading price claims.

In our situation, 401 Games charged the price that they themselves advertised. The difference was with another store's price. Since price matching is voluntary, section 74.05 about selling above one's own advertised price does not really apply here.

If a business loudly advertised something like "instant, no hassle price matching on all competitors" but then almost never honoured it or made it extremely hard in practice, there might be questions about misleading impressions under the general misleading advertising provisions. However, 401 Games describes its policy as case by case and subject to management discretion, so legally it is less clear.

Ontario Consumer Protection Act, 2002

• Consumer Protection Act, 2002, section 14 deals with false, misleading or deceptive representations.

• Under this law, certain unfair practices can allow a consumer to cancel an agreement and seek remedies if they were misled.

Again, in our experience, 401 Games did not refuse the price match. They honoured it, but in a slow and frustrating way. Unless the store promised a very specific type of easy, instant price match with no conditions (which we did not see), it is hard to say that this situation falls neatly into a clear legal unfair practice. What is clear is that it created a bad customer experience, which is exactly what honest reviews are meant to highlight.

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Suggestions For 401 Games Vaughan

Based on our visit, here are practical suggestions that could dramatically improve future 401 Games Vaughan reviews:

1. Empower staff for small price differences

Let managers or staff approve price matches up to a certain amount (for example up to 20 dollars) without needing to call the owner. This removes unnecessary waiting and makes the policy feel real instead of painful.

2. Explain the price match process clearly

On the website and in store, be very clear that price matches are discretionary and may take a few minutes if approval is needed. That way customers know what to expect before they get to the cash.

3. Invest in air quality

Improve ventilation, add air purifiers and schedule regular deep cleaning. When you regularly host large crowds, the air must be treated as a serious part of the customer experience.

4. Monitor event capacity and comfort

If too many people in the space at once make the environment unpleasant, adjust the number of tables or the scheduling of events.

5. Protect both staff and customers

A better environment is good for workers and for visitors, and it lines up with the general duty to take reasonable precautions to protect people in the workplace.

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Final Thoughts On Our 401 Games Vaughan Review

In summary, here is our honest 401 Games Vaughan review based on this visit:

• Positive points

• The staff member who helped us was friendly, polite and professional.

• The store has a wide selection of products and an active gaming community.

• The store did eventually approve the price match and we did purchase the Pokémon Phantasmal Flames Elite Trainer Box there.

• Negative points

• The store smelled extremely bad, to the point that we could not comfortably stay inside any longer than necessary.

• The price match on a small 10 dollar difference required calling the owner and made us wait far too long.

• Because of the smell and the hassle, we did not stay to browse or buy anything beyond that one item and left feeling upset.

For future customers reading 401 Games Vaughan reviews, this is not a warning that the store is a scam. It is a warning that you may run into a strong smell and a slow, owner dependent price match process. For the store, this is also an opportunity. With some simple changes to policy and environment, they could turn experiences like this from negative reviews into positive ones and keep customers coming back.

PaymentCloud & KurvPay Review: Our Experience, Concerns, and What Merchants Should Know

PaymentCloud & KurvPay Review: Our Experience, Concerns, and What Merchants Should Know

Summary of our experience

We applied for a merchant account with PaymentCloud. Their marketing says they help high risk and low risk merchants get approved quickly. Our business is not high risk, yet after completing onboarding, sharing sensitive details like SSN or SIN and banking information, PaymentCloud told us they had submitted our file to First Data and Nuvei and that both declined the application. Our primary point of contact at PaymentCloud was representative Frank Riffe. This article is our review to help other merchants evaluate PaymentCloud, KurvPay, and the associated organizations.

Who are PaymentCloud and KurvPay

PaymentCloud is a U.S. based payment services provider that promotes solutions for both high risk and standard merchant categories. In 2024, PaymentCloud was acquired by Electronic Merchant Systems. EMS has since rebranded to Kurv and markets merchant services under KurvPay. You will see all of these names connected, which can be confusing to small businesses researching "PaymentCloud reviews" or "KurvPay reviews."

What we were told happened with our application

According to PaymentCloud, our application was submitted to First Data and Nuvei. We were later informed that both declined the account. We share this to document our experience. We do not have independent visibility into the underwriting decisions those acquirers made, since acquiring banks do not disclose detailed decline rationales to applicants through third parties.

Why merchants may feel frustrated

1. Time cost

The process required significant back and forth, document uploads, and explanations. When an application ends in a decline at the acquirer level, the merchant can feel that time was wasted.

2. Sensitive data exposure

Applications typically require SSN or SIN, date of birth, government ID, void cheque or bank letter, and business financials. It is reasonable to worry about privacy and security when multiple parties are involved.

3. Expectations vs reality

Sites that emphasize "high risk merchant accounts" set an expectation of approvals. The reality is that approvals depend on acquirer risk rules, chargeback exposure, product type, and history. Even non high risk merchants can be declined.

Our concerns and consumer-protection perspective

This section reflects our opinions and worries based on our experience. If you are deciding between processors, evaluate these points:

• Data handling

We worry about how sensitive information is stored and shared during multi party underwriting. Processors do have privacy policies that describe uses such as submitting files to banks, card brands, gateways, and fraud prevention vendors. Read these policies, understand opt out options, and ask how long your data is retained if you are not approved.

• Lead brokerage vs underwriting control

Some payment companies act primarily as distributors or ISOs, not as the bank itself. They help package and submit your file to acquiring banks like Fiserv (First Data) or Nuvei. If that is the model, the processor may not control the final decision. Clarify up front which entities will review your file.

• Mixed public reviews

Public reviews show both praise and complaints. Merchants frequently search "PaymentCloud scam," "PaymentCloud complaint," "PaymentCloud complaints," "KurvPay scam," and similar keywords because they want to see real outcomes. Read multiple sources, not just a single directory or testimonial.

Important note

We are not asserting that PaymentCloud or KurvPay sell personal data or commit identity theft. Our view is that merchants should practice due diligence, verify privacy commitments, and proceed carefully when sharing sensitive information.

What PaymentCloud says about privacy and data use

PaymentCloud's posted privacy policy explains that the company collects nonpublic personal information in order to provide services, and that it may share that information with affiliates and non affiliated companies for everyday business purposes such as processing transactions, fraud monitoring, responding to legal requests, and with payment partners like banks, card brands, ACH operators, and gateways. The policy also provides a contact phone number and email for privacy requests and notes an implementation date of February 2024.

Who are the acquirers mentioned to us

• First Data is now part of Fiserv following a 2019 acquisition. Fiserv is a large global payments and fintech provider and continues to operate merchant acquiring services.

• Nuvei is a Canadian headquartered acquiring and payments technology company that supports local acquiring in Canada and global processing.

We include this context because the names "First Data," "Fiserv," and "Nuvei" appear in many merchant account conversations and can be confusing.

Our recommendation if you are considering PaymentCloud or KurvPay

1. Ask for transparency before you apply

• Which acquiring banks will see your file

• The approval odds based on your industry and chargeback profile

• Specific documents that will be shared downstream

2. Minimize exposure of sensitive data until necessary

Provide only what is required for prequalification, then share full documents once you are comfortable with the bank pipeline and data retention policy.

3. Request the bank decision in writing

If declined, ask whether you can see a reason code or general rationale. You may be able to fix the trigger and reapply elsewhere.

4. Compare with at least two other options

Speak with a direct acquirer or a different ISO for a second opinion. Pricing and underwriting tolerance vary.

5. Protect yourself

If you are worried about misuse of your information, consider placing a fraud alert or credit monitoring on your personal credit file. Keep a record of every document you submitted and to whom.

Company names, addresses, phone numbers, and contact details

PaymentCloud

• Legal or trade name: PaymentCloud, LLC

• Main address: 16501 Ventura Blvd, Suite 300, Encino, CA 91436

• Main phone: (800) 988 2215

• General site: paymentcloudinc.com

• General email addresses seen publicly: salessupport@paymentcloudinc.com, support@paymentcloudinc.com

• Stated business focus: high risk and standard merchant processing, embedded payments, integrations, industry specific solutions

Electronic Merchant Systems and Kurv/KurvPay

• Parent organization and brand owner: Electronic Merchant Systems, LLC, now rebranding as Kurv with KurvPay as a payment product brand

• Headquarters address: 250 W. Huron Rd., Suite 400, Cleveland, OH 44113

• Main operator line: (800) 726 2117

• Customer support: (800) 615 1330

• Sales (HQ listing): (216) 674 5708

• Websites: emscorporate.com, kurvpay.com

• Notes: EMS lists multiple regional offices across the United States. Public materials and news indicate the corporate rebrand from Electronic Merchant Systems to Kurv in 2025.

Other names you may see when researching

• First Data, now part of Fiserv

• Nuvei

These firms are acquiring banks and payments companies that underwrite and board merchant accounts. Applications submitted by an ISO or payment facilitator may be approved or declined by these acquirers.

SEO section: common keywords people search

To help other merchants find this review, here are common search phrases that align with how users search for information:

• PaymentCloud review, PaymentCloud reviews, PaymentCloud complaints, PaymentCloud complaint, PaymentCloud scam

• KurvPay review, KurvPay reviews, KurvPay complaints, KurvPay complaint, KurvPay scam

• Electronic Merchant Systems review, EMS reviews, EMS complaints

• PaymentCloud high risk merchant account, high risk credit card processing review

• PaymentCloud Encino address, PaymentCloud phone number, KurvPay phone number

• First Data decline, Fiserv decline, Nuvei decline, merchant account declined what next

Our verdict

Based on our experience, we do not recommend PaymentCloud for businesses that want a straightforward, bank direct approval with minimal data sharing. We advise caution, careful reading of privacy policies, and getting clarity on which acquirers will see your file. If you proceed, document every step, ask for decline reasons, and compare with at least two other providers. If you share sensitive data and later choose not to proceed, submit a formal request to limit marketing communications and ask how long your data will be retained.

Durango Merchant Services Review and Complaint: A Closer Look at Their Policy Toward New Businesses

Durango Merchant Services Review and Complaint: A Closer Look at Their Policy Toward New Businesses

By An Entrepreneur's Experience

Introduction

This is a detailed review of Durango Merchant Services, based on a first-hand experience that raises serious concerns about how the company handles applications from new businesses. The purpose of this review is to inform other entrepreneurs who may be considering Durango Merchant Services and to provide a fair but critical look at their approval policies.

Many business owners read reviews before selecting a payment processor, and this one offers direct insight into what can happen when a startup applies for a merchant account through Durango. This review also functions as a public complaint, highlighting how rigid policies can make it nearly impossible for new companies to begin processing credit card transactions.

Initial Interaction

The initial contact with Durango Merchant Services seemed promising. Their representative, Brad Jess, replied promptly and professionally. He explained that before providing a quote, they needed more information about the business.

Brad asked several questions, including the type of service offered, the expected volume of credit card transactions, average transaction size, location of customers, and whether there was any previous credit card processing history. These are standard questions in the merchant services industry, so I provided full and accurate responses.

Response From Durango Merchant Services

After submitting all the requested details, I received a response from Durango Merchant Services stating that they were unable to move forward because the business did not have prior processing history.

In simpler terms, the message from Brad Jess made it clear that without an existing record of credit card transactions, Durango would not approve the application.

This review centers on that decision. The complaint is not about communication style or professionalism but about a restrictive policy that effectively excludes new businesses from consideration. It is important to point out that the response offered no alternative solutions, no referral options, and no possibility to start on a trial or reserve basis.

The Core Issue

This experience with Durango Merchant Services illustrates a larger problem that many new entrepreneurs face. The company's policy requires prior processing history, but for a new business, that is impossible. This creates a cycle where approval depends on something that cannot exist until approval is granted.

This review and complaint highlight a fundamental flaw in the system. If every payment processor adopted the same rule, then no new business would ever be able to start accepting payments. It is the equivalent of employers saying, "You need experience to get the job, but you cannot get experience without the job."

That contradiction is what makes this Durango Merchant Services review important to share publicly. Without awareness, new entrepreneurs could spend valuable time applying, only to encounter the same rejection.

Comparison to Other Providers

When compared to competitors, Durango Merchant Services appears less flexible in dealing with startups. Many modern platforms such as Stripe, Square, and Shopify Payments allow new businesses to begin processing payments under limited conditions. They mitigate risk through transaction limits, temporary reserves, or rolling caps rather than denying accounts entirely.

The complaint in this review is that Durango has chosen not to follow that approach. For a company that promotes itself as serving a wide range of clients, including high-risk businesses, this policy seems overly strict.

Durango Merchant Services also mentioned that they work with Nuvei and Moneris in Canada. Both are reputable financial partners, which makes the rejection even more surprising. It raises questions about how these partnerships function if new merchants are systematically excluded from the start.

Impact on New Entrepreneurs

The decision by Durango Merchant Services not to accept applications without prior processing history has real consequences. It prevents new businesses from gaining access to essential payment tools. The complaint expressed in this review is not isolated. Many business owners encounter the same obstacle when trying to establish their first merchant account.

Without the ability to process payments, a business cannot operate efficiently, compete effectively, or build credibility with customers. The long-term effect of this kind of policy is discouragement among entrepreneurs who are trying to enter the market honestly.

A responsible financial service provider should offer pathways for startups, such as reduced limits, additional verification, or deposit-based risk management. Denying them entirely removes opportunity and contradicts the spirit of entrepreneurship.

Transparency Concerns

Another issue noted in this Durango Merchant Services review is transparency. At no point before submitting all information did the company disclose that prior processing history was a strict requirement. That detail only became clear after all the questions were answered.

Many other business owners have expressed similar complaints in their reviews, saying that they only discovered such limitations late in the process. This lack of upfront clarity can cause frustration, wasted time, and a poor overall experience.

If Durango Merchant Services were more transparent about this policy from the start, new applicants would at least be able to make informed decisions about whether to proceed.

Evaluating Risk and Fairness

From a business standpoint, Durango Merchant Services may justify its policy as a form of risk control. Payment processors do face legitimate challenges such as chargebacks and fraud. However, a blanket rejection of all new businesses is not a balanced solution.

Many reviews from other merchants suggest that processors can manage risk in more nuanced ways, including rolling reserves or tiered approval systems. This review argues that Durango's policy leans too heavily toward protectionism at the expense of fairness.

The broader complaint is that such policies create an uneven playing field where only established companies can access financial tools that should be available to all legitimate entrepreneurs.

Reputation and Public Perception

Durango Merchant Services has been in operation for years and has received mixed reviews online. While some customers describe positive experiences, there are also multiple complaints from startups and small business owners who were denied approval for the same reason discussed in this review.

It is worth noting that no evidence suggests Durango Merchant Services is involved in any scam or fraudulent behavior. However, this review does raise questions about whether their business practices are equitable. The repeated pattern of rejecting applicants without history can feel like a barrier designed to protect the processor rather than support the merchant community.

The Importance of Balanced Policies

Every complaint shared by entrepreneurs reflects the same concern: the need for balance between security and accessibility. The best payment processors recognize that new businesses are the foundation of economic growth.

Durango Merchant Services could improve its reputation by introducing starter programs for new merchants. This would address many of the complaints appearing in reviews and help the company be seen as supportive rather than exclusive.

Such adjustments would not only resolve many negative reviews but also demonstrate goodwill and adaptability in an industry that often feels closed off to newcomers.

What Consumers Should Know

If you are reading this review while considering Durango Merchant Services, take time to ask questions before applying. Request written clarification about their requirements for prior processing history. Ask whether they have any startup or provisional programs.

By doing so, you can avoid misunderstandings and reduce the risk of disappointment. Many people who posted complaints online might have had better experiences if full transparency had been provided from the beginning.

Lessons Learned

The lesson from this Durango Merchant Services complaint is straightforward. If your business has no prior credit card processing history, Durango may not be a suitable option. Their policy seems designed for companies that already have established transaction data.

That does not make Durango Merchant Services a scam, but it does make them a poor choice for startups or new ventures. Other providers are far more accommodating to those without history. Entrepreneurs should explore alternatives that offer flexible onboarding for first-time merchants.

Final Thoughts

This Durango Merchant Services review is based on direct experience and careful observation. The main complaint is about the company's unwillingness to approve accounts for new businesses without prior processing history.

The situation raises fair questions about how innovation and entrepreneurship can flourish under such restrictive conditions. Every successful business once started with zero history. Policies that prevent new entrants from participating in the marketplace discourage growth and creativity.

Durango Merchant Services has an opportunity to address these complaints, listen to feedback, and develop new programs that help startups succeed. Until then, potential applicants should proceed with caution, read multiple reviews, and ensure they understand all requirements before applying.

Investigating Sky Ducts (skyducts.com) and the Air‑Duct‑Cleaning Scam Landscape Reviews

Investigating Sky Ducts (skyducts.com) and the Air‑Duct‑Cleaning Scam Landscape

1. Background: Air‑duct‑cleaning scams

The duct‑cleaning industry is notorious for bait‑and‑switch offers and fly‑by‑night operators. Social‑media posts offering deals like "$89 unlimited vents" are often too good to be true. In many cases, the posts don't even mention a company name; the operators use generic names like "Duct Cleaning Colorado," then ask for a hefty deposit and either fail to provide service or perform sub‑par work. Warning signs include:

• posts that insist "This is not a scam" (legitimate businesses don't need to say this);

• no identifiable company name or only a generic name;

• extremely low prices and "special deals";

• social‑media profiles that are brand‑new or locked down so you cannot verify the owner;

• phone numbers that can't be traced or are inconsistent with the advertised company.

One reason scams thrive is the lack of industry regulation. There is no uniform set of guidelines or mandatory certification for air‑duct cleaning, which allows fraudulent companies to run bait‑and‑switch schemes. Fraudulent operators often engage in misleading advertising, offering very low prices and using fake testimonials to lure customers. Homeowners unfamiliar with their HVAC systems are easy targets. By contrast, legitimate companies typically hold certifications (such as membership in the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, NADCA) and can provide evidence of training. Reputable operators are transparent about pricing and encourage customers to compare quotes.

2. What is Sky Ducts (skyducts.com)?

Sky Ducts markets itself as a professional HVAC duct‑cleaning company serving Ontario and other parts of Canada. It uses several similar names – Sky Ducts, Sky Duct, Sky Duct Cleaning and Sky Ducts Cleaning – on its website and social‑media profiles. Key details from its own site and social pages include:

Information	Details
Website/brand names	Sky Ducts, Sky Duct Cleaning
Domain registered	Public WHOIS records show that skyducts.com was created on 4 October 2023 and updated on 4 September 2025. The domain is registered through Hostinger and uses privacy‑protection services.
Address on website	3226 Eglinton Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1J 2H6, Canada
Phone number on website	+1 (226) 794‑5721
Email	info@skyducts.com
Self‑description	The company claims to be a "trusted and experienced HVAC duct cleaning company" with "over a decade" of experience and advertises services including duct cleaning, furnace cleaning, dryer‑vent cleaning and deep "brushing" cleaning. It boasts "100+ qualified technicians" and coverage across many cities in Ontario.
Promotional offers	The site offers "free estimates" and "40 % off" packages for houses under 3 000 sq. ft. It promises "no hidden fees" and a "100 % satisfaction guarantee."
Testimonials on website	The home page features three glowing customer stories attributed to individuals in Brantford, Peterborough and Hamilton. These are not linked to any independent review platform.
Facebook page details	Sky Duct Cleaning's Facebook page claims the business has provided professional services "in all over Ontario for the past 23 years" and lists an address at 227 Nantucket Blvd, Scarborough, ON M1P 2P2, Canada. The same phone number (226‑794‑5721) and email (info@skyducts.com) are displayed.
Public customer feedback	A comment on the company's Facebook post from a user named John states that the company was scheduled for an appointment but never showed up or responded. No other independent reviews or complaints were found at the time of research.

Observations

• Inconsistent address and experience claims: The website lists 3226 Eglinton Ave E as the business address, while the Facebook page lists 227 Nantucket Blvd. The site claims "over a decade" of experience whereas the Facebook page asserts 23 years of service. Meanwhile, the domain skyducts.com was only registered on 4 October 2023, suggesting the online presence is very recent. Operating under multiple similar names and changing addresses can be a red flag when evaluating service providers.

• Lack of independent reviews: Apart from testimonials on their own site and a single complaint on Facebook, there are no verifiable reviews or ratings from third‑party platforms. Yelp and other review sites either require a log‑in or do not list the business, making it difficult to gauge customer satisfaction.

• Aggressive promotions: The company markets steep discounts, such as "40 % off" and $99 all‑inclusive offers. Industry experts warn that unrealistically low prices are a common scam tactic. Legitimate duct‑cleaning jobs often cost several hundred dollars because of the labour and equipment required.

3. Potential complaints and consumer reports

Publicly available information on Sky Ducts is scarce. The only complaint found during this research was a Facebook comment where a user stated the company failed to show up for an appointment. This alone cannot prove fraudulent intent, but it signals a need for caution when dealing with a company that has little transparent feedback. There are no records on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or major review sites at the time of writing.

4. How duct‑cleaning scams operate and how to protect yourself

The prevalence of scams in the duct‑cleaning industry makes it essential for homeowners to vet any company carefully. Here are some common scam methods and tips to avoid them:

Scam tactic	Description & warning signs	Tips for consumers
Bait‑and‑switch pricing	Fraudulent firms advertise extremely low prices ("$49.99 for unlimited vents"), then up‑sell additional services or claim the system requires expensive "deep cleaning" once on site. If an offer appears too good to be true, it probably is.	Request a written quote detailing all services and fees. Avoid providers who demand cash deposits before work is complete.
Generic or changing company names	Scammers frequently create generic business names and register multiple websites to escape negative reviews. Legitimate companies will clearly identify themselves.	Research the company's legal name. Check if the domain registration date matches claimed years of experience – Sky Ducts' domain was registered in 2023 while the company claims 10–23 years in business.
Door‑to‑door and social‑media sales	Posts on Facebook or Nextdoor offer large discounts and ask interested homeowners to send a private message. The company name is often withheld, and the poster's profile may be newly created.	Be skeptical of unsolicited messages. Only hire companies with verifiable physical addresses and established online presence.
Misleading testimonials	Fraudulent operators may create fake positive reviews. Sky Ducts' website includes testimonials that cannot be independently verified.	Look for reviews on third‑party sites such as the BBB or Google. If none exist, that should give pause.
Lack of certification	Because the industry lacks uniform regulation, many companies operate without any recognized certification.	Ask whether the company is a member of NADCA or similar organisations. Legitimate businesses can produce proof of certification and insurance.

5. Advice for homeowners

1. Verify the business: Check the company's legal name, business number and domain registration date. In the case of skyducts.com, the site was registered in October 2023, which doesn't align with claims of more than a decade in business.

2. Insist on transparency: Ask for a written quote that outlines all costs and services. Beware of companies that advertise a very low price up front and then add hidden fees.

3. Look for certifications: NADCA and other industry bodies certify air‑duct‑cleaning professionals. Certified technicians adhere to standards and codes of conduct. If a company cannot show evidence of certification, consider other providers.

4. Check independent reviews: Search for the company's name along with words like "review," "reviews," "complaint," or "complaints." Limited or nonexistent results are a red flag. In Sky Ducts' case, only a single Facebook complaint was found. You can also ask for references from previous customers.

5. Don't pay before the job: Reputable companies usually accept payment after the work is complete and the customer is satisfied. Never pay a large deposit or the full fee before the service is performed.

6. Consult professionals: If you suspect a scam, report it to consumer‑protection agencies and share your experience with others.

6. Conclusion

Sky Ducts (skyducts.com) presents itself as a reliable duct‑cleaning service, but there are inconsistencies between its claimed history and its online footprint. The company's domain was registered in 2023, yet its website and Facebook page claim 10–23 years of experience. Its own site lists one address while its Facebook page lists another. Currently, there is little independent feedback; the only public complaint found mentioned that the company failed to show up for an appointment. These factors do not prove fraud, but they do warrant caution. Given the prevalence of air‑duct‑cleaning scams, homeowners should thoroughly vet any company — including Sky Ducts — before inviting them into their homes. Use the advice above to protect yourself, insist on transparency and certification, and always look for verified reviews before hiring.

Freename.com Review: My Experience Suggests Scam Misleading Claims About “Web3 TLDs”

Freename.com Review: My Experience Suggests Scam Misleading Claims About "Web3 TLDs"

Summary:

I contacted Freename after seeing their ads suggesting you can register your own TLD and run sites that "work on any browser." In practice, Freename confirmed that people must install their DNS app or browser extension to view these domains. That is a major limitation. When I pressed for a straight answer about global availability, support was vague, then stopped responding and I received a survey email which usually means a ticket was closed. Based on this, I would not recommend Freename for anyone expecting global, traditional DNS-style reach.

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What Freename Advertises vs. What You Actually Get

Freename markets "Web3 domains" and even custom "TLDs." Their pages emphasize that to browse Web3 domains you need Freename's Web3 DNS app or their browser extension.

By contrast, truly global domains are the ones listed in the public DNS root overseen by IANA and ICANN. Only TLDs in that root are universally resolvable by default in Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge, and across the wider internet. Freename "TLDs" are not in that root.

Even third-party explainers note that blockchain or Web3 domains typically need special browsers or add-ons. Brave and Opera have some built-in support, while Chrome, Edge, and Firefox often need extensions or custom DNS settings.

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My Email Timeline With Freename Support

Below are key excerpts from our conversation, with dates and what each message said in plain language. I have preserved the meaning and phrasing while removing personal details.

• Oct 20, 2025, 7:14 AM

Freename wrote that a Web3 TLD is "your own digital asset," you can let others register and earn royalties, and that to make a website work you must use a builder that supports it. They added that "to open it, [the viewer] needs to use either our DNS extension or our Web3 DNS."

• Oct 21, 2025, 1:24 AM

I asked a direct question: if I register ".hello" and then "hello.hello," will it be viewable worldwide on all major browsers, or are there limitations?

• Oct 20, 2025, 7:39 PM

Freename replied again that to view a Web3 domain on a standard browser you must download "Freename DNS or Extension," and linked a guide about Web3 domains.

• Oct 20, 2025, 11:13 PM

I said that requiring every visitor to install Freename DNS or an extension is "too crazy."

• Oct 21, 2025, 1:57 AM

After no clear answer to the global availability question, I wrote that I never received a real response and that I would publish my experience.

Separately, I received a survey email which usually indicates the ticket was closed without further reply. That matched my impression that the conversation was ended rather than properly answered.

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Why This Matters

1. Not globally resolvable

If a domain is not in the IANA root, it will not resolve by default on the open internet. Freename's own documentation shows you need their DNS app or extension to resolve their Web3 names. This is not the same as a standard .com or any other ICANN-delegated TLD.

2. Marketing that can mislead newcomers

Ads that make it sound like you are buying a normal TLD create an expectation of universal reach. In reality, this is a walled ecosystem that depends on extra software or specific browsers for visitors to see your site. Freename's own blog says compatible browsers, extensions, or Freename DNS are needed, which confirms the limitation.

3. Commercial risk

If you plan to sell domains under your "TLD" and promise widespread visibility, you could face unhappy buyers when they discover their websites do not open globally without extra steps.

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What Freename Says On Its Own Site

• "Download the Freename Web3 DNS App to browse Web3 domains on any search engine." This implies non-default behavior.

• "You can use compatible browsers or browser extensions to access Web3 domains." Their words, not mine.

• The Download page promotes a Web3 Browser Extension to view Web3 domains. Again, that is an add-on.

• A how-to post instructs users that to browse Web3 domains, you must prepend "http://" and use their DNS app. That is not how normal domains behave on today's web.

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Plain-English Verdict

If you are hoping for a real TLD that anyone, anywhere can type into any browser and just open, this is not it. Freename's product works only if each visitor uses Freename's DNS or extension or a compatible Web3 browser. That is a hard limitation, and I believe the company's marketing and initial replies did not make this limitation clear enough.

My opinion: This feels misleading to non-experts and is not fit for purpose if your goal is universal reach. I would avoid registering a "TLD" here unless you fully accept the ecosystem is gated behind extra software.

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Alternatives That Actually Resolve Globally

• Register a conventional domain or apply for a TLD through ICANN processes. Only names in the IANA root are globally resolvable by default.

• If you want Web3 features, you can still use a normal DNS domain and add decentralized integrations behind the scenes, while keeping global reach.

Dragonfly Delivery (Intelcom) – My Experience and Why Canadians Should Be Cautious

This is not just a rant. It's a real story about how a courier company called Dragonfly (also known as Intelcom) failed to do something as simple as picking up a package when they promised they would. I'm writing this not only because I had a bad experience, but because I want people to be aware of how common this issue is. Thousands of Canadians have gone through the same nonsense, and it's time we shed some light on it.

When we order from big vendors like Amazon, we trust the delivery will be handled properly. The last thing we expect is drivers lying about attempted deliveries, customer service brushing us off, and a system built on excuses. Unfortunately, that's exactly what happened to me, and judging by the endless online complaints, I'm not alone.

What Happened To Me

I requested a return. Nothing complicated, just a return pickup like countless others do every day. I even got the email confirmation from Dragonfly telling me the driver would come today to pick up the package. That should have been the end of it. Simple. Except it wasn't.

The driver's name was Yuvraj. Did he show up? No. Did he call me? No. Did he even try? No. Instead, Dragonfly updated their system to show that the driver attempted delivery but couldn't complete it. That's complete BS. He didn't come near my door. He didn't ring. He didn't call. Nothing. Just a false update in the system to make it look like he did his job. And that's the part that really gets me. It's not just poor service, it's dishonesty!

The Call to Customer Service

Frustrated, I picked up the phone and called their official number: 1 (833) 622-1570. I got connected with a customer service rep named France. I explained the situation and told her point blank: "I need this package picked up today. Not tomorrow, not next week, today." Her response? "That's not possible. It has to be picked up tomorrow."

Now let me pause here. When a company promises pickup today and then tells you after the fact that it's "not possible," that's not customer service, it's an insult. I pressed further and asked to speak with a supervisor or manager. Her answer? "That's not possible right now. I'll have to put in a request and someone might call you back in 24 to 48 hours." Really? Forty-eight hours to even hear back from a manager about a driver who outright lied about making an attempt? Completely unacceptable.

Before ending the call, I told her clearly: "I'll be filing a complaint online and I'll be submitting it to multiple organizations." She didn't seem concerned. That tells me either they hear this all the time, or they simply don't care.

Why This Matters

You might be thinking, "It's just one missed pickup, what's the big deal?" But this isn't just about me. This is a widespread, well-documented problem with Dragonfly/Intelcom. A quick search online will pull up thousands of complaints from Canadians saying the exact same thing: drivers marking packages as "delivery attempted" when they didn't even bother trying. It's become a pattern, almost like it's baked into their business model.

And when companies like Amazon rely on Dragonfly, it affects millions of people. Amazon is a global leader. Their reputation is built on fast, reliable delivery. Yet when they subcontract deliveries to companies like Dragonfly, the customer experience falls apart. Amazon can promise all it wants, but if the last-mile delivery company drops the ball, the customer pays the price.

Stories from Other Customers

It's not just me. Go online and you'll find endless threads of people saying the same thing. Complaints about drivers who never ring the doorbell. Reports of packages marked as "could not deliver" even though the person was home all day. Cases of items left outside in unsafe places, or worse, never arriving at all. This isn't rare. It's routine.

When thousands of people across the country are experiencing the same lies and excuses, you know it's not just bad luck. It's a systemic problem.

The Bigger Problem with Accountability

Let's talk about accountability. What happens when a driver lies about an attempted delivery? Nothing. At least nothing the customer can see. The company hides behind customer service scripts and "policy." The reps are trained to delay, to deflect, to make it sound like there's nothing that can be done. "Please wait 24 to 48 hours." "We'll submit a request." "It's not possible today." Always excuses, never solutions.

And because most customers don't have the time or energy to fight, Dragonfly keeps doing it. Drivers keep marking fake attempts. Customers keep suffering. Companies like Amazon keep outsourcing to them because it's cheaper. And the cycle continues.

My Message to Consumers

Here's what I want every Canadian consumer to know. If your order or return is being handled by Dragonfly, be prepared for potential issues. Document everything. Take screenshots. Save emails. Record dates and times. Because if something goes wrong, you'll need proof. Don't let them tell you "the driver attempted delivery" when you know for a fact they didn't.

And don't stay silent. File complaints. Post reviews. Share your story on social media. The more voices out there, the harder it becomes for companies like this to sweep problems under the rug.

My Message to Amazon and Other Vendors

To Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair, and any other company using Dragonfly: your brand is being damaged by this partnership. Customers don't separate the courier from the retailer. If Dragonfly fails, Amazon fails. If Dragonfly lies, customers blame Amazon too. It's your responsibility to choose delivery partners who actually deliver. Don't let cost-cutting destroy customer trust.

Where I'm Taking This Complaint

I'm not stopping with just this blog post. I'll be submitting formal complaints to:

• Better Business Bureau (BBB)
• Ontario Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery – Consumer Services
• Office of Consumer Affairs (Government of Canada)
• Online forums and review sites

People need to know. Companies need to feel the pressure. And Dragonfly needs to be held accountable for its business practices.

The Emotional Side of It

It's not just about a package. It's about trust. When a courier says they'll come today, you plan your day around it. You wait. You keep checking the door. And when they don't show up, it's frustrating. When they lie and say they tried, it's infuriating. And when customer service tells you there's nothing they can do, it feels hopeless. That's why I'm writing this. To turn that frustration into something productive. To warn others. To push for change.

A Known Issue That Needs Attention

What I experienced is not unique. It's a known issue. Thousands of Canadians have gone through the same thing. This company has built a reputation for failed deliveries, false attempts, and poor customer service. It's time that reputation caught up to them. Because as long as companies keep using Dragonfly, the cycle will continue. The only way to stop it is to raise awareness and hold them accountable.

Final Thoughts

Dragonfly (Intelcom) is failing Canadians. Drivers are lying about deliveries. Customer service is brushing people off. And big retailers are enabling it by continuing to use them. My experience with Yuvraj, France, and the complete disregard for customer satisfaction is just one example in a sea of thousands.

If you're reading this and you've had the same issue, speak up. Don't let them sweep it under the rug. Share your story. File your complaint. Because the more of us that do, the harder it becomes for companies like this to keep pretending everything's fine.