GoFuckYourself.com - Adult Webmaster Forum - View Single Post - Got one of those craiglist scammers

Wolfy · 12-01-2010, 05:33 AM

If I can't get the shithead busted, I'd rather use the check and emails as proof and a learning tool for friends and family.

If you don't know the scam, here's how it works:

===========================

1. You list something on CL
2. Someone says "I like it, do you still have it?"
3. you respond
4. They say "Great! I'll pay for shipping, please send me the name and address I should send the check to. My movers will pick it up once you cash the check."
5. you give them the address, check is sent.
6. They email again: "Oh no! My secretary made the check out to the wrong amount i.e. $2500 instead of $500. I'll need you to Western Union the balance back immediately! I'll pay western union fees.'
7. You are dumb, say yes. Wire the "balance". Deposit the check.
8. Nobody shows up to get the item, check bounces, you're screwed.

============

I just received the check yesterday via UPS.

This morning I received the email with Western Union info.

What should I do? Is there any way I can get this asshole picked up at the Western Union, or will that be an exercise in futility and I'll just lose my souvenir (the check)?

12-01-2010, 05:33 AM
Wolfy Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 3,574	Got one of those craiglist scammers - what should I do? If I can't get the shithead busted, I'd rather use the check and emails as proof and a learning tool for friends and family. If you don't know the scam, here's how it works: =========================== 1. You list something on CL 2. Someone says "I like it, do you still have it?" 3. you respond 4. They say "Great! I'll pay for shipping, please send me the name and address I should send the check to. My movers will pick it up once you cash the check." 5. you give them the address, check is sent. 6. They email again: "Oh no! My secretary made the check out to the wrong amount i.e. $2500 instead of $500. I'll need you to Western Union the balance back immediately! I'll pay western union fees.' 7. You are dumb, say yes. Wire the "balance". Deposit the check. 8. Nobody shows up to get the item, check bounces, you're screwed. ============ I just received the check yesterday via UPS. This morning I received the email with Western Union info. What should I do? Is there any way I can get this asshole picked up at the Western Union, or will that be an exercise in futility and I'll just lose my souvenir (the check)?