Posted
by Brad Johnson
on Fri Apr 2, 2010
Last updated
Apr 2, 2010
Eager buyers should be wary if they're told they can get a free iPad by becoming a "tester." Apple announced the iPad in January and U.S. customers were able to pre-order in March for the April release. Because Apple bumped the delivery date for later orders, rumors started circulating that the company did not have enough iPads to meet pre-order demand.
"It was inevitable that scammers would take advantage of the excitement over the iPad to rip people off, just like they did with the iPod and the iPhone," said Michelle L. Corey, president and CEO of the BBB in St. Louis. "Bogus offers most commonly claim you can become a tester or researcher and get an iPad for free. This deal sounds - and definitely is - too good to be true."
BBB officials say some might get an e-mail that directs you to the website Testitandkeepit.com, which claims to be seeking people to test the iPad for a couple of months. As compensation, testers get to keep the iPad. The biggest red flag with this offer is that you have to provide your e-mail address and password to "tell your friends," who could also then become victims. BBB officials are also warning you to lookout for similar offers on Facebook.
If you're planning to buy an iPad, the BBB recommends shopping through an authorized retailer. They urge you to never wire money if you're planning on buying it online.
