April 10, 2008

DTV2009: Beware Of Converter Box Coupon Scammers

We're not surprised with the staggering increase in online crime lately that scammers are targeting those using the CTIA's $40 converter box coupons, at times redeeming them in exchange for delivery of a non-existent converter box. One company in question, Memsen, via its website convertmy.tv has been offering the CTIA-approved Maxmedia MMDTVB03 for awhile now exciting consumers who believed it was the most feature-rich of the approved set-top boxes. Unfortunately, after Memsen took pre-orders, taking customer credit card info in the process, they continually pushed back the date of the converter boxes release. First April, them May, then not at all. Interestingly, backordering is a violation of the converter box coupon program rules. Memsen now states that the MMDTVB03 will be replaced by the Maxmedia MMDTVB02, claiming that the new box will result in a better picture. However, they're also stating this box won't be released until June and its not even on the CTIA's approved list. Gumshoe detectives over at the AVSForum have been working on figuring this one out, but it's been tough-neither Memsen or MaxMedia feature physical addresses on their respective websites and phone calls to a Memsen number have revealed that it's not in service. The lesson here is to be aware. Don't blindly use your converter box coupon, do a little research on your seller first.