Natwerk Designs

Does a credit card have to go through for a trial?

What I am asking is that... for a trial of something, does the credit card go through. For example, if you get a 14 day trial of some online service that will bill you AFTER the trial, does it go to any means of checking the credit card to make sure it is real. I assume if you used a fake number it would go through, but then cancel the service at the end of the trial because the number was not authentic, correct? Specifically, I am referring to America's Test Kitchen.

Public Comments

1. You will need a VALID credit card because they will check FIRST to see that it is valid. Why would you want to commit FRAUD !
2. don't even think about trying it...it is illegal
3. "Free" online trials are, in general, subject to a $1US "ping" on your account to make sure the card is active. However, some less scrupulous businesses get a "hold" on the entire amount of the first month's charge, which technically is legal as they do not charge it out until the trial period is up. This latter practice is fairly rare, but always be prepared for the temporary loss of $1US. The only way to be sure is to read the entire agreement and terms of service, which is very tiresome. Also check your bank account online after making any trial purchase. Never try to use a fake number because a) it is a serious felony, b) you'll have a hell of a time coming up with a number that works because of the way credit cards are coded and c) if you do guess a number that works, it belongs to someone! Guess what happens then? You get a CRIMINAL TRIAL.