RIP-OFF ALERT: Clark has a new warning about the online sale of cameras and other electronics. The attorney general of the state of Texas has brought charges against 2 online retailers accused of "unlawful bait-and-switch schemes."

Consumers who would make a purchase would receive refurbished, broken or used gear that was advertised as new! Worse still, once word got around about the sites to avoid, the people behind the sites would simply set up other websites with different names so they could continue ripping people off.

Clark has some advice for those who are going to buy on the Internet. First, stick only to sellers that have multiple positive ratings -- not just one or two glowing postings from family and friends. You can use Epinions.com to vet out potential vendors or Google their name plus the words "rip-off" or "scam" to see what kind of gripes are out there in cyberspace.

Many times Clark is willing to pay more to buy from a reputable seller.

Second, pay only with a credit card -- not a debit card or check. With a credit card, you have the right to dispute the charge if your merchandise never shows up or is not what was advertised.

Remember, a deal is not always a deal, particularly if you're dealing with hoodlums.