Complaint Review: Starlight Camera

Did an internet search on the Canon PowerShot A95 digital camera, finding the lowest price ($269.99 + $16.20 shipping) at Starlight Camera. Found no real rip-off news on them (other than to maybe beware), and was about to place an order on line, but then decided to personally verify availability of the item.

Called Starlight at 1-866-722-7209 and spoke with a representative there who ASSURED me the A95 was in stock. He also assured me that the A95, along with "all the items" they sell were "brand new." At that point I told him fine, I'd order it on line, and he said it would be easier to take the order over the phone. He proceeded to do that, at one point attempting to charge me "$20" for ground shipping, whereupon I pointed out that their web site indicated ground shipping was only $16.20. Of course, he then attempted to sell the requisite "extras" (memory cards, etc.) which I declined.

After getting all my info, he then stated he would "check availability" (despite the fact that he assured me the item was in stock when I initially called). He then noted that their warehouse was "out of stock" on the Canon A95, and asked me to hold while he called "the other warehouse."

And -- you guessed it! -- this item was suddenly "NOT in stock." He then attempted to sell me another Canon camera (the A70), which I declined, and then said he'd cancel the order I just made and "tear it up." Don't know if this is a scam per se to get consumer info, to sell cameras or other items with exorbitant "extras" tagged on, or a bait-and-switch type of thing where they try to steer you to another, less desirable item. You make the call. But don't call Starlight Camera, because it looks like what they advertise and what you want is not really for sale, at least at the prices they advertise! It would be nice if they could explain their behavior and policies, and how "available items" suddenly aren't.

Joseph
Mount Prospect, Illinois
U.S.A.