I ordered a laptop from an online store that only allows bank transfers for payment. Is this a SCAM?

Question

Yesterday, I was shopping online for a 17" Macbook Pro laptop, and I happen to find what I need for $1,900 (the Apple store sells the same thing for $2,700). This looks like a total bargain, but there's always something telling me that there could be a catch to this.

So here's the catch.

I started ordering the laptop, but when I got to the payment part, their only paying options were a bank transfer or Western Union.

There just seems to be something fishy about an online store that doesn't allow credit cards, especially when anyone can use Paypal. Why bank transfers?

I went ahead and ordered it, choosing Western Union, but I haven't sent them any of my payment info cuz I'm very skeptical. They sent me payment instructions in my email, and I'm supposed to go to a Western Union office, and send $ to their address.

This is the website that I ordered it from: www.onlineelectrogifts.com

I don't want to buy this until I can get some testimonies from their buyers. Is this a scam?

Thanx everyone. I canceled the order, and ordered one from a different company that allows credit card payments. I spent $2200 on it, so even though it's not $1900, it's still a pretty good deal.

Answer 1

That seems fishy. On the main screen they have a paypal and credit card logos. I definitely would not pay them via bank account transfer or western union. Any reputable online company will accept paypal or a credit card. If I were you I would check out osCommerce. This site claims to be powered by them, so I would contact them to see if this is, in fact, a real company. Anybody can set up a link ot osCommerce on their website to make it seem as if they are a reputable company.
I mean, for god sakes, they dont even have a privacy policy. Completely avoid purchase, if the address that was given to you is an overseas address.

Answer 2

Don't do it! Listen to your instincts.

If you go to the Western Union site, they'll advise you not to wire money to anyone you don't personally know, because once you've wired the money and it's picked up, it's gone for good. Same with a bank transfer.

The only safe way to buy goods online is using a reputable pay service, like PayPal, or using a credit card. Both will be able to cover you for most of the charges if you get stiffed. A credit card would be the better choice. Less hassle then Paypal.

Answer 3

with over 80 million people in america, why do you need something from china? It amazes me how people will risk 500 bucks to save 30! certainly someone has what you need in the good ole usa for slightly more....with less risk and faster shipping times.... In short, HELL NO I would not do this. NOt only are you risking NOT getting your goods, now you have given them YOUR BANKING INFORMATION so that they can dip into your account whenever they want to do so. Are you nuts!? Avoid this Do not do this Yes it is a scam RUN NO more contact AT ALL with the holder of the phantom goods....... you will thank me for this when you come back in a few weeks and find out someone else fell for the scam that you were about to fall for. SKIP the goodies (probably lead paint on them anyway)

Answer 4

Hate to say it, but it's a definite scam, If they don't accept credit or debit cards (the preferred method for most people) than somethings not right. I'm willing to bet once you send the money, you will never see it or the computer ever again.

Answer 5

It does seem odd that there is not a phone number or address to found on the site

Answer 6

be very careful !! contact your better business bureau. if that company is legit,the b b b will be able to let you know. it does seem like they are,trying to scam you !!! any reputable company excepts credit cards.DON'T send them anything !!

Answer 7

SCAMARINO!!!!

Check with the FTC and other government agencies.

With W/U, the moneys gone..

Answer 8

doesn't sound right