ONTIME DIGITAL INC Order 1 thing was told I had to order several other items for camera to work properly Asked them to cancel order and was told that I would have to pay 50% of item. BROOKLYN New York

Here are some secrets from an someone who has heard many of the horror stories regarding consumer electronics telesales firms.

Too good to be true still applies. You will never find a legitimate dealer with a price that is $100 less than EVERYONE else on the internet. Furthermore, if you see a price that is even 5% lower than the lowest of 5 other website, you should be suspicious. There really isn't much money in this category, if a dealer make $60 on a $1000 camera, he's doing alright.

Tip offs to rip offs; If you hear any variation of these phrases...RUN!
* "Oh, that price is for the import/export model."
* "That price doesn't include..."(warranty, cables, software, fill in the blank)
* "Your item will ship in 4-8 weeks." (This is usually followed up by, "That isn't in stock" or "That is the import model and it won't be in until later"; This is a clear fraud that would have you believe exchange rates are so favorable that US dollars can buy a product from South America or anywhere else at a terrific price.)
* Shipping is an outrageous amount.
* "I can't check stock until you order."
* "There is a restocking fee of $$$ or 20+%..."(Restocking fees are legal but should be reasonable. Business don't actually have to take returns and those with thin margins may require a flat fee of $15-$25 or 5%-15%. But remember, if you buy from someone who accepts returns, you may very well be receiving someone else's return.)

Nail down what exactly what you are getting and how much shipping is and when exactly it will ship before you give your credit card number. Don't buy from websites or anyone who doesn't disclose an address. Google the address and or the company and see if the information jives. Google the company or search RipOff Report directly.
Use a credit card and check your statement or your charges after the purchase and make sure the amount charged is what you expect. Many of these unscrupulous companies tell you one thing on the pone and charge another hoping you are too busy to check your credit card statement.

Remember:Too good to be true applies today more than ever!