If you are considering buying a 'Cheap' GPS on ebay then watch out.
I originally bought a 60cs from a reputable online shop with my credit card. No problem. I had an accident with the unit, claimed off my insurance and 'bought' another one in Sept 2004, this time on ebay, it was the cheapest I could find at the time (if you call £300 cheap).
After winning the auction I contacted the seller and arranged payment details. I was in a bit of a hurry, he didn't take credit cards, so I stupidly paid by electronic banking as a direct credit to his account. A week went by and received nothing, phoned the seller who advised me that he had been burgled and could no longer supply the unit. He promised to send me the money back.
I then went and bought another unit fully expecting to get my refund. (stupid I hear you all cry).
The weeks and months went by, not returning my emails and calls. logging complaints with ebay etc. The bank are no help. There is absolutely no protection at all. I had given up hope.
Out of the blue last week I received an email from the CID asking me to make a statement and provide information on the GPS unit I had not received. Allegedly the chap on ebay was selling a batch of units which were stolen, and that my GPS was at the police station being held as evidence. Garmin have advised that they are not recovering the units, and at once the case is complete there is a chance I can claim the GPS.
Lessons to learn out of this.
Well there is probably a hell of a lot of stuff being sold on ebay which is stolen.
Also when you paying for goods never never use direct money transfer.
I originally bought a 60cs from a reputable online shop with my credit card. No problem. I had an accident with the unit, claimed off my insurance and 'bought' another one in Sept 2004, this time on ebay, it was the cheapest I could find at the time (if you call £300 cheap).
After winning the auction I contacted the seller and arranged payment details. I was in a bit of a hurry, he didn't take credit cards, so I stupidly paid by electronic banking as a direct credit to his account. A week went by and received nothing, phoned the seller who advised me that he had been burgled and could no longer supply the unit. He promised to send me the money back.
I then went and bought another unit fully expecting to get my refund. (stupid I hear you all cry).
The weeks and months went by, not returning my emails and calls. logging complaints with ebay etc. The bank are no help. There is absolutely no protection at all. I had given up hope.
Out of the blue last week I received an email from the CID asking me to make a statement and provide information on the GPS unit I had not received. Allegedly the chap on ebay was selling a batch of units which were stolen, and that my GPS was at the police station being held as evidence. Garmin have advised that they are not recovering the units, and at once the case is complete there is a chance I can claim the GPS.
Lessons to learn out of this.
Well there is probably a hell of a lot of stuff being sold on ebay which is stolen.
Also when you paying for goods never never use direct money transfer.
