Common Scams
How to Spot a Scam
Although rare, scams occur in every category. The classifieds category with the most scams, however, is pets. Common scams include pedigreed pets that are "free," except for a shipping charge, and birds that are shipped from overseas (see the complete list of countries on the no-imports list).
If you are worried about getting scammed, or just want to learn more about how to protect yourself when shopping online, read our tips to help keep yourself safe and avoid scams.
Sample Scam Emails
Here are some samples of fraudulent email messages. Remember, these examples are just a fraction of the messages that are used to defraud trusting buyers. Use your judgment while buying and selling online, and don't complete a transaction if you don't feel absolutely safe.
Overpayment scam:
(this scam targets sellers)
Hello,
Good day and thanks for the mail. I am okay with the last price for this payment right away and the condition is okay too and i will instruct my client to issue you a check of $6,500 and you have to deduct your own money there and send the remaining excess funds to the shipper via western union money transfer for the pick up of this payment (Outdoor White Wicker Rockers with pads) right away in your location. Here is the information that i need from you so that you can be able to received the money order stated below.
Your Full name..........
Full Address..........
Get back to me asap with this information above today. I will await this information from you. Thanks and God bless..
Just-pay-shipping scam:
(the seller asks for shipping costs to be paid before the item is shipped)
Hello,
I just received your message about the puppy you are requesting for. If you know you really want the puppy , then you have to act fast immediately.
A reverend father bought the puppy yesterday and he went the puppy to Nigeria, because he was invited for a prayer crusade.
[...]
I have already told him to register the puppy with shipping company there so as to make it fast shipping to USA immediately the payment is sent to him by you. The price is still $ 300 USD. Nothing above that.