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….
After much research and googling I think I have discovered at least some of what’s going on here. I too noticed one of those “too good to be true” craigslist ads and like many of you decided to do some research. It seems that “they”, whoever they are, steal the pics and info from legitimate used car dealers who have posted the details and pics to their own sites, repackage them to photobucket and start running ads. Several of the VINS above as well as the one I was looking at, are from Texas, one dealership in particular. While that may be a coincidence, it may also be that the person or persons doing this is in some way attached to that dealership or at least that area.
I hope some authority gets involved and investigates this and grabs this sob and puts em away for a long time.
Hello,
I`m Sgt. Peter J Loranty. You have to know that the 2004 Honda Accord EX 3.0L V6 Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 35,863 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM66594A025570. 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.
Options
5-Speed Automatic Transmission Premium Sound With CD Changer Sunroof Dual Zone Climate Control Air Conditioning Climate Control Heated Seats Telescoping Steering Wheel Tilt Steering Wheel Traction Control
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s400.photobucket.com/albums/pp88/2004havv/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2970. 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 4 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 nice day,
Peter and Maria Loranty
so the one above is a little different, but basically the same thing. it all seemed fishy and that was when i entered his name on google and came up with this site. i had emailed the person about a car but they sent me the pics of a completly different car. this is dissappointing but a relief all the same.
yup, this deal is from Baltimore if it weren’t for my awesome cousin Huy, i’d probably have lost a lot of money.
From: michael i
Date: Tue, 25 Nov 2008 17:50:45 -0600
Subject: RE: hi there! about your craigslist posting!
To: Francois
Hello there and thanks for your interest!First of all let me introduce
myself, so that you know to whom you are talking to. My name is
Charles Manley.
As you’ve probably already seen on my ad, the price I’m looking for my
1999 Acura Integra is $2800. The car has ONLY 58,184 miles with manual
transmission. The mileage on this vehicle is accurately represented.
Clean smell never been smoked in. This vehicle doesn’t have any signs
of prior collision damage, has been garaged. Starts fast and runs
flawlessly with smooth acceleration. There is not a skip or anything
but smoothness in this vehicle’s transmission. There are no electrical
problems with this vehicle whatsoever. The exterior of car is clean,
better than average. Clean interior that is in good shape . The tires
will last for years on this vehicle. All the leather is in excellent
condition. All power options are in working order. All windows and
sunroof motors work flawless.Exterior •Green with aluminum alloy
wheels •Paint is in great condition. Features & Options •1.8L V-TEC
DOHC Engine •Tan Leather Interior (Excellent Condition) •Air
Conditioning •Cruise Control •Moonroof •Sunroof•Tilt Steering Wheel
•Clock •Tachometer Power Equipment •Power Steering •Power Windows
•Power Locks •Power Mirrors Safety Features •Anti-Lock Brakes
•Driver’s Air Bag •Passenger Air Bag •Intermittent Wipers •Rear
Defogger Interior •Leather Steering Wheel •Cruise Control in Steering
Wheel •AM/FM •CD Player
In case it gets sold I will take care of shipping.I am selling the
acura because my platoon has been sent back to Iraq and I have no use
for it anymore plus i want to buy another car in several months. The
price is low because I need to sell it before December 15.
I will only conclude the transaction through eBay Purchase Protection
for our own protection. They act as a neutral third party. I shall
explain to you the process, so that you know what you are getting
into!If we decide to proceed with this transaction, i will have to
contact eBay and provide them all the necessary information, so they
can start the process right away. I will be needing your full name and
address for that. You will receive a notification from eBay shortly
after that, together with all the instructions to follow and the
invoice as well.Regarding the payment, you will be instructed to
deposit the money to an eBay account. They will hold and insure your
money until you receive the car in good condition.That is how their
buyer protection policy is working. As far as the seller concerns, i
will be glad to know that eBay has the possession of the money during
the delivery period. That is my insurance.As soon as i will have the
confirmation from eBay that the funds have been deposited to their
account, i will immediately start the shipping process.I am willing to
handle the shipping. It will be shipped by plane with US Air Military
Cargo so it will not cost me anything, because i am a Capt. with US
Airborne Division. You will get it to the nearest airport in your area
and then it will be trucked forward to your place.The acura will be
delivered to your address in no more than 2-3 working days.You will be
given a 15 days inspection period from the day you receive the car at
home.If you decide to hold it, then you will have to authorize eBay to
release the funds to me, and the transaction will be completed. If you
will not be satisfied with it, you will be able to send the car back
through US Air Military Cargo, and ask eBay to return the funds to
you.Though i am sure you will love it and will not want to return the
acura, it is good to know that you do have this second option
available.Again I want to point out that because i am going to Iraq, i
am after a fast transaction, with no delays. That is why i decided to
lower the price, to avoid wasting time with negotiations and find a
buyer as soon as possible.If you wish to proceed with the
purchase,please provide me your full name and address so I can
initiate the deal through eBay right away.
I look forward to hearing from you.Warm Regards,Capt. Charles Manley
PS. if you need see pics just Click:
http://s303.photobucket.com/albums/nn147/1999_Acura_Integra_GSR/
I had the same experiencce, Saw car on Craig’s list. Responded. Military Personell. Depositied Money w/ Western Union. Received response from ebay acknowledging depoirt. Sent receipt to fax. Cheated out of $2,950. — How come the fax number cannot be identitfied in terms of ownership?
Jim, did you report this to authorities? There should be a record of who the fax number is assigned to.
THANK YOU for this blog. It just saved my brother in law $5K. See the messages he got below also in response to a Craigslist sale of a minivan. WOW – this scam is going on a long time. I couldn’t find it on snopes though. Thanks!
1st Email from him:
Hello,
Thank you for your interest in my car. This is a 2005 Honda Odyssey EX with 28,225 miles, garage kept. Non-smoker & no pets. Well maintained. Fully loaded w/RES&voice activated NAV. Navi has latest v4.62 software. Stereo, A/C, nav/res can be controlled from the steering wheel. RES has 2-pair of wireless headphones. Passengers can watch movies or listen to their music, while driver listens to different music source. Back-up camera w/display on nav screen. Front/rear parking sensors. Very clean interior. Power everything. VIN# : 5FNRL38445B006268.
Here you can find more pictures of the car: http://s430.photobucket.com/albums/qq27/OdysseyEX2005/
(if the above link does not work copy and paste it into a new web browser window)
It has never been involved in an accident.The engine starts and drives like new and the paint looks great. It comes with US clear title which will be signed and notorized in the buyer’s name. I’m an US Air Force SSgt. currently stationed in United Kingdom.The car is here with me. It was bought in the US and shipped to Europe, but it was never permanently registered here, the car is still registered in the US.The car is for sale locally as well, but there are slim chances of this to happen. In order to be able to register this car here in UK the buyer would have to pay very high import/custom taxes that will double the price. So I decided to sell the car back in the US.
The final price is $4,850.00 including shipping from UK to the US and delivery to your home address.
So if you decide to buy this car or need further information please get back to me as soon as possible.
Thank you and have a great day
SSgt.James Hammond
2ND Email From him:
Hi,
I will have the car shipped from UK by an US Air Force cargo plane so there won’t be any additional shipping costs. Also I will arrange for a truck to transport the car to your home address or, if you like, you can pick it up from the nearest airport in your area. The shipping will take 6-8 days, depending on your location.Shipping will be door to door,to your home address,somebody must be home when the car arrives to sign for the reception.The car will arrive with all the papers and documents required for registration and the keys. The clear title and the bill of sale will be already signed by me.
The payment will be done through eBay.You will send the money to eBay and as soon as the payment is confirmed they will notify me to proceed with the shipping. I will ship the car, you will receive it and you will have 5 days for inspection, both the car and the paperwork and the option to accept or reject the car.The inspection time period will begin as soon as you sign for receiving the car at your requested address.During all this time eBay will hold the money into a trust account.So, this is not a blind transaction,you can see the car before decided to buy it.If you are satisfied with the car and decide to keep it you inform eBay about this and they will release the money to me. If the car is not as advertised and decide not to keep it eBay will refund you the money, no questions asked, and shipping back the car will be my concern. I think this is more than fair for the both of us.Please take into consideration that I will get paid only after you receive the car and make sure everything is as agreed.
If you agree with these terms and you have the money, send me your full name and the address where you want the car to be delivered to and I will initiate the transaction with eBay. You will receive all the transaction details from them.
I will appreciate an answer as soon as possible.
Thank you
Thank you so much for posting this blog! We too answered an online ad thru craigslist and got the exact same email, and I think it’s from the same “SSgt”. I told my husband right of the bat that this a scam. He wanted to investigate further. He was iffy about it as well, because it was too good to be true! So thank you for confirming for us that this is fraud!
Thank you for your bloc. Here is the latest scam which I almost fell for it. This is a word by word response to my email inquiring about an ad in Craigslist. The strange thing is that after I agreed to purchase the car and then eBay sent me an email with all the detailed instructions.
“Hello,
I`m Sgt. John M. Bray.You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord EX 4 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 37,391 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM56603A136574. 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.
Options
CD player Leather seats Sunroof
Driver airbag Passenger airbag Side airbags
Anti-lock brakes Air conditioning Cruise control
Power locks Power seats Power windows
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s479.photobucket.com/albums/rr155/honda2003ex/
(if 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 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 Toronto,Canada and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Canada. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2960. 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 2 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 nice day,
John M. and Nora Bray”
Keni I have a similar story, but a slightly different car, the email is almsot exactly the same, Loranty strikes again! I find it awful that someone would do this, I got my hopes up about a car expeciialy because I really need one and boom, I found out this guy is a scammer……..
Hello,
I`m Sgt. Peter J Loranty. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord EX 3.0L V6 Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 71,566 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM66503A005559. 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.
Options
CD player Sunroof Leather seats
Side airbags Passenger airbag Driver airbag
Anti-lock brakes Air conditioning Power windows
Power seats Power locks Cruise control
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s708.photobucket.com/albums/ww85/2003haccc/
(if 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 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 Toronto,Canada and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Canada. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2990. 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 2 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 nice day,
Peter and Maria Loranty
LOL I got the same crap about this guy Joe Mocar.
Email Address: [email protected]
I found out at the beginning that this was a scam so I played along with it. This was for a 1997 Toyota Supra for $2500. Way to cheap for a $30,000-$70,000 car. So, I created false personal information and created a fake money order, fake reciept, and a fake money transfer form. The guy prolly things all this is legit hahaha his last repsonse was
“I will verify this money transfer I hope this will be ok for you. If money gram can confirm that this money transfer is available I will proceed with the shipment to:”-Feb 6, 2009
I’m still waiting for his response, which I probably won’t get till later this weekend hopefully.
Here are my false information that I gave him:
[Money Order]
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b323/EatShitItTastesGood/MoneyOrderCopy.jpg?t=1233903324
[Money Tranfer Form]
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b323/EatShitItTastesGood/MoneyGramTransfer.jpg?t=1233952720
[Reciept]
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b323/EatShitItTastesGood/MoneyGramReciept.jpg?t=1233954610
******************************************************************************************
Anyways here’s the entire email so far
******************************************************************************************
I will verify this money transfer I hope this will be ok for you. If money gram can confirm that this money transfer is available I will proceed with the shipment to: Angela Droks
4547 Rio st. La Verne, CA 91750
Thank you so much
On Fri, Feb 6, 2009 at 11:11 PM, wrote:
Oh and before I forget, here’s the reciept that came with it. Anything else before I get my car?
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b323/EatShitItTastesGood/MoneyGramReciept.jpg?t=1233954610
—–Original Message—–
From: Joe Mocar
To: [email protected]
Sent: Fri, 6 Feb 2009 12:22 pm
Subject: Re: 1997 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo 6 SPEED – Price: $2,500
That is not a proof for me… a friend of mine was scammed with a fake money order… nobody can confirm me that is real… if she make an MONEY TRANSFER how I’ve asked before I can to verify online … so please do not try to scam me because I don’t need that! We had a deal… she go and make a money transfer and give me the receipt… but now you give me a money order that I cannot verify anywhere… Sorry but I am not stupid to lose my car.
Good luck
On Fri, Feb 6, 2009 at 8:14 PM, wrote:
Thats all they gave my friend. You wanted proof that she has the funds so I showed you her proof. You cannot do a money order unless you have the funds available on the date. So this shows that she does have the funds available. She will do a money transfer after she gets the car.
—–Original Message—–
From: Joe Mocar
To: [email protected]
Sent: Fri, 6 Feb 2009 2:12 am
Subject: Re: 1997 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo 6 SPEED – Price: $2,500
I don’t see a MONEY TRANSFER receipt! So we do not have any deal! This I cannot verify is real!
On Fri, Feb 6, 2009 at 9:26 AM, wrote:
Sorry the link does not work for the other email
here it is again:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b323/EatShitItTastesGood/MoneyOrderCopy.jpg?t=1233903324
Her name is Angela Droks
4547 Rio st. La Verne, CA 91750
—–Origi nal Message—–
From: Joe=2 0Mocar
To: [email protected]
Sent: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 2:39 pm
Subject: Re: 1997 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo 6 SPEED – Price: $2,500
Yes, I confirm that you or her should to make a money transfer and let me see that you really made it. Once I see the receipt I will ship the car. After you or her get the car you have to go at money gram and resend the money to me.
Thank you so much
On Fri, Feb 6, 2009 at 12:13 AM, wrote:
Ok you seem like an honest person. But like I said before I will not be purchasing the car. My friend is the one that will and I’m sure she has the funds available I just need to talk with her. I will let you know what her response is ASAP.
So just to make things sure, all you want right now is to show proof that she has the funds available through money gram right? And then from there she sends you a reciept of the money, you ship the car, and then=2 0she pays you when she gets the car?
=0 A
—–Original Message—–
From: Joe Mocar
To: [email protected]
Sent: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 1:48 pm
Subject: Re: 1997 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo 6 SPEED – Price: $2,500
I understand your concerns and I agree with you but you also must understand that I have to be sure that you have the money available and willing to pay me. Only then I will ship the car to you! If you are an undoubtfull, serious buyer, you surely have nothing worry about. I really hope this is true. Moreover, I was thinking, if you don’t feel alright about this deal it’s only natural that I feel nervous too.
So, this is what I have in mind: if you don’t feel safe with my first proposal, you should go to a Money Gram agency and make a money transfer of $2,500 to a relative, best friend or to someone you trust.
Please visit: http://www.moneygram.com/eFindUs/findUs.do to find the nearest Money Gram agency.
This way you can show=2 0me in few minutes that you have all the money available and in same time you’ll feel safe about your money. Just send to me a copy of the receipt that20you will receive at money gram when you make the money transfer (as proof that you have the money).
Once20I see the receipt I will ship the car to your location, you will also receive the title, you will have 10 days to inspect, test drive it, take it to a mechanic, after 10 days you have to decide if you will keep it or not!
If you will keep it (witch I am 100% you will) then you will go at the money gram and resend the money to me. When you resend the money take the money transfer fees from the amount you send to me.
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.
We have a deal?
You will inspect the car in person before I get paid, I cannot do more than this…
On Thu, Feb 5, 2009 at 11:45 PM, wrote:
Well one thing is because I am not the one who will be buying the car, its a friend who is interested in20it. There’s is nothing wrong with asking someone for their number when buying a car. Al so it’s not common to see a perfectly maintained supra for $2,500. My brother has been scammed with ebay and paypal asking for his information about some issues with his account. And in turn, he lost $120. 0I’m not saying that the car is a scam but it does not mean I have no concerns.
—–Original Message—–
From: Joe Mocar
To: [email protected]
Sent: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 1:35 pm
Subject: Re: 1997 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo 6 SPEED – Price: $2,500
You know what.. seems you are difficult person… I don’t want to waste my time.
On Thu, Feb 5, 2009 at 11:32 PM, wrote:
If I give you my shipping details, then what would I do next? Where would I pay? Why haven’t you provided a phone number?
—–Original Message—–
From: Joe Mocar
To: [email protected]
Sent: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 1:27 pm
Subject: Re: 1997 Toyota Supra Twi n Turbo 6 SPEED – Price: $2,500
You don’t feel safe to give me the shipment details? that’s cool… I will ship the car where? I do not relist the car on ebay so…
Good luck
On Thu, Feb 5, 2009 at 11:19 PM, wrote:
Ok this all sounds good to me but why haven’t you posted this car up on eBay yet? I don’t feel safe giving personal information as it is already stored in my eBay account. What is your phone number so that I can reach you? Also, why is there multiple listings of the same car in different states??
—–Original Message—–
From: Joe Mocar
To: [email protected]
Sent: Thu, 5 Feb 2009 4:46 am
Subject : Re: 1997 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo 6 SPEED – Price: $2,500
I`m SSGT=2 0Joe Mocar. You have to know that the car I am selling is i n a perfect cos metic and eng ine condition and meticulously maintained. No damage, no scratches or dents, no hidden20defects, the engine runs and sounds awesome. The title is clear. It has 89,972 miles. The VIN# is JT2DE82A2V1000101
The only problem is my current situation. I was an US Air Force reserve and I was recently recalled to serve in United Kingdom. I’ve brought the car with me, but now I have to sell it back in the US because nobody interested in buying a left hand drive and for the registration I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes.
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 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.
My final price on it is $ 2500 and I am willing to handle the shipping. It will be20shipped from here by plane with US Air Military Cargo so it will not cost me anything. You will receive the car in about 5-7 days to the nearest airport in your area and then it will=2 0be trucked forward to your place.
Please get=2 0back to me asap if you decide to buy, and include in your e-mail your=2 0full 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.
P.S.: If you don’t like the eBay idea we can try find something else just in case you are a serious buyer and you have all the money available.
Thank you and have a nice day,
On Thu, Feb 5, 2009 at 8:45 AM, wrote:
Hello, this is Henry Lugo and I am interested in the Toyota supra that you are selling. Judging by the pictures and information provided the vehicle looks in really good condition. I’m curious about the price though. Why is it so low? Is there a mistake on the price advertised or is there something wrong with the car that was not mentioned in the description? Thank you.
*******************************************************************************************
Hahaha I can just see him printing out my fake information and wasting his time verifying if the money transfer. I bet he’s all exciting. I wish I could do something much more harmful though : [
At least I’ll make him feel stupid hahaha
LOL! Good job. At least he knows that people are on to him.
this happen too me to those damn ass whole !!! i was really happy finding a white honda for 2900 for the year 2005 the changed their ad up to to being in spain now ugh im so mad hope they get karma !!!!!! just for trying to scam people
Thanks for posting this the guy sent me the same email! I did give him my address but nothing more.. so I hope I didn’t screw myself.. I was just excited about getting a good car for so cheap! eff me!
Seriously, I am SO HAPPY I came across this site and information. I did get the same email, having emailed someone regarding a car I saw on Craigslist. Anyway, I was searching this military freak’s name on Google when I came across this site. Thanks so much. I hope more people do their homework BEFORE buying a car and BEFORE replying to emails with their information. I even order the history on the car paying $25 and found that the car was actually from Texas. Anyway, need to be careful.
Glad I found this site. I responded to an add on craigslist local to Port Huron MI…This is the response I recived…so very similar to every one elses
Hello there and thank you for your interest. I am selling my 2007 Black Honda Civic LX Sedan in immaculate condition with only 29,000 miles, VIN number: 1HGFA165X7L134766 , rust free, no scratch and hasn’t been involved in any accident. It has always been garage kept. Engine is a 1.8-Liter i-VTEC(TM), I4, 16-Valve, SOHC, MPFI Engine. The interior looks great .The car has never been smoked in or involved in an accident. I recently had the oil changed so it is in perfect condition. The tires are like new. This car doesn’t need anything else and it comes with a CLEAN title that will be signed and notarized on your name as soon as the payment will be completed. My name is Kevin Sanders and I’m an US Navy Lieutenant currently stationed in Mayport NS base, near Jacksonville, Florida. I’ve decided to sell it because I will be deployed to Afghanistan and this car needs to be driven, not left over to rust in some garage. I must sell it before February 28th. I want this transaction to be smooth and I want to have a serious buyer involved also. Time is an important thing for me and I don’t want to waste any of it with endless discussions. I believe $3,800 with all transit fees included anywhere in the continental US included is more than a fair price. This is a large amount of money and I would like to conduct the deal using an authorized third party like eBay with their Purchase Protection Program, in order to eliminate any trust issues and insure an overall safety of the sale. The third party will keep the payment until the purchase is final, and you test and accept the car. If you will not get the car as described, and also if you find any reasons to refuse the car, you will get your money back instantly. To be able to use this program you need to qualify. I have been approved 3 years ago and I was very satisfied with this service. So, if you are interested in buying my car just let me know your name and shipping address. I will forward them to eBay’s protection program and wait for the approval. You can reach me at (904)-425-9765. Thank you, Lt. Kevin Sanders P.S. You can see more pictures of the car here: http://s673.photobucket.com/albums/vv93/ussmil/civicLX2007
What would happen if I called? hmmm…
My instant reaction was scam, but then I second guessed myself because it all was local and not a foreign country…even did a reverse lookup on the phone number…it is a Jacksonville FL number. Instead of responding to the email…I just looked for scams that were similar and confirmed my inital feeling.
Thank you everyone.
I googled “Sgt. Peter J Loranty” because I thought the email I received about the 2003 Honda Accord was a scam. I am so glad I did! I feel bad for the poor people who believe these a-holes and send the money! This is the e-mail I received.
Hello,
I`m Sgt. Peter J Loranty. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord EX 6 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 99,700 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM66813A071919. 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.
Standard Equipment
Leather Dual Zone Air Conditioning Power Door Locks
Cruise Control Power Steering AM/FM Radio
Air Conditioning Power Windows
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s628.photobucket.com/albums/uu5/2003haaca/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2960. 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 4 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 nice day,
Peter and Maria Loranty
Hey, just letting everyone know…
I got roped into another one of these, luckily nothing further than what can be found in any phone book. Name/Address. Same deal but with a different name:
Sgt James Helms in the UK
Email address: [email protected]
I’m not fluent on whether or not anything can be done to these people, but I’d like to see THEIR inbox spammed beyond belief just so they have to come up with another name.
The more names that are put here, the more likely someone doing a search will find this page.
Luckily I didn’t throw down any money and I didn’t give any passwords or sensitive information.
PS… Another way to verify if someone is in the military or not is to have them send an email from a (dot)mil account and have it digitally signed. If it is genuine then the digital cert should show that it is routed through DoD servers. Not a sure fire way to check, but another tool in the arsenal.
thank you for whoever started this website. I almost just bought into this scam and then my mom typed in the VIN number and here popped up the sight.
i didnt get sorry for my delay but good thing i looked up the person because im pretty syre both of mine were scams 2 cuz i wrote someone about 2 different cars and the same person wrote the same stuff to me but how do they get all the info like vin number and all that? and there were pictures of the paper where the cars were checked out and stuf…crazy.
but thanks for posting this.
And again, I got 2 of these… When google searching the man’s name, your website came up. Wow, this is enough to keep me from getting my first car…
See below 🙁
Alert craigslist!!!
Hello,
I`m Sgt. Kevin J Loranty. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord LX 4 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 92,858 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM56393A012115 .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.
Options
Power Door Locks Cruise Control Power Steering CD AM/FM Radio Air Conditioning Power Windows Options CD player Safety features Passenger airbag Driver airbag Anti-lock brakes
Power Options Air conditioning Power windows Power locks Cruise control
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s413.photobucket.com/albums/pp219/2003hondaaccca/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2970. 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 4 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 nice day,
Kevin and Maria Loranty
AND
Hello and sorry for my delay,
I’m SGT James Kreimier. This Accord EX 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 87,147 miles. VIN Number: 1HGCM56663A102462
CD player Anti-lock brakes Driver Airbag Leather Sunroof
Passenger airbag Side airbags Air conditioning Cruise control
Power locks Power windows
Here are the pics of the car:
http://s389.photobucket.com/albums/oo337/gg12s/
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 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 Madrid, Spain and I was sent here with my department of peace maintenance. 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 2960 USD. 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,
James and Elizabeth Kreimier
Hello,
Thank you everyone for your postings of this scam. I recvd a response from a guy selling a 97 SUPRA for $2500. Like you, he wanted me to go through the ebay ave for payments…..
I am so thankful that there are people like you who are caring and thoughtful enough to take the time out to warn others about this innocent, hard working, and trusting people out of their money.
Thank you for saving my 16 years old teenage son’s from being ripped off by these patheticm discpicable and evil-hearted crooks. My son’s started saving his every penny he got for his birthday, Christmas, special occasions and odd jobs….for the past 3 years so he could buy his 1st car.
I pray that many will be able to benefit from these postings and please do not stop posting your comments – people needs to know.
Here’s the response I recvd from “SSgt Jonathan Cruz” at [email protected]
He wrote:
“I`m SSgt Jonathan Cruz. You have to know that the car I am selling is in a perfect cosmetic and engine condition and meticulously maintained. No damage, no scratches or dents, no hidden defects, the engine runs and sounds awesome. The title is clear. It has 89,972 miles. The VIN# is JT2DE82A2V1000101
The only problem is my current situation. I was an US Air Force reserve and I was recently recalled to serve in United Kingdom. I’ve brought the car with me, but now I have to sell it back in the US because nobody interested in buying a left hand drive and for the registration I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes.”…..
I hope your son finds a good car. He sounds like a good boy. We found a car for our son from a used car dealer. It was not a fantastic deal, but it’s a good car.
Thank you for your excerpts. I felt that it was too good to be true and looked up an acura on craigslist through google and your site came up. Thankyou for taking the time to write about you experience, you have helped many people! Including myself!
I AM SO THANKFUL YOU POSTED THIS!!!!!!!!! i was so close to pursuing this. I can’t even believe how many other people have posted the exact email I received. I am so thankful!!!! Google saves lives! Here’s mine!:
Hello,
I`m Sgt. Kevin J Loranty. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord LX 4 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 92,858 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM56393A012115 .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.
Options
Power Door Locks Cruise Control Power Steering CD AM/FM Radio Air Conditioning Power Windows Options CD player Safety features Passenger airbag Driver airbag Anti-lock brakes
Power Options Air conditioning Power windows Power locks Cruise control
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s413.photobucket.com/albums/pp219/2003hondaaccca/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2970. 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 4 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 nice day,
Kevin and Maria Loranty
info on robert whatever scamming everybody scam artist, his gig is up. I know who you are and where your busines is.
Domain Name………. onlinevehiclepurchaseworld.com
Creation Date…….. 2008-05-02
Registration Date…. 2008-05-02
Expiry Date………. 2009-05-02
Organisation Name…. Jordan Manolakis
Organisation Address. 6043 Kimberly Blvd.
Organisation Address.
Organisation Address. North Lauderdale
Organisation Address. 33068
Organisation Address. FL
Organisation Address. UNITED STATES
Admin Name……….. Jordan Manolakis
Admin Address…….. 6043 Kimberly Blvd.
Admin Address……..
Admin Address…….. North Lauderdale
Admin Address…….. 33068
Admin Address…….. FL
Admin Address…….. UNITED STATES
Admin Email……….
Admin Phone………. +1.9549876453
Admin Fax…………
Tech Name………… – Yahoo! Security Lock
Tech Address……… 701 First Ave.
Tech Address………
Tech Address……… Sunnyvale
Tech Address……… 94089
Tech Address……… CA
Tech Address……… UNITED STATES
Tech Email………..
Tech Phone……….. +1.6198813096
Tech Fax………….
Name Server………. yns1.yahoo.com
Name Server………. yns2.yahoo.com
This is affiliated with the following:
http://www.industrynet.com/info.asp?CID=247043
robert woods address, is listed to a catina hunt, 7600 creekbend dr apt 213 houston tx 713-778-0533
I got scamed I recieved an email from a claudia marx regarding a 2004 civic here is her emails
Hello,
I have received your email regarding the 2004 Honda Civic with only 45,989 miles.
The car is in perfect condition,with no scratches on it,no damage, clear title.
The price for the car is $3,400 with shipping included.
The car was my husband`s as he loved it very much, but he did not enjoy it as he died in a IRAQ 3 month ago. It brings very bad memories to me, I want to get rid of it.
The buyer will receive the car with all papers and receipts that he needs to register it to his name.
Shipping will be done whit DAS and it will take no more then 2-3 days. I have a friend there who will manage me a low price shipping and I assumed that it is my duty to pay for shipping it.It will be delivered directly to your address.
Anyway, I have to let you know that I want a fast deal so if you are really interested in buying it,please reply with the following information’s:
-Your full name;
-Your shipping address.(street,city,state,zip code)
The transaction will close only through ebay so we both will be protected.
I want ebay because as they are the biggest company on the internet I think that we can close this deal fast and safe for both of us. Also I am not very familiar with the internet transactions and ebay is the only one I know.
I will look for your email,so that we can move forward with this deal!
Let me know.
Regards,
Claudia
Hi Lisa,
I have forwarded your details to eBay and they will contact you with an invoice soon!let me know when you get it.The shipping is free i will take care of it and i will send the car with all the papers vehicle registration, warranty papers,transfer papers etc.
Best regards,
Claudia
Hi Lisa,
don´t worry, it´s normal to have questions. The money will be sent to an eBay agent. After the payment is confirmed and secured by eBay I will start the shipping. The car will be in front at your door in max 5 days. From the moment you receive the car you have a 5 days inspection period. After the 5 days you have to decide if you want to keep the car or not. If you’ll keep the car the payment will be released to me. In case you will not like the car and decide not to keep it you will have to ship the car back and you will be fully refunded. If you can pay 2800 it´s ok.
Oh…I almost forgot…Look, I’ll sell to you a TIP: when you’ll go to Money Gram to wire the money, if they will ask you who you’ll send the money, tell them that you’ll send the money to a friend to avoid the fees for the business transfer, because after you receive the car and eBay Purchase Protection forward me the money, Money Gram will charge me HIGH fees if they will know that we have a deal !!!
Thanks for helping me too…
Hi again Lisa,
eBay has already confirmed that you have sent the payment. I will come back with an e-mail soon and reply with instructions regarding the shipping details.
Thank you
Claudia
her email address is [email protected] and her agent for ebays email address is [email protected] eBay Purchase Protection Program Case id # 149589855â€
these are from Jennifer Green the fake ebay agent
How to make the payment?
1. Locate the nearest Money Gram Office.
2. Make the payment with cash using thee Bay Purchase Protection agent details:
Agent first name: Jennifer
Agent last name: Green
Agent street: 2145 Hamilton Avenue
Agent city: San Jose,CA
Agent zip: 95125
Agent country: United States
3 E-mail us the following details from the payment receipt:
– REF# – 8 digits number from the payment receipt
– Sender Name and Address
– Receiver Name
– Amount
Fax the Money Gram receipt to the following fax number:+1 (339) 600-3267 Once we receive the payment confirmation, we will instruct the seller to start the shipping process. You will receive the car in 2-3 days.
Sincerely,
eBay Purchase Protection Financial Department
FAX: +1 (339) 600-3267
This is a notice letting you know that we have received your payment details and we are in the process of verifying your payment details. We will contact the seller shortly and instruct to proceed with the shipping. As soon as we will have the shipping confirmation you will receive further details regarding the shipping process (courier information, tracking method, expected delivery date).
Sincerely,
How to make the payment?
1. Locate the nearest Money Gram Office.
2. Make the payment with cash using thee Bay Purchase Protection agent details:
Agent first name: Jennifer
Agent last name: Green
Agent street: 2145 Hamilton Avenue
Agent city: San Jose,CA
Agent zip: 95125
Agent country: United States
3 E-mail us the following details from the payment receipt:
– REF# – 8 digits number from the payment receipt
– Sender Name and Address
– Receiver Name
– Amount
Fax the Money Gram receipt to the following fax number:+1 (339) 600-3267 Once we receive the payment confirmation, we will instruct the seller to start the shipping process. You will receive the car in 2-3 days.
Sincerely,
eBay Purchase Protection Financial Department
FAX: +1 (339) 600-3267
I was not to lucky though i found this site to late I spent the money and now am out of 2,900 dollors pls be carefull everyone..
I also got an email from your srgt guy heres that one as well [email protected]
Hello,
I`m Sgt. James J Badgett. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord EX 4 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 87,109 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM56663A102462 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.
Options
5-Speed Automatic Transmission Premium Sound With CD Changer Sunroof Dual Zone Climate Control Air Conditioning Climate Control Heated Seats Tilt Steering Wheel Traction Control
Clock Cruise Control Leather Shifter Leather Steering Wheel Power Driver’s Seat Power Locks Power Mirrors Power Steering Power Windows Privacy Glass / Tinted Windows Steering Wheel
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s418.photobucket.com/albums/pp261/2003haexxx/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2900. 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 4 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 nice day,
James and Anna Badgett
I wish I saw this site first but hopefully my story will help others
Thanks lisa
Just got this today…SOOO glad I did a google search!! I’m always cautious when people sound too fake in the email. Just be real and maybe I’ll consider it, but when you sound too fake, you make me question. Here’s the email I received, sounds like this guy/girl is sending the same name to others…BE CAUTIOUS!!!!
Hello,
I`m Sgt. Peter J Loranty. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord EX 4 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 37,391 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM56603A136574. 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.
Options
CD player Leather seats Sunroof
Driver airbag Passenger airbag Side airbags
Anti-lock brakes Air conditioning Cruise control
Power locks Power seats Power windows
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s391.photobucket.com/albums/oo353/2003hawll/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2900. 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 4 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 nice day,
Peter and Maria Loranty
I got the similar mail from the same SCAM: Do not get into it in this bad economy. Do not waste your time and money.
Here is the mail:
Hello,
I`m Sgt. Peter J Loranty. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord EX 4 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 37,391 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM56603A136574. 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.
Options
CD player Leather seats Sunroof
Driver airbag Passenger airbag Side airbags
Anti-lock brakes Air conditioning Cruise control
Power locks Power seats Power windows
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s391.photobucket.com/albums/oo353/2003hawll/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2900. 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 4 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 nice day,
Peter and Maria Loranty
Next reply:
Hi again,
!!! Also the car will arrive with all the documentation’s required for registration and the keys. I will send you all the papers and documents (clear title, bills of sale, car’s manual) to prove the ownership and to be able to register it with no problem. The clear title and the bill of sale will be both signed so you can become owner of the car on spot.
We have a deal! I forwarded your information to eBay. They will shortly contact you with all the transaction details.
Please follow their instructions exactly and make the payment. Immediately after they confirm me that they hold your payment,
I will proceed with shipping the car to you.
Thanks
Hoping to hear from you soon
————————————————
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOh MY god you all saved me from giving away 4500 USD LOl i cant believe how people would do this type of things! all this email sounds the same i got so it looks like this person (s) are still out there this is sad how far people would go. well KARMA is a… and they will get there’s one day!!!
INVESTIGATION NOW!!!!!!
this is the fake eBay motors invoice i got
eBay Motors VPP Transaction Case ID 415163589â€
From: eBay Financial Department Inc. ([email protected])
Sent: March 13, 2009 4:15:07 PM
To: [email protected]
eBay Motors VPP sent this message to Zach Rouse (papersoldier09).
Your registered name is included to show this message originated from eBay.
eBay Motors VPP Transaction Case ID 415163589
eBay Motors member Edward Pietrzyk ([email protected]), as the Seller, initiated a new transaction through eBay Motors Vehicle Purchase Protection program and registered you, Zach Rouse ([email protected]), as the Buyer.
We have verified all the details of this transaction,we concluded that they are accurate and the transaction si approved. Please follow our instructions to complete the transaction safely. Your vehicle purchase is protected for up to $20,000.00 or the vehicle purchase price, whichever is lower.
Buy Confidently with our Vehicle Purchase Protection Program
Vehicle Purchase Protection
Ensures that you receive the vehicle you paid for, with coverage up to $20,000.00 against fraud or material misrepresentation.
Condition Guarantee by Seller
Provides added confidence that the vehicle’s condition is accurately described and protects you if it is significantly different.
Extended Warranty
Protects you from unexpected repair bills after the vehicle purchase.
New eBay Motors VPP Transaction
Case ID: 415163589
Item Title: 2008 Acura TL
Price: $12,000.00
Seller Verified Profile: pelias
eBay Motors Member in good standing since 1999.
Registered e-mail address
[email protected]
Identity and Contact Information Verified.
Continues to meet strict Membership Criteria.
Committed to Dispute Resolution and Mediation.
Purchase Protection Coverage up to
$20,000.00.
Complete the transaction in 5 easy steps
Buyer and Seller agree on the transaction terms and a selling price. Seller contacts eBay Motors with the transaction details;
eBay Motors accepts the transaction and offers purchase protection to the Buyer (if the transaction is declined, no further action is required from neither Buyer or Seller);
The Buyer receives an invoice and sends the payment to eBay Motors. After the payment is verified by eBay Motors, the Seller will initiate the shipping. The seller has three (3) business days to provide a tracking number to both the Buyer and eBay Motors. If no tracking number is provided, a full refund is immediately sent to the Buyer;
The Buyer receives the vehicle and has 15 business days to inspect it. If it is as described and as agreed, the Buyer should accept the vehicle. If he refuses it, the Buyer must ship the vehicle back to the Seller;
After the inspection period is over (15 business days), the Buyer must contact eBay Motors with the result of the inspection. If the Buyer refuses the vehicle, he will receive the refund only after the tracking number for the returned shipment is verified. If the Buyer accepts the vehicle, the payment will be sent to the Seller within three (3) business days.
Vehicle Purchase Protection Overview
Buy with confidence on eBay Motors! The Vehicle Purchase Protection program protects your vehicle purchase against fraud and material misrepresentation. This program is provided by eBay Motors for FREE on all eligible vehicle transactions completed on eBay Motors. There’s no sign-up, opt-in, or registration necessary.
The following types of fraud and material misrepresentation are covered:
Paying for a vehicle and never receiving it;
Sending a deposit for a vehicle and never receiving the vehicle;
Paying for and receiving a vehicle:
that was a stolen vehicle at the time of the transaction;
with an undisclosed or unknown lien against its title;
of a make and/or model that is different than what was described in the seller’s listing;
without receiving the title for that vehicle from the seller, if it is impossible for you to obtain a title from the appropriate Department of Motor Vehicles;
whose title is subject to an undisclosed salvage, rebuilt/rebuildable, unrebuildable, reconstructed, scrapped/destroyed, junk, lemon, manufacturer buyback, or water damage title brand at the time of the sale;
with a model year that is different than the model year described in the seller’s listing or
with an odometer reading that is different than the odometer reading described in the seller’s listing.
Your vehicle purchase is protected for up to $20,000.00 or the vehicle purchase price, whichever is lower. The program covers Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, ATVs, Go-Karts, Scooters, Mopeds, Personal Watercraft, Snowmobiles, Boats, Buses, Commercial Trucks, Race Cars, RVs and Campers, Trailers.
Help
For any questions please contact eBay Motors Customer Support at [email protected]
Thank you,
eBay Motors Customer Support
Vehicle Purchase Protection Program
This administrative email was sent to [email protected] from eBay Motors.
See our Privacy Policy and User Agreement if you have questions about eBay’s communication policies.
Copyright © 2009 eBay, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Designated trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners.
eBay and the eBay logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of eBay, Inc.
eBay is located at 2145 Hamilton Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125.
There using eBay logo and good name to sucker new eBay users into giving them money eBay auto trader and other sites like them need to come together and start a formal investigation with the FBI now before online shopping is ruined for all of us INVESTIGATION NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The cons can be highly elaborate in there attempts to scam you .
I filed a case with the FBI on my fraud case so I’m waiting to hear back from them…..we will see!!!!!!
2HGES16535H505690
1HGCM66503A005559
4T1BE32K25U096087
1HGCM56603A136574
These are a few that I’ve found. First became aware of this scam a few days ago when my daughter starting looking for a car. I think it sucks that there are those violating the name of our military and even though I work full time and have very little spare time, I’ve made it my “Little Sister is Watching You” mission to do my part in aiding to end this bull. With a little research I’ve found that several of these vehicles could be from registered USA dealers or dealers scams. The two dealers(?) I’ve located are in PA, with reconstructed titles (salvage). Almost caught up with one dealer(?) in Calf but the ads disappeared before I could get all the info needed. You can find forms on-line for the Department of Transportation for most States to file a report for Fraudulent Misuse of Motor Vehicle Credentials. A lot of these vehicles are on other sites for sale, so I’m also sending the Craigslist letters and other site ads to them in complaint reports for they can flag these so-called dealers. I’m printing all ads and keeping files including all e-mail addresses. I’m asking that if you can trace these to the source before they can remove them do the same. Stab ’em then flag ’em. One on-line dealer stated they inspect and approve all the cars they list. I forwarded the Craigslist reply letter and ask this so called dealer if he flew to Spain to inspect this car. No reply of course. Honestly, I doubt that these wrecks still exist but if they do, can’t be registered in many states, not that you’d really GET the car. If these US business owners are not involved they need to answer for how these cars are being traced to them or be made aware that they are being used in these scams.
Also, if you look at the ads on Craigslist it is followed by-listed “by owner” or “dealer” and these are listed by dealer so why do you get a reply letter from a private owner?
Thank you for your help and good luck! Can’t wait to read future stories on your good deeds done!
I got a reply from a legit dealer that didn’t know his web page had been duped to advertise at least one of these cars. So they are also using honest sites to make it look as if these car exists. I shouldn’t be surprised.
Stupid me. These ads are 100% cut and paste taken from legit dealers.
I’ve have contacted some dealers that are having their ads copied and they now are water marking pictures so their pictures can’t be duped. Hope this helps.
Tammie: good work!
THANKS FOR THE POST, I FIGURED OUT IT WAS A SCAM ABOUT 2 HOURS BEFORE THIS POST, BELOW IS THE EMAIL CONTACT THAT I HAD WITH THIS FAKE PERSON, BY THE IM GONNA SPRING HIM ALONG KNOW AND MAKE HIM THINK I STILL DONT KNOW THAT THIS IS A SCAM.
Hi,
I have attached you a carfax report. The car is on my name now and the title is clear, no lien.
Please let me know as soon as you can since I have another guy interested…I put him on hold till I have an answer from you .
Thanks again,
Sgt. James B. Lucas
On 3/27/09, [email protected] wrote:
Also i did a carfax vehicle record check and there is 12 records on the VIN that you gave me…can you explain any of that???
—–Original Message—–
From: Sgt. James B. Lucas
To: Rashid Ali
Sent: Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:51 am
Subject: Re: about the car
Hello,
Yes..I can wait without a problem.
You ll receive the car with a US VA clear title, signe dby me, ready to be register in your name….
In order to notify eBay I will need buyer’s full name and shipping address so I can open a transaction case and they will contact you for further details and instructions.
How it work:
You make the payment to eBay safe account.
After they check the payment they announce me to start the shipping.
After you will receive the car and see that is OK, you have to announce them that you have it.
Only then, eBay will send me the money. This is is a fair deal for both.
Hope to hear you soon..
Sgt.James B. Lucas
On Thu, Mar 26, 2009 at 10:41 AM, Rashid Ali wrote:
Alright I’m thinking its a yes, can u give me one day to decide and I’ll email you any information that you might need..i want to buy it for my parents who haven’t had a nice car in a really long time..so dont sell for a day and I will give you the final, thanks for all the information.. What state is the car registered in?
Sent from my iPhone
On Mar 26, 2009, at 8:10 AM, “Sgt. James B. Lucas” wrote:
Hello
I am glad that you are really interested in my car.
Regarding the price, to be honest with you…this was my brother car but he is not…anymore.I don’t want to get rich by its selling, just want to give it to someone who will take good care…….
As I already said in my first email the car is currently located in UK but still registered in US, so you won’t have to pay anything since it have a clear US title, no lien.
Also, the car is in perfect working condition and it was never been smoked in.
I can have it shipped from here by an US Air Force cargo plane so there won’t be any additional shipping costs. Also I can arrange for a truck to transport the car to your home address or, if you like, you can pick it up from the nearest airport in your area. The shipping will take up to 7 days, depending on your location. The car will arrive with all the papers and documents required for registration and the keys. The US clear title and the bill of sale will be already signed by me.
The final price you will have to pay is $5,000. The payment must be done through eBay. Ebay Motors will work for us just like an escrow service, just that the transaction will be faster and also 100% secure for both of us. You will send them the payment, then they will let me know that the payment is OK and I can start the shipping. After the car will arrive to you and you will inspect it, you will let them know that, so they can forward the payment and complete the transaction.
If the car is not as advertised and decide not to keep it (I’m sure this will not be the case) eBay will refund you the money, no questions asked, and shipping back of the car will be my concern. I think this is fair for both of us.
Please take into consideration that I will get paid only after you receive the car and make sure everything is as agreed.
If you agree with these terms and you have the money, send me your full name and the address where you want the car to be delivered and I will initiate the transaction with eBay. You will receive all the transaction details from them.
I will appreciate an answer as soon as possible. Also, feel free to ask me any question you may have
Thank you,
Sgt. James B. Lucas
On Wed, Mar 25, 2009 at 10:50 PM, wrote:
Thanks, wow this sounds like a really good deal, but you know im curious why are u selling it so cheap?? It just seems hard to believe and no offenese to you, but in todays world, its hard to find deals this good, without them being a scam..Especially since ur living thousands of miles away from me..Thnks for all the information and stuff, if there some way that i could know for sure this is not a scam, let me know..
—–Original Message—–
From: Sgt. James B. Lucas
To: [email protected]
Sent: Wed, 25 Mar 2009 8:00 pm
Subject: Re: about the car
Hello,0D
This is a 2007 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER/HYBRID , 3.3L V6 / All Wheel Drive,
Automatic, ONLY 20,900 Miles, VIN JTEEW21A570036506.
Here you can find more pictures with the car:
http://picasaweb.google.com/picasaweb3/Higlander02?authkey=iHzXYyJPUWI#
(if the above link does not work copy and paste it into a new web
browser window)
It is in EXCELLENT condition; the body and paint are great, no
scratches and no dents; the interior is clean; it has never been
involved in an accident.
I’m an US Air Force Sgt. currently stationed in UK and the car is here
with me. It was bought in the US and shipped to Europe, but it was
never permanently registered here, the car is still registered in the
US.
The shipping will take up to 7 business days and you will also have 10
days to inspect and test drive the vehicle from the moment it arrives
at your place. There will be no extra or hidden taxes for you to pay
since the car is still registered in US. In case you decide not to
keep the car I’m responsible for shipping back costs.
I must say that this is a US model car, with the steering wheel on the
left side, as opposed to a UK model, that has the steering wheel on
the right side.
As I’m unable to travel in the near future and I don’t have anyone
back20home to help me with the sale I decided to sell this car through
eBay or craigslist.
Our transaction will be entirely through eBay Motors and we both will
be covered.
The final price is $5,000 including shipping from Europe to the US and
delivery to your home address.
So if you decide to buy this car or need further information please
get back to me as soon as possible.
Thank you and have a great day,
Sgt. James B. Lucas
http://www.lakenheath.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-090107-005.jpg
PS. Sorry for the long email I have tried to touch all bases.
After the first response, I noted the return email address appeared to be military – [email protected] . I looked closer and realized it was not. A real military email address will end in @us.army.mil or @us.af.mil .
This was clearly an attempt to disquise their email to appear it was from a legitimate miltary account. This was my first clue.
My second clue, I googled the VIN they gave me and the woman selling her car in Chicago (pictures and description) was identical to the car this dude was selling in Florida.
After the first day, the ‘seller’ took it off craig’s list. I think this was an attempt to appear the car was no longer available and create an immediate action on my part once I found it to be still for sale. Good tactic.
Good luck to others.
Good site. Thanks for the advice and warning!!!!
i got this today from sgt james lucas
Hello,
This is a 2007 Acura TL, 6 Cyl / FRONT WHEEL DRIVE, Automatic, ONLY
37.700 Miles, VIN 19UUA66257A015092.
Here you can find more pictures with the car:
http://picasaweb.google.com/picasaweb3/2007AcuraTL?authkey=QQEc9MKxaM8#
(if the above link does not work copy and paste it into a new web
browser window)
It is in EXCELLENT condition; the body and paint are great, no
scratches and no dents; the interior is clean; it has never been
involved in an accident.
I’m an US Air Force Sgt. currently stationed in UK and the car is here
with me. It was bought in the US and shipped to Europe, but it was
never permanently registered here, the car is still registered in the
US.
The shipping will take up to 7 business days and you will also have 10
days to inspect and test drive the vehicle from the moment it arrives
at your place. There will be no extra or hidden taxes for you to pay
since the car is still registered in US. In case you decide not to
keep the car I’m responsible for shipping back costs.
I must say that this is a US model car, with the steering wheel on the
left side, as opposed to a UK model, that has the steering wheel on
the right side.
As I’m unable to travel in the near future and I don’t have anyone
back home to help me with the sale I decided to sell this car through
eBay or craigslist.
Our transaction will be entirely through eBay Motors and we both will
be covered.
The final price is $5,000 including shipping from Europe to the US and
delivery to your home address.
So if you decide to buy this car or need further information please
get back to me as soon as possible.
Thank you and have a great day,
Sgt. James B. Lucas
http://www.lakenheath.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-090107-005.jpg
PS. Sorry for the long email I have tried to touch all bases.
Thanks for posting this forum. I too was getting excited about a $5000 mercedes suv that Sgt. James B. Lucas was going to ship from the UK. I’m glad I thought to do a google search on his name before I sent any money.
Add from Craigslist posted tonight and email auto-reply.
*2007****TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID LIMITED 4WD Gray 6k Miles w/3rd Row Seat***** – $5000 (All Of East Bay)
——————————————————————————–
Reply to: see below
Date: 2009-04-04, 9:15PM PDT
Hello,
This is a 2007 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER/HYBRID , 3.3L V6 / All Wheel Drive,
Automatic, ONLY 20,900 Miles, VIN JTEEW21A570036506.
Here you can find more pictures with the car:
http://picasaweb.google.com/picasaweb3/Higlander02?authkey=iHzXYyJPUWI#
(if the above link does not work copy and paste it into a new web
browser window)
It is in EXCELLENT condition; the body and paint are great, no
scratches and no dents; the interior is clean; it has never been
involved in an accident.
I’m an US Air Force Sgt. currently stationed in UK and the car is here
with me. It was bought in the US and shipped to Europe, but it was
never permanently registered here, the car is still registered in the
US.
The shipping will take up to 7 business days and you will also have 10
days to inspect and test drive the vehicle from the moment it arrives
at your place. There will be no extra or hidden taxes for you to pay
since the car is still registered in US. In case you decide not to
keep the car I’m responsible for shipping back costs.
I must say that this is a US model car, with the steering wheel on the
left side, as opposed to a UK model, that has the steering wheel on
the right side.
As I’m unable to travel in the near future and I don’t have anyone
back home to help me with the sale I decided to sell this car through
eBay or craigslist.
Our transaction will be entirely through eBay Motors and we both will
be covered.
The final price is $5,000 including shipping from Europe to the US and
delivery to your home address.
So if you decide to buy this car or need further information please
get back to me as soon as possible.
Thank you and have a great day,
Sgt. James B. Lucas
http://www.lakenheath.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-090107-005.jpg
PS. Sorry for the long email I have tried to touch all bases.
I am SO glad I found this site!
My husband and I were so excited on getting an ACURA TL 37,000 miles for $5,000. My cousin told me it was a scam right away. I went online to do some research. The guys uses “Sgt. James B. Lucas”. He is in the UK, he says, and he also said he can have the car shipped….We were SO CLOSE on wiring money! I can’t believe this! and it is just SO sad that they make the military look bad!
His name is also online for being a scammer using gmail email accounts.
It’s also sad because I was very interested in that car! HAHA!
PLUS!!
there were grammer errors in most of his emails!!!
Looks like the scammer is at it again! I was emailing with a “military” seller who says his name is Sgt. James B. Lucas and that he is stationed in the UK. He was selling a 1997 Highlander Hybrid for $5000 b/c it was his brother’s car and is brother is “no more”. He offered to ship it via air and all kinds of other things just like the other posts say. Thank you so much for helping me avoid this scam!
Hi Folks,
In this economy you do find “local” deals, but that’s the key – being able to transact in person. A few days ago i type bmw in CL, i search a few pages and see an ad for a 2005 bmw x5 for $4700.00 ?? odd,it was listed as local in SF’s hayes valley – So I sent the standard interest email. I received a response from a Sgt. Peter Stein of USAF. This is the exact letter –
Hello,
Thank you for your interest in my car.This is a 2005 BMW X5 3.0i, Exterior Color Gray, Interior Color Black, Engine 6 Cylinder Gasoline, Transmission Automatic.16-Way Power Comfort Seats, 3-Stage Heated Front Seats, 8-Function On-Board Computer, Anthracite Maple Wood Trim, Dakota Leather Seat Trim, Front & Rear Park Distance Control, Heated Rear Seats,clean title.
Mileage 49,160,VIN#: 5UXFA13515LY14845.
Here you can find more pictures of the car: http://s728.photobucket.com/albums/ww287/2005bmwx5/
(if the above link does not work copy and paste it into a new web browser window).
The car has been well taken care of, always kept in the garage.Flawless exterior/interior condition,no scratches and no dents.It has never been involved in an accident.The engine starts and drives like new and the paint looks great.It comes with US clear title which will be signed and notorized in the buyer’s name.Have all keys and manuals.
I’m an US Air Force Staff.Sgt currently stationed in the United Kingdom.The car is here with me. It was bought in the US and shipped to Europe, but it was never permanently registered here, the car is still registered in the US.The car is for sale locally as well, but there are slim chances of this to happen. In order to be able to register this car here in the UK the buyer would have to pay very high import/custom taxes that will double the price. So I decided to sell the car back in the US.
The price is $4,700.00 including shipping from the UK to the US and delivery to your home address.
So if you decide to buy this car or need further information please get back to me as soon as possible.
Thank you
SSgt.Peter Stein
——————– So obviously this seemed too good to be true
What I questioned , First it ‘s in SF- hayes valley
Then it’s in london..redirect…then all of a sudden the military just ships vehicles at zero cost, u gotta be friggin kidding me..that in itself would be a business run by military groups…Discount Brass Autos Online, we ship to you directly..ok enough jokes…to take this a step further I contact Ebay, not an easy thing to do **Hint create an FAQ about international Scams…save us all the time..then I Google this guys name an actually find an article about the real guy so I contacted them to alert of identity fraud
Glad I found this site, I’ve noticed that during these harder times more an more scams an unethical practices are increasing in frequency- shameful bastards..may you rot reliving the pain you’ve caused others..k bye 🙂
Add Kevin Yorke to the list.
Thank You so much for this!!!
I saw an ad on craigslist for a 2006 Acura.
It seemed like such a good deal. lol
here is what he sent me.
Hello,
This is a 2006 Acura TSX, 2.4L L4 / FRONT WHEEL DRIVE, Automatic, ONLY
33.800 Miles, VIN JH4CL96896C006214.
Here you can find more pictures with the car:
http://picasaweb.google.com/picasaweb6/2006AcuraTSX?authkey=Gv1sRgCOnYh4i-jPiIrgE#
(if the above link does not work copy and paste it into a new web
browser window)
It is in EXCELLENT condition; the body and paint are great, no
scratches and no dents; the interior is clean; it has never been
involved in an accident.
I’m an US Air Force Sgt. currently stationed in UK and the car is here
with me. It was bought in the US and shipped to Europe, but it was
never permanently registered here, the car is still registered in the
US.
The shipping will take up to 7 business days and you will also have 10
days to inspect and test drive the vehicle from the moment it arrives
at your place. There will be no extra or hidden taxes for you to pay
since the car is still registered in US. In case you decide not to
keep the car I’m responsible for shipping back costs.
I must say that this is a US model car, with the steering wheel on the
left side, as opposed to a UK model, that has the steering wheel on
the right side.
As I’m unable to travel in the near future and I don’t have anyone
back home to help me with the sale I decided to sell this car through
eBay or craigslist.
Our transaction will be entirely through eBay Motors and we both will
be covered.
The final price is $5,000 including shipping from Europe to the US and
delivery to your home address.
So if you decide to buy this car or need further information please
get back to me as soon as possible.
Thank you and have a great day,
Sgt. James B. Lucas
http://www.lakenheath.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-090107-005.jpg
PS. Sorry for the long email I have tried to touch all bases.
oh and………..
Hello,
Regarding the price, to be honest with you…this was my brother car but he is not…anymore.I don’t want to get rich by its selling, just want to give it to someone who will take good care…….
As I already said in my first email the car is currently located in UK but still registered in US, so you won’t have to pay anything since it have a clear US title, no lien. Also the car is in perfect working condition and it was never been smocked in.
I can have it shipped from here by an US Air Force cargo plane so there won’t be any additional shipping costs. Also I can arrange for a truck to transport the car to your home address or, if you like, you can pick it up from the nearest airport in your area. The shipping will take up to 7 days, depending on your location. The car will arrive with all the papers and documents required for registration and the keys. The clear title and the bill of sale will be already signed by me.
The final price you will have to pay is $5,000. The payment must be done through eBay. Ebay Motors will work for us just like an escrow service, just that the transaction will be faster and also 100% secure for both of us. You will send them the payment, then they will let me know that the payment is OK and I can start the shipping. After the car will arrive to you and you will inspect it, you will let them know that, so they can forward the payment and complete the transaction.
If the car is not as advertised and decide not to keep it (I’m sure this will not be the case) eBay will refund you the money, no questions asked, and shipping back of the car will be my concern. I think this is fair for both of us.
Please take into consideration that I will get paid only after you receive the car and make sure everything is as agreed.
If you agree with these terms and you have the money, send me your full name and the address where you want the car to be delivered and I will initiate the transaction with eBay. You will receive all the transaction details from them.
I will appreciate an answer as soon as possible. Also, feel free to ask me any question you may have
Add this one to the list also. It all seemed to real to be true.
Hello,
I`m Sgt. David J Loranty. You have to know that the 2003 Honda Accord EX 4 Cyl Automatic I am selling is 100% working and great looking, no flaws or dents, no scratches or any kind of damage. The title is clear. It has 37,391 miles. The VIN# is 1HGCM56603A136574. 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.
Options
CD player Leather seats Sunroof
Driver airbag Passenger airbag Side airbags
Anti-lock brakes Air conditioning Cruise control
Power locks Power seats Power windows
Here are the pics of the car :
http://s645.photobucket.com/albums/uu179/2003haawrt/
(if 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 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 Madrid,Spain and I was sent here to improve the military relationships between our country and Spain. 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 In order to be able to register this car here, I would have to pay very high import/custom taxes. My final price on it is $ 2900. 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 4 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 nice day,
David and Maria Loranty