Online Fraud MdofPc

[Space Cowboy]

Online Fraud MdofPc

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www.mdofpc.com is a online computer parts store that has free online live support. So I asked if they could get me a specific case for my new build and was told "yes they could" "just write in the comments when you place the order excatly what you want" So I did. Here is what I wrote:

"Date Ordered: Thursday 03 February, 2005
No side Window Please or cancel order. I do not want a window.. Your
online support tells me this comes with a 400 watt power supply and
also I want this model: Hi-Fi Black MX-01BD-U ONLY
It has a full grill on the front .. not half a grill like the picture
on your website.
Here is a picture of what I want :
http://www.chieftec.com/products/Workcolor/Matrix.htm
Thanks Alot"

They kept promising me in further emails that I would be getting the case and it would be what I ordered. They even charged my credit card for the purchase ahead of time.

Almost a month later I finally recieved the case and it was the wrong color had no power supply and had a side window.

I emailed them to try and work something out but they became rude and told me my only option was to send the case back at my expense.

So I sent it back and now they tell me they are charging me a restocking fee along with the shipping costs.

I have all the emails that go back to the original order and feel that they should refund me the entire cost involved on my part since it was their mistake.

I have contacted VISA and filed a complaint and also filed a complaint here: http://www.ifccfbi.gov/index.asp
at the Internet Fraud Complaint Center.

Does anybody know where else I can file complaints at?

Buyer Beware !!!

 

[CalvinHobbes]

BBB

 

[Agamar]

Yeah, never order from a place when they have to "find" what you are looking for. More often than not, they will screw up the order.

 

[MrControversial]

They sound like a mom and pops joint that just order the sh*t after you order it. Nail them. You shouldn't take it like that. Companies like this need to be nailed. Use everything at your disposal against them because it's right in principal. Some people will tell you that it isn't worth it, but you have to stand up against them or be screwed by them. I hate to be screwed by companies so I nail them hard whenever I get the chance. I'd get a refund from VISA just to screw them and then report their asses to BBB with the emails as evidence.

 

[Space Cowboy]

Please Help me to stop this sort of behavior. I warned them and now I need your help to deliver. Please post this in any online forums and anywhere on the web. I'm not afraid of them since I speak the truth and have proof in the form of emails sent from them. It will only take a minute and if we band togeather we CAN make a differance.

Thank You
Space Cowboy

 

[VirtualLarry]

Well, those cases normally don't ship with a PSU. Did you actually recieve a PSU with it? You didn't link to the actual web site in question, do they normally stock these cases? I was originally going to suggest that "fraud" might be a bit strongly-worded, since you did get a case, but if they did indeed charge your CC (and not just put an authorization hold on it) before shipping, then that might be a legal issue. Regardless, it sounds like you got poor service, and that's too bad. Why didn't you just order the case + PSU yourself? Directron.com has a pretty good selection of Chieftec cases, and a wide assortment of PSUs to go with them. You can also order replacement panels/bezels - given the restocking fees and shipping fees, it might be easier to just buy another side-panel, minus window, and keep the windowed one for later in case you end up wanting it. Having a mom&pop computer store special-order something just for you, that they don't normally carry, can be a bit of a gamble. Best of luck getting this resolved.

 

[Space Cowboy]

I looked all over the web for that case and could not find it anywhere. www.mdofpc.com has a online chat with their sales deptment and I saw the had chieftec's so I thought I'd give them a shot. I emailed everyplace I could but got no responce on the case in question. They told me that the case comes with a 400 watt power supply when I asked and told me they could get the case I wanted. I asked that if they could not get the specific case and color that they cancel the order. I was led to believe that the case would also be aluminum. I asked them if it would be possible to upgrade the power supply to a 500 watt and add some fan's they replyed yes for a extra $20 .. I got the VISA bill before I got the case. And when the case finally did come it was the wrong color as well as no power supply or fan's. I tried to be nice and work something out but they became very rude and told me my only option was to send the case back. The case they sent can be bought for less than half the price I agreed to at Tiger Direct. I wouldn't have waited a month for this case while the price of the other componets I bought decreased had I known what they were up to. I have all the emails from them and can prove what I'm saying so I am filing complaints where ever I can and spreading the word. I have been online since before Netscape and was in a local BBS before that. I worked as a internet tech for a couple years and have placed many orders on the web and I have never before been treated this way. The bottom line is they sent the wrong color and I was specific like they told me to be when I ordered and that should be enough for a full refund.

Here is a sample:

I have read your conditions and I do not see where it states if You send me the wrong item that I am responcable to pay to ship it back.

Here is what you just said to me:

"Please refer to your order which you originally asked for. Here is what
>> you wrote in your comments for this order.
>>
>> No side Window Please or cancel order. I do not want a window.. Your
>> online support tells me this comes with a 400 watt power supply and also
>> I
>> want this model: Hi-Fi Black MX-01BD-U ONLY
>> It has a full grill on the front .. not half a grill like the picture on
>> your website.
>> Here is a picture of what I want :
>> http://www.chieftec.com/products/Workcolor/Matrix.htm
>> Thanks Alot

If we cannot agree on aluminum or steel at least we can agree that I ordered Hi-Fi Black. Not carbon black. And I also ordered no side window. And I paid extra for a 500 watt power supply and 2 crystal blue fan's. You charged my credit card before you shipped the case and I still have not recieved the power supply or fan's.

How can you say this is my fault?


webmaster@mdofpc.com wrote:
I am sorry but if you would like to return this case then you need to ship
it back to us. Like we said before we will not cover any shipping
charges. This is our policy and we will not make any exceptions to this
policy. Please return the item to us with the RMA that was sent to you if
you would like a refund for this item.



MDOFPC
Account Manager

> Since you just stated your "staff was confused" I request you
> arrange a pick up of this case, at your expense, as soon as
> possible. I have contacted VISA and will be sending them copy's of
> the email's I have recieved from you.
>
> Again .. I do not want any problems.. I just want what I ordered.
>
> Thanks
>
> webmaster@mdofpc.com wrote:
> Please return it for a refund with the RMA number that we provided you.
> We are not responsible for return shipping. Please read our terms and
> conditions about this. We are sorry for this mixup and feel that both you
> and the staff were confused with this order. Please return the case to us
> and then we will give you your refund.
> MDOFPC
> Account Manager

>> I was told by your support that the case would be aluminum
>> "webmaster@mdofpc.com wrote: It is the aluminum case and is exactly what
>> you ordered. We expect a few more days"
>>
>> Also if you look at the model number you will see a single "B" which
>> means
>> "Black" not "CB" which is carbon black. "Hi-Fi Black MX-01BD-U ONLY"
>>
>> Also .. you did not ship the power supply or fan's which I was told
>> would
>> be installed.
>>
>> And I had to wait a month for a case with a window which is not what I
>> ordered.
>>
>> I have copy's of all the email to back up what I'm telling you.
>>
>> I understand that I was not specific in my first note on the origainal
>> order about the case being aluminum but I did ask your online support
>> before ordering if the case was aliminum and was told yes it is. And I
>> remeber asking twice because I wanted aluminun only. Why would I pay you
>> $100.00 for a steel case I can get at Tiger Direct for $50.00. (Same
>> Style
>> and Chieftec)
>>
>> I don't want any problems and I don't want to cause you any problems
>> either.. I just want what I ordered and what was promised to me in the
>> emails from you that I have copys of. If you would like I can send you
>> copy's of all the emails I recieved from you which backs up what I'm
>> telling you now.
>>
>> If you cannot deliver what you promised, and we agreed upon, then I
>> suggest you arrange for a pickup of this case, at your expense, and
>> refund
>> me the entire amount that was prematurely charged to my credit card.
>>
>> Thank You
>> Please refer to your order which you originally asked for. Here is what
>> you wrote in your comments for this order.
>>
>> No side Window Please or cancel order. I do not want a window.. Your
>> online support tells me this comes with a 400 watt power supply and also
>> I
>> want this model: Hi-Fi Black MX-01BD-U ONLY
>> It has a full grill on the front .. not half a grill like the picture on
>> your website.
>> Here is a picture of what I want :
>> http://www.chieftec.com/products/Workcolor/Matrix.htm
>> Thanks Alot
>>
>> This is exactly what we sent to you. Because we are having all of these
>> problems we suggest that you just sent the case back for a refund
>> because
>> we sent you the model that you asked for.
>>
>> Please send the case back to:
>>
>> MDOFPC
>> 460 East 2nd Street
>> Erie, PA 16507

 

[VirtualLarry]

Wow, I went to their site, and it seems like they very heavily advertise/specialize in "custom" computer configurations. I agree with you totally, you should get what you paid for. Sounds like they screwed you. Whether from negligence, or intentionally, I can't say, but you deserve to have it made right. (Btw, There is a nice picture in the bottom-right-hand part of the page, with a logo claiming "100% Satisfaction Guaranteed". Hmm. Usually sites with bold logos like that, are the ones most likely not to live up to their promises.)

I found a few more rather interesting and possibly rather questionable things on their site too.
Start at www.mdofpc.com, click on "Action & Arcade games, and then check out these two games on the list: Duke Nukem Manhattan Project Full Download MSI
Now, interestingly, I have a physical copy of this, a friend who owns an MSI video card got it bundled, and gave it to me. Last time I checked, game software bundled with hardware could not be "ripped" to a file and re-sold as a "full download" product. Does 3DRealms know about this? Have they or MSI been authorized to sell this game as a download-only product?

Here's another one: DXBall Game Download
If you click on that, it says $10, although if you "add to cart", it will show $14.99, and that you will be e-mailed information on how to download it, "in a few hours". If you instead click on "Enlarge" under the picture, you'll get a pop-up secondard window with a screenshot. Enlarge the window so you can see the entire screenshot, and you can see on it, plain as day, "Copyright 1996 by Micheal P. Welch, All Rights Reserved." "You may freely distribute this game so long as it's not sold for profit without the author's written consent." (Emphasis mine.)

So, anyone want to contact the author, to find out if this little computer store has the legal right to sell someone else's freeware games for profit - do they have legal written authorization to do so from the author? Or are they breaking the law? Hmm.

So, if you want to get back at them, might want to check out those avenues. If they don't have permission from the copyright owners, they could be in big, big legal trouble for reselling those games as downloadable products.

Edit: BAhahahahaha. Check out this, it's their FAQ for their downloadable software titles.

1.Are all software titles Full Version and registered?
Yes, all software titles can be used as either an upgrade or full version. They are already registered and activated under MDofPC, some titles can be registered to end users.

2.Is download software the same as a retail boxed version?
Yes and no, most of our software titles are the complete retail version, but some have been cut down to size for downloading purposes. If you want the full version with all the extras please choose the option to receive a backup cd.

3.How will my download software be delivered to me?
All download software is sent via email, you will recieve download links to download the software from our server. Also installation and registration instructions are included.

4.Why are your prices so inexpensive?
We are able to offer low prices because we purchase large quanties in volume and pass the savings on to our customers. Also downloadable software does not require manuals,media or shipping.

The scary thing is, this place is based in the US, not Russia, they could likely get sued pretty damn badly, if what I am inferring from reading the above is true. If you are paying for the "full retail version" of software, then why is it registered in their name? And why will they ship you a "backup" physical CD - for any of the downloadable software that they sell - for $5, regardless.

Ahh, they even have a Guide to burning their ripped CD-images back to CD to use!

13.Can I get a refund for my software I purchased?
Because the software is downloadable the only way we can give you a refund is if you have proof of purchase for the same product from another retail, reseller or distributor.

That one also leaves me kind of scratching my head - huh? If you buy another (presumably legit) software package from a retailer, then they will give you a refund? Strange.

Edit: Even more whacky fun on this site. Go to their home page. Look carefully down the left-hand side nav-bar. Under "Downloads", then notice two buttons labeled "Alcohol 120%". The top one leads to a direct download link to the "trial" version, the bottom one leads to a direct-download link to something labeled "retail". I know for a fact that the Alcohol guys have been pretty strict about cracking down on warez sites carrying the full "retail" download version of their software. I think that they would be interested to find out about this site as well.

In the middle of the page, talking about the "help desk", check this out: "The help desk requires a user to register for a free membership to our members site for $5 per month that gives unlimited access to support and the rest of the site." Free, but for $5/mo? Uhm, yeah, suuure.

Edit: more questionable stuff found
Looks like the print version of that book, "MCSA/MCSE Windows Server 2003 Environment Management, and Maintenance Study Guide (Exam 70-290)" includes the full content of the book in PDF form (mentioned in the review), and they are just freely distributing it on the internet. That's bad, that will make book publishers far less likely to bundle a free (searchable!) PDF copy of printed books with them in the future.

 

[Space Cowboy]

Still trying to get my Hard earned money back from these jokers.

Anymore thought on what else I could try?

Thanks Gang
Cowboy

 

[Ike0069]

Wow, nice work Larry finding all that crap. Any way to find out how long these guys have been in business?
Keep at them SC. What exactly has VISA said?

 

[mechBgon]

The Business Software Alliance might be interested in some of that info

*hears a boom being lowered*


But if you think I'm going to spam every Forum on the Internet with this info for you... sorry.

 

[Space Cowboy]

Ike0069,
Still waiting to hear from VISA.

mechBgon,
I don't consider warning people of online fraud as SPAM. I don't know about you but I'm fed up with this type of behavior.

Post Away !!!

Cowboy

 

[MercenaryForHire]

Originally posted by: mechBgon
The Business Software Alliance might be interested in some of that info

*hears a boom being lowered*


But if you think I'm going to spam every Forum on the Internet with this info for you... sorry.

Agreed on both counts. Sounds like you've got it in order - VISA first, the BBB, the FBI's fraud branch - and as mech suggests, contact the BSA about their "Software Packages"

1-888-NOPIRACY

- M4H

 

[Space Cowboy]

Thanks,
<a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="https://www.bsa.org/"><a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="https://www.bsa.org/"><a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="https://www.bsa.org/">https://www.bsa.org/</a></a></a> --> Filed .. took 5 min.

If, when I was checking them out, Google had returned a thread like this one I'd be a few bucks richer right now and could get mo computer stuff

Post Away !!!

Cowboy

 

[Space Cowboy]

Update !!! Well .. it looks like this guy's been around? I'm not the only one after all. Check this out ..

Comment:I warned everyone about this moron back on 3-28 but nobody listened and now look! This guy has been scamming people for a while, I would suggest going to the authorities before he takes advantage of others!! (May 07 07:01 2003 PDT)
Comment:Info on this guy: MDOFPC Jon Crain 150 BLACKSTONE STREET UNIT 2 WOONSOCKET, RI 02895 US Phone: 401-765-5887 Email: MDOFPC@HOTMAIL.COM (May 08 15:23 2003 PDT)
Response:WHO IS THIS GUY? (May 20 07:59 2003 PDT)
Comment:I warned everyone about this guy! He ripped me off on EBay and now he is here!! I hope someone takes this jerk to court for Fraud and he spends some time in JAIL!! He's a crook!!! (May 22 09:59 2003 PDT) (most recent)

http://ratings.auctions.shopping.yahoo....rating?userID=shmoothjon2003&filter=-1

Now how can I get this to stick when searching Google for MDofPC?

 

[Ike0069]

This guy definitely sounds like a crook. VISA should give you your money back. Keep us updated.

 

[Baked]

Yawn... They'll continue to "scam" as long as people are stupid enough to order from them. Order from a reputable vendor like newegg, directron, etc. and you don't have to go through all this hassle.

 

[Space Cowboy]

Just got off the phone with VISA and they were quite interested in this joker. Seems he's been at it for awhile and defrauding people on EBAY also.

Now come on you Crackers .. How do I get this to come up in Google when looking for MDofPC?

Thanks
Cowboy

 

[Space Cowboy]

Free 2005 Consumer Action Handbook

Your new computer doesn?t include a warranty. The sweater you ordered online never showed up. And the new washer you bought is noisy and leaking water. If you feel like you?ve just been ripped off, take action. Get the Free Consumer Action Handbook from the Federal Citizen Information Center to help you with your consumer problems and complaints. Find consumer contacts at hundreds of companies and consumer organizations. And there?s even a sample complaint letter. To get your copy please fill out the order form below.


http://www.consumeraction.gov/caw_orderhandbook.shtml

 

[kerbe66]

Space Cowboy,

How can I ever thank you. I did a google search for MDofPC because their website was not opening up. Blah, blah blah, anyhow, i saw your link and WOW what an eye opener. I couldn't join here fast enough. I read everyones comments.

Thanx to your link to file a complaint against MDofPC, they'll be the ones needing an MD. Although I'm sure my loss isn't nearly the amount yours is, they are still accountable and I intend on doing everything in my power to stop them.

I've never had anything like this happen so it's nice to read your progress. Good luck to you!

 

[imported_fatal]

Well there were only 2 reviews @ resellerratings & both people got ripped off & posted negative reviews. I NEVER order from ANYONE without checking their rating first.

link
http://www.resellerratings.com/seller9732.html

 

[Space Cowboy]

I agree,
There was no mention of MDofPC when I contacted the reseller website. After I contacted them, they posted it for me and I was the first review. I warned them not to mess with me and now it's time to deliver. Still waiting to hear from VISA but other sources are also investigating. I'm still trying to find out how to get this thread to come up in a google search. I appreciate any assistance I can get in this matter. And hope I can save someone else from the frustration I went thru with these BoZo's.

Cowboy

 

[Space Cowboy]

Got snail mail today from the Penn. State Atorney General. Seems they are investigating them now also. Also posted a review on www.bizrate.com.

Update expected this weekend

 

[Jeff7]

Originally posted by: Space Cowboy
Got snail mail today from the Penn. State Atorney General. Seems they are investigating them now also. Also posted a review on www.bizrate.com.

Update expected this weekend

Would be nice to see them track the guy down and arrest him.
Geez, poor website setup too - the thumbnails are full-sized pics, but they are just resized using height= and width= tags.

Whois info on MDofPC.com, saved now for posterity, should the owner care to change the potentially true Administrative Contact info:

Organization:
MDOFPC
Webmaster Webmaster
10001 Rockefeller Sq
New York, NY 10001
US
Phone: (800) 000-0000
Email: MDOFPC@BLAZEMAIL.COM

Registrar Name....: Register.com
Registrar Whois...: whois.register.com
Registrar Homepage: http://www.register.com

Domain Name: MDOFPC.COM

Created on..............: Fri, Feb 07, 2003
Expires on..............: Tue, Feb 07, 2006
Record last updated on..: Tue, Dec 21, 2004

Administrative Contact:
MDOFPC
John Crain
460 East second st
Erie, PA 16507
US
Phone: 814-455-1944
Email: webmaster@mdofpc.com

Technical Contact:
MDOFPC
Webmaster Webmaster
10001 Rockefeller Sq
New York, NY 10001
US
Phone: (800) 000-0000
Email: MDOFPC@BLAZEMAIL.COM

Zone Contact:
MDOFPC
Webmaster Webmaster
10001 Rockefeller Sq
New York, NY 10001
US
Phone: (800) 000-0000
Email: MDOFPC@BLAZEMAIL.COM

Domain servers in listed order:
NS.MDOFPC.COM 66.49.209.172
NS.MDOFPC.COM 66.49.209.173

 

[Space Cowboy]

Bump..

The heat is on..

It appears I'm striking a nerve.

Why don't you just refund me my money like you should have done in the first place?

Thanks Gang.
I hope I've saved you some of your hard earned cash.

www.provantage.com (rocks) (awesome customer support)