How can I tell if I have purchased a used computer from a store?

Question

I purchased a computer from a large store " chain". It was defective and since I purchased the super deluxe warranty .... I was able to have it exchanged. I've had nothing but trouble with this store. Now I am finding another author's name on a document. Looking further I found earlier dates on the programs as listed "last used date", earlier than the date I purchased the computer. How can I be sure if this computer has been used and is this information going to hold up in any 'type" of conversation...? Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

Depends on the Product.

If the systems are items used as "Demo" machines, then people may have typed in their names to test the machines. In that respect they are not technically used, but would qualify for a "Scratch and dent" type sale. The date of the files is not always a give-away especially if the system was loaded from a RIS style machine. The key is, do they give you the OEM discs unopened and all the apps on genuine unopened discs. If they do then it is likely not a used item, just "Shop soiled".... however, if the items have opened OEM discs, then I would be suspicious.

Answer 2

System files may have dates earlier than the purchase date. If there are regular documents (in "My Documents") that are earlier, I would have thought you would have seen them when you saved your 1st document.



As far as a different author, at my work, we have documents with lots of other names... if this is your personal 'box', the perhaps (just throwing out ideas here) you downloaded a template or downloaded a document from the net...



If it's running good, then go through my documents and delete what you don't want. It would be very tough to 'prove' - in spite of your evidence (just think, they would say, "you put those documents there")



good luck...



stay away from THAT store

Answer 3

You could try checking to see if the system was registered to a different person by right clicking the my computer icon and select properties and left click if it has another persons name then you will know whats up.

Answer 4

look for finger prints.