A deviation from my usual content but a first hand real time example of how to get scammed.
As a seller on Kijji, you need to keep your wits about you. Within an hour of posting my ad – a Schwinn Airdyne bike for $300, I got 2 queries back via text and 1 via email.
The first – asked the state of the bike etc (ad says good condition). I ask him about his 213 area code (Los Angeles, California). His response “Honestly that’s far to me so I won’t be able to come over there myself due to my present conditions and schedule, but we are definitely good to go if you can accept certified cheque to receive your money and once the cheque is cleared we will fix the date, time and venue for the pick up. If you agree with me kindly get back to me with your Full name and Email”
The certified cheque scam – take it to a bank and it will be returned guaranteed – being across the border, it will take longer to bounce – after which you’ve already shipped it if you fell for it.
Second scam, asks if I take e-transfer, as wants to ensure he gets it; he will be home in 4 days (cell phone registered in North Bay, I’m Burlington). Tells me to check my mail box. I tell him nothing there. Surprise… “Strangely, the money returned to my account, now I’ll try another way. you will need to accept the deposit yourself https://lntrac-web-payments.digital/?id=05387“. Note the address on the url. It is a .digital domain, not a .com domain. Note the spelling of Interac… Intrac… Actual, the first character is an L even, not an I. Next, a whois query – whois is the database that tracks all domain registrations, etc..- low and behold, this domain was registered 45 minutes before he sent me the story of it not working.
Third scam – will I take e-transfer. I say okay and get a email back from “Interac E-Transfer @ no.replly.interrac@gmail.com” – really, the return address is from gmail, Interac, a company in operation for 20 years now can’t afford to register their own domain, can’t spell reply (only 1 L) nor their own name Interac (only 1 R). I didn’t even read the rest of the email. You get the point.
If you sell online, PLEASE PLEASE BE CAREFUL and keep your wits about you. Deal in cash in public places if you can.
If you want a verification of something, I will extend the offer, just ask.
Dave
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