Electronics Website Switches It Up

BBB Warns of Cameragiantsinc.com Bait and Switch.

Cameragiantsinc.com has garnered consumer complaints due to false advertising, unauthorized charges, and customer service and delivery issues.

(LAKE OSWEGO, Ore.) - A picture is worth a thousand words; but is it worth the hassle consumers endure after purchasing from online electronics store Cameragiantsinc.com?

Cameragiantsinc.com has garnered consumer complaints due to false advertising, unauthorized charges, and customer service and delivery issues. While they have claimed to be Bellevue, Wash., based; research indicates they are located in Brooklyn, New York.

The business is linked to WiseTronics.com, also known as 86th Street Photo and Video. Cameragiantsinc.com has received 38 complaints since February 2009; while BBB of New York reports 305 complaints for WiseTronics.com or 86photovideo.com in the past 36 months. These companies have “F” and “Unsatisfactory” ratings with BBB.

Using illegal ‘Bait and Switch’ tactics, cameragiantsinc.com attempts to force additional, unwanted purchases on buyers. Customers believe they are purchasing standard, manufacturer-approved cameras and stock accessories from top names like Canon, Fujifilm and Nikon.

Then, after receiving a ‘confirmation’ email, following directions and phoning a representative, are told to open their wallets, again. Over the phone, buyers report, the company reveals the battery, USB cord or other item must be upgraded; and attempts to sell stock items at highly inflated prices.

Those who decline are informed their product is on back-order, or the order is cancelled completely. A cancellation request can incur a hefty penalty, sometimes up to $200.

Your Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington asks consumers to be leery when purchasing digital cameras, GPS devices and other electronics online and recommends the following steps:

Compare and Save: While comparing prices, remember to compare Web sites and information. Cameragiantsinc.com and 86photovideo.com are nearly identical and reference the same price-comparison sites. All three businesses use the same guarantees and guidelines.

The Fine Print Says A Lot: Search for small print and disclaimers regarding cancellations, returns and product details. Search these specific sites and find two admit to a minimum 20 percent restocking fee for returns. Although they claim close partnerships with manufacturers, they concede items may be “gray market;” meaning the distribution of these goods is unauthorized, unintended or unofficial by the manufacturer.

Claims to Greatness: Be mindful of advertised awards, certifications, and accolades. BBB has yet to verify Cameragiantsinc.com and 86photovideo.com awards and “5-Star Certified Merchant” certificates. It is a good idea to use independent pricing sites and search consumer reviews on your own. A company can easily fabricate testimonials.

Feeling Secure Online: When shopping online, look for the BBBOnLine Trustmark that is hyperlinked back to their BBB page for verification. With this seal comes a promise from the business to operate in an ethical manner and resolve complaints using BBB’s dispute resolution.

BBB Reliability Reports: At bbb.org learn if a business is bonded and licensed, how long they have been in business and if they have had any complaints in the last 36 months.

Unbelievably Low: Prices from Cameragiantsinc.com are far below competitor—maybe too far? Ask yourself how and why they can make such drastic cost cuts to merchandise. Trust your gut, and remember the mantra: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Source: Your Better Business Bureau, a not-for-profit organization funded by Better Business Bureau Accredited Businesses. The BBB’s mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. For more information about the services and products provided by your BBB, call 206-431-2222 or 253-830-2924 in Washington, 503-212-3022 in Oregon, 907-562-0704 in Alaska, or visit our Web site at