Indiegogo

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2014/08/27) */
Indiegogo provides an open crowdfunding platform permitting funds to be raised for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use posted at www.indiegogo.com. Campaigns are run by their individual campaign owner's and not by...

Indiegogo. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns, nor are are perks offered by Indiegogo. Instead, all perks are offers made by Campaign Owners, and we recommend to any contributor who has questions about a campaign's offerings that make inquires of the campaign owner.
In order to maintain the openness of our platform while protecting the security of our users, Indiegogo uses a proprietary fraud detection algorithm to quickly catch violations or unwanted behavior on our platform. We also rely on our team of Trust and Safety experts to review and verify activity on our platform and take the appropriate action. Finally, we have a fantastic community of users who let us know about suspicious or inappropriate behavior which helps us keep our platform secure.
We would like to address this customer's concerns in turn:
1. It is impossible to determine the exact pricing a project creator will
receive on components from their manufacturer. Every project creator
has a different relationship with their supplier and may receive their own
deals. Furthermore, it is not an uncommon practice for project creators
to intentionally offer perks at a price lower than cost. Creators know that
contributors are taking a risk supporting their idea and want to give them
a discount. They may have additional funding to offset the losses, use other
perks to cover the loss, etc.
2. Contributions made through Indiegogo are transactions that take place between the campaign owner, contributor, and payment processor, and are non-refundable by Indiegogo, as stated in our Terms of Use posted at www.indiegogo.com/about/terms. Therefore, we recommend the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if they are interested in receiving a refund. However, from communications with Ritot, they have offered refunds for all contributors who are no longer happy with the updates they have provided.
3. The Ritot team originally used aliases due to the current unrest in the
Ukraine. After prompting from the community and Indiegogo, they released
their real names and shared their story openly and also offered refunds for
contributors who felt they no longer wanted to support the campaign.
4. Indiegogo offers a space for innovation and discovery. We do not make
claims as to whether a project is possible or impossible. Instead we provide
a platform where people who are passionate [redacted] their ideas can connect
with funders who believe in their vision. It's a core part of our ethos as a business and we vehemently stand by this belief. Our customers, deserve the opportunity to fund ideas they believe in. The crowd is entitled to decide, eyes wide open, what concepts they want to have a part in trying to advance. The Ritot team has a new idea that over 6,000 people have thought worthy to support.
As for the desired solution:
1. Indiegogo does remove campaigns when we believe that they are
intentionally trying to defraud our community or violate our terms of use.
We do not believe this to be the case with the Ritot campaign at this time. However, if we do come to that conclusion, we will absolutely remove the campaign
2. This is a fantastic idea. Indiegogo is looking into ways in which we can
improve our users experience and we have passed [redacted] feedback onto our
team.
We have been in touch with this customer and have outlined to them Indiegogo's position of an open platform.
Initial Consumer Rebuttal /* (3000, 7, 2014/09/01) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
I understand the nature of Indiegogo campaigns, and that there is inherent risk involved. However, if there is sufficient evidence for Indiegogo's technical experts to determine that a project is not feasible, then Indiegogo's willful participation and profit from such a project is an act of fraud.
1. Pricing and funds

The Ritot team has admitted that they have no other sources of funding. See the comments section (I can provide a full copy up till a couple weeks ago, if desired). That was the reason given for having no prototype/proof of concept. They claimed they had no funds to start development until after the campaign ended. Later they relented and at least bought a development kit to appease backers.
As for pricing, you are correct that you have no way of knowing exactly how much they will get an individual chip for, as they would likely work out a separate contract with the manufacturer. That doesn't mean that your technical experts can't get a reasonable estimate. Bulk pricing at the levels the Ritot team needs are actually available - these are what I used for my estimates.
If the pricing estimates were close - wihtin 10% or 20% for example, than I could give them the benefit of a doubt. Any reasonable estimate, however, shows that the end product will be at least twice the cost Ritot charged per watch. Likely much more.
2-3. Lies and refunds
The Ritot team lied about a lot more than identity (such as prototypes). There is plenty of proof of these lies. A small percentage of those who funded the first $100,000 or so knew about this and requested and received refunds. No effort, however, was made to reach out to those who funded the campaign under false pretenses. Indiegogo is aware of who these people are, and how much money they donated, and that they did so only after being lied to. Indiegogo is also receiving a significant amount of money from these people. This means that even if the Ritot team can be successful, Indiegogo has already been complicit in and profited from investment scamming.
4. I understand the nature of crowdfunding, and despite the inherent flaws I think it is a wonderful thing. I don't think that Indiegogo can or should attempt to classify projects as feasible or not on their own. However, I do believe that Indiegogo has a moral and legal responsibility to discontinue scams or impossible projects when it is made aware of the problem campaign and presented with sufficient proof.
My biggest complaint is still that thousands of people contributed a significant amount of money ($100,000 - $200,000 I believe) based on the original Ritot campaign page, which was full of deliberate (and now known and proven) lies. I see this as unlawful and unmoral investment scamming at best, even if the Ritot team can do what they claim. More likely they cannot (and don't intend to), in which case this is outright fraud.
Final Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2014/09/16) */
We understand that this customer continues to be concerned about a campaign on our platform.
Indiegogo is an global crowdfunding platform which empowers people to raise funds for the things that matter to them. One of Indiegogo's core beliefs is that we need to be open. This means that we strive to be a platform without judgement or gatekeepers to encourage an entrepreneurial spirit and inspire innovation.
Again, Indiegogo does not make claims as to whether a project is possible or impossible. Indiegogo encourages all potential contributors to proceed with their own personal vetting process before deciding to contribute to any campaign. As Indiegogo is an open platform any campaign that abides by our Terms of Use can create and launch a campaign. A campaign's presence on our platform does not mean that Indiegogo is promising the campaign will fulfill, or that the contributors will be satisfied with the results. You can see a list for evaluating a campaign, here: http://support.indiegogo.com/hc/en-us/articles/XXXXXX-How-to-Evaluate-a-Campaign...⇄ /> Finally, it's important to note that not everyone is comfortable supporting projects that are still in the design stage, where a fully-fledged product is not yet built. In the design and prototype stages, a product creator continues to work through issues and things may change. We recommend that potential contributors make inquires to the campaign owner regarding any questions they may have about the project. That said, we understand that the owners of the Ritot campaign have offered refunds for contributors who no longer wish to support the campaign.

We understand this customer has additional concerns on this matter, as they have not received a refund from the owner of this campaign.
We can confirm that this order had been listed as "On Hold" due to a pending chargeback placed on this transaction by the Backer. However, the dispute has since been resolved by the credit card institutions and reinstated on the campagin. Again, the funds had previously been sent to the Campaigner and as has been previously outlined, Indiegogo is not able to issue this customer a refund for their contribution. Our Terms of Use outline:
"Refunds
Contributors may request a refund from Indiegogo before the end of a Campaign here. For Campaigns that have entered the InDemand program, Contributors may request a refund from Indiegogo within 10 days of the contribution, here. Contributions are eligible for a refund by Indiegogo unless (a) the contribution funds have already been transferred to the Campaign Owner, (b) the Perk associated with the contribution has been fulfilled, or (c) Indiegogo determines that there has been an abuse of these Terms of Use. Indiegogo reserves the right to terminate User Accounts and remove Campaigns for any abuse of this refund policy. For Campaigns that have ended, or in situations where the contribution funds have been transferred to the Campaign Owner, Contributors should contact the Campaign Owner directly regarding refunds."
 
Campaign owners are the party solely responsible for their campaigns, including fulfilling any perks they offered therein. As such, if this customer has questions about the campaign, when they can expect to receive their perks, or would like to receive a refund from this campaign owner, this customer will need to make inquires of the campaign owner, directly. We are unable to mediate this dispute, but have previously provided this customer with the campaign owner's contact information in an effort to facilitate communication.
 
We wish them the best of luck in arriving at a resolution to their dispute, with the campaign owner.

Indiegogo is a platform which allows people around the world to try to raise funds for their projects, ideas, or causes. In turn, backers have the opportunity to find campaigns they are interested in, and may choose to contribute to help bring these ideas to life. 
For this backer's...

transaction, our records show that their contribution has already been disbursed to the owner of the campaign. This means that Indiegogo can no longer issue a refund and any refunds will need to be worked out between the backer and the campaign owner, directly. For more information on our refund policy, please see this Help Center article ([redacted]-), as well as our Terms of Use ([redacted])
While Indiegogo is not able to issue a refund in this case, we'd encourage this backer to work with the owner of the campaign to inquire about a refund. Instructions for contacting the owner of the campaign can be found here: [redacted]

Complaint: [redacted]I am rejecting this response because:
The trust and safety team has not been in contact with me. They deleted my campaign and blocked my access to the site with no explanation after their partner as listed on their PARTNER page deliberately sabotaged my campaign. Now copy campaign are running on the site and when I report my issue my support tickets (had to create another indie gogo account to post support tickets as emails are ignored) are closed with either little or no response.
Sincerely,[redacted]

Indiegogo provides an open crowdfunding platform permitting funds to be raised for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms).
Campaigns are run by their individual campaign owner’s and not by Indiegogo. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns, nor...

does Indiegogo offer perks. Instead, all perks are offers made by Campaign Owners, and we recommend to any contributor who has questions about a campaign’s offerings that make inquires of the campaign owner. People can raise money for various things, and be at various stages of their project. Contributors are backing an idea, not purchasing a pre-made project. Like anyone contributing to an early-stage project, you accept the risk that the project might not come to fruition.
Regarding this customer's refund request, our records show that this contributor’s contribution has already been sent to the campaigner, which means that a refund can no longer be issued by Indiegogo. Learn more about our refund policy [redacted], and in our Terms of Use, [redacted].
 
Therefore, we recommend the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if they are interested in receiving a refund. Although we are unable to refund the contributor’s contribution, we have been in touch with this contributor and have shared steps for them to get in touch with the campaign owner, directly.
 
We wish them the best of luck in pursuing a refund from the campaign owner.

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2015/09/22) */
Indiegogo provides an open crowdfunding platform permitting funds to be raised for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms). Campaigns are run by their individual campaign owner's and not by...

Indiegogo. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns, nor does Indiegogo offer perks. Instead, all perks are offers made by Campaign Owners, and we recommend to any contributor who has questions about a campaign's offerings that make inquires of the campaign owner.
People can raise money for various things, and be at various stages of their project. Contributors are backing an idea, not purchasing a pre-made project. Like anyone contributing to an early-stage project, you accept the risk that the project might not come to fruition. Again, Indiegogo does not make claims or verify that a "campaign owner will deliver perks or that contributions will be used as described on the campaign." The decision to contribute to any campaign is in the sole determination of the contributor and their evaluation of the campaign, not Indiegogo. We recommend that each contributor goes through their own vetting process before they decide to contribute. We have compiled a list of how to evaluate a campaign, as a good starting point: https://support.indiegogo.com/hc/en-us/articles/XXXXXX-How-to-Evaluate-a-Campaig...⇄ /> Our records show that the funds contributed by this customer were disbursed to the campaign owner long ago. As such, we are unable to issue a refund to this contributor. However, we do suggest that the contributor feel free to reach out directly to the campaign owner to resolve any perk questions or request a refund.
We have been in contact with this contributor to explain our Terms of Use. We have also shared the campaign owner's contact information with this contributor in an effort to facilitate communication between these two parties.
Initial Consumer Rebuttal /* (3000, 7, 2015/09/27) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
As I stated before this business is based on deceptive practices and that has to stop.
Them referring me to deal directly with the so called inventer does not morally release them from being a participant in fraud. I repeat ...did they check the integrity of the so called company to verify their product or they just happily take their percentage and leave the consumer in the dust.
Why are they promoting candle heater as new invention and raising money even though they know it is nothing new and for people who dont know end up paying around $ 60 for this fraud. Are they going to sponsor that some one invented the wheel next?????
I want them to take active part to get me my money back or I will go to channel 7 news where my wife works and expose them to the public and even start a class action lawsuit against them.
If I do not get my money back I will be on a crusade against this company even if I have to throw more money to achieve my goal,
Final Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2015/10/13) */
As previously outlined, Indiegogo provides an open crowdfunding platform permitting funds to be raised for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms). Campaigns are run by their individual campaign owner's and not by Indiegogo. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns, nor are does Indiegogo offer perks. Instead, all perks are offers made by Campaign Owners, and we recommend to any contributor who has questions about a campaign's offerings that make inquires of the campaign owner.
Indiegogo's Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms) outline:
"Indiegogo is a Venue
Indiegogo is an online crowdfunding venue for people and entities seeking to raise funds for their own Campaigns and to contribute to the Campaigns of others. Campaign Owners can offer gifts or rewards in the form of tangible items or intangible services (collectively, "Perks") to Contributors. Perks are not offered for sale. Indiegogo makes no representations about the quality, safety, morality or legality of any Campaign, Perk or Contribution or the truth or accuracy of User Content (as defined below) posted on the Services. Indiegogo does not represent that Campaign Owners will deliver Perks or that Contributions will be used as described in the Campaign. Users use the Services at their own risk."
Indiegogo offers a space for innovation and discovery. We do not make claims as to whether a project is possible or impossible or whether a campaign can create their products. Instead we provide a platform where people who are passionate [redacted] their ideas can connect with funders who believe in their vision. It's a core part of our ethos as a business and we vehemently stand by this belief. Our customers deserve the opportunity to fund ideas they believe in. The crowd is entitled to decide, eyes wide open, what concepts they want to have a part in trying to advance.
Final Consumer Response /* (4200, 11, 2015/10/20) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
This company keeps parroting the same phrase that the issue is between me and the so called inventor...
This is the THIRD time I am asking why are they trying to fool public by sponsoring the candle heater as new invention where as it has been around for decades.
I need an answer to that because they should look at the integrity of the inventor plus research to see if indeed it is an invention, but this greedy company is only interested in their part of commission even if it comes from blood money. If I do not get my money as the so called inventor never replies I will be forced to go to the media

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2016/01/25) */
Indiegogo provides an open crowdfunding platform permitting funds to be raised for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms). Campaigns are run by their individual campaign owner's and not by...

Indiegogo. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns, nor does Indiegogo offer perks. Instead, all perks are offers made by Campaign Owners, and we recommend to any contributor who has questions about a campaign's offerings that make inquires of the campaign owner.
People can raise money for various things, and be at various stages of their project. Contributors are backing an idea, not purchasing a pre-made project. Like anyone contributing to an early-stage project, you accept the risk that the project might not come to fruition. Again, Indiegogo does not make claims or verify that a "campaign owner will deliver perks or that contributions will be used as described on the campaign." The decision to contribute to any campaign is in the sole determination of the contributor and their evaluation of the campaign, not Indiegogo. We recommend that each contributor go through their own vetting process before they decide to contribute. We have compiled a list of how to evaluate a campaign, as a good starting point: https://support.indiegogo.com/hc/en-us/articles/XXXXXX-How-to-Evaluate-a-Campaig...⇄ /> Regarding this customer's refund request, our records show that this contributor's contribution has already been sent to the campaigner, which means that Indiegogo can no longer issue a refund. Learn more about our refund policy https://support.indiegogo.com/hc/en-us/articles/XXXXXX, and in our Terms of Use, www.indiegogo.com/about/terms.
Therefore, we recommend the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if they are interested in receiving a refund, or to arrive at a resolution to this matter. Although we are unable to refund the contributor's contribution, we have been in touch with this contributor and have shared the campaign owner's contact information
Initial Consumer Rebuttal /* (3000, 7, 2016/01/30) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Thank you for your response. While I understand your position, we have reached out several times to Revobot for their support and have received nothing in return. We were asked to supply them with a video of the issues that the board was having and promptly did so. In return, to date, and over a month went by and we have still received nothing. There is no phone number available to speak with anyone, just an email for a rep named Julia ("[redacted]" ) who no longer, I guess, wishes to return multiple emails (i can supply copies of all emails sent). I am asking you, to please help me with this situation and at least give me a name, TELEPHONE NUMBER, fax number or something to contract the person in charge. I feel that although Indiegogo claims no responsibility, that they should at least help me to find the upper echelons of this unethical company Revobot, or put me in contact with someone in authority to satisfy a commitment made and paid for through your company. This situation needs to be rectified and needs all parties involved weather directly or indirectly to uphold and heed their responsibilities to solve this transaction nightmare gone bad.

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2015/10/13) */
Indiegogo is a global crowdfunding platform that empowers people to raise funds for the things that matter to them. Our Terms of Use (http://www.indiegogo.com/about/terms) obligates campaign owners to fulfill any promised perks. Perk fulfillment...

is the full responsibility of the campaign owner.
With that said, we have been in contact with this contributor to explain our Terms of Use and clarify any other questions. We have also shared the campaign owner's contact information with this contributor in an effort to facilitate communication between these two parties.
Because contributions made through Indiegogo are transactions that take place between the campaign owner, contributor, and payment processor, we are unable to issue a refund to this contributor. However, we do suggest that the contributor feel free to reach out directly to the campaign owner to resolve any perk questions or request a refund and to respond directly to us if they have any other questions
Initial Consumer Rebuttal /* (3000, 7, 2015/10/15) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Since they are the business that enables this kind of fraud, they should take responsibility when it becomes an issue for contributors. If they weren't making money then they have no liability. In this case, it's obvious that the creator of alyt (being over a year late) is not making any effort then it seems indiegogo would be worrying about the customers of it's site. But if they feel they don't have to do anything...while kickstarter does.. it's only a matter of time before more of these scare people away. Sending an email with some form letter to a campaign creator is not an effort to help users. It would be different if you mediated a conversation between them and myself..
Final Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2015/11/03) */
We understand that this customer has additional thoughts on this matter.
As has been previously outlined, Indiegogo is a global crowdfunding platform that empowers people to raise funds for the things that matter to them. Our Terms of Use (http://www.indiegogo.com/about/terms) obligates campaign owners to fulfill any promised perks. However, perk fulfillment is the full responsibility of the campaign owner, not Indiegogo.
Our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms)states,
"Indiegogo is an online crowdfunding venue for people and entities seeking to raise funds for their own Campaigns and to contribute to the Campaigns of others. Campaign Owners can offer gifts or rewards in the form of tangible items or intangible services (collectively, "Perks") to Contributors. Perks are not offered for sale. Indiegogo makes no representations about the quality, safety, morality or legality of any Campaign, Perk or Contribution or the truth or accuracy of your User Content (as defined below) posted on the Service. Indiegogo does not represent that Campaign Owners will deliver Perks or that Contributions will be used as described in the Campaign. Users use the Service at their own risk."
With that said, we have been in contact with this contributor to explain our Terms of Use and clarify any other questions. We have also shared the campaign owner's contact information with this contributor in an effort to facilitate communication between these two parties.
Final Consumer Response /* (4200, 11, 2015/11/05) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Ultimately, that TOA is not valid. You take money from us and take money from the campaign owners. If the campaign owners are scammers then it constitutes fraud. If you do not have a way to protect against fraud then you can be liable. See: ebay. So no, I expect them to do more in the way of working with ways to retrieve funder's money back.

Indiegogo is a global crowdfunding platform that empowers people to raise funds for the things that matter to them, and in turn allows backers to help fund ideas they'd like to see come to life. It is important to note that the nature of crowdfunding...

[redacted]) is that contributing to a campaign on Indiegogo is not the same thing as making a purchase in a store. People can raise money for various things, and be at various stages of their project. Contributors are backing an idea, not purchasing a pre-made project or item. Like anyone contributing to an early-stage project, you accept the risk that the project might experience delays, changes to their original vision, or may not come to fruition. Indiegogo is not able to guarantee that perks will be fulfilled or that, if fulfilled, the Backer will find them satisfactory. We have tips on how to evaluate a campaign in our Help Center: [redacted]We encourage this customer to inquire of the campaigner if they'd like an update on when they expect to be able to ship the perk. Furthermore, Backers can stay up to date on the project by frequently visiting the Updates tab: [redacted], and following the Campaigner on Social Media.Regarding this customer's refund request, our records show that this contributor’s contribution has already been sent to the campaigner, which means that a refund can no longer be issued by Indiegogo. Learn more about our refund policy [redacted], and in our [redacted]. Therefore, we recommend the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if they are interested in receiving a refund. Although we are unable to refund the contributor’s contribution, we have been in touch with this contributor and have shared the campaign owner’s contact information with this contributor in an effort to facilitate communication.

Revdex.com:I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
the business contacted me and refunded my money 
thank you for your help in this Sincerely, [redacted]

We understand this customer has filed a chargeback against their transaction made to an Indiegogo campaign, but has since dropped the chargeback. We are glad to hear that this customer has dropped the chargeback! However, unfortunately this is pending between the banks at this time and we've...

not received confirmation that the chargeback has cleared. These can take up to 75 business days to arrive at a resolution. In the meantime, information about chargebacks can be found in our Help Center here: [redacted]
We will reach out to the customer directly with any new information or an update on resolution once we have it.

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 9, 2014/03/14) */
Indiegogo is a global crowdfunding platform which empowers people to raise funds for the things that matter to them. Our Terms of Use (http://www.indiegogo.com/about/terms) obligates campaign owners to fulfill any promised perks. Perk...

fulfillment is the full responsibility of the campaign owner. The Terms of Use at the time of the contribution states,
"Perks offered to you are strictly between the Contributor and the Campaign Owner and Beneficiary. Indiegogo does not represent, warrant or guarantee:
Perks will be delivered;
Perks will be satisfactory to you; or
The use of any Contributions or the outcome of any Campaign. It is up to you, as the Contributor, to ask such questions and undertake such due diligence as you deem necessary before you make a Contribution. Indiegogo may, in its sole discretion and judgment but is under no obligation to, seek the refund of Contributions."
We recommend that the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if he or she is interested in receiving a refund. By creating a campaign on Indiegogo, the campaign owner agrees to use funds and fulfill all perks as stated in their campaign. If, for any reason, they are unable to use Contributions as described in their Campaign, they agree to work contributors to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution which may include, without limitation, refunding the Contribution(s). The contributor can use our Terms of Use in the court of law.
We have also reached out to the campaign owner to remind them of their obligation as well, and shared this contributor's contact information with the campaign owner to get in touch with this contributor. However, because funds have already been disbursed to the campaign owner, and because contributions made through Indiegogo are transactions that take place between the campaign owner, contributor, and payment processor, we are unable to issue a refund to this contributor
Initial Consumer Rebuttal /* (3000, 11, 2014/03/17) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
When I made the "contribution", that clause was not part of their webpage. The only caveat they stated was that you should confirm with the principals of the campaign what they would do if the monetary goal was not reached. I did my due diligence and was told that if the campaign did not reach their goals, they would hold second and third campaign until the goal was reached and then they would complete the project and honor the perks.
As well, the policy as stated above gives Indiegog no accountability at all for the money they are funneling through their website. By their logic, I can create a campaign claiming to be an injured war vet needing an artificial leg and promising items in return for contributions. If it turns out that I am a 17 year old boy just trying to scam people out of money for an iPad, there is no accountability. Indiegog gets to keep their percentage and the donor has no recourse except to file a civil suit which depending on whether the person is even in the US becomes almost impossible. Indiegogo has become nothing but an elaborate money laundering scheme which is why it is the recipient of so many complaints here and elsewhere.
Why would anyone contribute $1000 for a campaign if there is no promise of a return on that contribution. They ignored over a dozen emails when the campaign was completed as did the principals of the campaign. Neither party will even pursue the issue. They got their percentage and when it turned out that this and many other campaigns were refusing to honor their promises simply added a clause that says we accept no responsibility that the perks will be honored or that the campaign is even real!!
Final Business Response /* (4000, 13, 2014/03/28) */
As we have outlined to the contributor, Indiegogo is not able to guarantee that perks will be delivered or deemed satisfactory. The nature of crowdfunding is such that campaigns on Indiegogo are raising funds for work-in-progress projects, ideas, or causes. Contributing to a campaign and claiming a perk on Indiegogo is not the same as buying something online. Because projects may still be in their early stages, many things can happen between the time the project is raising funds and the expected project release date. While your contribution brings the campaign idea closer to becoming reality, there's always the chance that a project may end up falling through, and the campaign owner may not be able to offer their contributors the perks they'd originally promised.
That said, campaign owners are still held by our Terms of Use (http://www.indiegogo.com/about/terms) to fulfill perks. If for any reason they're unable to offer you the perk you claimed, campaign owners are obligated to reach out to their contributors and work out a mutually satisfactory resolution- this resolution could be an alternative perk, a promise to issue the promised perk at a later date if the campaign owner is able to raise additional funds, or a refund.
In this particular case, the campaign owner has been in touch with us and let us know that they are willing, and have tried to work with the contributor to fulfill their perks. We recommend that the contributor work with the campaign owner to come to a satisfactory agreement and are currently trying to facilitate communication between the two parties. However, because the above mentioned situation is a normal part of crowdfunding, contributions are nonrefundable by Indiegogo and have already been used by the campaign owner as stated in their campaign, we will not be issuing a refund to the contributor.
Final Consumer Response /* (4200, 15, 2014/03/31) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
No I do not accept the company's response. Is a completely unethical and illegal position. They cannot raise money for campaigns and keep a percentage of it without any responsibility as to whether or not the campaign is real. This is not about the perks. This means that anybody can create a campaign , raise money for it and indigogo collects a percentage of it regardless of whether or not there's any intention of actually completing the campaign. What is to prevent somebody including me from creating a campaign under completely false pretenses and raising money for it knowing that I have no intention of doing the final product. As long as the compan raising the money gets to keep their percentage anybody can launder money thru this company. I should just get my money back by claiming to be raising money for a dying child that doesn't exist and take money from innocent people but as long as this company gets a percentage they don't care if I'm completely lying

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2015/09/22) */
Indiegogo is an open platform that permits campaign owners to raise funds for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms). Contributions made through Indiegogo are transactions that take...

place between the campaign owner, contributor, and payment processor, and are non-refundable by Indiegogo, as stated in our Terms of Use. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns; instead, Campaign Owners run and are responsible for their own campaigns.
It is important to note that contributors are backing an idea, not purchasing a pre-made product. Indiegogo does not make claims or verify that a campaign owner will deliver perks and instead recommends that each contributor go through their own vetting process before they decide to contribute. We have compiled a list of how to evaluate a campaign, as a good starting point: https://support.indiegogo.com/hc/en-us/articles/XXXXXX-How-to-Evaluate-a-Campaig...⇄ /> That said, like anyone supporting an early-stage project, contributors accept the risk that the project might not come to fruition. Many campaign owners are able to use the funds raised from their Indiegogo campaign to help bring their ideas into reality. However, there are times when projects do not go according to plan or the campaign owner experiences an insurmountable barrier to completing their project. In all cases, we still require Campaign Owners to be communicative to their contributors, be transparent about the status of their project, and work with their contributors no matter the outcome of their project.
For the campaign in question, I see that the campaign owner has posted a clear timeline on their campaign page (https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/airing-the-first-hoseless-maskless-micro-cpa...⇄ There they outline that their best estimated delivery date is July 2017, and have been posting updates to their project.
Regarding the request for a refund, our records show that this backer's contribution has already been sent to the campaigner, which means that Indiegogo can no longer issue a refund. If this customer is still interested in receiving a refund, we recommend they get in touch with the campaign owner directly. Learn more about our Refund Policy (https://support.indiegogo.com/hc/en-us/articles/XXXXXX).
We have already provided this customer with the campaign owner's contact information, in an effort to facilitate communication between the two parties.
Initial Consumer Rebuttal /* (3000, 7, 2015/09/24) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
I feel, regardless of the "Terms of Use" that Indiegogo should ultimately responsible for campaigns they have "sponsored" - I have tried multiple time to try to contact the campaign owner with absolutely no luck. So that means I'm high & dry for $318 USD. How much did Indiegogo make this past year ? I see that the campaign has garnered more than $1,000,000 in donations; therefore a return of my $318 USD donation would be a drop in the bucket. I recently made an on-line order with "Beyond the Rack", had second thoughts about the order, cancelled it within minutes & received a refund, no questions asked. Why does Indiegogo feel that they are not accountable ? They should be held accountable, and if I cannot contact the campaign owner with the information supplied by Indiegogo, I feel that Indiegogo should make better efforts at contacting the campaign owner regarding my issue/donation refund or Indiegogo should refund me my donations & then go after the campaign owner to recoup the same amount of money. I am thoroughly disappointed that a company similar to Kickstarter can get away without being accountable - every product that I have donated to with Kickstarter has been received by me - I have yet to receive any products from campaigns that I donated to through Indiegogo. I am at a loss how they can get away with this & I was hoping that the Revdex.com would have more pull regarding my issue. Indiegogo does not even have the guts to respond to the past 3 emails I have sent them regarding this issue - they just seem to be washing their hand regarding my concerns or passing [redacted] buck - but by passing [redacted] buck back to the campaign owner, could they not at the very least provide me with a phone number of the campaign owner. I would be curious to find out if Revdex.com has received any other complaints regarding the Airing LLC CPAP campaign & if they were satisfied with the outcome. This complaint does is not about a huge amount of money - only $318 USD - why can't either Indiegogo fess up and return my donations or have the responsibility & accountability to contact the campaign owner (since they were the so-call "mother ship" to begin with & got the campaign started) and ensure that the campaign owner get in touch with me or, more importantly, return my donations.
I have talked long enough. I hope it is not in vain & that a compatible solution can be resolved.
Respectfully,
[redacted]
P.S. Please post this submission so that anyone else thinking of donating to the Airing LLC CPAP campaign can make a more informed & smarter decision than I (and probably many others) have made.
Final Business Response /* (4000, 15, 2015/10/20) */
We understand this customer has additional points, here.
As has been previously outlined, Indiegogo provides an open crowdfunding platform permitting funds to be raised for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms). Campaigns are run by their individual campaign owner's and not by Indiegogo. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns, nor does Indiegogo offer perks. Instead, all perks are offers made by Campaign Owners, and we recommend to any contributor who has questions about a campaign's offerings that make inquires of the campaign owner.
Regarding the request for a refund, our records show that this backer's contribution has already been sent to the campaigner, which means that Indiegogo can no longer issue a refund. If this customer is still interested in receiving a refund, we recommend they get in touch with the campaign owner directly. Learn more about our Refund Policy (https://support.indiegogo.com/hc/en-us/articles/XXXXXX).
The campaign owner has been responding to comments posted to their campaign, this customer may consider contacting the campaign owner there: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/airing-the-first-hoseless-maskless-micro-cpap...⇄ /> We have already provided this customer with the campaign owner's contact information, in an effort to facilitate communication between the two parties. This is all the information we have to share, and wish this customer the best of luck in resolving this matter with the appropriate party- the campaign owner.
Final Consumer Response /* (4200, 17, 2015/10/26) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
The campaign has offered to refund $194 USD to me of the total of $318 USD that I paid.
The campaign person stated that Indiegogo retains a certain portion of my donation, which I would assume would be the remainder of $318 after $194 is taken off the total of $318.
I see no reason why Indiegogo cannot refund me the outstanding amount after $194 is subtracted from $318.
[redacted]

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2015/08/25) */
We understand this customer has filed another Revdex.com complaint regarding this matter. We have already been in touch with this customer to outline Indiegogo's policies regarding refunds.
Indiegogo is a global crowdfunding platform which...

empowers people to raise funds for the things that matter to them. Contributions made through Indiegogo are transactions that take place between the campaign owner, contributor, and payment processor, and are non-refundable by Indiegogo, as stated in our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms.) Therefore, we recommend the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if they are interested in receiving a refund. Although we are unable to refund the contributor's contribution, we have been in touch with this contributor and have shared the campaign owner's contact information with this contributor in an effort to facilitate communication.
By creating a campaign on Indiegogo, the campaign owner agrees to use funds and fulfill all perks as stated in their campaign. If, for any reason, they are unable to use Contributions as described in their Campaign, they agree to work with the Contributors to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution, which may include refunding their Contributions.
Initial Consumer Rebuttal /* (3000, 7, 2015/08/27) */
(The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
Indigogo's Contributor company (GoSondors Bike) approved my refund over 30 days ago, I've informed Indiegogo and forwarded the okay e-mail for the refund, and Indiegogo now is using yet another excuse not to refund me. They are now claiming that my bank is holding the fund as I had filed a dispute with the bank 90 days ago but case closed 60 days ago. That's completely false as my bank is completely dumbfounded by this false claim by Indiegogo. I, as an unemployed single father on disability living on ZERO income have been jerked around for nearly 5 months now with this nonsense. It's like the blind leading the blind. Once they took my money they act all dumb.
Final Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2015/09/08) */
We understand that this customer has additional concerns regarding this matter.
Our records show that the credit card dispute, this customer noted, has been resolved with the banks. The bank has accepted our rebuttal to the dispute and the funds are remaining on the campaign.
Regarding the refund request, the funds from this customer's contribution have already been disbursed to the owner of the campaign, and were done so quite some time ago. As the campaign owner has the funds for this transaction, and contributions are not refundable by Indiegogo per our Terms of Use (www.indiegogo.com/about/terms), any refunds will have to be issued directly from the campaign owner- not Indiegogo.
We wish this customer the best of luck in receiving a refund from the campaign owner.
Final Consumer Response /* (2000, 11, 2015/09/14) */
(The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)

Complaint: [redacted]I am rejecting this response because:
when I made my purchase I never read or were offer a statement where as indiegogo said ,I assume the risk of not been deliver in the product that I purchase, when I made my order  back in August I was offer a delivery by November which was never deliver, later on I receive an update on 12/07/2015 from indiegogo apologizing for not delivering as I attached ,promising a delivering date by February ,which also came with no delivery, ,my credit card was charge by indiegogo not by the campaign owner as they claim, so for me I wonder how many people like me were charge and not delivering and now indiegogo just said we don't have the money because it was send to the campaign owner, really? This to me is called fraud,,so let's say I buy an  "shirt X" brand to let's say [redacted] , and [redacted] charge my c/card, but the shirt never gets deliver, [redacted] never said oh! Well that's not my problem it's the "X" brand problem, take your complain to them, right? That never happens,  so indiegogo or whoever keeps the money products never get deliver and the customer losses his money,and no big deal,ITS NOT SUPOUSE TO HAPPEN UN THIS COUNTRY,.some body has to investigate indiegogo for this fraudolent kind of business practices, I still expect a refund on my card or I will go farther with my complain.
Sincerely,[redacted]

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2014/09/25) */
Indiegogo provides an open crowdfunding platform where funds can be raised for a wide range of projects in accordance with our Terms of Use (https://www.indiegogo.com/about/terms). Campaigns are run by their individual campaign owners and...

not by Indiegogo. Indiegogo does not manage campaigns, nor offer perks. Instead, all perks are offers made by Campaign Owners, and we recommend to any contributor who has questions about a campaign's offerings.
Furthermore, contributions made through Indiegogo are transactions that take place between the campaign owner, contributor, and payment processor, and are non-refundable by Indiegogo, as stated in our Terms of Use posted at www.indiegogo.com/about/terms.
We recommend that the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if he or she is interested in receiving a refund. By creating a campaign on Indiegogo, the campaign owner agrees to use funds and fulfill all perks as stated in their campaign. If, for any reason, they are unable to use Contributions as described in their Campaign, they agree to work with the Contributors to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution, which may include refunding their Contributions.
We have been directly in touch with this customer to convey this information.

We understand this customer has additional concerns on this matter, as they have not received a refund from the owner of this campaign.
As has previously outlined, Indiegogo is not able to issue this customer a refund for their contribution. Our Terms of Use outline:
"Refunds
Contributors may request a refund from Indiegogo before the end of a Campaign here. For Campaigns that have entered the InDemand program, Contributors may request a refund from Indiegogo within 10 days of the contribution, here. Contributions are eligible for a refund by Indiegogo unless (a) the contribution funds have already been transferred to the Campaign Owner, (b) the Perk associated with the contribution has been fulfilled, or (c) Indiegogo determines that there has been an abuse of these Terms of Use. Indiegogo reserves the right to terminate User Accounts and remove Campaigns for any abuse of this refund policy. For Campaigns that have ended, or in situations where the contribution funds have been transferred to the Campaign Owner, Contributors should contact the Campaign Owner directly regarding refunds."
Campaign owners are the party solely responsible for their campaigns, including fulfilling any perks they offered therein. As such, if this customer has questions about the campaign, when they can expect to receive their perks, or would like to receive a refund from this campaign owner, this customer will need to make inquires of the campaign owner, directly. We are unable to mediate this dispute, but have previously provided this customer with the campaign owner's contact information in an effort to facilitate communication.We wish them the best of luck in arriving at a resolution to their dispute, with the campaign owner.

Complaint: [redacted]I am rejecting this response because:
I will not accept this as a solution. Revdex.com you can make the call on how this complaint can be handled. I am happy to close it as "Issue not resolved" or similar status.
The fact of the matter remains, I am being told to get my refund from someone who I dont even know exists. I have made 15+ attempts to contact this person with no avail.
So the way to ask for my refund from the 3rd party is closed to me.
I appreciate that the Revdex.com is not an enforcement agency so there is really not much more that can be done here, but I will refuse to close this complaint as resolved.
I will also work with other backers of this and other projects on a Class Action Lawsuit against Indiegogo for what I consider illegal terms in the TOS.
It cannot be that a Business that is facilitating transactions between parties holds no responsibility in resolving disputes.
Sincerely,[redacted]

Indiegogo is a global crowdfunding platform that empowers people to raise funds for the things that matter to them, and in turn allows backers to help fund ideas they'd like to see come to life. It is important to note that the nature of crowdfunding is that contributing to a campaign on...

Indiegogo is not the same thing as making a purchase in a store. People can raise money for various things, and be at various stages of their project. Contributors are backing an idea, not purchasing a pre-made project or item. Like anyone contributing to an early-stage project, you accept the risk that the project might experience delays, changes to their original vision, or may not come to fruition. Indiegogo is not able to guarantee that perks will be fulfilled or that, if fulfilled, the Backer will find them satisfactory. We have tips on how to evaluate a campaign in our Help Center[redacted]Regarding this customer's refund request, our records show that this contributor’s contribution has already been sent to the campaigner, which means that a refund can no longer be issued by Indiegogo. Learn more about our refund policy [redacted] Therefore, we recommend the contributor reach out directly to the campaign owner if they are interested in receiving a refund. Although we are unable to refund the contributor’s contribution, we have been in touch with this contributor and have shared the campaign owner’s contact information with this contributor in an effort to facilitate communication.

Initial Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2015/08/06) */
Unfortunately we have no record of this user having used Indiegogo, via the email address under-which they filed this complaint.
From the complaint it sounds like they would like to know when they can expect to receive a perk from a...

campaign on Indiegogo. Perks are offers made solely by the campaign owner and not by Indiegogo. As such, if this person has questions about their perk, they will need to contact the owner of the campaign, directly. We recommend they do so via the email address they used to contribute so that the campaign owner can compare against their records and locate the charge in question.