Companys in the UK have some similar sneaky tricks to rip you off. 

One well known satellite TV company sells customer info to "selected partners" even if you opt out.  So you get a letter or call that looks/sounds from it comes from them, but in reality is from a 3rd party who tells you must have insurance for the equipment in the event of damage. Of course the policy is nearly impossible to claim off, plus in most cases your home policy would cover you. 

PPI - Payment Protection Insurance is the biggest scam, most stores/banks will sell you this, again nearly impossible to claim from.

Local TV news last  week was reporting how one guy couldn't claim because he had the wrong kind of heart attack!!    

Pinky - you left the lens cap of your mind on again.