Merchant Take-Down Requests » All Comments

  • Page

    FREE One Day Parking @ Ace Airport Parking

    Request

    Deal post removal. Requested by both the merchant (Ace Airport Parking) and Entertainment Book, as it is an Entertainment-Book exclusive offer.

    Action

    Deal post unpublished.

  • Page

    Buy 1 Burrito, Get 1 Burrito Free @ Mad Mex (Los Locos Members)

    Request

    Deal post removal. Deal is to reward Los Locos members. 27/8

    Action
    • Deal link changed to Los Locos signup page .
    • Description changed to explain how to signup to Los Locos (free to join, earn free burritos) and get the deal.
    • Title changed to reflect deal is for Los Locos members.
  • Page

    Free Sample of Comfies Nappies

    Request

    Received an email request from Cottons Pty Ltd:

    Please remove the Comfies "deal" from this website
    (https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/160334). We will not be sending samples
    out to the 200 people per day requesting them because of this site.

    Action

    While their contact page with free sample is still present, it is not likely that Comfies will send out those samples. Deal marked as expired.

  • Page

    37% off Gold Coast Theme Parks Gold VIP Magic Pass
    Members Special - Books Discounted $50/ $45 Delivered before SEPT 1

    Request

    Received a request from Entertainment Book

    we need these pages removed (even though they have expired). As per our terms and conditions; The barter, trade, sale, purchase, re-publication, or transfer of this Book or any of its Entertainment™ Offers, Merchant Redemption Codes, or Free Trials, by any person or entity, including but not limited to travel servicers, travel providers, and printers, third party websites, publishers, and distributors of the Book or any of its Vouchers, is strictly prohibited, unless expressly authorised by Enterainment Publications of Australia Pty. Ltd. All Entertainment™ Offers are subject to the Entertainment™ Rules of Use.

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/157995
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/157444

    Action

    • Unpublished Gold Coast theme park deal
    • Updated description to highlight the deal is for entertainment book members only
  • Page

    2 for 1 Tickets to The Cake Bake & Sweets Show Melbourne 3/10-5/10

    Request

    Received a request from OP that says that she was "asked by Entertainment Book to remove this deal as it's breaching their sharing policy."

    Action

    Deal unpublished.

  • Page

    [Vodafone] Free Pocket WiFi 4G (Huawei R215) or USB 4G Modem (K5150) on Additional Services

    Request

    Received a request from OP (9/9) that Vodafone didn't want the deal published officially by Vodafone rep.

    Action

    • Deal unpublished.
    • All relevant content of deal reposted into forum post.
  • Page

    Free Boost Drink - Whats Ya Name Game (22nd Sep - 3rd Oct)

    Request

    Received a request from Boost Juice (10/9) requesting removal citing "leaked confidential information".

    Action

    • Names removed from post.
  • Page

    2015 Australian Open Pre-Sale Access Code

    Request

    Received request from CIO of CPA Australia requesting removal.

    This is an offer solely for CPA Australia members and staff and is not publically available. Please immediately remove any offer that you have posted in the above or similar terms from your website

    Action

    Post unpublished.

  • Page

    Free Screening of "Pride" Movie for HCF Members (Various Cities)

    Request

    Received from HCF where they have issues with

    • OzBargain using HCF's intellectual property and brand, including logo
    • Posting their promotion was not approved, and unlikely to be pre-approved on a community website such as OzBargain

    Thus the deal removed & HCF domain permanently banned

    Action

    Linked deal removed & domain permanently banned.

  • Good on you Mr Scotty and Mrs moocher.

    Please keep up the good work.

    Thank you

  • Page

    10% off at Chemist Warehouse Online

    Request

    Reported by Entertainment Book Rep:

    Against the Terms and Conditions of the Entertainment Book. "The barter, trade, sale, purchase, publishing or transfer of this Book or any of its Entertainment™ Offers, Merchant Redemption Codes, or Free Trials, by any person or entity, including but not limited to travel servicers, travel providers, and printers, third party websites, publishers, and distributors of the Book or any of its Vouchers, is strictly prohibited, unless expressly authorised by Entertainment Publications of Australia Pty. Ltd. All Entertainment™ Offers are subject to the Entertainment™ Rules of Use"

    Action

    Linked deal removed.

  • Page

    Free: Eco Minerals Make up Sample Sachet $0 Delivered

    Request

    ECO Minerals Makeup emailed in:

    Please remove ECO MINERALS cosmetics immediately and do not ever post offers on oz bargains.

    Action

    Linked freebie removed.

  • Page

    Melb CBD Secure Parking - Free Christmas Parking Via Booking 1st to 24 Dec 14

    Request

    Email from Marketing at Secure Parking Pty Ltd.

    To whom it may concern,

    I formally request immediate removal of the below promotion from the OzBargain website

    No permission has been given to OzBargain to promote this.

    Please confirm by COB today once the page has been removed.

    Action

    Linked deal is now removed.

    • The post has been republished again, on the condition that it's available to Emporium Melbourne's members only.

  • Page

    Coles $5 Voucher When You Spend $100 (Tell Coles Survey Voucher)

    Request

    Request via TWAM from FraudWatch International on behalf of Coles Group.

    … requesting the removal of this deal page, as the coupon is intended as a reward for the completion of a survey and not for public distribution.

    Action

    As the coupons are targeted specifically for those who participated in the survey, the deal post is now removed.

  • Page

    Uber - One FREE Ride with Uber (up to $30 off)

    Request

    An iiNet staff sent this email through through OzBargain's support system:

    I have just been made aware that a private Uber promotion has been put up on your website. This is NOT meant for people outside iinet. Could someone get back to me with how this can be taken off your website?

    Action

    As the offer is targeted for iiNet subscribers only and not meant to be public, the deal post is now removed.

  • Page

    FREE Gecko Bottle Opener Keyring (Delivered) by Harwin

    Request

    A member of Harwin UK made this request:

    Could you please remove or kill this post https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/174516 - these keyrings were offered in an email that was sent to specific e-mail registered recipients. We will not be sending these to members of the public, it is a limited offer to known recipients on our mailing list. We are checking every recipient - and as no-one in Australia was sent this e-mail, I'm afraid nobody from Australia will be receiving this keyring.

    Action

    As the merchant has confirmed nobody in Australia will be receiving this offer, it was removed immediately. The domain was also banned from future posts to ensure this or a similar deal aren't published again (not available to Australia).

  • Page

    Virgin Australia 10% off Every Domestic Flight

    Request

    Virgin Australia requested:

    Can you please remove reference to the following discount code and any others like it. It is a private promotion and should not be displayed.

    Action

    Removed code from deal, expired deal, updated description with explanation.

  • Page

    Free Access to Gault&Millau Restaurant Guide Online (Value $20)

    Request

    From the Gault&Millau rep:

    This offer is an exclusive offer for American Express card members and forms part of our legally binding agreement with them. Please remove this offer from your website as a matter of urgency.

    Action

    Post removed.

  • Page

    Free Sample of ProPlenish Marine Collagen (Facebook Required)

    Request

    From the ProPlenish rep:

    We do not wish for this to be made public like this and do not give permission for this.

    Can you please remove the post immediately.

    Action

    Post marked as EXPIRED.

  • Page

    Pink Corporation Genuine Leather Handbags up to 70% off RRP @ Genuine Baggage

    Request

    From the Genuine Baggage:

    We have insisted this thread be removed from public viewing and it is still visible. We have sought legal action through our solicitors xxxx Lawyers of Sydney. The purpose of this email is seek a conciliation and if the thread is not removed we will commence proceedings as of Monday.

    Lots more responses.

    Action

    Post removed. Store banned. Rep banned.

  • Page

    FREE $0.00 Cadbury Medium Bars 30g-60g @ Coles (or $1 off Other Cadbury Products)

    Request

    In both TWAM and Email from both Cadbury/Mondelēz and the marketing company responsible for the promotion, where

    • Using the extract of the voucher is fraudulent
    • Unauthorized use of Cadbury's trademarks and IP

    Legal threat was mentioned if OzBargain does not remove the said page immediately.

    Action

    Instead of removing the entire page & 100+ comments, we have

    • Removed the file in the posting & the links to it
    • Added moderator notes at the top of the page
    • Requested the community to refrain from sharing the barcode they have obtained
  • Page

    FREE eBay Shipping (Selected Sellers & Items) to Any Woolworths Supermarket or Petrol Station

    Request

    In both TWAM and support ticket from Senior Manager at Woolworths:

    This thread is contravention of both Woolworths social media policies and your posting T&C's. It contains numerous in-accuracies and the topic is commercial in confidence.

    OP is not an authorised representative of Woolworths

    Action

    Thread unpublished.

      • The take-down request was 2 days ago, before it was publicly announced. Will discuss with the other moderators but should be fine to republish.

      • Looks like there is already another thread since the service was publicly announced. Since the original thread caused some confusion with lack of details, perhaps it's better to just discuss in the new thread.

  • Page

    FREE Reusable Bag Clip from Carman's

    Request

    Received an email from Carman's requesting for the deal posting to be removed. Basically their bag clips are offered only for their customers, thus will not be available to those who have simply requested them.

    Action

    Post removed.

    • They're making sure you're a customer too

      Hello!

      Thank you for enquiring about our wonderful bag clips.

      We are thrilled to hear you enjoy our products as much we do! We are very proud of the job we do and would love to see a picture of your favourite Carman’s product where you read about obtaining one of these handy clips. If you could please reply to this email with a photograph of your favourite product we will have them on the way to you in no time!

      We also thought we’d share with you that the best way to obtain free samples and larger prizes is by signing up to our Carman’s Kitchen Facebook, Twitter & Instagram accounts and also our Muesletter (all of which you can do from the home page on our website: www.carmanskitchen.com.au).

      Kind regards,

  • Page

    FREE $10 Priceline Voucher When Leaving Prescription for 3+ Repeats at Any Priceline Pharmacy

    Request

    From marketing @ Priceline requesting the old page to be removed. Quoted the reason that was forwarded to me:

    it was a part of a program and the construct of the program has changed to now not include this offer, and it has the potential to upset customers.

    Action

    Page removed.

  • Page

    $20 off When You Spend $79+ at RedBalloon

    Request

    A rep from REST Super contacted us with the following request:

    Please can you remove the coupon code xxxxx (removed actual code) from your website. This is a REST Industry Super member only offer and should not be available to the general public. thank you in advance for your help.

    Action

    • Removed code.
    • Added note to description with request from REST.
    • Added note that users must login to account to access code.
    • Added link to a CBA deal that gives the exact same discount at Red Balloon.
    • Added link to a CBA deal that gives the exact same discount at Red Balloon.

      lol ;)

  • Page

    Free Entry to Melbourne Zoo, Free Breakfast @ COM Urban Forest Event - 9:30AM Sat March 21

    Request

    A rep from The City of Melbourne contacted us with the following request for removal:

    The City of Melbourne is undertaking a Community Engagement Workshop. We are seeking feedback regarding the trees in Parkville, which is an important issue for the local community.

    The invitation to this event is for people to participate in the workshop. Those people who have volunteered their time to participate in a workshop are provided with breakfast and entry to the building where the workshop will be held.

    There are limited spaces available for workshop participants.

    The invitation does not extend to the rest of the zoo.

    Please remove this offer, as it misrepresents the purpose of the workshop. We have had a spike in registrations since the posting of this site and we would prefer to avoid disappointing people who actually want to take part in the workshop.

    Action

    • The event sold out immediately after their email and was marked as sold out.
    • The title was changed to reflect the intent of the event.
    • The description was changed to reflect the intent of the event with a warning.
  • Page

    NRMA Insurance Family and Friends Offer - Receive a $100 Voucher for New Policies

    Request

    Received an email from NRMA / IAG stating that the family and friend offer is an internal offer only and not meant for the OzBargain forum. They have requested to have the page removed.

    Action

    Page removed.

  • Page

    Big W Total Toy Spectacular 2

    Request

    Received an email from BigW:

    It has been brought to our attention that there is a post on your site by one of your users which is communicating confidential information from BIG W. The post relates to a BIG W catalogue which has not been made public and on embargo until June 20.

    We would ask that you have this post immediately removed from your site and all related social media mediums as it is unauthorised use of our copyright catalogue.

    Action

    As the post is a breach of merchant's embargo, the deal has been removed on OzBargain.

  • Page

    Complimentary 100 Australia Post 500g Satchels - Excludes Postage

    Request

    From AusPost via email:

    In the meantime, we have had to take the offer page down to address a related technical issue, so the link that is published on your post is not working.

    They have also contacted us trying to explain the eligibility of this offer so the unpublishing might be temporarily.

    Action

    Deal taken down for now.

    • -1

      Thanks, Scotty!

      They have also contacted us trying to explain the eligibility of this offer

      I hope they fulfill the ones that were able to register for them because it did say "you will receive them soon".

    • Explanation from AusPost:

      • It's a promotional email to a targeted number of Click and Send Business 250 customers
      • System glitch leads to others who are ineligible to access the same offer. Since these aren't eligible they won't receive the free satchels.
      • Click and Send Business 250 customers will receive updated promotion later
      • AusPost would like to encourage anyone who sends more than 250 parcels a year to sign up as Click and Send Business 250
    • +4

      Today, I received 10 500g Satchels from AusPost, mentioning this deal. Very strange.

      • Also received the same today.

        • I also received the satchels today. Completely forgotten about these.

        • @wc: same and same.
          "Email was a glitch, targeted, here's a complimentary 10 pack of 500g bags"
          Nice

        • @Food:
          Same and same and same and same :)

  • Page

    Get 10 Free Safe Sex Packs (One Condom & Lube Pack) in an Unmarked Envelope

    Request

    Received an email from CHEP requesting the page to be removed.

    … a small Charity organisation who provides free safe sex packs for people AT RISK of HIV. I have recently received over 70 orders for free condoms in the last 2 hours, from this site. As you can appreciate, no permission was gained from any party to promote our service on Ozbargain. As a small non-for-profit organisation we cannot cater for this number of orders orders from people who are not considered high risk.

    Action

    Deal removed.

  • Page

    FREE 12 Month AFL Live Pass or NRL Digital Pass for Telstra Mobile Customers

    Request

    Received email from Telstra

    We (Telstra) were recently made aware that an offer was posted on your site which details the redemption process of our free AFL and NRL digital season pass offer. This offer is specific only to Telstra customers who have recently connected to Telstra as a new customer or recontracted as an existing customer.

    This post has taken our offer out of context and we are requesting that this offer be removed from your site immediately as it is costing our business money.

    Action

    Since it is a targeted offer, deal has now been unpublished.

  • Page

    Free Breakfast at The University of Western Sydney Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

    Request

    Received an email from University of Western Sydney.

    I work with the University of Western Sydney and have noticed there is currently an advertisement on your website promoting our Free Student Breakfasts… As these breakfasts are strictly for UWS Students only, this is not content that is appropriate to be on your website.

    Could I please ask you to remove this advertisment immediatley to prevent any confusion.

    Action

    It is now a targeted offer for University of Western Sydney students. Deal unpublished.

  • Page

    Zoos Victoria: Purchase a 12 Month Membership & Get 3 Months Free

    Request

    From Zoos:

    We have recently sent out an email with a membership offer which is only valid for our database of subscribers and have noticed this has been placed on your site.

    This email is to request to have this removed please.

    Action

    As it's a targeted offer for the existing subscribers on their database, the deal is now unpublished.

  • Page

    Kennards Hire $50 off Voucher (for Hires over $100)

    Request

    From Kennards Hire

    Someone has uploaded this voucher. Its not available for general use. Please remove it, thank you.

    Action

    As the vouchers are not for public, it's targeted offer and the post is now unpublished.

    • +1

      Maybe they shouldn't publish it in the paper.

      • I wish all the retailers out there would understand that if it is accessible on the Internet, it can be shared and it will be shared on OzBargain if it's a good offer.

  • Page

    $20 Allianz Stadium Food & Beverage Voucher with Every HSBC Sydney 7s Day Ticket Purchase

    Request

    Via email from Australian Rugby Union

    The Australian Rugby Union requests the immediate removal of the following post: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/215299 No approval was granted by HSBC or the ARU to post this HSBC offer on OzBargain. While we encourage all members of the OzBargain community to purchase tickets to Sydney Sevens, HSBC reserves the right to communicate this offer to its customers. Please confirm receipt of this request and removal of the post.

    Action

    Post removed.

  • Page

    Woolworths 11/11: $10 off $100+ Spend, $10 off Next Shop w/$50 GC Purchase…

    Request

    Lawyer letter from Piper Alderman, who represents Woolworths. Basically Weekly "specials" pricing information are confidential information. It cannot be published until catalogues are out. Therefore

    • Immediate removal of the page
    • Future weekly specials cannot be published until the catalogue is out

    Action

    Post removed. Moderators might look out for future weekly special posts so they don't get posted prior to catalogue releases.

    • Future weekly specials cannot be published until the catalogue is out

      This is huge. When is a catalogue "officially" released …12.01am Wednesday ?

      • +1

        I'm guessing they might mean the online catalogue which is 5pm on the Monday before the catalogue.

      • We will keep deals with Woolworths future specials if:

        • The catalogue/special is already viewable online, or
        • The deal post contains an uploaded scan of a printed catalogue that OP has access to.

        In other words, when the deal is publicly released via Woolworths' official marketing channels.

        Edit: This comment no longer applies. Please see update.

        • Do Salmat walkers count as they sometimes have access a couple of days before the online version is released?

        • Will other stores be included.

        • +1

          @pointscrazy: Exactly. I sometimes get the weekly catalogue waay before Monday 5pm.
          Anyway, since that stupid Woolworths rewards thing i've been going there less and less. Thanks to ALDI opening up here in SA soon, Woolies will probably be cut from my list of stores if they continue to be d!ckbrains

      • We have received further instructions from Woolworths that we are not permitted to publish any specials before 5pm Monday Sydney/Melb time for specials that begin on Wednesday. This means that we still have to unpublish the deal if someone has uploaded an image of the catalogue before then.

        • It'd be nice if somewhere in the back-end you had the ability to hide deals until a certain time, allowing someone to just have their deal re-published when it was allowed.
          Ditto competitions as well, some are known before the start date :)

        • @Spackbace:

          We could just unpublish it and republish it later, however the problem is that others won't know the deal has already been submitted. This will cause duplicate posts and users will waste their time writing up deals that had already been submitted before them but hidden.

        • @Spackbace: Sorry man, you replied to me, but a Mod took the post down, what did you say?

        • @Burnertoasty:

          Lol the Xbox Live one?

          About $55-$60 is the usual market price from CD keys.

          Careful of Gamesdeal who charge a payment fee (4% or so), and some members have had issues with codes not working

        • @Spackbace: Yeah thanks. I think I paid $40 last year.

        • You haven't signed a confidentiality agreement with Woolworths, so the fact that they consider a piece of information confidential shouldn't be of any relevance to you. What legal obligations are they alleging Ozbargain has breached? If you refused to comply with their requests what cause of action would Woolworths theoretically have against you?

    • +6

      lol this is huge. They dont want people to know next weeks specials so they cant plan in advance and save further.

      Wonder if topbargains will do the same.

    • +4

      You'd think with the ground they've lost to Coles/Aldi and the beyond spectacular way Masters is tanking that they'd be happy to get as much free exposure and promotion as possible. And in other brilliant money wasting moves, they get lawyers to do something a simple email would have achieved equally.

      Even though the closest supermarket to me is a Woolies, I've found myself going there less and less and after this stroke of brilliance, it might well be time to just not bother with them at all anymore.

    • +1

      I wondered where this post went. It's a joke really but that is woolies now

    • -3

      What is this fascist shit lol. I got an email alert for eahop credit and it led here. Holy (profanity) I hate the supermarket duopoly.

  • +1

    Just as well this thing called google cache doesn't exist - http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?btnG=Search&q=c…

  • Pages

    Getflix licenses in classified. Mostly from purchases from this deal.

    Request

    StackSocial has contacted us via email:

    I noticed that there were a lot of resell posts for one of our deals—the lifetime subscription for Getflix. I was wondering if we could possibly get those posts taken down from the page? Under StackCommerce's terms, reselling is considered a violation of the customer terms:

    https://files.ozbargain.com.au/upload/1/35093/terms_stacksoc…

    Action

    Existing classified ads selling Getflix licenses will be removed. Also a reminder that please do not place the items you bought from StackSocial on OzBargain Classified.

  • Page

    Big W 27 Days of Christmas Advent Deals (Starts 28/11)

    Request

    Big W has contacted us via email:

    Hi, It has been brought to my attention that BIG W advent deals have been posted to OzBargain. Can you please remove this post. These deals have not been confirmed, and are subject to change. The employee that posted these is also in breach of their terms of employment.

    We queried for when this deal will be made public:

    The deals will be published on bigw,com,au starting Saturday 28/11.

    Action

    Unpublished deal until the 28/11 or if it shows up in a catalogue/website.

  • Page

    $20 off for Any Booking on Vaniday

    Request

    Received request from an employee:

    That code was meant to be for employees to give to their family only. The company demands it to be removed asap.

    Action

    Unpublished deal as it was not meant for the general public.

    • Even though newsletter subscribers get $10 off lol wasn't exactly a huge discount to be worried about :)

  • Page

    $50 off $150+ Orders @ McWilliam's Cellar Door - Ends 31st March 2016

    Request

    Received request from McWilliam's Wines:

    I would like to put in a request to have the post at this link removed please: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/217206
    This code that is published is specifically for a closed-end user group (Citibank Customers) and not for broader public consumption.

    Action

    • Modified deal link from McWilliams Cellar Door website to the Citibank website link that lists the offer & code publicly
    • Updated title to mention Citibank customers only
    • Updated deal body: "This deal is for Citibank customers only, follow the Citibank website link for more details."
  • Page

    $10 off Menulog

    Request

    Email from Menulog:

    This offer is only for Qantas employees. Would you be able to remove it immediately?

    Action

    Menulog is about to disable the coupon code, which would be no benefit to OzBargain nor to Qantas employees that the coupon is targeted to. Therefore we have now unpublish the page.

    • +5

      Ah Google cache…
      :)

      • Hmm, not loading this one any more. 404. That’s an error.

        • That was a 1 day offer code anyway, expired midnight 2/12.

        • @hamza23:
          Groovy, from memory it was delivery only too.

        • @snuke:

          Yep that's correct

  • Page

    BigW Boxing Day Sale

    Request

    From an email from BigW:

    We have noticed the BIG W boxing day deals have been published on your site. This is confidential information and needs to be removed. Please remove at your earliest.

    Action

    Deal temporarily unpublished, and will be re-published once Big W has made this a public information.

    • Got my copy in the mail yesterday.

      • I'm negotiating with them to get an official time when this is supposed to be available.

      • This is the response we got from Woolies this morning:

        Customers should start receiving the catalogue in the mail this afternoon or first thing tomorrow. Don't think it would have been delivered on the Weekend!

        I'll re-publish it later afternoon.

        • Do you want a pic of mine.

        • @nocure: No that's okay. Distributors / maildrop subcontractors might have post them on Sunday but it's their problems with BigW / Woolworths not mine, and Woolies will sort it out with them. However once we publish deals that are considered confidential by the retailers, it becomes our problem.

    • UPDATE: Deal re-published. BigW should have distributed the material by Monday afternoon.

  • Page

    FREE $10 Voucher for Officeworks. No Min Spend (for International Students)

    Request

    Email from Officeworks:

    It would appear one of your users has taken this and posted a photo of the voucher for people to print out and take to our stores to redeem. This was not the purpose of the voucher.

    Is it possible for this post to be removed? We have worked hard to build a relationship and give a hand to international students coming to study in Australia and it is a shame to see it taken advantage of.

    Action

    Link updated to Insider Guides so we are not linking the photograph of the magazine. Updated title to emphasis International Students. Pending negotiation with Officeworks.

    • +11

      Welcome to OzBargain Officeworks.

      • -1

        Lovely and absolutely great to see them giving a hand to Australian Students. FAIL.

    • +2

      They said on the voucher they don't take printed copies so not sure what their complaint is about. Main part of the post stated that you needed the original. lets see if they are happy with your alterations.

      Thanks Scotty

    • Update: Officeworks is fine with the changes.

    • Update: Now Inside Guides wish to have the offer removed. Email received from Inside Guides:

      It has come to our attention that an Officeworks coupon in our 2016 guide is a popular deal on your site at the moment. It has also come to our attention that some of your members are printing digital versions and trying to redeem the voucher.

      As we are a very small publishing company who relies solely on advertising revenue to publish the free guides for international students, I ask the moderator to please remove this deal in good faith. We feel it is being exploited by non-international students through your community.

      We have had to remove the advert from the digital guide and the client has been forced to issue a notice to stores about the deal.

      I call your attention to a recent comment posted today saying staff are being harassed for not accepting digital copies.

      I respect and appreciate the OzBargains community for fair and honest bargain hunting, but please appreciate that it is a targeted guide designed to help international students settle in to their new home. If oz bargain members are going to our distribution points looking for guides, then an international student will likely miss out on one.

      Looks like currently the "offer" is benefiting no one — Officeworks are not honouring it unless original copy, magazine publisher gets affected, targeted audiences (international students) might not be able to claim it, and many OzBargainers aren't able to use it either. Not to mention some appalling behaviour from some members here.

      Deal unpublished.

  • +4

    Maybe OW need to be more explicit in their wording on the vouchers? I feel it's fair game with its use in its current state.

    • +2

      Indeed, it was a very unprofessional and and ill conceived promotion. They only have themselves to blame.

      The inclusion of a single line requiring students to show their student visa would have solved the broad use of the voucher, however, it wouldn't stop the multi usage issue. Just plain dumb.

      • -1

        What? Them coming to the site, explaining and asking isn't good enough?

  • -10

    negotiate with OW. Ask OW for some moneys $

  • Page

    Free 6 Pack Pacific Radler Beer, Voucher inside - Liquorland

    Request

    Email from the marketing company this morning:

    I have just recently seen the below on your site and need the voucher to be taken down.

    We were unable to generate unique codes due to Coles/Liquorland restrictions, therefore the voucher is available to anyone.

    Action

    Deal removed.

    • +2

      So, I presume they wanted to reward those who clicked on that ad, instead of those getting the deal here?

      • Yeah, doesn't make sense why they want to reward only people who click on the ad, which presumably costs Liquorland money each time it is clicked. They would be getting the same amount of money from Pacific Radler no matter how it was advertised.

    • +1

      Yeah I don't understand where they are coming from, they have a certain quantity free, only to those who find the add?
      Remove the links to the vouchers and i'll put up original picture saying they require to click the add from Weatherzone app on IOS?

      • +2

        Checked the app, didn't see that ad

        • Same, checked the app on my phone and the missus, nothing. 20 bloody ads for the Iconic, but free booze? Nope.

    • Boo!

    • +4
      • so their version of "ozbargained" is….facebargained?

    • I just went in to Liquorland Australind (WA). Picked up a six pack but at the checkout I was told they had been told not to accept the coupon as it was valid only while stocks last. Despite the fact that they have stock, she said it was while warehouse stock lasted and that had now run out. I wasn't aware that the coupon had been taken down until I got home. Oh well, at least I tried.

  • +1

    I picked up my free six pack 5 minutes ago.

    • i picked up mine 5mins ago also

      • +4

        Tastes pretty ordinary. Glad i didn't have to pay for it. Don't think i'll get this stuff again (after the voucher expires that is).

        • +1

          very ordinary. despite it being natural lemon it doesn't really taste it to me. and the 11grams of sugar is a bit much. might be nice ice cold on a hot day but not worth the price they have it at.

        • @nubzy:
          still working for anyone?

        • @Bearosaurus: just picked up a couple.

          The fella at the counter asked whether I got it on some weather app and that a whole heap of people had come in to claim. He had to check how much stock he had left.

          In Mt Gravatt East, Qld.

        • @Bearosaurus: if you have a voucher it will work until the expiry date. just dont publish it anymore on ozbargain.

        • @nubzy:
          Might have a look today then

        • @Bearosaurus: Still working today.

        • @donga100: how many you up to?

        • @shapers: Today was the first day I've used it, was waiting for a day off. Only 12 so far but after having one I probably won't bother getting any more unless I happen to be at a Liquorland location.

        • @donga100: Ah, no good? i have some but havnt tried it yet

        • @donga100: I got three six packs and stopping there. I dont even like it, too much sugar and lemon tastes artificial. Handy to have around for guests though.

        • +1

          @shapers: Yeah, a bit sweet for my taste. Tried Bintang radler a couple of weeks ago and they were pretty good but this isn't really the same.

  • +3

    Meh, more free shandy for us. It's fine, but I wouldn't pay $12 for it

  • Do the people who see the ad have personalised ads turned off in google?

  • Page

    Earn Triple Qantas Points with Movie Vouchers Purchased Through Qantas Movies

    Request

    Email from Qantas Movies

    The user who posted this has simply taken a section from the eDM sent out to members. There is insufficient context on how this offer works. It is misleading for viewers on this page to think that they are automatically entitled to triple points when purchasing vouchers from our website. The offer is only available to members who received this email. Furthermore, there are other specific conditions the members must fulfil before they are entitled to the bonus points offer.

    I would like to request that this posted be removed immediately.

    Action

    Deal removed as it's a targeted offer.

  • Page

    Free Condoms from HIV Foundation Queensland

    Request

    Email from HIV Foundation Queensland:

    Can you please remove this listing urgently.

    Our free condom program runs on very limited funding and is intentionally is targeted to those who do not have access to or cannot afford condoms.

    It is not intended to be promoted on your website that targets “shoppers and bargain hunters”.

    Action

    Post removed. Meanwhile, there are other cheap condom deals.

    • +8

      I think we need to implement a general rule to stop these deals from being posted. It seems to be pretty often that a charity etc ask for the deals to be taken down. I don't think it's a good look for charity freebies to make the front page, considering how big this site has gotten.

      Just my $0.02, but it seems that with most of the charity freebies, the charities are quick to ask for removal of the deal.

      • I agree with Spackbace.

      • Ok can't edit it now, but from further research it's just that 1 post, and this deal which have been requested to be taken down.

        Still, my point stands, we need a line in the sand :/

      • QFF.org.au has been banned. As of charity group freebies posted as deals, continue the discussions here.

  • Someone made a comment to me with how come you are removing all the deals requested by companies (summarised). Well, we actually have been putting all of the removed deals and linking to here and missing quite a few of the rejections (some are just silly). For transparency, here are some requests that we neglected to put up:


    Page

    Free Shipping on 'Fat Drifter' Motorized Drift Trikes - From $2500 Shipped @ Troublesome Trikes

    Request

    Via report (not from the rep/poster)

    Hi admin, I am the Trademark owner of the brand DTG "Drift Trike Gang" represented, in this deal that has been posted. I would Like this deal removed as it NOT a true representation of my brand and/or my company. "FAT DRIFTER" Is the name of the trike however it comes under my trademark DTG The person who posted the deal was not authorised to do so and did not seek permission from my company Lovett Industries PTY LTD before advertising on the Ozbargain Platform. Yes they are a distributor of my Brand but as I mentioned they did not inform me of the deal that was going to be posted on the forum. Can I please have this post removed.

    Action

    No action taken.


    Page

    Bose SoundLink Mini II $194.35, SoundTouch 10 $179.4, SoundLink Colour $116.35, SoundLink III $259.35 @Move Store

    Request

    Via report (not from employee at another store)

    I reported this earlier and i'm serious about it. There is no photography allowed of pricing. Please take it down as I don't want to involve Hilco and FH over something so simple.

    Action

    No action taken.


    Page

    Cold Rock - Free Kiddies Size Ice Cream on Completion of Survey (31 Questions - VIP Club Members Only)

    Request

    Via report (not from employee at another store)

    Hello,

    I work for Cold Rock Ice Creamery.
    I note our survey link has been shared on your site. Please note that this is a private survey, open to our VIP club database only.
    As such, please remove this link from your website asap.

    Action

    Deal edited (added: Cold Rock have informed us that this survey is for VIP Club Members only(coldrock.com.au). If you are not a VIP Club Member you may not receive the voucher). Company was happy with the response.


    Page

    Full Entertainment Book Access Until 1st May @ Entertainment Book

    Request

    Via report:

    Great to see that you’ve received the email regarding our free trial for our previous 2014/2015 members. Please may we request though that you take down this offer as it has gone viral. This has also now been reported to OzBargain. "The barter, trade, sale, purchase, publishing or transfer of this Book or any of its Entertainment™ Offers, Merchant Redemption Codes, or Free Trials, by any person or entity, including but not limited to travel servicers, travel providers, and printers, third party websites, publishers, and distributors of the Book or any of its Vouchers, is strictly prohibited, unless expressly authorised by Entertainment Publications of Australia Pty. Ltd. All Entertainment™ Offers are subject to the Entertainment™ Rules of Use." Please remove your offer posting for the trial at your earliest convenience.

    Action

    After the report, Entertainment Book expired the deal thus no action needed.


    Page

    FREE: 15ml Sample Bottle of Lucy Loo Toilet Spray

    Request

    Via report + support:

    I am requesting that my products be removed from this sight as I had a lot of negative hate emails sent to my staff they have all come from this website. I would appreciate action be taken promptly. Feel free to get in touch with me. I look forward to you response.

    Action

    • Put note in deal reiterating that this sample is out of stock (was already long expired), updated users that some will not be receiving sample due to lack of stock.
    • Remove link to their site, link back to the deal.
    • Company was happy with this.

    Page

    FREE Tickets to Advanced Screenings of DEADPOOL (MEL, SYD, BRIS, ADL)

    Request

    Via report + TWAM:

    MESSAGE FROM TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX Please note that all tickets obtained via this site and comment thread are invalid and/or illegally procured. While most of the sessions posted here were never real (as a few comments have already confirmed), any patrons attending cinemas with illegally procured tickets may be subject to investigation. Please call or email for futrther information

    and also

    URGENT — I work for 20th Century Fox in Sydney. I have just been informed that two of your users are advertising free movie tickets on your site to two of our private movie screenings. These tickets are not for the general public and as such our screenings are being massively over-subscribed. We need these ads taken down immediately please and are hoping you can assist.

    Action

    Employees of FOX on the thread mentioned that tickets wouldn't be honoured and security to be involved. The link on their site had been taken down and the deal marked as expired.

    • Keep the post published
    • Remove all links to the website from the OP. Link back to this deal itself.
    • Remove links from some of the comments.
    • A mod note mentioning the request from Fox.

    Page

    Mr Simple T-Shirt Reginald - $11.70 Free Shipping

    Request

    Via support:

    To Whom It May Concern,
    It has come to our attention that this post is in fact offering free Mr Simple Tees along with detrimental material to the brand and our position in the market.
    We request that this post be brought down immediately -
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/229840
    We understand that your service offers bargain's from all over the place, these bargains are supposed to be legit and not loopholes, so immediate action is preferred.
    If you'd like to discuss this further please do contact me.

    Action

    No action. The company subsequently cancelled orders that used their referral system and didn't for their $11.70 T-shirt.


    Page

    49% off* 94pt Mount Pleasant Mothervine Pinot Noir 2014 6pk $110 ($18.33/bt) + Free Delivery @ McWilliam's Family & Friends

    Request

    Via TWAM (shortened for clarity/privacy):

    I have another situation of one of your users publishing information that is specifically for a closed-end user group and should not be distributed for public consumption.

    …with regards to our family and friends sale which is "Exclusively for McWilliam's Wines employees and their referred family and friends" - as is stated on the home page of the site. http://familyandfriends.mcwilliamswines.com.au/

    Can I please request that post https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/222827 be removed and that this user is appropriately censored.

    Action

    No action. Responded to request. Deal can be found by Googling company however a blanket ban on the domain may be a future actions


    Page

    $50 off $150+ Orders @ McWilliam's Cellar Door - Ends 31st March 2016 [Citibank Customers Only]

    Request

    Via TWAM (shortened for clarity/privacy):

    I would like to put in a request to have the post at this link removed please: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/217206

    This code that is published is specifically for a closed-end user group (Citibank Customers) and not for broader public consumption.

    Action

    • Change link to Citibank(citibankdining.com.au)
    • Change title to [Citibank Customers]
    • Mention in description that deal is for Citibank cardholders.

    That covers the past 6 months or so.

    EDIT: Some of the entries were duplicated.

    • +3

      Fun times :)

    • Too bad you can't post the responses from blatant sockpuppeting. I'm sure you get quite a lot of abuse.

      • +1

        And then they go to product review :P

        • +2

          http://www.productreview.com.au/p/ozbargain.html

          Easy to guess who the new one is ;)

        • @Clear:

          Actually I'm not sure who you think it could be (genuinely not sure, not being sarcastic!)

        • @Spackbace: I thought blippy until I saw that he was in Melb.

        • @Clear:

          Ah k I thought that's who you might've thought

        • @Clear: wow. had no idea about that website. sure, some of the comments about our beloved resident trolls are quite true but there's an overwhelming stench of butthurt in those reviews :D

        • @tdw: Banned sockpuppeting store reps having a sook.

        • +1

          @Clear: or some clueless Gerry Harvey types trying to post "deals"

    • Lol I like reading these requests

  • Page

    50% off SITEWIDE on Multiple Brands - Billabong, Element, Vonzipper, RVCA, Kustom & Tigerlilly

    Request

    Via report

    Hi, This deal is an internal staff only deal that is limited to Billabong Staff only and has been posted without permission. Please remove immediately.

    Action

    Deal removed as this is an internal staff only offer.

    • +1

      I knew it!, those people who negged me negged me for no reason!

  • Page

    ASOS 15% off a Spend of AUD $75 or More (Full Price Items) + 12% Cashback through Cashrewards

    Request

    From ASOS via Rakuten (affiliate network they use), that

    Can I please ask you to remove this offer immediately from OzBargain – it’s exclusive to CashRewards and only for new customers to redeem.

    Also

    … this particular offer which is exclusive to CashRewards and not to go viral. It’s part of a trial for new customers.

    Action

    Confirmed with Cashrewards that the offer is intended for Cashrewards customers who have not shopped at ASOS. Deal unpublished as requested.

    • +2

      this particular offer which is exclusive to CashRewards and not to go viral. It’s part of a trial for new customers.

      Then don't email it to subscribers and existing customers. Sometimes I think stores forget how the internet works.

      • Stores basically trusted the hired marketing people would know how to construct a campaign that can bring them in new customers, but marketing people

        • Can't work with the engineers to put a restriction on the use of coupon
        • Didn't think "targeted email" can be forwarded or content pasted all over the Internet

        On the other hand if you give the task to the engineering people, they might think up all the possibilities that the campaign can break and the solutions, and end up not getting anything done.

        • Haha. I hate that you posted that as a Mod, as I want to +1 so bad.

          On the other hand if you give the task to the engineering people, they might think up all the possibilities that the campaign can break and the solutions, and end up not getting anything done.

    • Lift up your game ASOS…don't forget the majority of your Australian customers are due to Ozbargain!

  • Page

    FREE Horse Protein Supplement Muscle Max Bar 30g from Precision Equine

    Request

    Received the request from Precision Equine via email:

    Hello, yesterday a deal was published on your site advertising the 'Free Sample' offer that I have for people wishing to genuinely try my product on their horses. However since this has been published on your site I have received over 300 non-genuine requests for samples and will have to run an email campaign today to work out who genuinely has a horse and would like to try the product, and who just entered their details to get a free sample and will just throw my product away when they receive it. As a small business that is struggling to stay afloat in its first year of operation, I can't afford to send out hundreds of samples to people who are just doing it for a laugh so could you please remove this link from your website so I can stop receiving all these requests!

    Action

    The free sample here would not apply to majority of OzBargainers. We decided to comply with the merchant's request to take down the post.

    • +10

      Good.

    • +5

      Your kidding? 300? Sad

  • Page

    Optus SIM Only: 12 Month Plan $40/Pm - 10GB / Unlimited Text & Talk, 300 Min Int Calls (Normally $60 Per Month with $20 Discount

    Request

    From Optus Business Centre

    Please remove these posts completely from the site as it might breach optus marketing practices.

    The account has been deactivated by the user on our request. Please assist in removing the post completely.

    Action

    OP of the post has already expire the deal and disabled the account. Requested granted and post removed.

  • Page

    Request

    Head of Security Woolworths Limited emailed to ask for the deal to be removed. The content of the catalogue is not meant to be public yet.

    Action

    We also removed the same Toy sale catalogue last year and we are granting the request to have the same deal removed this year. Further more, please only post the upcoming BigW catalogue when it becomes publicly available.

    Edit: similar to last year, the moderators are planning to re-publish the BigW Toy Sale thread today (keeping all the existing votes and comments) on the day when the catalogue becomes available, and highlight it on the front page.

    • +20

      Head of security

      Lol

      • Just in case they need to use force?

    • Further Information

      Note that the main Big W Toy Sale post WILL be re-published when the catalogue becomes publicly available (last year it was 5 days before the sale started). Individual deal(s) that were made from that catalogue will NOT be republished, they can be reposted at a later time (after the catalogue is publicly available).

      The main Big W Toy Sale post post will also be stickied/highlighted on the first morning of the sale. OzBargain newsletter subscribers also receive a reminder (within the newsletter) of highlighted deals before they begin.

    • +49

      cough

      Sorry, flu season :/

    • The catalogue is now publicly available. Have republished post and stickied.

      • +1

        Are you able to award the OP some badges for the post? I think taking down the post confused the system. When I checked the profile of the OP I couldn't find a First Post Wonder or Popular Deal badge.

        Mod: Done 14/6

  • Page

    84 $0 Freebies/Samples (Links in Description)

    Requests

    Requests from multiple merchants.

    From No Worries Turf:

    Could you please remove our link as we keep getting messages nearly every minute and when we try to call to confirm, the phone numbers are wrong or if the number is correct the actual person's name differs from the request. I'm not sure what is the point of all of this but we need to resolve it.

    So could you please remove our link from your website ASAP.

    From AJ Parkes

    Our website links are listing on your website. It is listing well. But we see that it is continuous access to our sites through the links on your website, they are filling our contact forms and submitting it manually and constantly. We kindly request you to remove the below links from your website.

    Action

    Looks like those free samples got ozbargained. We have removed the links as requested.

    • +1

      wow can't believe that in a list of 84 links, there are still be cases of being ozbargained. Guess people here just grab as much as they can lol

      • +8

        Guess people here just grab as much as they can lol

        Hi there, you must be new here :P

        • yeah, extremely hard when you're a newbie trying to establish yourself here and merchants request for takedowns :P

        • +1

          @lyl:

          Another 71 deals or so and you'll have your name up here

        • @Spackbace:

          Hopefully a bit more than 71, saw that WNK made posted a deal the other day.

  • Page

    84 $0 Freebies/Samples (Links in Description)

    Request

    Request from Candlebark:

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/257093
    Please remove the link to candlebarkweddings (Wedding Sample
    Pack(candlebarkweddings)) ASAP!

    We hand make our products and getting spam from sites like this really
    makes our lives hard as they are not really interested customers!
    I appreciate you doing this ASAP and informing me via email.

    Thank You.

    Despite discussion/clarification from our end and also adding a deal warning message (that only genuine requests would be honoured), the merchant still insisted on removal:

    The reason I think so many of my orders are spam is because we had a 400% increase in requests after this post was created and looking at my analytics they have all been referred from your website.

    &

    I would like the listing REMOVED immediately please.
    Thank You,

    Action

    The Candlebark link has been removed from the listing as requested by this merchant.

  • Page

    FREE $5 Instant Sign-Up Bonus @ Cashrewards

    Request

    Via TWAM from Cashrewards:

    This is a targeted campaign and was only ever meant to go to the Click Frenzy database. It was NOT meant to be posted on OzBargain.

    Action

    As it's a targeted campaigns not suitable for existing Cashrewards members (which I believe many OzBargainers would have been), it's moved to forums as there's already existing discussions on it.

  • Page

    THR1VE Restaurant BNE/SYD/MEL/CBR $5 Lunch Signature Bowl (Save up to $10)

    Request

    Emails from THR1VE at around 11:30AM AEST requesting the deal to be removed.

    • It was not approved to be on OzBargain
    • Campaign is exclusive to The Urban List readers

    Action

    As we do not consider marketing campaign for only a targeted audience to be a valid reason to have the post removed, we have refrained from taking down the post. However as the offer is for The Urban List readers only, we have changed the main link to their website.

  • Page

    Nike Retail Store Spend $200 in 1 Transaction Get $50 off

    Request

    Received email from Retail Prodigy Group that the offer is targeted with specific customers only and should not be advertised publicly.

    It has come to our attention that a customer has shared information about our spend & save offer which was meant to be exclusive.

    This offer is for existing members only and does not apply to the general public.

    Could you kindly take this post down.

    Action

    Also in the comment by dblade123:

    I called up a few Nike stores in VIC and apparently you need to be a member who received the email to qualify for this promotion. However these only include stores in VIC, it might be different in other states.

    As it is no longer useful without being the recipients of the newsletter, deal is unpublished.

  • Page

    [SYD] Free Tickets (Two PP) to Sato & The Romantics Orchestra - Fri 16 Sep, 7pm

    Request

    This was intended to be a staff only offer.

    Action

    Removed.

    • For those who got the free tickets, are they being cancelled? I didn't receive any cancellation email. Thinking of going there but I'm a not a staff.

      • The OP didn't think they would cancel the tickets nor was there any discussion of checking who was staff/who wasn't.

        • Good to hear that. Thanks.

  • Just returned from the concert.Sato plays very very slow.even slower than Salvatore Accardo

  • Pages

    Redeem a Double Pass to The Light Between Oceans from Visa
    MISS YOU ALREADY David Lawrence Screenings

    Request

    Email from Legal Counsel at Entertainment One Australia, summarised in point form:

    • As result of their RSVP pages for film screenings being made available on OzBargain, they & promotion partners (Entertainment One / Hopscotch Films) have suffered damage. People whom those tickets were intended for couldn't claim the tickets.
    • Therefore all existing Hotscotch Films deals must be taken down
    • Future film screening deals cannot be posted

    Action

    Deals removed. HopscotchFilms.com.au & related domains are now blocked.

  • Page

    Green Tea Sample Pack with Three Types of Tea. Sign up to Newsletter for Link to Order

    Request

    Received an email from Green Tea in 3

    Please remove our Green Tea in 3 Seconds promotion from your website immediately.

    You do not have permission to promote this offer in any way. We do not want to be associated with your business in any way.

    Action

    Deal removed & greenteain3.com.au permanently blocked.

  • Page

    Free Mince Pie/Lemon Tart @ Bakers Delight

    Request

    Received a request from Bakers Delight via email:

    The information on the advertisement and the images with it have not been authorised to be used on Oz Bargain.

    For this reason we request that the page please be removed ASAP and the deal no longer featured anywhere on the Oz Bargain website.

    Action

    It appears that the vouchers posted are for staff only. Deal removed.

  • Page

    30% off Everything (Including Sale Items) at ASOS

    Request

    Apparently the code is not yet active and ASOS said that it cannot be "pre-promoted" until 15 Nov.

    Action

    It will be taken down for now and the deal will be republished tomorrow (15 Nov). Also note that ASOS ClickFrenzy related deals posted today will also be unpublished.

  • +1

    Just worked fine for me.

    • yep, worked fine for me too..

      • +1

        What was the code? I was just in checkout and then it went away :(

        • +3

          FRENZYTIME

        • +3

          cough

          Sorry, flu season :)

        • +1

          @TheClipIt: bless thank you

        • +1

          @TheClipIt: Was just finished writing up a deal for the sale :(

          ….Hey would ASOS be monitoring the comments section? ;)

        • @stuhtb: Might do, but Big W don't ;)

        • @TheClipIt:

          That's a great flu you got there, i'd like to have some of that

        • @stuhtb: They are more likely only caring about what's on the front page of OzBargain (as they get a rush of incoming traffic).

        • +1

          @scotty: How about a forum post?

        • @stuhtb: The deal will be republished tomorrow so I really don't see the point. I have also talked to ASOS suggesting that if they forbid community sites from posting their deals too early, they should have disabled the coupon code. They might comply later today, maybe after their UK team wakes up.

        • +1

          @scotty: Yep I understand, will wait til tomorrow then :)

  • Comment

    Choice Reviews behind Paywall

    Request

    A user shared our copyrighted data in this below thread, we ask that you take it down please, as its a breach of our copyrighted information that cannot be reproduced. https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/288292#comment-4373400

    Action

    Removed alleged copyrighted information (Scores).

    • +6

      Stingy bastards :/

  • Deal

    5% off Sitewide @ Aussie Bargain Bin

    Request

    The rep posted a deal and requested it to be removed via a C&D.

    Action

    Deal removed.

    More information from scotty: Linky to relevant FAQ for merchants — How do I remove a deal or competition that I have posted?

    Aussie Bargain Bin agrees that they will no longer participate in OzBargain. In some circumstances (usually new merchants with only 1 deal posted) we will agree with merchants to take down their previous deals with condition that their accounts disabled, all related stores permanently banned and no more participation on OzBargain.

    • +2

      Wow that's thin skinned. The deal was unpublished, by the rep I assume, and yet they got their solicitor to send a C&D afterwards? Oh well, no loss.

      • The solicitor part is incorrect (and has now been corrected). C&D was sent by the merchant.

  • Deal

    Live EFTPOS 10000mAh Power Bank - $40 Delivered (Save $10)

    Request

    (1)

    My supervisor has decided not to have this promotion for non members anymore. Could you all please remove it as it might affect our brand value? Much appreciated if that is possible

    (2)

    Sorry to bother, but I will lose my job if this stays up. Hopefully you all can help. Much appreciated

    Action

    Their deal (first and only) is removed on the 7/4/17, on the basis that their store is permanently banned from OzBargain, i.e. they cannot ever post here again.

    • +2

      Oh well hopefully the guy gets to keep his job :)

      • +2

        Lol boss knows how overpriced it is ;)

  • Page

    30% off at Lululemon - Sydney CBD Store - Today Only (27th April)

    Request

    Email from lululemon:

    … someone is fraudulently sharing a flyer for discounted purchases at our Ivy Store tonight. This was a collaboration for the workspace who are in relationship and partnership with our store manager. Someone from their office has shared the flyer advertising a discount online.

    Can it please be removed as this was not to be shared.

    Action

    It's targeted for Workspace customers only, and as per requested the deal is now removed.

  • Page

    CPA Free Application Fee and 50% off First Year Membership

    Request

    Email from CPA Australia last week:

    We have recently become aware that a CPA Australia promotional code has been posted on ozbargain.com.au without our authorisation. … Does OzBargain have any mechanisms in place to allow brand owners to prevent the posting of their promotional codes on your website?

    A few options have been provided, and CPA Australia decided that they would like to have the entire cpaaustralia.com.au blocked on OzBargain.

    Action

    CPA Australia banned on OzBargain as per request.

  • Page

    Brava Protective Seal Free Sample

    Request

    Email from Coloplast Australia

    Please note that we are a manufacturer of medical supplies – and our products are for people with particular medical conditions. Most of the sample requests that came through from your website were not genuine and took our staff away from helping people who are in need.

    We therefor ask that you please do not promote our products on your website in future.

    Action

    We are honouring merchants' requests to not to participate on OzBargain. Hence free sample deal removed and Coloplast Australia links banned.

    • Eww. I went for a bit of a Google to see what it was (not that I would claim un-needed medical freebies) and most of their products referred to leakage. I think I may vomit.

      • +3

        Welcome to my world.

        • +1

          Worst part is, I hear there is no cure for it.

        • +1

          @tomsco:
          Correct

  • +1

    What was the reason for the 20% off Selected Stores @ eBay takedown?

    • I am sorting that out with eBay. For start,

      • According to eBay the post has mistakes that need to be corrected. Still waiting for the adjustment.
      • eBay generally don't like the promo being leaked especially many hours earlier.
      • +9

        I think that means they need to give their merchants a heads-up so they can jack their prices up a bit.

        • +2

          And then make a BS claim that they will "investigate" sellers that do this.

        • The merchants know way in advance as they were invited to the program — so it's not likely the cause.

          The problem of announcing the promotion too early is that people stopped buying until the promotion starts, and that's a loss of revenue for them (both merchants and eBay). Moreover they have 10% store wide at 12PM, but now there won't be a rush when people know that there will be a 20% off at 4PM.

          I'll just say that it is understandable that eBay doesn't like leaks. In this case I have received more info from eBay and will re-publish the 20% off Selected Stores deal later.

        • +2

          @scotty:

          Moreover they have 10% store wide at 12PM, but now there won't be a rush when people know that there will be a 20% off at 4PM.

          That is the very definition of a marketing dick move.

          I'll just say that it is understandable that eBay doesn't like leaks.

          I'll just say it is understandable that consumers don't like getting spun they're getting a bargain, when the business knows there's a bigger sale not 4 hours away.

  • Page

    2 Months Free Netflix from LiveUp

    Request

    Report from LiveUp/RedMart

    Dear OzBargains Moderation Team, We are making a request to have the following post removed from your site. https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/310917 We understand the post is currently active and well viewed. However, under our terms and conditions this promotion is meant only for Singapore Residents. This is the intention of our service and is clearly stated in our T&Cs. As an Australian deal site, most signups generate from your user base would not be legitimate subscribers. This is also confirmed clearly in the extensive comments section of the posting discussing how to fraudulently setup accounts. Further, our T&Cs allow us to claw back or fully charge back in the event of such situations (See Variations and Terminations 2.C). We kindly appreciate your support in removing this post from your site and any subsequent posts on the subject. If you have questions, please reach out to [email protected]

    Action

    The deal has been marked as expired and the instructions/steps to obtain the deal removed.

  • Page

    Hungry Jack Promo starting 1 Aug — title removed as it is considered confidential business information.

    Request

    Email from CMO of Hungry Jack's:

    Urgent Attention Required

    Please note that this is confidential information pertaining to Hungry Jack's that puts our business at risk and must be removed with immediate effect.

    Action

    Post removed, and requested Hungry Jack's on when we are able to republish the information.

  • Page

    10% off Sitewide @ eBay (Min Spend $75, Max Discount $500) sometime next week

    Request

    Received an email from eBay, where they still have no confirmed whether they are running the offer, i.e. might still be at planning stage.

    Action

    Post removed.

    • It appears that the t&c page for the promotion has appeared again on eBay, indicating that the promotion is likely to happen. The deal will be republished again later today and will be highlighted after 10am when the coffee is confirmed to work.

      • +1

        My coffee has started to work already :)

  • Page

    Win $10,000 or 1 of 50,000 Instant Win Prizes (Purchase a Bulla Creamy Classics Choc Top at HOYTS)

    Request

    Marketing at Hoyts wrote in an email:

    This is in regards to a Hoyts/Bulla competition which was posted to OzBargain.com.au at approximately 15:25 today (01/10).

    We've noticed a number of falsified requests with a HTTP referrer from ozbargain.com.au which are abusing the competitions terms and conditions in multiple ways. Please remove the mentioned competition on this page:

    Action

    Competition unpublished.

    • +1

      Hmm… Interesting to know if a purchase is required, how the T&Cs can be abused.

      Still, doesn't bode well for us when something like that happens.

      • +1

        Hmm… Interesting to know if a purchase is required, how the T&Cs can be abused.

        Yeah, I checked when it was unpublished and there were only about 14 clicks at the time.

        I had a look at the entry page again and it doesn't look like they require a photo of the receipt (just the barcode number). The only thing I could think of is if someone entered several times with the 1 barcode number (using different names/email addresses) until they won?

        I understand that they can't check 50,000 receipts for an instant win comp, but I've noticed more promoters requiring a unique code - either on the wrapper or receipt - to minimised any abuse of the T&Cs (which unfortunately seems to happen a lot these days).

        Still, doesn't bode well for us when something like that happens.

        +1
        It's disappointing that Hoyts couldn't just ban the IP addresses of those abusing the T&Cs. Ah well, hopefully they are able to minimise the fraudulent entries so that it's fair for everyone (and maybe an OzBargainer will take out the major prize with a legitimate entry!)

    • +1

      Seems about right for people to abuse terms and conditions.. A bit confused though how you can if its one entry per purchase?

  • Page

    Telstra Amway IBO/VIP Offer

    Request

    Received email from Telstra to have the page removed, as

    The page contains Telstra's confidential pricing information and we do not agree to its release on the ozbargain site.

    Action

    For a much discussed topic, we at OzBargain are trying to minimise the removal of content. However in this case where pricing from Telstra was considered confidential, we have decided to

    • Remove the original post and pricing in the title
    • Keep the comments
    • We'll ban future Telstra Amway related deals in the future.
  • Page

    [NSW] FREE Safe Sex Play Pack (Condoms, Lube, Gloves) @ EndingHIV & ILoveClaude Delivered NSW Only & [At Risk LBGTI ONLY]

    Request

    Received email from ACON to have the page removed, as

    Despite disclaimers that Ozbargain have published in the post that only gay men and men who have sex with men should access our resources, the post by purely existing on your website, which is accessible by anyone, means that it cannot be guaranteed that only people in LGBTI communities are accessing our resources.

    Action

    For a much discussed topic, we at OzBargain are trying to minimise the removal of content. We have done the following:

    • +4

      Why is the link still visible in the revision history? Should this not be removed too?

      • Revision data has been changed to hide the actual URL.

      • +3

        I don't know why you've been negged. It's a valid point.

        Admittedly, I've used revision data before to get around deals where links are removed, moreso out of interest rather than exploit, but the whole point of removing the link to protect the charity.

  • Page

    USB Rechargeable LED Glowing Dog Collars for Safety $8.00 Each + $3 Postage @ Active LED

    Request

    ActiveLED has sent in multiple emails requesting the thread to be removed. Basically complaining

    • OzBargainers "said I was dodgy and just criticised my website and product constantly"
    • the experience to be bordering on bullying and harassment
    • "It was as though these people have nothing better to do than belittling others and you should be aware of the comments made."

    Requesting

    • OzBargain to remove the thread ASAP
    • Threaten to "send the link to the cyber bullying police"

    Action

    As ActiveLED stated in her email that whether we agree with her assessment or not, she feels sick everytime she reads the comment, that there is no point for me to continue to argue with her the validity of those comments (mostly just community pointing out similar items are cheaper elsewhere) and what OzBargain is about (we are a community bargain hunting site after all). Therefore,

    • Post is removed
    • ActiveLED is permanently banned from OzBargain
    • +10

      Saucy drama

      • +5

        The Rep was trying to sell led dog collars that costs a few dollars on Aliexpress for about $18.00 shipped.
        USB Rechargeable LED Glowing Dog Collars for Safety $9.00 Each + $9 Postage @ Active LED
        Claimed that it was being sold at cost, then lowered the price later on (see scotty's comment)

        Then told certain members to stop commenting in the comments section.

        Also stated warranty was 30 days on a $30.00 RRP dog collar, but sold under Aus Consumer Laws warranty should be a lot longer than that (12 months would be reasonable)

        After disabling their account, another account was opened by someone for the sole purpose of launching a personal attack on a valued Ozbargain member.

    • +7

      Gerry Harvey has a sister? lol..

    • +4

      Lesson learned I hope, don't argue with an army of professionals.

    • +4

      Like it would have killed her to be honest and take OzBargain seriously. This vendor managed to and will return.

      • +4

        Focalprice rep took it 10x better than most others reps do.

    • OK, let's end the discussion about this takedown and move on.

  • Page

    Win a MacBook and iPhone X Worth $3,778 from Student Super

    Request

    From Student Super:

    This competition is specifically targeting students, with the bulk of our entrants signing up in person at university o-week stalls. We would prefer not to receive entrants from unverified web traffic.

    Action

    Competition page is unpublished.

  • Page

    $7.00-$10.00 Standard Tickets for Students + $8-$12 Adult Tickets (Selected Cinemas) @ Event Cinemas

    Request

    Email from Event Cinema:

    I am requesting the following post be removed from public view ASAP. This post breaches our Terms & Conditions.
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/301383

    When asked about the terms and conditions that have been breached, we got a response:

    The student MUST present their student ID and the code is then given to them. This must be verified and not simply a free for all offer.

    Action

    Instead of removing the page, we have removed the coupon code for the students. The code will be issued upon signing up & presenting the identification.

    • Sounds like the booking site has no method to prove the holder of a student ticket is a student.So need to restrict sale of the initial ticket to a valid student.

      Fair enough request.

  • Page

    Free Regular Postage on Orders over $59 or Free Express on Orders over $100 @ Teething Baby Australia - Teethers & Dummy Chains

    Request

    TWAM (shortened for clarity):

    Delete this post immediately I will need to take legal action
    Delete this post immediately: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/370485

    I came here with good intentions and made effort to abide by all page rules. This post has now turned into a troll fest for people to make false accusations and attacks.

    Please remove this post immediately or I will need to contact my legal representative to take action against it as slander posted in a public place.

    Action

    After conversing with the rep, they were given the option of having the post removed on the basis the store is permanently banned and they won't be able to post on OzBargain again. This option was taken. Therefore:

    • Deal post is unpublished
    • Teething Baby Australia store is permanently banned on OzBargain
    • +3

      Had to check, and yep, posted by the rep. Need a lesson in PR 101.

    • +4

      Tried to reason with the rep. Hopefully they learn how to deal with negative feedback in the future!

    • +2

      Oh that's a shame, I tried quite hard to turn that around.

  • Page

    EaseUS Todo PCTrans Pro 9.5 FREE Licence Key (PC)
    Free EaseUS Partition Master Professional V12.8 from EaseUS.de Promotion
    Free Easeus Todo Backup Home 10.6 for Windows (Value AU $43.99)

    Requests

    Email from EaseUS.de:

    thank you for your close attention to our EaseUS' promotion or giveaway firstly. But you should not publish our license on your site like this

    Action

    License keys should not be published/shared. These are removed from the pages + warning added to prevent license keys to be published in future posts.

  • Page

    Man Rags: Free Socks (or $2, $5, or 50% First Month)

    Requests

    The rep contacted us and requested removal due to the free code which was only supposed to be for certain subscribers. The rep also made a legal threat against us.

    Action

    • Removal of code from deal and comments.
    • Expiry of deal.
    • Removal of link.
    • Ban of the store.
    • Removal of referrals from our system.
    • +4

      Like it would have killed the Rep to return with a bargain instead.

  • +2

    What's the update on Loadednz?

    • I sent an email to Loadednz about my order but no reply yet

      • +2

        I just checked the card I paid with, I got a refund. However, due to the exchange rates, I made a profit of $0.05 !

    • Page

      Loadednz $100 Discount Code with No Minimum Purchases (Excludes Sale Items)

      Requests

      YOU HAVE A FRAUDULENT DEAL UP ON YOUR WEBSITE - PLACED THEIR BY SOMEONE WHO HAS TRIED TO USE VOUCHERS FRAUDULENTLY - CAN YOU PLEASE REMOVE THIS IMMEDIATELY AND BLOCK THEM??
      THERE WAS NO VERIFICATION TO US FOR THIS OFFER SO HOW CAN THIS HAPPEN???

      Action

      • Removed Deal
      • +10

        Wow all caps…. must of meant business

  • Page

    Free Australian Criminal Background Check @ Checked

    Request

    The rep contacted us with a takedown request for the above deal, citing the below reasons:

    • It misrepresents the National Police Checking Service, implying that:
    • The service may be obtained free of charge, when in fact verification and approval of the individual is required before being eligible for processing.
    • Implies and/or encourages an individual to obtain information about another individuals criminal history, which is a criminal act in itself, and in non-compliance with the National Police Checking Service Informed Consent standards and requirements.
    • Encourages individuals to lodge an application to provide false or misleading information on an National Police Check application, for a purpose of which they are not entitled to.
    • Individuals should not be mislead or encouraged to provide their personal information for a service/offering in which they are not eligible/nor applicable for.

    Action

    • Deal removed.
  • Page

    Safer Way to Sell Any Airline, Bank or Credit Card Points

    Request

    Received a cease & desist from Virgin Australia's Credit and Fraud team, claiming there's fraudulent sale of Velocity Points on OzBargain, as purchase of loyalty points is not allowed by VFF's terms and conditions.

    Action

    • Comment closed for the said page

    Edit: After discussions with the moderating team, the action is limited to just closing the thread.

  • Page

    Win a Trip to Germany for 2 Worth Over $10,000 from Must Do Brisbane

    Request

    Received an email this afternoon at 5:19PM AEST:

    • Complained about non-Queensland entrants polluting their database
    • Requested the competition page to be taken down from OzBargain

    Action

    As the terms and conditions of the competition stated Australian resident only, which implies it was opened to not just Queensland residents but also other states. After presenting this fact, the T&C of the competition got changed to Queensland residents only, and OzBargain comp entry updated to reflect that.

    Store banned pending potential legal threat.

    • +8

      the T&C of the competition got changed

      It doesn't look like a direct provision in the QLD legislation prohibits changing Terms and Conditions mid-competition, but it's almost certainly a breach of the integrity and fairness intentions under s3 of the Charitable and Non-profit Gaming Act 1999, which regulates QLD competitions.

      Similarly, the regulations listed in schedule 5 of the Charitable and Non-Profit Gaming Rule 2010 have a number of provisions that might have been breached here:

      (s6) Subject to any test of an entrant’s knowledge, skill or judgement required to enter the promotional game, each entrant must have a fair and equal chance of winning the major prize at the start of the game.
      (s7) The terms and conditions of the promotional game must be readily available to all entrants and complied with
      s8(i) requires T&C's to state "whether the game involves a round in which players are eliminated".

      If they hit OzB with a legal notice I suggest someone here file an integrity complaint with the QLD gambling regulator and let their lawyers have a picnic.

      • it would be doubtful that any competition would suggest that spreading the message is against terms or law
        That is the general intention of the marketing practice spread the word get maximum publicity.
        $400,000 TV commercial for baby products will probably have 20% of the viewers on target, but they can't sue me for watching their ads because i dont have babies

        however changing the rules of a competition does certainly sound wrong and against law

      • -2

        Did anyone actually file a complaint?

        I doubt much success as by reducing the pool you increase the chances of winning as long as the non-qld are still allowed in the pool that entered before change of conditions.

        • Not from me

  • Page

    Free Entry Feb 1-3 @ Costco (Docklands)

    Request

    Someone from Costco Docklands emailed us a Cease & Desist last week about the above deal, claiming "Damaging post to business credibility". As a bit of email conversation requesting for more information, rep claimed that

    Costco is not going to run a free trial on 1st of Feb, with or without a 'pamphlet present'.

    Action

    As the deal is no longer available even to those targeted few (as claimed by Costco), the post will be moved to the forum.

  • Page

    Melbourne Star Observation Wheel Admission $1 @ Adrenaline

    Request

    Received an email this morning from Adrenaline requesting the deal to be removed, as it's a price error on their part. Moreover, Adrenaline stated that transactions will not be honoured, and they will be informing the customers affected in the next hour.

    Action

    After we have confirmed that it's indeed a price error and customers will be refunded, the deal will be moved to the forums.

    • +2

      I did not get any email from adrenaline for the refund

      • I received a paypal notification, but no explanation from Adrenaline.

        • I did not use PayPal and haven’t got my money back nor anything from adrenaline

          • +2

            @ChampofAus: Bank refunds often take a few days. Set a reminder in your phone for a week from now, and hit them up if it's still not there. Most likely, the charge will disappear completely from your account, rather than it crediting you in another transaction.

  • +5

    Reading this thread brought me considerable joy.

    • Yes. This is great!

  • -2

    Since you already checked out they cannot reneg on the offer, at time of checkout they should havw advised of the pricing error, if not, they need to honour it, they are trying their best to wiggle out of this one and hope majority just give, recommend all to fight back hard on this one.

    • How do we fight back?

      Just show up to the wheel with our booking voucher and ensure a manager lets us ride?

    • +1

      But they can. Pricing errors are a common exclusion to consumer law. This means that provides the refund the monies paid they are within their rights to not honour the error.

  • Page

    Receive a Free Benefit Eyeliner When You Take in an Old Eyeliner to The Benefit Counter @ Myer on 9/3

    Request

    Received an email from Benefit Cosmetics this morning asking for that deal to be temporarily unpublished, as the offer is not supposed to be public until Friday. They also said that it's fine to have the offer republished on Friday.

    Action

    • Temporarily unpublished the deal
    • Will republish on Friday (8 March)
    • Scheduled a highlight for an hour on Friday
    • +1

      Scheduled a highlight for an hour on Friday

      For a second there i thought you'd booked yourself in for some highlights.

      • As the deal already got +65 votes and is starting in the future, we have already scheduled a highlight before the take-down request came in. However I'm putting in that point to ensure our members that they'll see that deal again when it's live (as well as prevent people posting dups).

        • +2

          That bat of yours is very straight. Just to be clear, for a moment there i thought you'd booked yourself in to the Benefit Cosmetics Counter at Myer for an hour this Friday for some highlighter. I'm sure other members would agree it could really add to your visage.

  • Page

    Free $25 Voucher for Completing a Survey @ Happy Way

    Request

    4/7/19

    Hi we had a mega glitch in our system and this deal wasn't meant to be posted to public from a ozbargain user.

    Please delete
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/468299

    Kind Regards,
    Happy Way

    Action

    5/7/19

    No action taken. Advised Happy Way that the deal was already marked as expired prior to the takedown request (as the coupons conditions had changed), which is all we can do. It appears that the company has subsequently cancelled orders that were made without an additional payment.

  • Page

    Win a Cacao/Candle/Bath & Body/Veuve Clicquot Prize Pack Worth $400 from Cacao/Beauty's Got Soul

    Request

    Can you please remove the Cacao/Beauty’s got soul giveaway from your website (OZBargain Support) with immediate effect. We have never requested, nor authorised this to be listed on your website

    Action

    Competition removed, site banned from competition and deal posts.

    • +3

      That's just weird, to not want more entries to a competition

  • Page

    MANRAGS: Free Socks (or $2, $5, or 50% First Month) (Yes, forgot to add here last year)

    Request

    Hello - this code that was posted by someone is a private code only for our paid subscriptions.. and someone has shared it without our knowledge or permission.

    delete it immediately.

    If we are still on there by end of business today we will take legal action.

    We won’t be asking again for this thread to be removed.

    Our next action will be legal.

    Action

    Deal remain but link to deal, referrals and code removed. Due to legal threat, site permanently banned.

    • Isn’t this just a dupe of your previous comment here??

      • Ha, apparently. They did contact twice again due to another 2 deals posted.

  • Page

    Buy One Sandwich, Get One Free, on Friday 1/11 @ Subway

    Request

    Subway emailed:

    This offer is not happening this year and was an offer from last year. Can this please be removed?

    Action

    Subway also explained the changes they made to the promotion campaign this year, after the leaflets have been printed. However as the deal has been voted to front page, with many people subscribed to it, we decided to move to the forums instead and added "Cancelled" to the title. See mod comment.

  • Page

    StartCon 2019 Tickets $1ea (Usually $195) - Royal Randwick Racecourse

    Request

    StartCon sent us a support email this morning, stating:

    Please pull down offer immediately on your site. This was a private offer for subscribers to our mailing list for 24 hours only.

    Action

    As it's a significant discount that's intended to only a small set of recipients, and has also received only little interest from OzBargain, we have decided to take down the page.

  • Page

    eBay Plus Black Friday Deals

    Request

    Email from eBay to ask us to remove that page. The linked clipping is from a press release under embargo by eBay's PR team to a number of media outlets.

    Action

    The post is taken down for now. Please note

    • Currently OzBargain is part of eBay Partner Network, which means OzBargain is getting a tiny bit of commission when a guest user click through an eBay link on OzBargain and make a purchase. However we did not receive that press release, nor know anything about the embargo.
    • We are also in negotiation with eBay on how we handle the leaked deals.

    Situation might change. I'll keep everyone updated.

    • A-HA I asked on there where that spreadsheet was from..
      Limited $99 Airpods 2 (hush)

    • Update: eBay now is happy to have the post published. However there will be some clarifications.

  • Comment

    Codes below for those that missed out… in $12 Tickets to 12 Theme Parks (Aust, Korea, Japan, USA) @ Klook

    Request

    Klook sent us an email requesting to take down the coupon code in the comment.

    We have no issue with the link being shared as that's publicly available. It's the actual codes themselves that should only be used by the people who received them within their emails, as the overall point was to reward people who signed up to the entry form with a code, not have the code publicly accessible to everyone.

    Action

    Comment is removed. Those code can however be obtained from links to Klook.com on the same deal page.

  • Page

    Free Aluminium Coke Cup with Every Big Mac Meal 8/1 @ McDonald's

    Request

    Email from McDonald's:

    Can this post be taken down? This is a staff internal document for a promo that does not go live for a month.
    There was no "report" button. It breaches McDonald's confidentiality policy.
    Please and thanks.

    The OP of the deal also asked us to remove it.

    Action

    As there was a threat to OP's employment, we have removed the post. The deal can be re-posted at a later date by the community when publicly available.

    • Hope the OP isn't very well known to management.
      That being said I never really heard of anybody getting in trouble for their social media posts during my tenure.

    • Nice email from Maccas at least!

    • -1

      a bit extreme of them. not like OP threatened to reveal the ingredients of the big mac sauce

    • OPs employment will end as soon as they hit 17 anyway. These removals need to cease.

      • I was kicked out at the tender age of 22 :(

      • +1

        These removals need to cease.

        Why? If you were OzBargain admin, would you prefer to deal with a letter from a lawyer, or just cut the deal and re-post it again when it goes live? Which represents the lesser effort and stress?

        It's just a deal post, the world will go without it until the deal actually goes live and gets posted again.

        • -1

          Look I understand it can be intimidating, it's why companies do it.

          But if every company said remove the deal untill it goes live the site would basically have no deals. It provides users with a heads up of current and future promotions and more shopping awareness.

          Removing the deal doesn't benefit the members at all. Removing the deal simply let's other companies know that if they write to the site they can get it removed.

          Sites have even written to ozbargain to get deals removed because codes were posted which were targeted to a select group of people, not the public.

          Is this really what ozbargains about or is it about the members and the deals they share with the community?

          • +1

            @[Deactivated]: This thread is only 4 pages long, from 5 years of take-down requests.

            It's not like it's a major issue here. They're not getting inundated with stores complaining. Based on those numbers, you'll find that more stores get banned (due to sockpuppeting, performance etc) than send emails asking for deals to be taken down.

            Drop in the ocean issue.

          • @[Deactivated]: What we did not include in the original take down report was — OP of the post (an employee of maccas) also requested the deal to be taken down. Therefore the decision is as much honouring OP's request as keeping McDonald's happy.

            OzBargain is definitely not about leaking promotional material or internal memo that might jeopardise those companies' marketing campaigns. We have seen many of these in the past, and I have seen

            • Promotion got canned
            • Employees got fired
            • OzBargainers can't get the deals
            • We (OzBargain) ended up spending extra time dealing with angry retailers and ozbargainers.
  • Mods have realised that we have (again) neglected to post most takedown requests that were denied, only mostly worrying about those we have taken down. This was addressed in 2016 but over time started to happen again.

    In reality, the majority of takedown requests do not result the thread being unpublished. We will endeavour to try and include all takedown requests, whether the post is removed, modified, no action taken or something in between.


    Page

    Free Air Pollution Mask with Any Purchase at Boutique Retailer

    Request

    9/1/20
    Hi Team

    We would like your help to remove the post we have made on OzBargain.
    We have never sold any kind of mask and never meant to sell them.

    With bushfires in Australia and from the bottom of our family business hearts, we decided to help whoever can be helped by providing a free mask with any purchase.
    We do not force anyone to shop with us to get the mask.
    Obviously, some people got this message incorrectly and as a result have made this unfair noise about our business which we are deeply saddened by which affects our feelings and hearts.

    Given that we do not sell these, we did not realise that our original mask image that we posted was not suitable.
    We have since then sourced compatible ones.

    As an Australian owned and operated business, we are donating 500 free PM 2.5 compatible masks to the Red Cross.

    Please help us urgently to fix this matter.

    Action

    No action taken. We have pinned the merchants response in the post, so anyone reading the old thread will also see the merchant's response/explanation.

  • Page

    50% off Selected Items With Code @ Garmin Australia
    Garmin vívoactive 4 GPS Smartwatch $274.50 Delivered @ Garmin AU

    Request

    8 January 2020

    Hi Oz Bargin team,

    Please remove the following the following links as they are not supported by Garmin Australia:

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/511301
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/390602

    9 January 2020

    Recently Garmin Australasia Pty Ltd has become aware the you have published an unauthorised discount code on your website that is misleading customers to believe they will receive a 50% discount from their Garmin purchase. Despite our notification to your organisation, this link continues to be publicly viewed and impacting our customers.

    Action

    The deals were already marked expired and were edited to remove the code.

  • Page

    Free Tickets to Various ATP Cup Matches @ Ticketmaster

    Request

    From Tennis Australia on 3 Jan 2020 (summarised in point form):

    • Breach of Confidential Information – ATP Cup 2020 tickets
    • Tennis Australia are aware that the free ticket was published on the OzBargain website
    • It was provided on a confidential basis to selected closed databases, and never intended for public.
    • Requested OzBargain to "prevent the ongoing breach of confidential information" by removing the links.

    Action

    Original link removed and deal marked as expired.

  • Page

    Free 2020 Calendar Delivered at Doctors Without Borders

    Request

    From MSF.org on 6 Jan 2020:

    Please remove this deal from your website asap… This advertisement/feature on your website was not endorsed by us.

    Action

    It's actually a public link that's also advertised on other social media platforms (Instagram, etc). We decided no action is needed.

  • Page

    Free 100 Official Limited Edition NUTELLA Branded Takeaway Coffee Cups (Only for Independent Cafés Operating)

    Request

    From Ferrero on 17 Jan 2020:

    I am writing to you in regards to a deal that's been published today on this website relating to a Ferrero Promotion for Cup Give Aways.

    I work in Ferrero within the Foodservice Division for which this promotion was organised for. This is a hospitality-specific only promotion which is not open to the public and therefore should not be advertised here in a public forum.

    Please remove this ad as soon as possible

    Action

    No action taken. We explained that the specific requirement is stated in the deal and title.

  • Page

    AU Retailer Not Honouring Warranty

    Request

    AusToolSupply emailed us on 14 Feb 2020 requesting the forum post to be removed, because

    • It's false and defamatory
    • Warranty has been honoured with a new replacement

    Action

    After a few emails back & forward + following up the OP of the forum post to check whether the outcome is satisfactory, we have updated the post to state the AusToolSupply has indeed provided a resolution.

    To be continued…

    • +5

      Bit slow to the party. Haha.

  • Page

    Samsung Galaxy S20 / S20+ / S20 Ultra and Galaxy Buds+ Pricing @ Samsung Friends & Family

    Request

    There are about a dozen reports on this deal post, and then Samsung Ecommerce team emailed us today (3/3/2020) stating that

    Samsung Friends and Family portal is only accessible to those who have been invited to by a current Samsung Australia employee. You need to have received the invitation and there is no way to access it outside of this process.

    Moreover Samsung F&F terms and conditions included

    2.4 You acknowledge and agree that you must not:
    2.4.1 permit any other person to access the Friends and Family Portal using your login information;
    2.4.2 publish in any medium (including, but not limited to, on social media) or otherwise disclose to any person who is not a Family and Friends Invitee, any discount on, or discounted prices of, any Product(s) offered to Friends and Family Invitees through the Family and Friends Portal;
    2.4.3 purchase a Product through the Site to resell it or to otherwise provide it to any other person; or
    2.4.4 otherwise breach these Terms.

    Therefore Samsung requested:

    the original comments and threads containing the confidential pricing information be deleted by OzBargain

    Action

    For now, we have

    • Remove all pricing information from the post & the comments
    • Move the deal to Forums as a staff deal is no longer considered a deal
  • Page

    Stream Selected HBO Series, Documentaries and Warner Bros Movies For Free (VPN Required) @ HBO

    Request

    Email received from Content Protection Investigations Manager Australia/New Zealand of the Motion Pictures Association of America
    stating that the content listed in the is owned and/or exclusively distributed by HBO/Warner Bros in the US and requesting review, attaching this factsheet.

    Action

    Updated deal description to add warning that using a VPN to access copyright material may be an infringement of copyright.

  • Page

    [VIC] Free 1-2 Sets of Scrubs Delivered for Healthcare Workers @ Rona Scrubs

    Request

    Thanks for trying to support our initiative however we do not feel that this is the right forum for a charitable organisation like Rona Scrubs.

    Action

    Removed post.

  • Page

    50% off 1 Year Zoom Pro Subscription $115 - New Customers Only

    Request

    Received emails from TechSoup, which Zoom distributes the coupon code to exclusively. To summarise,

    • Users have to donate to TechSoup / ConnectingUp to access the 50% off code
    • Distribution of those code is forbidden

    Action

    Deal unpublished.

  • Page

    Free 6-Months 25/5 500GB nbn Internet Access to Unconnected, Low-Income Families with School-Aged Children @ Aussie Broadband

    Request

    Aussie Broadband sent a takedown request.

    We don't really want information on this program being published on OzBargain as we feel it is not relevant.

    The schools will be in contact with those who can benefit from the program.

    Action

    Removed post.

  • Page

    User phoxymoron's comment on deal 25,000+ Free Printable Maths, Science, Reading, STEM & Other Resources for Pre-Kindy - Year 6 @ Scholastic Teachables

    Request

    Received a DMCA Removal Request from Attributor on behalf of the copyright holder, Scholastic Inc.

    I certify under penalty of perjury that I am an agent authorized to act on behalf of the owner of the intellectual property rights and that the information contained in this notice is accurate.

    I have a good faith belief that the page or material listed below is not authorized by law for use by the individual(s) associated with the identified page listed below or their agents and therefore infringes the copyright owner's rights.

    I HEREBY DEMAND THAT YOU ACT EXPEDITIOUSLY TO REMOVE OR DISABLE ACCESS TO THE PAGE OR MATERIAL CLAIMED TO BE INFRINGING.

    Action

    As phoxymoron's comments contain links to scripts and scrapped copyrighted content from Scholastic's website, they have been removed.

    • +5

      I like this one, has a bit of pompousness to it. "By royal decree of scholastic"

  • Page

    $10 off Any Full Size / Party Cakes @ The Cheesecake Shop

    Request

    Cheesecake Shop sent a takedown request as follows.

    Please immediately remove the attached post from your website relating to the Mumcen10 discount code.
    You are not authorised to share this code on your website. It is an exclusive offer only valid for the Facebook followers of Mum Central.
    If this offer is not removed from your website within 24 hours along with email confirmation to myself that this has been actioned, you will hear from our legal team.

    Action

    Takedown request was denied as the code was published by an Associate / Store rep of Mum Central.

  • Page

    Request

    Received multiple requests from amaysim & marketing agency to take those 2 posts down, as these are exclusive offers not to be advertised through public domain.

    Action

    Updated those deals so they do not link directly to amaysim, but Plus Rewards & ACN instead. Updated the posts to state the requirement (Herald Sun subscription, ACN Referrer's IBO Business ID, etc).

  • Page

    Request

    From Rep:

    Green Harvest has been listed by a third party without our permission offering a free guide. This was also offered last year and we were so overwhelmed by people supposedly wanting this guide we were unable to provide this printed document. Due covid 19 we are not printing a new guide and the current listing shows for an expired product.
    Again, we have not been asked about this submission and request immediate removal.
    If a points system is in place for the lister of this and the last offer I would -10000

    Action

    • Moved to forums
    • Ammended title with [Unobtainable]
    • Removed Link
    • Added message from rep
    • Technically poster "lost" close to 100 votes by moving to forum, not the 10,000 requested. ;)
    • +4

      If a points system is in place for the lister of this and the last offer I would -10000

      not sure if they were joking or being seriously petty

  • Page

    4 Ply Face Mask 20 Pack $9.95, KN95 Face Mask 10 Pack $19.95 + $7.50 Shipping @ Clifton Pharmacy

    Request

    Received an email from Pharmacy Alliance stating that the website claiming to be Clifton Pharmacy is a scam & the post is a fake ad.

    This post was made by someone involved in scam that is “presenting itself” to be Clifton Pharmacy however is not
    … and we do not have a website let alone one that is .com

    Then requested the post to be removed.

    Action

    After discussing with the moderators, we have decided that there's a possibility that it's indeed a fake website and unpublish the deal.

    • That escalated quickly……

    • +2

      Any word from willyboy007? They commented saying "I have tried it out and it's much better quality than the 3 ply made in china masks on ebay." - Maybe they're part of phishing for CCs (and who posts a deal and doesn't check back on the comments/upvotes!?)?

      Looks like it used to be a pharmacy in New Jersey in 2013, and then potentially a parked domain until 16 days ago.

      • Spot on it’s a scam and has now been removed.

      • +1

        on credit* card payment auth it shows payment to DEALCATCH.COM.AU +
        the 1800 number on dealcatch site says cannot connect

        *I've cancelled card etc…

        • Lost $50
          Used prepaid Visa card.
          Cannot cancel card.
          Anything else to do to protect myself?
          ☹️

          • @pramki: u can contact the prepaid company (the number should be on back of card) and dispute transaction like you would any bank

            • @jimbobaus: Thanks mate. Tried calling prepaid card phone number and they said they can’t revert the transaction. It is the card holders responsibility. It is in their terms and conditions apparently. So nothing there… but I was surprised to receive a shipment notice today… I am not expecting it to be legit masks… my expectations are very low. Even if they send something, it might be some cheapies with not much filtering.
              Will post the info here as to what I receive.
              Thanks for the info though. It was worth a try.

        • update: my 4 ply face masks arrived yesterday, they seem a smidgen better quality than the dodgy dollar shop ones I got for just in case.

      • +2

        Lol yeah

        I saw this at my local pharmacy and thought to post it here.

        Suss much

      • Interestingly, willyboy007 is in the penalty box until 18/08/2020 - 11:08. It'd be nice to see why :)

    • +2

      Weird I've received a tracking notice from sendle for my order…

      The senders address is
      Clifton Pharmacy

      Riverwood NSW 2210

      Looks like a residential address

      The website initially stated QLD

      • +2

        Film the opening of the parcel, it's likely empty

      • Yes I've received a tracking number too however it's coming from NSW and not QLD like the website stated. Another clue it's not run by Clifton Pharmacy and by an individual claiming to be them.

        • I suspect that they had genuine items to sell
          wanted to use respectability of a "chemist" to sell them
          Probably crap quality

          Or its an empty box maybe

          • +1

            @jimbobaus: Interesting part is them using a courier company as opposed to auspost.

          • +1

            @jimbobaus: if it's an empty box, you could still re-use it. a padded bag: rip out the bubble wrap.

            this is quite the enthralling mystery..

      • I received a shipment notice from Clifton pharmacy with a sendle tracking number. Bizzare.
        Mystery as to what is going to turn up…..

    • Wow, no wonder I can't find this post anymore when I searched "mask" deal. Was beginning to be suspicious when I got no email/anything back. Their initial website is inaccessible now. Raised the dispute to my CC, hopefully it's not too late :(. Thanks for the scamming info though

      • Website gone…. plot thickens. Has anyone received the courier? Mine is on its way

    • +5

      Hi guys - long time lurker, first time poster. Unfortunately I stupidly fell for this "deal" so thought I'd share my experience. Like a couple of other posters on this thread, I too received a Sendle tracking number 2 days after purchasing. The goods actually arrived today to my surprise.

      The masks were wrapped in cellophane packaging with no branding/messaging, so it's impossible to verify what country or factory they were made in (website claimed the masks to be made in Taiwan which I highly doubt given the price).

      The masks were 4 ply as claimed - 2 soft white layers, a similar blue layer on the front of the mask, and a melt blown fabric layer. I did a couple of tests. The first - placing water in the mask, yielded no leaks. The second - lighting the filter layer, resulted in the layer melting and not setting alight.

      Regardless, I'm still contemplating throwing these in the bin since I have zero trust in the sellers. A quick Google of the merchant that showed up on my credit card statement (dealcatch.com.au), I found they were mentioned on the Parlux website (hair dryer brand) claiming the merchant was selling counterfeit hair dryers on the Australian market.

      If you purchased from this deal and haven't already, I'd recommend cancelling your credit card. If these guys are fraudulently using the details of another business, who knows what they'll do with your credit card details. I'm also still proceeding with disputing the transaction with my credit card provider, since their lies duped me into purchasing.

      • I have received the "Made in Taiwan" masks.

        There is no branding on the package or certificate to verify that they are from Taiwan. Indeed, masks from Taiwan usually say "Made in Taiwan" on the bottom right corner of the masks like this https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3966331 (source been to Taiwan plenty of times and the masks there is of high quality better than any masks I bought in Australia).

        Anyway, it is 4 ply as stated before and did all the tests. But, I'm still concerned as the seller used a fraudulent website claiming to be another business, fake location compared to location stated on website, no labelling or certificate on the package that states it's made in Taiwan and transaction detail saying dealcatch.com.au. The seller isn't responding to my emails. Who knows this might be a fraudulent masks.

        I have filed a dispute with my credit card provider

        • I have filed a dispute with my credit card provider

          Wouldn't they be thinking… "you bought some 4-ply masks, you received the 4-ply masks… so what is the dispute?"

          • @eug: Fake products.

            • @Jenny Death: How would you prove it's fake? Based on the description above, the ad said 4 ply and they received 4 ply lol

              • @tagin: Dude said no made in taiwan seal and the seller vanished. I think thats reasonable grounds lmao.

                • @Jenny Death:

                  Dude said no made in taiwan seal

                  Did the listing say it will come with a "made in Taiwan" seal?

                  and the seller vanished. I think thats reasonable grounds lmao.

                  Does that matter? He paid for an item, he received the item. Where is the dispute?

    • I too made a mistake ordering these masks.
      And now I can't even get the parcel because I used parcel locker address, and Sendle doesn't deliver to lockers.
      I got an auto-reply from their support saying that they don't allow changing delivery details.
      What do I do?

      • chargeback?

    • I also ordered, got nothing back (no e-mail address was taken for any contact). had to call amex to dispute.. its now gone to the fraud team.

      I received nothing from them

  • Page

    St George $2k Cashback for Each Property Refinanced. It was posted by a mortgage broker.

    Request

    Westpac emailed us yesterday (20 July) regarding to the post

    • Content is not approved by Westpac / St. George
    • Requested immediate removal
    • Broker has been contacted to have post removed

    Action

    We have contacted the OP of the post (broker) but no clarification / amendment has been provided. As Westpac has already contacted the broker, we have also complied with the request and unpublish the post.

    • After further discussion with both the bank representative, the deal was reverted to an earlier revision, republished and URL updated to Westpac's preferred URL.

      • This broker posts heaps of deals spamming his details even for offers that are direct only, and I bet hasn't run the content by them for any of them. Don't know why it's allowed.

  • Page

    Various Samsung deals containing EPP pricing on this Samsung Education deal.

    Request

    Samsung Electronics Australia has emailed in relation to one user who has repeatedly posting pricing and screenshots of pricing on products behind Samsung EPP. According to EPP Terms of Sales

    2.4 You acknowledge and agree that you must not:
    2.4.1 permit any other person to access your Company's section of the Site using your login information;
    2.4.2 publish in any medium (including, but not limited to, on social media) or otherwise disclose to any person who is not an Employee, any discount on, or discounted prices of, any Product(s) offered to Employee
    2.4.3 purchase a Product through the Site to resell it or to otherwise provide it to any other person; or
    2.4.4 otherwise breach these Terms.”

    The same clause on Edu store can also be found on Terms and Conditions of Sale - Samsung Education Store section 2.3.2.

    Samsung has requested taking down the post & related comments.

    Action

    We are taking down the linked post for now & the moderators will evaluate the rules on deal / forum posts relating to Samsung EPP.

  • Page

    Pentair Rebel 2 Pool Cleaner @ Allstar PoolParts

    Request

    Email from Allstar PoolParts:

    While we appreciate the free advertising and are glad our client is happy with their recent purchase we cannot legally have this listed. The Pentair Rebel pool cleaners are internet regulated and no pricings should be seen. We are now being warned by Pentair this needs to be removed.

    Action

    Deal removed.

    • -1

      Somebody once told me.

    • we cannot legally have this listed. The Pentair Rebel pool cleaners are internet regulated

      Is this an actual thing?

      • +1

        More a case of Pentair won't allow Allstar Poolparts to sell their products anymore if their terms are violated. It's not uncommon for brands to control pricing to ensure there is consistency among different stores, but to actually prevent the price from being shown is far less common. I suspect the prices likely fluctuate due to supply and demand.

        • Interestingly, I found this just by typing the item in Google, but this

          While we appreciate the free advertising and are glad our client is happy with their recent purchase

          seems like a fairly relaxed attitude vs threatening legal action.

          • @tomsco: Please note that

            1. The original deal was posted by a customer of theirs, so it is not the case of rep retracting the deal
            2. There wasn't any legal threat against OzBargain, but legally Allstar PoolParts, a distributor of Pentair products, is not legally allowed to disclose the price of the product.

            It wasn't anyone's fault (not the OP nor Allstar) except maybe Pentair's weird pricing policy (which might be common place decades ago). Therefore we granted Allstar's request to take down the post that shows the price.

            • @scotty: Oh of course, just commenting that Allstar seem to have a very good approach to it as opposed to other merchants that threatened you/OzB with legal action. It's refreshing.

  • Page

    NECTR Energy referral

    Request

    Email from NECTR:

    It has recently come to our attention that Nectr’s Refer a Friend program is being linked on your website. It is against the terms and conditions of our program for the link to be used in the manner it is currently being used (at the following location: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/553431) .

    We would appreciate your assistance in removing the referrals from the website to prevent any future misuse of this program.

    Action

    As they have already previously marked some referral code as compromised, they really don't want people to share the code publicly. We have now disabled the NECTR referral.

  • Page

    $100 off Selected Full Priced Adults Shoes @ Active Feet

    Request

    Email from Active Feet:

    It has come to our attention that a gift voucher code given to a select group of individuals has been posted on your site.

    Above is the link to the post. If you could please take this down, these individuals are not entitled to the offer.

    Action

    We have also received reports that this code is available for selected customers only. Request from Active Feet honoured and deal removed.

  • Page

    $50/Case of Stockade Flight Path 4.5% or Splicer 4.4% @ David's Cellars

    Request

    Email from David's Cellars

    I need to take down this post immediately, and don't know how to do this as it violates an agreement we had with the supplier of the product

    Action

    Deal unpublished.

  • Page

    6% off IKEA, 5% off WISH, 3% off eBay, 8% off Harvey Norman + More eGift Cards @ Flare HR

    Request

    Email from Flare HR:

    Reaching out as we would like to request nothing from our site to be posted on OzBargain.

    We would like to remove posts such as the below, as well as ensure no posts are made going forward (as outlined in your merchant FAQs)…

    Flare is a platform for employees only, no access can be gained by anyone not associated with Flare or an employer using our platform and we would like any reference to this removed.

    Action

    Related deals removed & flarehr.com permanently banned on OzBargain.

    • +2

      Wow, that's cooked from Flare HR. The eGift wiki is a handy tool for comparison where I can get the cheapest gift cards etc. Stupidity at its finest.

  • Date 4/11/20

    Page

    [VIC] Free BBQ Safety Pack from Energysafe Victoria

    Request

    Email from Energy Safe:

    On Friday last week and continuing since then, our website has been bombarded by people from your website requesting our BBQ safety packs.

    While we are happy to provide these freely to the people of Victoria to test the connections of their BBQ to their gas bottle, it is not our intent to provide them interstate or merely to people who want something for free. I am concerned about wasting Victorian taxpayer funds on mailing out products for frivolous requests. It is our discretion whether we send out these products, and many of these will not be sent.

    I am asking you to please remove any reference to our website and our safety merchandise from your website immediately.

    Action

    Deal edited.

    Takedown request denied, as it's a public offer, however a mod disclaimer was added to the deal to ensure all users are using the offer responsibly:

    Mod: Do not request the pack if you are outside VIC, as they will not be sent. From vendor: "While we are happy to provide these freely to the people of Victoria to test the connections of their BBQ to their gas bottle, it is not our intent to provide them interstate or merely to people who want something for free"

  • Date 22/12/20

    Page

    JB Hi-Fi Boxing Day Sale: Hisense 75” TV $1446, Samsung Galaxy Note20 $1099 (Was $1499) + More

    Request

    Emails from IVE Distribution:

    Subject "IP breach by user on site lodging information without authority - user Cam83"

    User Cam83 is in breach of releasing JB HiFi Information to your site without proper authority ahead of the scheduled marketing schedule, which the implications are significant for our client.

    We will be pursuing the matter through our legal team and require someone from your support team to make contact in order ascertain best investigation method with your corporation.

    and

    Thank you for for your prompt reply, is it possible to get name and email address of Cam83 so we can deal with them directly about this issue?

    and

    In the interim while our legal council decides best course of action I would assume that Cam83’s account will be terminated from your site as they have breached your T’s & C’s?

    Could you please confirm this so I can advise our legal team accordingly.

    Action

    No action taken.

    • Advised IVE to contact imgur where the content is hosted should they believe it is copyrighted material.
    • Advised that someone can contact us from a JB Hi-Fi email address to request that the alleged copyrighted material from OzBargain be removed.
    • Request for personal details of cam83 denied. Request to terminate cam83's account ignored.
    • +15

      lol threatening you with lawyers to dox cam83…which would be a breach of OzB's privacy policy. what a bunch of c u next tuesdays.

    • +2

      Please update if they decide to further pursue!

    • +3

      Well done ozbargain

    • "…breached your T’s & C’s"

      What are they referring to?

      • That was a screenshot in the email that they sent to us, it was of our Proper Use terms.

  • Date 21/12/20

    Page

    Winenutt Deals

    Request

    By email from Winenutt:

    Under GDRP laws I would like all our details removed from your system and confirmation via email to XXXXXXXXXXX this has been completed.

    Action

    Request denied.

    After confirming they were wanting the content that they posted on OzBargain removed, we ascertained that the deal posts (all 27) were posted by the user/store rep, not the community. Furthermore no reasonable reason for removing the deal posts was given.

    • +4

      This is a good one. The rep's history of low scoring posts caused them to want to scrub them from the internet?

      • Perhaps related to the fact that they received a 1 year performance based posting ban a couple weeks prior to the request.

      • strange use of legal threats to accomplish it, which makes it extra hilarious.

        their posts are bad and they should feel bad!

        • +3

          Even more so when it's an Australian business quoting EU law.

          • @Clear: The GDPR applies to anyone (company or individuals) that supplies services to EU residents.

            https://www.digitalagelawyers.com/guide-gdrp-australian-busi…

            https://miktysh.com.au/gdpr-australia-need-know-6-minutes/

            Who does GDRP apply to?
            The GDPR applies to any organisation, regardless of their location, if they offer goods or services to, or monitor the behaviour of, EU citizens. It applies to organisations who process and/or hold the personal data of citizens residing in the European Union, regardless of the company’s location.

            • @whooah1979: Sure but Winenutt do not ship to EU so it really is pointless.

              • @Clear: No. The GDPR applies as long as an EU resident can make an account and provide their personal data to the website.

                • @whooah1979: You misunderstood. Nevermind.

                • @whooah1979: good luck enforcing an eu law outside of the eu

                  • @Jenny Death: It's not about luck. Australia and the EU have treaties to respect each other's laws.
                    https://ec.europa.eu/world/agreements/prepareCreateTreatiesW…

                    https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/guidance-and-advice/australi…

                    Australian businesses of any size may need to comply if they have an establishment in the EU, if they offer goods and services in the EU, or if they monitor the behaviour of individuals in the EU.

                    The GDPR and the Australian Privacy Act 1988 share many common requirements, including to:

                    implement a privacy by design approach to compliance
                    be able to demonstrate compliance with privacy principles and obligations
                    adopt transparent information handling practices
                    There are also some notable differences, including certain rights of individuals (such as the ‘right to be forgotten’) which do not have an equivalent right under the Privacy Act.

                    Australian businesses should determine whether they need to comply with the GDPR and if so, take steps now to ensure their personal data handling practices comply with the GDPR before commencement.

                    Both Norway and Turkey aren't members of the EU, but that did stop the EU from issuing fines.
                    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GDPR_fines_and_notices

                    2019-05-08 The Municipality of Bergen €170,000 Norway (Datatilsynet)
                    File with login credentials for 35,000 students and employees found in a public storage area.[10]
                    2019-07-03 Marriott International €235,000 Turkey (KVKK) Failure to implement necessary technical and administrative and measures to ensure data security and breaching notification obligations[26]
                    2019-07-03 Cathay Pacific €88,000 Turkey (KVKK) Failure to implement necessary technical and administrative and measures to ensure data security and breaching notification obligations[27]

                    https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-46944696

                    Google has been fined 50 million euros (£44m) by the French data regulator CNIL, for a breach of the EU's data protection rules.

                    In a statement, Google said: "People expect high standards of transparency and control from us. We're deeply committed to meeting those expectations and the consent requirements of the GDPR."

                    • +1

                      @whooah1979: Sorry, what i mean is specifically for entities without any presence or service in the eu. For instance my website could be used by someone in the eu, but i dont sell stuff to the eu so I can't a reason I would need to comply with the gdpr at all.

          • +1

            @Clear: LOL the guy can't even spell check GDPR when sending a 'serious' email

      • +3

        Pretty much sour grapes.

  • Page

    Disposable Medical Face Mask (Bx 50) $39.95 + $8.95 Delivery @ GhamaHealth

    Request

    it would be much appreciate if you could stop analysing ghamahealth.com.au we are not cheap so we have nothing at a bargain prices . thank you ghamahealth

    After clarification was asked:

    We don't like being on bargain based platforms. So i don't know why our website is on your platform. So please remove it from your site. www.ghamahealth.com.au
    Best regards,
    xxxxx

    Action

    Deal unpublished and store banned.

    At time of writing, deal had 6 negative votes and 9 reports for spam or sockpuppeting. As the deal is of no value to the community, we will comply with the merchants request.

  • Page

    Sharp HEPA Air Purifier (21sqm Capacity) $50 @ Bunnings (Selected Stores)

    Request

    The deal poster has requested for removal of their deal post

    I've been contacted by IT that it's against their social media for employees to post deals and they'll contact HR if bit (sic) removed

    Action

    Request for deal removal was granted as it concerns the employee's job security. Deal unpublished and associated deal posts have been blocked.

    Starting from 08-Jan-2021, Bunnings Warehouse associates (employees) can no longer submit deal posts for the store as it is a breach of their internal social media policy

  • Page

    [NSW] Free Pizza @ Made In Italy (Five Dock Only)

    Request

    Email from Made In Italy:

    Due to COVID restrictions and to keep the community safe we have to stop promoting this offer to the general public. Please remove the post ASAP

    When inquiring whether the free pizza offer is no longer available or just available to selected individuals, we are getting reply stating that it is "no longer available" — assuming Made In Italy Five Dock has pulled the offer.

    Action

    Deal moved to forum as Unobtainable.

  • Page

    [SA] Fringe Membership $0 (Was $25), Fringe Fanatic Membership $15 (Was $40) @ Adelaide Fringe

    Request

    We have received multiple reports, TWAM, and emails since yesterday from Adelaide Fringe to ask this to be taken down. Here's an example email:

    I work for Adelaide Fringe and someone has posted a promo code on your site that is in direct violation of our Terms and Conditions.

    This promo code can only be redeemed by those who meet the eligibile criteria (by shopping in-store & spending buying specially marked packs).

    We are requesting that you please remove this from your website.

    When asking them to disable that coupon code, we have received a reply:

    If you are refusing to have the content taken down we will need escalate the matter.
    I am hoping you will be able to see the issue and damage this is causing and assist us.

    Action

    Initially we have argued that it's a generic coupon code obtained legally through Drake. However, as the distribution of the coupon code is against the terms and conditions of the promotion, despite it being generic, after much discussions amongst the moderators, we decided to remove the code, and change it to be a promotion from Drake.

  • Page

    20% off Sustainable Beach Towels (Made from 85% Repurposed Plastic) @ Cloey Swim Club

    Request

    The deal was poorly received and the OP was unhappy with feedback received.

    Action

    Given the deal was poorly received and neither the community nor the business is benefitting from the deal, we've granted removal. We've also permanently banned the store.

  • Page

    Kukki Kids deals

    Request

    Received an email from Kukki Kids that they do not wish to have their past deals on OzBargain to show up on Google search result. As search engine result is not a valid reason for merchants to request a deal take down, we asked whether Kukki Kids do not wish to have presence on OzBargain. Kukki Kids have confirmed that.

    Action

    As Kukki Kids do not wish to participate on OzBargain anymore, we have

    • Unpublished all the deals from Kukki Kids
    • Banned the store Kukki Kids
    • How long before they would drop of Google search result for the brand name? Currently twice on first page. Had a look at their prior posts via Google Cache, I can see why they don't want them up, not kind comments, nor decent voting results.

      • Popular deals with 1 pos vote lol. Seems to have made the rep particularly salty

  • Page

    Construction Toy Sets for Developing Spatial Intelligence Buy 1/2/3 & Get 1/2/3 Items Free (Up to $114.85 off) @ Kinderbauen

    Request

    Received multiple TWAM, emails and "Letter of Demand" to have their post taken down, as OP no longer wants to have anything to do with OzBargain.

    Action

    • Post unpublished
    • Store permanently banned
    • User's account disabled
    • +2

      Aww but it was only the 4th hit on Google when you search the company lol

      • Second Google result is now Catch.com.au ha ha, hope they're enjoying that affiliation

  • Page

    Buy One Pizza, Get One Free of Equal or Lesser Value (Select Stores) @ Crust Pizza Online (Loyalty Membership Required)

    Request (11/5/21)

    A code for the above offer has been shared on your site and seems now shared to your socials. As this was to a specific database of our loyalty members, we would greatly appreciate if you could remove the offer from socials and your site as the data is now being affected and skewing our reporting.

    and

    We’d prefer these kinds of offers to be for our loyalty members.


    Action

    • No Action Taken

    We gave the merchant the option of giving us a custom/different code for OzBargain, to replace the code on our website. They declined this offer and asked it to be removed anyway. This request was ignored.

    • the data is now being affected and skewing our reporting.

      lolwat?

      • lolwat?

        I'm guessing they ran a promo targetting specific members in their database to test a marketing strategy or something. But when the code gets shared and used by other people, all that goes out the window.

        • oh okay then. sounded a bit precious the way they worded it. "them professionals are ruining our datas!"

  • Page

    [QLD, SA, VIC, WA] 15 Months All-Clubs Access Membership $749 @ Goodlife Health Clubs (New Members Only)

    Request (29/4/21)

    I am requesting that the posts from GoodlifeHC need to be removed as they have not been approved from Goodlife Head Office and are in breach of their marketing strategy.

    The person who has posted does not have the authority to post these adverts

    Action

    • No Action Taken

    We informed the user that it is up to their company to communicate internal marketing guidelines with the rest of the network/branches and to ensure compliance and that Goodlife reps have been posting on OzBargain since 2017.

  • Page

    Free Ring Sizer @ Brilliant Earth

    Request (11/05/2021)

    Support email from Brilliant Earth:

    We noticed your site published a ring sizer post driving a significant amount of traffic to our site following the post about a free ring sizer which is not a valid offer currently. Could your team please remove and expire this offer post/thread?

    Action

    Post marked as expired.

  • Page

    $20 off with $100 Spend, $10 off with $50 Spend in-Store @ Woolworths Marrickville Metro, Marrickville, Mascot, Alexandria NSW

    Request

    Email from Woolworths

    • It's unauthorised flyer being advertised on OzBargain
    • Terms and conditions stated that physical voucher is required in store
    • Post to be removed

    Action

    After email discussions with Woolworths, we have

    • Added the terms and conditions to the post
    • Remove the bar code in the post & comments
  • Page

    NABTrade $1,000 Free Brokerage for 90 Days

    Request (22 June 2021)

    Email from NAB:

    • Offer is for existing NAB customers only and intended for those specific people who received the email
    • NAB will be reviewing those who apply using this code and those not eligible will not be successful in redeeming the code
    • Request to take down the post, promo code & link to the promo page

    Action

    It's a targeted marketing offer although the offer itself is not targeted. We have kept the post published, flagged as Targeted, added an update to the description, remove promo code & change the landing page link to nabtrade's home page.

  • Page

    $30 off When You Spend Minimum $90 on Full Priced Items @ The Iconic

    Request (24 June 2021)

    Email from THE ICONIC:

    • They would like to keep it isolated to the first responders they intended it to be shared with.

    Action

    Again a targeted marketing offer but not targeting has been implemented in coupon code itself. Deal marked as Targeted & Mod notes added.

  • Page

    20% off Shotspresso Energy Coffee Shots + Free Shipping > $40 Spend @ Shotspresso

    Request

    TWAM from Shotspresso (summarised for clarity / privacy):

    • They do not want their product listed for sale online in the long term, they are only doing 20% off during lockdown. When searching their brand the OzBargain deal is listed in the top 5. They will remove the 20% off from the site too 'after the listing' as they don't want their product to be associated with a sale.

    • The marketing intern posted the 20% off deal without reading OzBargain's terms and didn't have authorisation to post it on OzBargain. It is causing the owner of the company a lot of distress.

    Action

    We indicated that the posts themselves and who uses their account, is their responsibility. We also stated that we aren't responsible for search ranking. Despite this the rep insisted on removal, as this was a single post and and had few votes/comments, we agreed to remove it on the basis the store would be permanently banned from OzBargain.

    Deal unpublished and store banned.

    • +2

      Looks like they are just trying to keep the turnover down to ensure some sort of Covid grant! Strange instead of thanking, the extra sale (albeit at 20% off) is causing the owner distress!

      • +2

        and it's always the "intern's" fault…

      • They also still have the sale up. Probably waiting for the intern to take it down.

  • Page

    Crunchyroll Premium Megafan - AR$125/Month (~A$1.75), AR$1250/Year (~A$17.61) - Argentina VPN Required @ Crunchyroll

    Request

    Received an email from IP Arrow last Friday, stating that

    • Post is "instructing users how to circumvent their regional pricing by signing up via a VPN. This goes against our client's terms of use/service"
    • Request immediate removal of the post

    We replied explaining that OzBargain is a community website and the post was posted by member to discuss bypassing geo-pricing. However today we have received a DMCA copyright infringement from "MX INTERNATIONAL INC" claiming we are linking to the copyrighted material.

    Action

    As the deal page has only linked to the Crunchyroll plan page, their claim is false. We are putting up a disclaimer at the top of the post, removing the thumbnail image, but the post will stay published.

    • +4

      Gotta love dmca abuse. When all else fails.

    • According to email from IP Arrow this morning that they have proceeded to legal action. We'll see what turns up.

      • +1

        At what point does the post get removed? I know technically you are not doing anything wrong, it's more of an FYI "you can use a VPN", but when do you back down?

      • Any update?

        • No update… which is good news.

          • +1

            @scotty: Careful scotty. The Fixated Persons Investigation Unit could come knocking.

    • +1

      just seems to me they'd save themselves the hassle and legal fees by not engaging in this regional pricing bs, then trying to enforce it with legal threats..?

      • +1

        It makes sense though

        In Aus, $10 a month is reasonable for a service, and when you convert that to Argentina, India and other such countries - $10 a month is a significantly larger chunk of their monthly income. As such, they'd lose out on that market completely.

        Reducing Aus prices to Arg/Indian prices will not substantially increase the customer base in Aus, but will cost them more overall in reduced revenue.

        It sucks, but it makes complete sense why they have regional pricing.

  • Page

    nabtrade $1,000 Free Brokerage for 90 Days (New Users Only)

    Request

    Email from NAB:

    HI, can you please remove the nabtrade offer …

    This offer is exclusive to NAB shareholders and is not for the general public.

    Action

    Same as last time, we

    • Flagged the offer as "Targeted"
    • Added mod notes explaining the condition of the promo
    • Remove promo code & change the landing page to nabtrade.com.au
  • Page

    [ACT] KIVIK Corner Sofa Set - Two Chaises $998 (Was $2600) @ IKEA Canberra

    Request

    The deal poster has requested for removal of their deal post

    we aren’t allowed to represent IKEA in anyway online which I’ve done

    Action

    Request for deal removal was granted as it concerns the employee's job security. Deal unpublished and associated deal posts have been blocked.

    Starting from today, 14th March 2022, 6:22:44 pm, IKEA associates (employees) can no longer submit deal posts for the store as it is a breach of their internal social media policy

  • Page

    [NSW, QLD] Flood Disaster Recovery Payment $1000 Per Eligible Adult, $400 Per Child + 13-Week Disaster Allowance for Lost Income

    Request

    Email from Services Australia (Australian government)

    While we appreciate the intent behind this post, we are concerned about information included becoming out of date as well as potential confusion between the supported being provided by different government bodies.

    In your Deal Posting Guidelines, under Government Programs, you state:
    Government programs that are cost saving measures (e.g. free public transport) are permissible to be posted as deals. However income producing programs or social services (e.g. increase to Centrelink payments) should not be posted.

    Therefore, we request you remove this page (and associated comments) from your website based on this content being a breach of the guidelines.

    Action

    Deal post was moved to the forums.

    • +12

      Wow, a takedown requester who actually read the deal posting guidelines.

      • -4

        Yeah, makes you wonder why it wasn't removed by the mods in the first place

        • the poster is now a wheelchair user

      • +1

        services aus employees have a lot of free time

  • Page

    Free Ice Cream Spade Delivered @ Bulla

    Request (20/5/22)

    Email from voodu:

    hello

    URGENT!!

    I am contacting you n behalf of Bulla Dairy the promoter of this competition https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/701065

    can you urgently remove this advertisement from your page. https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/701065

    Bulla Dairy did not give authorization to post this.

    OR can you tell me what department of your company can assist us?

    Thanks

    Action

    No action taken.

    There was no valid/reasonable reason given for removal. The request was therefore ignored.

    • When did they contact you about this?
      I received my spoon last week!

      • Request (20/5/22)

        We generally won't post requests here straight away unless they are resolved and there is no chance for follow up. We also sometimes forget.

    • +4

      Lol that's a big oops that they didn't ask for proof of purchase

      • Seems like typical marketing department foresight.

  • Page

    Free N°1 DE CHANEL Samples, 2x 5ml Pick-up Only at Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutique @ Chanel Australia

    Request

    Email from CHANEL IP Department in UK, claiming the above page violating their copyright stated in their T&C.

    As CHANEL has not consented to use of the content/materials from the CHANEL website on the OzBargain website, OzBargain is infringing CHANEL’s copyright.

    We therefore look forward to receiving notification that the infringing content has been removed immediately, within the next 48 hours.

    Action

    As text and images from the website are considered copyrighted material and we cannot reproduce them, quotes from the website and the screenshot have been removed from the post, and a mod note has been added.

  • Page

    Free Mobile VR Headset for Doing Online 30 Minute University Research Study @ Sydney University

    Request (18/7/22)

    Email from someone from University of Sydney

    Removal of a Post - 713569 (Lack of ethical approval)

    Hi,

    I'm a researcher from the University of Sydney and I was hoping to have a post that pertains to one of our research studies removed — see https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/713569.

    I understand that OzBargain posts that are highly popular are less likely to be removed but unfortunately we do not have the appropriate ethical approval to have this study advertised on OzBargain. I have been in contact with the poster who has since requested to have it removed but we were hoping to have it removed ASAP.

    Please let me know if you need any other information.

    Action (19/7/22)

    No action taken,

    We informed the user that we cannot unpublish the deal. A 'lack of ethical approval' on their end does not prevent a user from sharing what they have discovered online, either on Ozbargain or other social media channels.

    Furthermore the survey had already been closed off and the deal was already expired.

  • +9

    Everyone waiting patiently for a certain Forum post to be listed in here…

    • The request was already there less than an hour after that forum post was posted. OzBargain itself might be sued so we'll wait for more development before putting the report here.

      • I’m not a lawyer but sure the recent High Court ruling cover OzBargain ?

        https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-17/high-court-decision-g…

        • It's still up to the court to decide if they do decide to take up law suit against OzBargain. It's just me who don't want to disclose all the take down requests until the issues are more finalized.

          • @scotty: We understand scotty!

            How's the stress levels over something like that one though? I can imagine they're attacking a lil harder than most of these would

            • @spackbace: I have contacted a legal counsel but he would only work once we have received a notice from other lawyers. Stress — yes a bit. Unnecessary annoyance.

              • +4

                @scotty:

                Unnecessary annoyance.

                There's a few members who would come under that banner lol

                • @spackbace: starts with j and ends with v? ;)

      • +4

        I'm surprised they didn't offer you a $5k bounty 🤣🤣

    • +4

      I feel like I've missed out on something really important 😂

      • +1

        same. i don't visit the forums much

      • +3

        A user made a post that a law firm threatened to sue him for defamation. It got updated with spicy developments

    • +1

      Check their reviews now - a lot of 5* reviews from accounts with only one review.

      They are making sure if you sort by "newest" you only see positive reviews.

      • yeah, now they are not complaining - all seem to be fake given they were all left in a very short span of time.

  • +1

    Are you guys talking about this?:

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/719606/comments

  • Page

    Two posts from the same user:

    A. Defamation Threat for Leaving Negative Reviews on Google (posted on 18 Aug at 2:57PM)
    B. Google Review Update (posted on 28 Aug at 4:20PM)

    Requests & Actions

    RHC Solicitors sent in an email less than an hour after post A got posted:

    • requesting post A above to be removed.
    • all parties associated suspended for breaching OzBargain's terms of use
    • action against OP of the post & against OzBargain

    We (OzBargain) did not see the original post as violating OzBargain's rules, hence the request was declined. We did unpublish certain comments, and have requested RHC for specific comments that are defamatory so we can unpublish those instead of the entire post.

    As more emails coming from RHC Solicitors, we have decided to (1) remove the post A from front page highlight, and (2) subsequently lock the post from commenting.

    There were email exchanges between our legal counsel and their lawyers between 25 Aug and 2 Sept, basically disputing the comments they have problems with.

    Meanwhile, OP requested post A to be unpublished (and granted). 20 minutes later post B went live, got around 50 comments and 3 hours later OP requested it to be unpublished as well (and granted).


    This comment is updated on 16 Sept as there has no further communication between OzBargain & RHC Solicitors for 2 weeks.

    • BTW the comments link in the previous comment still works for me, but doesn't work in incognito.

      • That should be fixed.

    • +3

      Pretty sad that they just threaten to clear out seemingly genuine bad reviews

      I think the bikies ozbargain meme needs to become rhc (and by just stating those 3 letters, not the 2nd word, it could be seen as referencing multiple things…)

      Who you gonna call to sort your neighbour issue? Rhc

      Who you gonna call to sort your car accident issue? Rhc

      Got problems with a store warranty? Rhc

      • +5

        Hmm ok just read the follow-up post (thanks Google cache…), interesting

      • +1

        i wouldnt give "rhc" such notoriety or rent space

      • +3

        If anyone's still curious (this info was shared by RHC)

        They suspect the mass influx of positive reviews have been purchased by someone else to harm their business, and assert that they have nothing to do with these 'fake' positive reviews. Also say that negative reviews were removed along with some 'fake' positive reviews.

  • Page

    [Student Beans] $20 off $80+ Spend on Eligible Items @ eBay

    Requests

    10/11/22 14:13 EST eBay sent a ticket (copied verbatim)

    "Could you please have your team take this down: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/723734
    This is an exclusive code for Students and should be leaking."

    Actions

    None taken. We replied stating that the deal post doesn't display any codes, and all the single-use discount codes that are generated by StudentBean users are posted in the comments section of the deal.

    We do not have the ability to stop users from sharing their unused vouchers online. The deal will remain published.

  • Page

    25% off Any Item in-Store (Excludes Custom Cakes) @ The Cheesecake Shop

    Request

    From email (27/2/23):

    • OzBargain causes 'a number of issues for us when running localised promotions'.
    • The OzBargain post doesn't state the terms and conditions.
    • The Facebook ads 'specifically say that it is only for redemption at a particular local store'.
    • Request the offer to be removed immediately and all future posts be submitted to The Cheesecake Shop Marketing Team for review.

    Actions

    No action taken and the request was ignored.

    Upon investigation we found that the OzBargain post in fact contained every term and condition from the Facebook ad, apart from the local store condition, which in fact was not the case. Changing the post as requested, would therefore make the OzBargain post, inaccurate.

    • +1

      So businesses prefer spending on Facebook (assuming paid ad/sponsorship) for advertising instead of getting free publicity on OzB!

      • +3

        It definitely skewed their data as to whether people bought because of facebook or ozbargain ahaha

        • Easy fix for that 😂

    • +4

      The Cheesecake Shop Marketing Team

      Can't be doing that good of a job if they don't see that a free post on here drives traffic to them ;)

      Wouldn't be too hard to start a promo of 'enter this competition, receive a discount code for your local store', whereby the competition asks for your suburb…

      • yeah they sound like a bunch of overpaid minimalists who likely only got their job because a mate recommended them.

  • Page

    No Pong

    Request (22/3/23)

    Requested to remove 'our website section'. Request denied.

    Then:

    Requested to remove this deal. Request denied.

    Then:

    We do not permit Ozbargain to reproduce our copyrighted imagery for use on your website. (1)

    We request OzBargain remove all references to “No Pong” from your site as soon as possible. (2)

    Actions

    (1) Removed No Pong logo/website images.

    (2) No action taken. Mentioning a trademarked term is not an infringement.

    • +1

      Lol @ item 2 😂

  • Page

    Spriggy - Increased Referral Benefit ($40 Each for Referrer and Referee)

    Request: 06/06/2023

    Dot point summary of their request is as follows:

    • We are being harassed and trolled in the comments. Our review sites are being bombarded with 1 and 2-Star reviews, slandering us.

    • This post is a direct violation of our Refer a Friend Terms and Conditions (https://www.spriggy.com.au/terms). All 'users' who have signed up using the codes mentioned are in breach of these terms.

    • Please delete the post, or remove all comments.

    Actions

    1. Request for unpublishing the deal or user's comments was denied.
    2. Referral type changed from URL parameter to Direct Messaging
  • Page

    Watch all UEFA Champions League Matches Live & Free @ LiveScore App (VPN Connected to Ireland Required)

    Request

    Email received from LiveScore Group legal counsel. To summarise,

    • Content violates their intellectual property by showing LiveScore marks without consent.
    • Content allows users to access LiveScore apps in a way that may violate their user policies.
    • Request to remove content from OzBargain & prevent similar content from published in the future
    • Suspend content poster's account
    • Cease use of text, image, video or other media taken from LiveScore's website and apps

    Actions

    We disagree with some of the requests. Published page did not take any content or media from LiveScore, except the LiveScore logo, which we have now replaced with our standard "copyright issue" image.

    Using VPN and discussions around VPN usage is not illegal. However using VPN to access some content on the Internet might be violating content owner's terms of use, but that is a matter between the content owner and its users.

    • +9

      Suspend content poster's account

      That part made me lol

    • Suspend content poster's account

      Lol haha

      Who is ozb legal council?

    • +2

      I was only trying to post a freebie. Some of us are poor. And need some ways to save money. Nothing wrong with that right?

      • +1

        Nope, don’t worry too much about it
        Some merchants just like to request their stuff to be taken down here as we are too Professionals for them

      • Nope. Post as many freebies as you like.

  • Page

    Double Credits @ Timezone. Note that the post was possibly posted by an employee of Timezone.

    Request

    Received email from The Entertainment and Education Group (parent company of Timezone) to have the page unpublished, as

    • Deal contains confidential information not intended for public
    • Employee has breached internal policies

    Action

    Deal unpublished. Related deal might get posted again when the offer becomes public.

  • Page

    12-Month Free Access to Chris Hemsworth's Centr App for AMEX Australia Card Members

    Request

    Email from Centr that the offer has indeed expired in 2022, and people signed up using the link got charged immediately & contacted them to complaint.

    Requested for the post to be removed.

    Action

    Deal unpublished.

  • Page

    AI-Powered Business Idea Validation Tool - Full Report - 15% off - US$24.65 (~A$37.40) @ CodeMode

    Request

    Rep claimed users submitted inappropriate entries to the store, which in turn caused the store to violate its agreement with its suppliers. The store may suffer unspecified penalty imposed by its supplier and this will threaten the store's viability.

    Requested for the post to be removed.

    Action

    Deal unpublished. Store permanently banned.

    • +2

      Can you give us notice before they're unpublished? I want to read the 'inappropriate use cases' from the comments on the thread :D

    • +1

      Surely no ozbargainer paid $40 for this

      • +1

        Assuming they did this:

        Free Preview Available:
        Curious to see how our tool works? Try out the free preview and witness the power of AI in validating your business ideas.

  • Page

    BOGOF Burrito Bowl @ Guzman y Gomez via DoorDash, $5 Burrito + Service Fees + Delivery Fee @ Guzman Y Gomez via DoorDash, $10 Burritos Every Monday in March @ Guzman y Gomez via Menulog and Free Delivery Platform Wide @ Uber Eats.

    Request

    Emails from Guzman Y Gomez claiming the OP has posted commercial sensitive & confidential internal communication material. The uploaded images containing screenshots of material that should not be made public, and these posts need to be removed.

    Action

    We have determined that these screenshots are indeed internal memo that's not meant for public. Posts are unpublished.

    Posting internal communication would be against the employment contract in most places, and might jeopardise the actual promotion. It is strongly discouraged here.

    • Free Delivery Platform Wide @ Uber Eats

      Why is this associated with GYG? It was posted as platform wide excluding McDonald's.

      • It's actually a GYG-only deal, but the main issue is with the post containing screenshots of snippets of internal communication.

  • Page

    Alltrails+ 1 Year Subscription $17.99 (Was $35.99) @ Alltrails

    Request

    Alltrails sent us a DMCA claiming "copyright infringement". Also received an IP Rights Infringement Notice from Alltrails via Red Points claiming "the following content is infringing upon their valid intellectual property rights". However so far only an URL is provided — no exact violation is mentioned.

    Action

    I've sent back an email requesting for more information, and will update here if there's any followup. Meanwhile, I am replacing the Alltrails store image with our default "Removed due to copyright issues" image just in case.

  • Page

    Zinus Mattress Sale from $88 King Single + Delivery ($0 to Most Metros) @ Zinus via Marketplace

    Request

    Marketplace provider does not want to be associated or named in posts by Zinus Marketing. Takedown request jointly issued by Zinus and marketplace provider.

    Action

    Zinus and marketplace provider were fully informed of, and they agreed to the consequence of us accepting a takedown notice. Post removed and Zinus Marketplace store is permanently banned.