Nothing beats re-manufactured cartridges for quality. When bought thru a reputable reseller you are assured both are put thru ISO9001/14001 testing. Re-manufactured are stripped of worn parts and in some cases parts that must be changed every time the are recycled. This assures you the customer you are getting the same or better quality as the original OEM cartridge. Compatibles are made from the ground up to the same specifications as the OEM, just not by the OEM certified manufacturer. Refilling may still be cheaper, but the quality is better with re-manufactured or compatible.

The best way to avoid scams is to understand that money flows TO the writer, not from. If a publisher asks for money, run away. If you decide to self-publish, make sure you understand exactly what that means, and be prepared to shell out the money.