Computer direct marketer Gateway Inc., San Diego, has been sued for allegedly advertising free Internet access even though some customers were charged long-distance fees, according to news reports. The proposed class-action suit, filed in San Diego Superior Court, also claims the company defrauded some consumers by automatically financing their purchases through Gateway’s MasterCard plan. The lawsuit also claims Gateway refused to accept returns from upset customers. Gateway denies the allegations and “we plan to defend ourselves vigorously,” said spokesman John Spelich. The suit seeks to stop Gateway’s allegedly deceptive marketing campaign, disgorgement of the company’s gains from the practice and monetary compensation to class members for injuries suffered as a result.
