News Release: For Immediate Release

www.bbbhou.org * bbbinfo@bbbhou.org * Council of BBBs: www.bbb.org *
24-Hour Information: 713-868-9500, (800) 275-3626 (from area code 409 only)

Be Cautious of Free PC Offers

• Buy three years of Internet service, get a refurbished PC.

• Buy a package deal, which consists of a PC and peripherals. Between discounts and rebates, you pay nothing or very little for the PC.

• Register with a marketing company for the chance to get a free PC, in exchange for agreeing to have continuous ads on-screen, and completing a questionnaire.

Although there are some legitimate offers, there are also some scams. For example, the BBB in Grand Rapids, MI investigated an Internet offer for 12,000 free computers for a non-refundable $20 "enrollment fee," made by National Research, Inc., Muskegon, MI. The BBB found that the company's address was a residence and asked the company to substantiate the offer, with no reply. The web site shut down shortly afterward.

The Better Business Bureau advises consumers to do a little research to help decide which offer is best:

• Find out what the offer includes. Don't assume that the term "PC" includes peripherals. It may only mean the hard drive. Components such as monitor, keyboard, mouse, modem, printer, or speakers could cost extra.

• What are the requirements to participate in the offer? Some offers require you to provide mounds of personal information about yourself. Ask the company about the use of your personal data and how it will be protected. If you're required to sign up with a particular Internet Service Provider, find out how many years of service you must purchase.

• Know what the total cost is and all restrictions or requirements.

• Is the PC new or refurbished? A new computer might have some of the latest technology, but don't assume that it does. On the other hand, a refurbished unit might have features that fit your needs just fine.

• Inquire about service and support. Is there a toll-free number for tech support? Are you limited on how much support you'll get? Is there a warranty on the PC? What are the terms and conditions? Can you call for local service, or take it to a local store, or must you return it to a manufacturer or seller for repairs or maintenance?

• What if you want to change your Internet Service Provider while your agreement is in effect? Will you have to keep paying for the service even if you're not using it? Will you be able to get a refund?

Check the company out with the Better Business Bureau at 713-868-9500 or 1-800-275-3626. Many merchants participate in the BBBOnLine Reliability Program (http://www.bbbonline.org), which provides consumers a means to confirm the company's adherence to ethical selling practices.

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