Computer Support Blog

Like so many industries, the consumer electronics sector has a vibrant secondary market.  Thanks in no small part to Alpha Consumers frequently upgrading and the consumer culture that fosters the mindset that this year’s new products will be obsolete or uncool by next year, the used electronics market has grown in recent years.  Buyers who are more interested in substance than style or who are simply thriftier than their peers can enjoy significant benefits from buying their electronics in gently used condition.  One of the biggest sectors in the electronics secondary market is in cell phones and smartphones.

However, just like when you are considering purchasing a used car, there are some good rules to live by when purchasing a used cell phone or used smartphone.  Both as a buyer and a seller, you should consider the following:

1. Know your seller.  Cell phones and, especially, smartphones are more analogous to computers than telephones.  As a result, you ought to take care when buying your used cell phone or smartphone.  As a seller, it is exceptionally important to remove all personal data.  In the case of cellular telephones, this may be made easier by removing the SIM card.  If you want to take your plan, phone number and other personal information with you, removing the SIM card to place in your new cell phone can reduce your hassles.

With smartphones, you need to perform a more detailed memory wipe.  Because smartphones often have access to the Internet, you must be sure to eliminate your browsing history, all stored passwords and, as a courtesy, all apps that might reduce the usable storage space on the smartphone.  As a buyer, this becomes exceptionally important when considering a used smartphone.  Knowing your seller can make all of the difference between getting a smartphone that has potentially revealing items on it versus buying merchandise that might have incriminating information on it or be “hot.”  Knowing your seller also increases the chances of getting your money back if a problem develops immediately after the sale.

2. Be clear on the terms. Both parties need to be clear on what they are selling and what they are buying.  If you pull the SIM card to take your plan with you, you need to tell your potential buyer that.  If you are unsure what functions the smartphone you are buying has, you need to ask the seller before the sale is complete.  Has the seller had any problems with the phone? If the phone fails, how long do you have to return it? Will the sale include a charger and/or extra batteries?  These are all important points to address.

3. Have realistic expectations.   If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.  Sellers, no matter how nice your smartphone is, if you’ve used it, it is not worth nearly as much as a new, fresh, mint, unused smartphone.  Go into the marketplace with an understanding of what the going rates are, as opposed to being fixated on what you initially spent on the phone.

About RESCUECOM:

RESCUECOM provides computer repair and computer support, 24/7: Meeting every tech support need including data recovery, virus removal, networking, wireless services, and computer support for all brands of hardware and software. For computer support or information on products, services, or computer repair, visit https://www.rescuecom.com or call 1-800-RESCUE-PC.

For More Information, Contact:

David Milman, CEO

315-882-1100

david@rescuecom.com

Filed under: david milman, news, recession, rescuecom, RIM, Samsung, smartphone, Sony, tips, Verizon, Windows Phone 7