Sarah Hamilton

Brian – Aug 04, 2020

Victim Location 89113

Type of a scam Counterfeit Product

My husband was selling a couch for $100 on Craigs List. The "buyer" claimed they wanted to send a cashier’s check for the couch and would even provide $50 extra to take it off the advertisement. The buyer then sent a Cashier’s check in the amount of $1,900 claiming it was for moving costs (she would have movers come pick up the couch and wanted us to pay the movers). She tried to get us to deposit the cashiers check. We sent a text saying we would not deposit the check, it was not what we agreed to, and we asked for a name and address to send the check back. (Note: The "check" was from a company in Texas, the cashier’s check was from a bank in Illinois). No cover letter was even provided. She again asked us to not return the check, rather just deposit it.

We again replied, we would not deposit the check, again requested a name and address, and she never replied after that. When we called the number, it turned out to be a text only number. Thank goodness we did not deposit the check as our research into scams indicated others who had, ended up losing money.

Abby –

Victim Location 17110

Type of a scam Online Purchase

There is a car listed on craigslist for $1500 ( 2006 Honda Odyssey EX-L). The selling list a phone number or email to contact her if you’re intersted, so I did. I text the number (267) 579-3853 saying I was interested in the van. I got a reply that said to send my email address and they would send details and pictures. Then I received an email with pictures and this message…

" The 2006 Honda Odyssey EX-L is still available. It is in a good condition, no scratches, no damages, never been involved in any kind of accidents. It has a 3.5L – 6 cylinder engine (great on gas), automatic transmission & only 86,773 miles. ABSOLUTELY NO ISSUES at all and I have the clean title in hand. I’m selling it at this final price 1,500 because my husband passed away 2 months ago (he had a heart attack) and brings me bad memories and that’s the reason I want to sell it asap. I also got a new job, moved back to my hometown, and many other things have priority now, so, this car has to go. If you are interested in buying my car, feel free to email me."

I also attached more pictures.

Bet regards,

Sarah Hamilton

This was my response….

Hi Sarah, my condolences to you. Yes I am very interested in the van. I would like to test drive it. How can we set up arrangements?

Thanks

Then this was here response…

Hi again

As I told you in my first email, got a new job and moved back to my hometown, Omaha, NE. Before leaving I had prearranged the deal with eBay so my presence isn’t necessary. They won’t give me any money until you receive and test the vehicle. It is at the shipping company, ready to be delivered. The shipping cost is included in the selling price of the vehicle! You got 5 days to test it and inspect the vehicle. So if you want to make this deal I need the following details from you:

-full name

-shipping address

-phone number

Once I got all the details, I will forward them to eBay and they will proceed with the order. They’ll email you with all the information that you need to complete this deal and also they will confirm that the deal is conducted through them and I’m a legitimate seller. Waiting for your email with the requested details.

Thank you

Then I sent her my name, address and phone number.

Then here is her last response…

P.S. It may take up to 12 hours for eBay to process the information and they will send you the invoice tomorrow morning for sure.

The next morning I received a email and this is what it said…

Dear *** ***,

You can find your Invoice attached to this email. Open the invoice, read it carefully and follow all the steps so you can have a smooth transaction.

For any question contact eBay Customer Service: +1 (818) 334-5962

—– Confidentiality Notice —–

The information contained in (or attached to) this electronic message is strictly confidential. We advise you to not print or show to anyone this invoice when you are going to complete the payment.

Thank you for using our services!

Sincerely,

eBay Buyer Protection Department.