CETSS, CETS, FIRSTHAND, PINNACLE Consumer Electronics Technology Services (CETSS) ripoff used bogus check number for withdrawal to get around first stopped payment. New York Provo Utah

CETS, as noted in other Ripoff Report entries, says they will provide all of the items listed in earlier reports. Despite confirming that the $284.90 is payment in full for actual products, the amount represents @ $18 for S/H costs and $265 for their "administrative expense." The scam is to get you obligated to a telephone carrier and multi-year service agreements before you see a single item.

A new wrinkle: Despite having succesfully stopped payment on the check number I authorized, CETS subsequently (5 days later)sent through a telephone authorization for a different (bogus) check number I had not authorized. This time, they used the name "Pinnacle."

My bank is attempting to reverse that bogus charge but has advised that this scheme will probably continue until I close my account completely.

FYI: Banks are unable to stop a payment based on an amount or a payee name; just the check number is used, which leaves you wide open since they apparently have no way of validating it before it is processed. When I attempted to contact CETS at the 888-577-4432 number, I get only "this line is being checked for service." The bank advised monitoring your account on a daily basis and notifying them immediately if such a charge comes through without your authorization.

I have processed a formal complaint with the Consumer Protection Division of the Michigan Attorney General and will also contact the FCC as this relates to interstate telephone fraud. AVOID THESE PEOPLE AT ALL COSTS.

Barbara
East Lansing, Michigan
U.S.A.