The Better Business Bureau of Eastern North Carolina (www.bbb.org) warns consumers to use caution when selecting service companies that have failed to properly register with government agencies, or have a history of reports regarding unethical business practices. Several complaints have been filed against two Wake County computer service companies highlighted in the June 2009 BBB Consumer Alerts.

“Unethical service providers often take advantage of consumer’s lack of knowledge to overcharge or use inferior products for repairs,” says Beverly Baskin, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Eastern North Carolina. “Failing to properly register is the first indicator a business is unethical. If consumers are uncertain whether a company is registered or has a background of questionable business practices, inquires should be made to the BBB before any actions are taken.”

Companies are required to enroll with the register of deeds in their county, as stated by the NC General Statues, before engaging in any business transaction. Neither Caveman Computers nor Sunshine Computers have done so.

Caveman Computers of Apex offers computer repair services, but neither has registered with the North Carolina Secretary of State, Corporate Division nor the Wake County Register of Deeds office. The company has received seven complaints in the recent months, and has a “C” rating by BBB.

Sunshine Computers of Fuquay-Varina offers computer consulting, computer repair and Web design services. Twenty complaints have been filed against the company in the last three years, mostly in relation to repair problems. Once the allegedly fixed computers are returned, the consumers find that parts are missing or original parts have been traded for ones of lesser value. The current BBB rating for the company is “D-.”

Consumers are encouraged to contact the BBB if they have similar experiences with either of these companies or others. Any uncertainties should be brought forth to ensure that the company is reliable and the information provided is valid.

About BBB of Eastern North Carolina:
The Better Business Bureau of Eastern North Carolina is a 501 (c)(6) not-for-profit corporation serving 33 counties in eastern North Carolina. The organization is funded primarily by BBB Accredited Business fees from more than 3,200 local business and professional firms. The BBB promotes integrity, consumer confidence and business ethics through business self-regulation in the local marketplace. Services provided by the BBB include reports on companies and charitable organizations, general monitoring of advertising in the marketplace, dispute resolution services, and consumer/business education programs. All services are provided at no cost to the public, with the occasional exception of mediation and arbitration. Visit www.bbb.org.