[jaclaz]

Besides all the other red flags, what would have (probably) triggered an alarm would have been the actual list of equipment (and its generic content).

Set of furniture?

Copiers?

Graphics generator and software?

Data storage and Microfiche?

High speed Internet access?

All coming from a same supplier, the same that provides the Mac and the "Dual Monitors", maybe it is "normal" in US, but elsewhere there would be several different suppliers, very detailed confirm orders, a lengthy contract for the Internet access, endless back and forth for fixing delivery and installation dates, etc.

[smeej]

Microfiche in particular cracked me up.

I'm in my mid-30s and barely old enough to know what microfiche even is!

[simne]

This named cross-selling in scientific marketing, when somebody sell to customer related items, even far related.

Best example, when You will buy auto, good seller will try to sell items for tourists, picnic items, spinning, and even bait (sure, will include regulated items in base, like insurance, fire-extinguisher).