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Feedback: SmartBuy Shuts Down With Pending State Investigation

By Kris Rusho

Story Published: Apr 14, 2010 at 7:58 PM EDT

Story Updated: Apr 14, 2010 at 8:00 PM EDT

Since 2005, SmartBuy was part of the Salmon Run Mall as a kiosk, but recently the company opened a store at the former location of Steve and Barry's.

However, last week it abruptly shut its doors after learning that the New York State Attorney General's Office was going to investigate its business practices.

SmartBuy was allegedly targeting soldiers, offering them financing plans for electronics that the Attorney General Andrew Cuomo says would end up costing soldiers thousands for merchandise.

Cuomo said, quote, "The specific intent of (SmartBuy) was to target soldiers on the move, fleecing them for thousands of dollars and leaving them with little recourse...we have no tolerance for companies or individuals who take advantage of those serving in our military."

The state's investigation has determined that all SmartBuy locations across the country are set up near large military bases and communities.

The Attorney General's Office and the Better Business Bureau are asking anyone who did business at SmartBuy to contact them and will expedite any military claims.

And while SmartBuy is still in business, the Attorney General's Office plans to file a lawsuit soon.

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Wednesday, May 22, 2013
, Watertown, NY

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