Ah, scams

After our yard sale last month, we were left with several big-ticket items which Don has been listing for sale on Facebook Marketplace. One of those items is fairly expensive and we listed it for $2,000, a very good price for its category.

Most of the inquiries have been legitimate, with specific questions about the item. But today, when we received a message inquiring about its availability, red flags started waving immediately. (Spelling and punctuation in the original.)

Message from buyer: "Good afternoon, is this still available?"

Me: "Yes it is."

Buyer: "I'm interested, If you will take a cashiers check and once it clears then I will send a mover to pick you up because I'm out of town now so I won't be able to come pick up myself."

(Red flag. You want to buy such an expensive item without inspecting it and without asking details about it? What's your hurry?)

Me: "Where are you located?"

Buyer: "We're 6-7 hours away. Would you accept a cashier's check as payment?, I'll arrange for a mover to come for the pick-up after it clears."

(Red flag. Failed to give a specific location.)

Me: "Sorry, no. The sale will need to be strictly cash."

Buyer: "OK thanks."

End of discussion.

Don looked up this kind of scam and found the following information:

Understanding the Certified Check Scam on Facebook Marketplace
How the Scam Works

This scam typically involves a buyer who shows interest in your item without inspecting it in person. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

• Initial Contact: The scammer messages you, expressing interest in your item and offering to pay with a certified check.

• Overpayment: The scammer sends a check for an amount greater than the sale price. They will then ask you to refund the difference before the check clears.

• Check Bounces: Once you send the refund, the certified check eventually bounces, meaning it is not valid. You are left without the item and out of pocket for the refunded amount.

Key Red Flags to Watch For

• No Inspection: The buyer does not want to see the item in person.

• Urgency: They may pressure you to act quickly, claiming they need the item urgently.

• Payment Method: They insist on using a certified check, which is often a tactic used by scammers.

How to Protect Yourself

• Meet in Person: Always arrange to meet in a public place and complete the transaction face-to-face.

• Verify Payment: Wait for the check to fully clear before sending any item or refunding money.

• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about the transaction, it’s best to walk away.

Yup, this "buyer" checked off every one of these boxes: No inspection, a sense of urgency, and a cashier's check as the payment method.

Ah, scams.