While shopping online on Craigslist.com for a used car for my son, I can across this ad:
2000 HONDA Accord EX V6
LEATHER SUNROOF 200 Horse Power V6 Automatic Transmission Naples Gold Metallic Exterior Soft Plush Leather Interior In Dash CD Radio Remote Entry …Perfect CarFax History…No accidents no damage no problems…
The price? $2960!
With 116k miles, that’s at least $2000 below Kelley Blue Book! I excitedly emailed the contact and asked to make an appointment to see it.
The response was this in its entirety (emphasis mine):
Hello and sorry for my delay,
I’m Sgt. Robert Parra. This Honda is in perfect working condition. This vehicle engine runs very, very smooth. No electrical problems on this beauty. This detailed vehicle makes the exterior looks like it just came off the assembly line. The car has 118k highway miles. VIN Number: 1hgcg1655ya068349
It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones. The body and paint are great. The interior is super clean, mechanically, it runs like a cat on carpet.
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s229.photobucket.com/albums/ee106/accpix/As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back.
I am located in London, United Kingdom and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and UK. One month ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in US because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is US 2,960 $. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. You will receive the car in about 3 days. Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Best Regards,
Robert Parra
Can this be legit? I am hoping it is!
I sent a message back to “Sgt. Parra” and asked him whether the car will pass the smog check for California. I figured if it was really legit, someone else probably bought it already, but it’d be worth asking.
Then a couple of hours later, I get another email. I contacted another seller of another ad from Craigslist for a Camry that I thought was a good buy.
Here is the email response in its entirely (emphasis mine):
Hello,
The 2003 Toyota Camry is located in Farmington, CT and it is in perfect condition, with no need for additional repairs, no scratches, dings, special marks whatsoever. It has 44k miles and the VIN is: 4T1BE32K03U655388. It has a clear title ready to be signed and notarized on your name. I have the pictures hosted on the net and you can see them at:
http://s215.photobucket.com/albums/cc161/RobertBright/The price is $2,900 including shipping costs anywhere in the continental US. There are no other costs regarding this transaction.
The transaction will be closed only through a 3rd party and this way we will both be protected.My time is limited due to my job in the army so I decided to use a service from Worldpay. To begin the transaction I’ll need your full name and shipping address. I will forward the details of our transaction to Worldpay and then you will receive an invoice from them. The car will be shipped insured to your location with DAS and you will have 5 days for inspection.
Best regards,
Robert Bright.
I am catching on now…
Both cars advertised at incredible prices at about $2,900, both seller’s names are Robert, both are willing to ship from out of the area for free, both are in the military, both use photobucket to post pictures …
Since I’ve been scouring Craigslist, Autotrader and dealerships for a car, I had sent out several emails. I forgot what I sent out.
So a couple of hours later, I got yet another response, for an Acura I asked about.
Now I am rolling on the floor laughing!
Here’s an excerpt:
Hello and sorry for my delay,
Yes, I know, you are busy in the military, right?
The 1999 Acura TL is in perfect working condition.This detailed vehicle makes the exterior look like it just came off the assembly line….It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones…The interior is super clean, mechanically, it runs like a cat on carpet…
You must’ve been talking to Sgt. Robert Parra! Both of you have a cat! And do you also have a wife who doesn’t check ahead of time if a foreign car can be registered in the UK?
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program…I am located in London,United Kingdom and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and Serbia. One months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States because we can’t register it here…It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. …
It’s Serbia now, very nice.
Best Regards,
Michael Parker
At least they are getting a little more creative with the name.
I googled this subject and found a forum discussion of someone who got this email, a friend of the Roberts, no doubt, and coincidentally also named Robert, with a cat and a wife who just joined him too! I put an excerpt here, but I’m sure you can figure out what the rest says:
Date: Thu, 6 Dec 2007 18:22:47
Subject: 2001 Honda AccordHello and sorry for my delay,
The 2001 Honda Accord is in perfect working condition.This detailed vehicle makes the exterior look like it just came off the assembly line…blah, blah, blah…It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones…mechanically, it runs like a cat on carpet….
I signed up for US military forces and I was sent here with my department to improve the military relations between our country and UK….blah, blah, blah…
Sgt Robert Mclean
I might have fallen for the first reply if the scammer would just be a little for creative in their approach.
Apparently, an epidemic of ads like this is on all kinds websites, including the sale of motorcycles, ATVs, jet skis, motor homes, trailers, and even farm equipment.
One member of the forum responded with this advice:
1. eBay does not “hold the money” until you are satisfied with the car. Once you pay them, that is it. And I suspect they will ask you to pay by Western Union.
2. The military does ship cars overseas for servicemen (why does this guy talk in pidgon english if he’s American, anyway?). But thet SHIP them, by SHIP, not by air. Total LIE.
3. American servicemen can drive their cars overseas without registering them there. Again total LIE. Why would a serviceman have a car shipped overseas if he could not register it?
The pattern is the same: a coveted item (BMW, Kobota Tractor, Honda motorcycle, etc.) worth $10,000 to $20,000 is offered for a pitiful amount – $2500 to $5000 with a long-winded “backstory” behind it. You wire them the money, thinking you scored big and that’s the last you hear of them.
They hijack eBay identifications by using those phishing scams. Typically if you look at their feedback, you’ll see it is some little old lady in Arkansas selling dolls. Suddenly, the person is a Seargent in the Army in England selling a car. What gives?
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is….
Saw your link from the sonai mailing list and couldn’t help but point out two small things that just yelled out at me. I’m in the military, and it saddens me to see people represent us in such a manner in a scam.
-The military will not ship a vehicle overseas unless it is possible to register them in the country where it’s located. End of story.
-Even if they did ship the car to a country where it could not be registered, the government is not in the business of spending money unless it absolutely has to when it comes to services for military personnel. They will not ship a car at your own convenience, they will only ship your car when you leave the base you are stationed at, no earlier, no later.
Hope that helps,
Ben
Thanks Ben!
Glad to hear from you, and THANK YOU for serving our country.
Hey, thanks for your post. I was looking at the same car and actually working on getting a loan. Then someone asked if I had checked this guy out. I put his name in Google and your page popped up with the exact same info as he sent me. Thanks for posting this.
Jon
Glad to know it helped you, Jon! I wonder how many fell for this scam.
Wouldn’t believe it, I got the very same mail and the wordings are exactly the same…hardly any changes in the Text of the email I received. Here check it for yourself:
Hello and sorry for my delay,
1999 Honda Accord EX is in perfect working
condition.This vehicle engine runs very, very
smooth.This detailed vehicle makes the exterior look
like it just came off the assembly line.The car has
only 120000 highway miles.VIN #
JHMCG5656XC019006Options CD Player Sunroof
Passenger Airbag Driver Airbag Anti-Lock Brakes
Air Conditioning Power Windows Power Locks
Cruise Control
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj22/1999hAccordL/
the above link does not work copy and paste it into
a new web browser window)As I know that my current
situation is pretty special I want the deal closed
only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in
order for you to be 100% protected. You will make
the payment to eBay and they will hold the money
until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive
the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will
release the payment to me; in this way we are both
protected. Anyway i am sure that if you will don`t
be satisfied about the car i will surely find
another buyer in your area and there will be no need
for you to ship the car back. I am located in
London,United Kingdom and I was sent here to improve
the military relationships between USA and UK. One
months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought
the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in
the United States because we can’t register it here;
it has US specs and everything, and registering it
here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on
it is US 2,850 $. If you will take it for this
price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will
be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military
Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get
it to the nearest airport in your area and then it
will be trucked forward to your place. You will
receive the car in about 3 max. 4 working days.
Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and
include in your e-mail your full name and address
where you want it shipped so I can start the deal
with eBay. You will receive all the transaction
payment and shipping details from them.
Thank you and have a great day,
Josh Edgell
AND When I replied back to him asking for more information, I got more of the same:
Hi Josh,
Thanks for providing the details on your car including the snaps @ photobucket.
If you don’t mind, I have a few more questions which would help me in making up my mind.
1) Is the Car already listed on eBay and if so could you please provide links for the same?
2) When does the 10 day inspection clock start – Is it immediately on negotiating the deal through ebay or once the vehicle is delivered to the Shipper Address after negotiations?
3) If upon inspection I don’t find it satisfactory, would I have to keep it at my Garage until you find a new buyer (since I don’t have to ship it) or do you plan to have it collected locally though family/friends?
Thanks and would appreciate your reply at the earliest.
AND here’s the final response:
Hi again,
As I said in my first email the car is currently located in London,United Kingdom. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. Shipping will be done door-to-door, to your exact location, so you will not have to pick the car up yourself.The ten days inspection period starts whae you will get the car at door.
The price for the car is $2,850 USD. This price includes all the shipping taxes and fees. Ebay will hold the funds until you receive and accept the car.I will have access to the funds only after you test and inspect the car (you will have 10 days to do that) and in case somethins goes wrong or the car is not as advertised you will be fully refunded. Anyway i am sure if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. Ebay will guarantee for that. From the moment the payment is secured by eBay the shipping process will begin and it will arrive at your address in about 3 max. 4 working days. You will also receive all the documents including the titles and a Bill of Sale. The cargo is insured so if the car is damaged during the shipping you will also be refunded.
Please reply with your full name and address, and I will start the process with Ebay. You will receive all the transaction details from them.
Hoping to hear from you soon
[[email protected]]
I got the very same mail this was my reply: I will be in Europe next week is there a possibility to see the car?
Can you provide me with the address where you are located?
No reply as of yet
Hello,
and thank you for your interest in my car. The 2000 Bmw looks and runs exactly as new. The title is clean, and you will receive it along with the car, so you will have no problems whatsoever registering it
there. This car has ALWAYS been ADULT driven, it was garaged when it wasn’t on the highway. Great power from 325 engine with 30++ MPG on the hwy! It has an automatic transmission which shifts
smoothly and the feels great. It has 75,000 miles (mostly highway). The vin # is: WBAAM3348YFP76147. This one is and always has been a perfect vehicle and is in truly great condition for the year and
miles. It is amazing and drives like new, you will love this car when driving it. It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones. I have the photos of the car hosted on the internet at the following
address:
http://s270.photobucket.com/albums/jj88/2000BMW323/
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and
they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am
sure that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. I am located in London,United Kingdom and I was
sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and UK. One months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States
because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is US 2,980 $. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle
the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your
place. You will receive the car in about 3 days. Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with
eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Thank you and have a great day,
Michael Topping
[email protected]
I wonder why they even bother to use different names?
It doesn’t sound like there is anyone there to read your email replies. They’re probably in some non-English speaking country using automated responses.
Hi…
Man oh man…I got the same fricking email. I was looking into buying a jetta and I spoke to my dad who works in the car business and I told him how much it was and he instantly said LETS BUY IT because it seemes like a great deal. I sent emails saying I wanted to buy it but I felt so iffy about it. I tries googling about registering a car in the US and then I thought I should see if the car was on ebay so I ended goggling his email “[email protected]” and I come to this blog. THANKS GOODNESS!
Then I received an email from “ebay” it was so unofficial. From then on I stopped receiving emails.
My husband and I were just browsing craigslist and we found this acura for SO cheap, we sent him a message and this was his reply, we knew it was phony right away, I mean who says “best regards” haha
Hello and sorry for my delay,
I’m SGT Eric Carter. This Acura is in perfect working condition. This vehicle engine runs very, very smooth. No electrical problems on this beauty. This detailed vehicle makes the exterior looks like it just came off the assembly line. The car has 133k Highway miles. VIN Number: 19uua56771a021621
Transmission: Automatic
Standard Equipment:
LEATHER CRUISE CONTROL AUTO CLIMATE CONTROL ABS Xenon Lights POWER SEAT
CD AM/FM RADIO CASSETTE POWER DOOR LOCKS Vanity mirrors DUAL DUAL AIR BAGS
POWER MIRRORS POWER STEERING POWER WINDOWS 6 CYLINDER 3.2 LITER VTEC
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s269.photobucket.com/albums/jj63/32acuratl/
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure that if you won`t be satisfied with the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. I am located in London, United Kingdom and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and UK. One month ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is $2,950. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. You will receive the car in about 3 days. Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Best Regards,
Eric Carter
haha, scammers should know better than to say best regards!
Or they say US 2,900$ or USD $2,900 and claim to be American.
Thank you all for the information. I too was looking at a 2001 honda accord way under blue book with the same story of being in London and not being able to register there, wanted to use ebay buyer protection to protect me, and ship to my house, etc. I also would have 10 days to inspect and drive before payment would be sent. My gut didn’t feel right from the beginning and I even went and talked to a car dealer buddy of mine to get his opinion. He also had his doubts so I decided to research Michael Topping and scams and it led me to this site. I emailed Michael back but was not near as nice as alot of you. I pretty much told him he would burn in hell and I wouldn’t piss on him to put him out for what he was doing. My parents always said if it sounds too good to be true it probably is. I would say 7000 under blue book is too good to be true. Thanks again.
Dave, glad to hear that people are not that gullible. Unfortunately, “Michael Topping” probably doesn’t read email. He just checks his ebay account.
This whole thing just saddens me, I mean is this what the world is coming to? Do people really waste their time at home and come up with these scams? We have a sick sick world. Why can’t people work hard for their money like everybody else on this planet? And more importantly, why are people so STUPID and gullible!
Sarah, that’s exactly what I thought. Here’s my post about that http://www.katylee.com/blog/2008/01/16/more-car-buying-scam
Joyful, I’m sure he or someone read the e-mail I sent back. I responded to the e-mail he sent me about sending him all my personal information so he could get the e-bay deal started. If he thought I was going to fall for the scam he would of opened the mail thinking it was my personal information. Either way, it made me feel better to let him know what I thought of him. Thanks again.
Same situation only newer.
Here’s the reply in full:::
Hello,
and thank you for your interest in my car. The 2000 Bmw looks and runs exactly as new. The title is clean, and you will receive it along with the car, so you will have no problems whatsoever registering it there. This car has ALWAYS been ADULT driven, it was garaged when it wasn’t on the highway. Great power from 325 engine with 30++ MPG on the hwy! It has an automatic transmission which shifts smoothly and the feels great. It has 75,000 miles (mostly highway). The vin # is: WBAAM3348YFP76147. This one is and always has been a perfect vehicle and is in truly great condition for the year and miles. It is amazing and drives like new, you will love this car when driving it. It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones. I have the photos of the car hosted on the internet at the following address:
http://s270.photobucket.com/albums/jj88/2000BMW323/
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. I am located in London,United Kingdom and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and UK. One months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is US 2,980 $. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. You will receive the car in about 3 days. Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Thank you and have a great day,
Michael Topping::::
Please watch out for this…
Thank you so much for this ad. This same man has it listed for a Camary like the above posted. I think I want to play a little game with him first. Yesterday, I almost got scam by someone else until I told him I leave in the area and wanted to come look at the car. Needless, to say he never contacted me back. HAHA! I think it imperative to keep these blogs going so we can help save alot of people from losing out. Thank you so much!
Twice in one day. WTH????????
Also from Craig’s list(Hampton Roads Area listing).
Thanks so much for posting this:)
§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§Another reply in full§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§
Hello Staples,
The car is located in West Suwanee, GA and it is in perfect condition, with no need for additional repairs, no scratches, dings, special marks whatsoever. It has 35K miles and the VIN # is : WMWRC33443TC42310 . It has a clear title ready to be signed and notarized on your name. You can see more pictures by click on the link below :
http://s260.photobucket.com/albums/ii30/jamesrody222/
This car needs nothing, the title is clear, it is not a salvage one. I want this transaction to go smoothly enough as I am caught in the middle of some very important events and have little time at my disposal. I already have tons of emails so I hope you understand that I need to sort them out.
The price is $2,900 THIS IS MY LAST PRICE. I will not negotiate the price. I will take in consideration only those buyers who are really interested in buying the car, to be sure that I don’t waste my time with endless discussions. This way, I shall be assured of the serious intentions.
So if you are interested please email me back so we can move forward,
James Rody§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§
From KTR’s post, “…told him I live in the area and want to come look at the car…”
Great advice there!!!!!! :),
EN1 Staples
LOL
Following Dave’s and KTR’s responses, someone should try sending them some fake personal info to see how they will start the process.
Another tip is. Say you are in the area or you have a cousin that lives 1 hr away from that location. And tell them you want to come look at a car. I promise you they will not allow you to come see the car. Also if they say they will ship it “Red flag” also. Lastly, the website that he must of made up is fake as well they give you two different offices in Houston and Ca, but the number listed on the website is out of La New Orleans. So I will be reporting that number as well. Please lets fight for the rights of consumers everyone time I see something different o (Craiglist) that looks like a scam I reported it to Craiglist. Last thing for some reason they wont have it post on Craiglist to long like within in seconds. So either they are taking if off fast or a consumer is….
Sorry I have to add ths last comment too. With the man with the Nissian Altm. Now here the thing that was in Houston Tx. But it was not listed under the Houston Tx craiglist. Why??? Because the buyer would have said “Let me come look at it now.” So thats why they listed in other parts of the states. So when I looked at it. Of course when I ask him that he had no responds either for that. This people are very smart! But I am smarter!
I was searching for a car on the local craigslist (Pittsburgh) with reasonable mileage, 5 years or newer, and came across what seemed to be a phenominal deal. A 2003 Toyota Camry for $2900. So, I sent an email indicating my interest to learn how much mileage was on the car, and the response was as follows:
“Hello,
The 2003 Toyota Camry is located in Farmington, CT and it is in perfect condition, with no need for additional repairs, no scratches, dings, special marks whatsoever. It has 44k miles and the VIN is: 4T1BE32K03U655388. It has a clear title ready to be signed and notarized on your name. I have the pictures hosted on the net and you can see them at:
http://s270.photobucket.com/albums/jj86/grallcamry/
The price is $2,900 including shipping costs anywhere in the continental US. There are no other costs regarding this transaction.
The transaction will be closed only through a 3rd party and this way we will both be protected. My time is limited due to my job in the army so I decided to use a service from Global Payments Inc. To begin the transaction I’ll need your full name and shipping address. I will forward the details of our transaction to Global Payments Inc and then you will receive an invoice from them. The car will be shipped insured to your location with DAS and you will have 5 days for inspection.
Best regards,
Gregory Allison.”
Then I responded back:
“Well,
I am certainly interested as this is a phenominal deal, however, I can’t help but to be skeptical. Can you call or provide your phone to discuss?
Would I be providing the payment before or after I received the car? I also wonder how the title transfer would occur without both parties present at the notary. Sorry for my ignorance to all of this, but I am sure you can understand my concerns with such a transaction.
Please contact me at your soonest convenience.”
A few hours later, I had my fiance take a look into this b/c it really seemed too good to be true. This price with this mileage is at least $6K below Kelly blue book. It just didn’t add up.
Just by doing a search of the vin number, he was able to find this forum, and we had a good laugh, but I hope to help someone else by posting to this- help keep someone from falling into a costly scam.
I had the same issue as someone posted above. I wanted to flag this person on craigslist, but the post is already gone. I’ll keep a look out for similar craigslist posts and hopefully we can get this jerkoff to stop wasting our time.
Hello and sorry for my delay,
The 2003 Toyota Camry LE is in perfect working condition.This detailed vehicle makes the exterior look like it just came off the assembly line.The car has only 106,522 original miles.VIN Number: 4T1BE32K73U120770
It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones. The body and paint are great. The interior is super clean, mechanically, it runs like a cat on carpet.
Options
Cassette Player CD Player Driver Airbag Passenger Airbag
Air Conditioning Cruise Control Power Locks Power Seats
Power Windows
PICS: http://s250.photobucket.com/albums/gg248/2002camryleR/
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. I am located in London,United Kingdom and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and UK. One months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is US 2,950 $. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. From the moment the payment is secured by eBay the shipping process will begin and it will arrive at your address in about 3 max. 4 business day Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Thank you and have a great day,
Michael Ramsey
This is the exact email that I got word for word. I am glad I came across your blog because I was almost foolish enough to send him the money and I am a college student and a mother of one I do not have one penny to waste on scams. Thank you so much for putting this blog on the internet. GOD Bless you very much.
Was on the verge of buying a 2001 Lexus GS300 for a song when I stumbled across this blog doing a Google search for car scams.
My reply sounded a whole heck of a lot like the Eni Staples “Twice in one day” listed above on 2/8/08 at 13:35. They wouldn’t negotiate the price, they didn’t want to bother with endless discussions, tons of emails, in the middle of things, etc. They also used the photo bucket.
Who says the internet isn’t good for anything????
Do you notice that the license plate is always taken off in the photos?
Add another one to the list:
Hi,
The car is located in San Diego, CA and it is in perfect condition,
with no need for additional repairs, no scratches, dings, special marks
whatsoever. It has 42,470 original miles since new and the VIN # is :
2HGES26702H507111. It has a clear title ready to be signed and notarized
on your name.
The price is $2,800 including shipping costs anywhere in the
continental US. There are no other costs regarding this transaction.
Regarding payment I am aware of the buyer’s protection and we will use
Global Payments Inc secure payments which will hold the payment until
the buyer receives the car. To complete the payment you must have cash
available. To begin the transaction I’ll need your full name and
shipping address, I will forward the details of our transaction to
Global Payments Inc and then you will receive an invoice from them.
The car will be shipped insured to your location with DAS and you will
have 5 days for inspection.
I have the pictures hosted on the net and you can see them at :
http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii95/my2002civic/
Thank you,
Pam Worstell
***Almost had us, but found this page first. I had some fun with her, asking why she was selling the car (“I sell the car due some circumstances in my life. I had an accident and
I lost my hearing . Don’t worry the accident wasn’t in the Civic”.) and how I wan’t my cousin to see the car (“The transaction will be closed only through Global Payments Inc and
this way we will both be protected. My current job doesn’t allow me to
do otherwise. I have way to little free time to handle home visits”.). I wish my story had been more interesting, but oh well. I hope to get the Vin number out on the ‘net.
Thanks for all your help.
-Kate
P.S. I found this one on Craig’s list.
Thanks, Kate.
“I had an accident and I lost my hearing” LOL
I just saw one almost identical.
Hello,
The 2004 Mazda Mazda6 is located in Mandeville, LA and it is in perfect condition, with no need for additional repairs, no scratches, dings, special marks whatsoever. It has 46k miles and the VIN is: 1YVFP80D845N89907. It has a clear title ready to be signed and notarized on your name. I have the pictures hosted on the net and you can see them at:
http://s258.photobucket.com/albums/hh241/2004mazda6/
The price is $2,900 including shipping costs anywhere in the continental US. There are no other costs regarding this transaction.
The transaction will be closed only through a 3rd party and this way we will both be protected. My time is limited due to my job in the army so I decided to use a service from Global Payments Inc. To begin the transaction I’ll need your full name and shipping address. I will forward the details of our transaction to Global Payments Inc and then you will receive an invoice from them. The car will be shipped insured to your location with DAS and you will have 5 days for inspection.
Best regards,
Bryant Johnson.
I did tell him I had family nearby to see if they could look at it (no response yet). I had a feeling it was a scam but wanted to make sure and this website was enough. when I googled the vin, it came up at a dealership near there, so maybe they are just surfing for the pictures, locations, etc.
Thanks, nateman. Let us know if the scammer replies to your email.
I just found an amazing BMW.. HAHhaaa
From: “. .” Save Address
Subject: 2000 Bmw
Date: Friday, February 29, 2008 10:40:06 AM [View Source]
Hello,
and thank you for your interest in my car. The 2000 Bmw looks and runs exactly as new. The title is clean, and you will receive it along with the car, so you will have no problems whatsoever registering it there. This car has ALWAYS been ADULT driven, it was garaged when it wasn’t on the highway. Great power from 325 engine with 30++ MPG on the hwy! It has an automatic transmission which shifts smoothly and the feels great. It has 75,000 miles (mostly highway). The vin # is: WBAAM3348YFP76147. This one is and always has been a perfect vehicle and is in truly great condition for the year and miles. It is amazing and drives like new, you will love this car when driving it. It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones. I have the photos of the car hosted on the internet at the following address:
http://s270.photobucket.com/albums/jj88/2000BMW323/
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. I am located in Zagreb,Croatia and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and Croatia. One months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is US 2,980 $. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. You will receive the car in about 3 days. Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Thank you and have a great day,
Michael Topping
Thank you for posting all of this. We almost fell for it. THANKS A BUNCH!!!!!
Here’s the response from the craigslist ad:
>
> Hello and sorry for my delay,The 2003 Toyota Camry
> XLE 4 Cyl. is in perfect working condition.This
> detailed vehicle makes the exterior look like it
> just came off the assembly line.The car has only
> 44298 original miles.VIN Number: 4T1BE32K23U668921It
> was never involved in any accident, not even minor
> ones. The body and paint are great. The interior is
> super clean, mechanically, it runs like a cat on
> carpet. Options Cassette player Leather seats
> Sunroof Driver airbag Passenger airbag
> Anti-lock brakes Side airbags Air conditioning
> Cruise control Power locks Power seats Power
> windows
> PICS:
> http://s265.photobucket.com/albums/ii217/2003camryN/
> As I know that my current situation is pretty
> special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s
> Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100%
> protected. You will make the payment to eBay and
> they will hold the money until you receive the car.
> ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect
> it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me;
> in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure
> that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i
> will surely find another buyer in your area and
> there will be no need for you to ship the car back.
> I am located in Zagreb,Croatia and I was sent here
> to improve the military relationships between USA
> and Croatia. One months ago, my wife moved here with
> me and brought the car with her, but now we have to
> sell it back in the United States because we can’t
> register it here; it has US specs and everything,
> and registering it here in Europe will take for
> ever. My final price on it is US 2,890 $. If you
> will take it for this price, I am willing to handle
> the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane
> with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me
> anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in
> your area and then it will be trucked forward to
> your place. From the moment the payment is secured
> by eBay the shipping process will begin and it will
> arrive at your address in about 3 max. 4 business
> day Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy,
> and include in your e-mail your full name and
> address where you want it shipped so I can start the
> deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction
> payment and shipping details from them.
> Thank you and have a great day,Michael Ramsey
>
Oh my gosh!!!! I am so glad you posted this!!! You just saved me from a scam. I fell for it to. I found a 2001 Toyota Camry on Craigs list for an excellent deal (so I thought). I was all excited about it and contacted the seller. Is there anything that can be done to stop this guy? I feel sorry for the people that will actually be taken for a ride by this guy! Anyway, thank you again for the post. Thank you to all the military personal and your sacrifices for our country!!!!
I got the exact same email and here it is:
Hello and sorry for my delay,
The 2003 Toyota Camry LE is in perfect working condition.This detailed vehicle makes the exterior look like it just came off the assembly line.The car has only 106,522 original miles.VIN Number: 4T1BE32K73U120770
It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones. The body and paint are great. The interior is super clean, mechanically, it runs like a cat on carpet.
Options
Cassette Player CD Player Driver Airbag Passenger Airbag
Air Conditioning Cruise Control Power Locks Power Seats
Power Windows
PICS: http://s250.photobucket.com/albums/gg248/2002camryleR/
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. I am located in London,United Kingdom and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and UK. One months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is US 2,850 $. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. From the moment the payment is secured by eBay the shipping process will begin and it will arrive at your address in about 3 max. 4 business day Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Thank you and have a great day,
David Ramsey
I almost fell for it also. I have received the same emails as everyone else. I was looking at the 2003 Toyota Camry XLE. It seemed like an awesome deal. I took my parents advise and kept researching the guy out. I am glad that I did. I did notice that the cars don’t have license plates. Plus i figured out the he changes his email address every time. I have tried to respond to him after reading this and I receive a failure notice a few min later that it cant be delivered. Thanks to who ever started this it helped me a lot and I hope it helps others also.
Glad that this helped everyone. Stop those scammers!
LOL..This is getting just too funny ..
Where do these fellas get the VINs for these cars, eh?
”
Hello,
This 97 240sx is in perfect working condition. This 4 Cyl. 2.4 Liters engine with manual transmission has only 59500 original miles and runs very, very smooth. This 240sx looks like it just came off the assembly line. A clean car, non-smoker owned, always garaged and very well babied. It was driven by my wife, so this was never raced or involved in any kind of accidents. The car has manual transmission and has only 59500 original miles. VIN# jn1as44dxvw103159.
Here you can find a lot of pics with the car: http://s253.photobucket.com/albums/hh74/mjim452/
(if the above link does not work copy and paste it into a new web browser window)
So if you will decide to buy the car, I want the deal closed only through eBay. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it, eBay will release the payment to me, in this way we are both protected. I signed up for US military forces and I was sent here with my department to improve the military relations between our country and Croatia. I am located in Zagreb, Croatia. In December, my wife moved here with me and now we have to sell it because we need the cash here for personal reasons and registering here would cost too much; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever.
My final price on it is $2960 US (there is no typo). If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. From the moment the payment is secured by eBay the shipping process will begin and it will arrive at your address in about 3-4 days. Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy and include in your e-mail your full name and complete address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Thanks, Jim Mohan “
here are two other names that I have come across that this guy may be using. Randy Groover is one and another is Steve Donald is the other. I hope this will help someone.
I contacted my local news station about these “offers”, but I haven’t heard back yet. I don’t know where all of you live, but it might be worth it to contact your news stations as well. Maybe if we put out enough news about this guy they can find out who he is and put a stop to this. Also, I just learned about another scam today on the news. Apparantly someone is sending out emails saying there is a hit on you and if you pay them a certain amount of money, you will be safe and they will disclose who put the hit on you. Just be careful, it’s scary what people are resorting to.
Why do people have to be such assholes???
Here is the scam that I was getting pulled into!!!
Hello and sorry for my delay,
I`m Sgt. Michael Ramsey .The 2003 Toyota Camry XLE 4 Cyl. is in perfect working condition.This detailed vehicle makes the exterior look like it just came off the assembly line.The car has only 44298 original miles.VIN Number: 4T1BE32K23U668921
It was never involved in any accident, not even minor ones. The body and paint are great. The interior is super clean, mechanically, it runs like a cat on carpet.
Options
Cassette player Leather seats Sunroof Driver airbag
Passenger airbag Anti-lock brakes Side airbags Air conditioning
Cruise control Power locks Power seats Power windows
PICS: http://s265.photobucket.com/albums/ii217/2003camryN/
As I know that my current situation is pretty special I want the deal closed only through eBay’s Buyer Protection Program in order for you to be 100% protected. You will make the payment to eBay and they will hold the money until you receive the car. ONLY AFTER you receive the car and you inspect it(for 10 days) eBay will release the payment to me; in this way we are both protected. Anyway i am sure that if you will don`t be satisfied about the car i will surely find another buyer in your area and there will be no need for you to ship the car back. I am located in Zagreb,Croatia and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between USA and Croatia. One months ago, my wife moved here with me and brought the car with her, but now we have to sell it back in the United States because we can’t register it here; it has US specs and everything, and registering it here in Europe will take for ever. My final price on it is US 2,950 $. If you will take it for this price, I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area and then it will be trucked forward to your place. From the moment the payment is secured by eBay the shipping process will begin and it will arrive at your address in about 3 max. 4 business day Please get back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your full name and address where you want it shipped so I can start the deal with eBay. You will receive all the transaction payment and shipping details from them.
Thank you and have a great day,
Michael Ramsey
Here’s a response from a CL post I saw, too good to be true…
Hi,
The car is located in Pittsburgh PA, my car is in perfect condition (no
scratches, no special marks, no need for additional repairs what so
ever, it has no accident or any engine problem). It has 41K miles and
the VIN# is: JT2BK18U630076707. The asking price is $2,790. To complete
the payment you must have cash available. We will make this deal only
under Global Payments Inc protection because is more safe. If you
already decided to buy my car please send me your full name and your
full address and I will start a transaction with them.
I have the pictures hosted on the net and you can see them at :
http://s304.photobucket.com/albums/nn193/ToyotaPriusHYBRID_photos/?start=all
Thanks,
Karen Gaus
Here’s an inquiry and response. I should offer $5.35 for the car…
Karen
I have a question. Why are you selling the car for
more than 10,000 below the kelly blue book value?
http://www.kbb.com/KBB/UsedCars/PricingReport.aspx?ManufacturerId=49&YearId=2003&VehicleClass=UsedCar&VehicleId=3193&PriceType=Private+Party&ModelId=292&Mileage=41000&SelectionHistory=3193%7c24488%7c14534%7c0%7c0%7c&Condition=Good&QuizConditions=
Response…
Hi,
I sell the car so cheap due some circumstances in my life. I had an
accident and I lost my hearing. Don’t worry the accident wasn’t in the
Prius.
Let me explain you how the Global Payments Inc process works.
The process works something like this:
1. You send the payment deposit to an Global Payments Inc
representative.
2. Global Payments Inc will confirm me that you have made the deposit.
3. I will ship the car so you can Inspect, test and make a decision if
you will keep it or not.
4. If you will not get exactly the same car that you have viewed in the
ad, and also a clean title you will receive all your money back from
Global Payments Inc.
5. If everything is ok Global Payments Inc will get the approval from
you to release me the funds.
If you agree with this process please let me know your full name and
address and I will forward the details to Global Payments Inc.
Thank you,
Karen
Scammers suck….
What is this with accidents that causes the lost of hearing…
WHAT WE ALL NEED TO DO is flag them when we see these ads on Craigslist. It takes more than one flag to remove a post, so please help out by simply clicking on the flag for “Prohibited” ads. If we are diligent in flagging, they will get tired of posting. It is unfortunate that we even have to flag, but I LOVE craigslist and I am offended that the scammers are using it. We can unofficially call ourselves the CPA – Craigslist Policing Authority! 🙂
We are the CPAs 🙂 i like it.
I just found a car that would of been a wonderful deal, but I found out that it was a scam. Car was 2004 Lexus IS-300 with 56k miles on it and the amount they were asking for it was $2800. Great right?! I dont think so. I immediately emailed the post and asked if the price was right because the car was worth over $10,000 more than what they were asking. Here is what they emailed me back
The 2004 Lexus IS-300 is located in Cambridge OH, and it is in perfect
condition, with no need for additional repairs, no scratches, dings,
special marks whatsoever. It has 56K miles and the VIN is:
JTHBD192240086813. It has a clear title ready to be signed and notarized
on your name. I have the pictures hosted on the net and you can see them
at: http://s286.photobucket.com/albums/ll111/LexusIS-300/?start=all
The price is $2,800 including shipping costs anywhere in the
continental US. There are no other costs regarding this transaction.
The transaction will be closed only through a 3rd party and this way
we will both be protected. My time is limited due to my job in the army
so I decided to use a service from Global Payments Inc. To begin the
transaction I’ll need your full name and shipping address. I will
forward the details of our transaction to Global Payments Inc and then
you will receive an invoice from them. The car will be shipped insured
to your location with DAS and you will have 5 days for inspection.
Best regards, Judi Hanes
I, then, emailed them back asking a couple questions regarding the reason as to why they were getting rid of the car, and why the price was as low as it was. I also asked if I was able to come see the car, and if i find it worth buying, I would then go through the transaction. Immediately replied:
The only way to purchase the car is trough Global Payments Inc as the
shipping process was already prearranged.
If the car is not as described or there is something wrong with the car
I will pay the shipping back and you will have a full refund from Global
Payments Inc, but I’m not worried about that, the car is gorgeous in
perfect condition. Again all I need to proceed with this is your full
name and shipping address. If you are no longer interested let me know
as I have several other potential buyers.
Thank you,
Judi
I google searched the VIN # and I found out that the vehicle was actually in VA, and is being sold for $19,900(price better suited for the car). I also noticed that the pictures on the photobucket website are the same exact photos on the used dealership website.
I found a listing on craigslist and the also got the similar response. I googled the VIN number ( 4T1BE32K23U668921 ) given in the reply and found this site.
Thanks for sharing the information.
It it sound too good to be true, then probably it is.
BTW, the VIN number I got in the scam reply was valid (as checked on carfax) so someone is going extra length to setup the scam. Probably we should notify authorities so that they can take some action.
I have already reported it to craigslist. Hopefully they can do something about it.
The scam is still up and running. I found a 2002 Honda Accord for way below book price. I discovered a Sgt. Martin in London who wants to sell it to me and have it shipped back to the states and once again using the Ebay Protection Plan, however it is not an Ebay sale. I appreciate your blog on this because it certainly helps.
So buyers beware! April 14, 2008
Still more – look out for Edward Mitchell of Englishtown NJ who is selling asap his perfect 44k miles Corolla (immaculate photos, no plates) for $2890 because he’s being deployed to Afghanistan in may. Offes to meet him half way to inspect ignored…..
Also Daniel Gleason, in Utah who will ship his Honda Accord at no cost because his brother works for the shippers and he gets one freebie per year and you are the lucky beneficiary. Oh, and he is selling so low to pay for his son’s hospital bills. One of the immac photos shows 2 guys who would never have been named Daniel Gleason in their country of origin….
i knew it was too good to be true! im going to ry to make this guy jump through some hoops and ask for his name rank and serial number. thanks for the heads up and every one who posted here!!
Can we shut these people down for false advertising and rip-off scams? And to think this was posted on Craig’s List which is supposed to be a reputable site–how shameful! Thanks for your posting. You have saved a lot of folks from heading to attorneys!