SCAM & Fraud ALERT

Scams and Fraud

1. Deal locally with folks you can meet in person - follow this one simple rule and you will avoid 99% of the scam attempts.
2. Never wire funds via western union, moneygram or any other wire service - anyone who asks you to do so is a scammer.
3. Fake cashier checks & money orders are common, and banks will cash them and then hold you responsible when the fake is discovered weeks later.
4. This website not involved in any transaction, and does not handle payments, guarantee transactions, provide escrow services, or offer "buyer protection" or "seller certification"
5. Never give out financial information (bank account number, social security number, eBay/PayPal info, etc.)
6. Avoid deals involving shipping or escrow services and know that only a scammer will "guarantee" your transaction.

Who should I notify about fraud or scam attempts?

1. FTC toll free hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357)
2. FTC online complaint form (www.ftc.gov)
3. Canadian PhoneBusters hotline: 888-495-8501
4. Internet Fraud Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov/)
5. Non-emergency number for your local police department.

Recognizing scams

Most scams involve one or more of the following:

1. inquiry from someone far away, often in another country
2. Western Union, Money Gram, cashier's check, money order, shipping, escrow service, or a "guarantee"
3. inability or refusal to meet face-to-face before consumating transaction