SOYO, SOYO-Tek, SOYO Computer They won't honor rebate I consider that a rip-off! Fremont California

Here's my little story about trying to use their rebate card. . .

I purchased a SOYO 128MB Cigar Pro USB storage device on 11/29/02.

On 12/2/02 I submitted the $20 rebate form, receipt, and original UPC code from the package, which was postmarked as required before the 12/5 deadline.

The rebate was supposed to come in 8-10 weeks. After 15 weeks, I still hadn't received it. Here's what I did to try to get the problem fixed:

1. I called the rebate phone number listed on the package (1-866 260-4376). I was told the number "is disconnected or no longer in service."

2. I then went to the rebate Web site listed on the package (www.rebatestatus.com). It didn't know anything about me or my rebate.

3. I went to the SOYO technical support Web site at www.soyousa.com and filled out a form describing my problem. Although it promised a 48-response, I never heard from them.

4. Ten days later I called SOYO at 1-510 226-7696 and was connected with Tech Support, since there is no customer service number. They told me to contact the rebate center.

5. I called the rebate center at the number SOYO gave me (1-800 390-2344). The rebate center didn't know anything about my rebate, but told me to call the Niagra Falls office of the rebate center.

6. I called the Niagra Falls office at the number the previous rebate center gave me (1-866 260-4378). After holding for 48 minutes, they answered and found the information on me. My form had arrived within the deadline, but was missing the UPC code from the package. I told them I have copies of everything I sent (including the package minus the UPC code) and that I'd included the original UPC code. The woman (Alyssa) acknowledged that they sometimes lose the UPC codes when they open the letters. She said she couldn't do anything on her end, but told me to call SOYO's customer support, and gave me the original SOYO phone number I started with.

7. I called SOYO again, and was told by the operator that they don't have a customer support number, and was connected with accounting, instead. I left my message with Eva in accounting and didn't hear back.

8. I called SOYO again two days later, and spoke to Eva in accounting. She told me to call the Niagra Falls rebate office again and speak to a manager. I told her they'd just send me back to her. She then said she'd discuss it with her boss and call me back. I've never heard from her or SOYO since.

Bill
Sunnyvale, California
U.S.A.