Greg's Corner

Tagged: craigslist Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on July 5, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist, Facebook Marketplace ( 62 ), impersonation scam ( 144 ), online shopping ( 33 ), Scams ( 1,354 ), shipping containers ( 2 )   

  Farmers scammed buying shipping containers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An Arizona farm owner decided to expand their barn using shipping containers due to their durability and resistance to wind and water. Seeking convenience, they turned to online marketplaces like Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to find suitable containers. Their search led them to a seller claiming to represent a company selling shipping containers.

  After researching the company and finding positive reviews, the buyer communicated with a man through Facebook Messenger. The man’s prompt responses and attentiveness built a sense of trust. However, when it came time to make the purchase, several red flags emerged.

  To proceed, nearly $2,700 needed to be paid upfront. The buyer preferred to pay with a credit card for added protection, but the man insisted on a check made out to an individual instead of the business. Although this raised suspicions, the man’s explanations seemed plausible, and the payment was made.

  The problems began when the delivery date approached. The buyer faced constant delays, excuses, and a demand for an additional $3,500 in insurance. Growing increasingly uneasy, they decided to contact the container company directly using the information on their official website.

  The response was a devastating blow. The real container company had no record of the order, invoice, or any knowledge of the man they were communicating with. The buyer had been dealing with scammers impersonating the legitimate company to defraud consumers on third-party websites.

  This experience highlights the importance of thorough verification when making large purchases. Here are key takeaways to protect yourself from similar scams.

  Always contact the company directly using information from their official website. Never rely solely on contact details provided by the seller.

  Be wary if a company insists on communicating only through messaging platforms. Legitimate businesses typically offer multiple communication channels, including phone and email.

  Whenever possible, pay with a credit card, which offers better fraud protection. Be cautious of sellers requesting payment through irreversible methods like cashier’s checks or wire transfers.

  Check reviews on multiple websites and search for any reports of scams or imposters. Include terms like “scam” or “fraud” in your search.

  If a seller pressures you to make a quick decision, take a step back. Consider your options carefully before committing.

  If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, report it immediately. Contact your local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Prompt reporting can help authorities track and combat fraudulent activities.

   

  Leave a ReplyCancel reply
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on July 2, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Bud and June Runion, craigslist, murder ( 9 ), Ronnie Adrian "Jay" Towns, Scams ( 1,354 ), used car ( 33 )   

  Craigslist car ad proves deadly for couple 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Bud and June Runion were a loving couple, cherished by their family and friends. In January 2015, they set off on what they believed would be an exciting adventure to purchase a 1966 Ford Mustang, a classic car Bud had long admired. They found the vehicle listed for sale on Craigslist and made arrangements to meet the seller in McRae, Georgia.

  When the Runions failed to return home or contact their family, concern quickly turned to alarm. Their family reported them missing, igniting a widespread search and a wave of anxiety among those who knew them.

  The search came to a tragic end on a few days later, when authorities discovered the bodies of Bud and June Runion in a remote area of Telfair County, Georgia. The couple had been shot to death, their lives cruelly taken in an act of senseless violence.

  The investigation swiftly honed in on Ronnie Adrian “Jay” Towns, a local man from McRae. Towns had allegedly posted the fake Craigslist ad intending to lure and rob the couple. When the Runions arrived, Towns led them to an isolated location where he carried out his heinous crime.

  Due to legal complications and delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Towns has yet to stand trial.

  Recently, a magnet fisher found what may be potential evidence further linking Towns to the crime.

  Bud and June Runion’s story is one of love, loss, and a call to action. While their lives were tragically cut short, their legacy lives on as a beacon of awareness and a reminder to always stay cautious in online dealings.

  When shopping on online platforms for a used or classic car, safety should be your top priority. Here are several steps to help protect yourself from potential dangers such as robbery or worse. Check the seller’s name, phone number, and email address. Use search engines and social media to see if the information matches. Request detailed information about the car. A legitimate seller should be able to provide this without hesitation.

  Schedule meetings during daylight hours when visibility is better and more people are around. Always meet in a public place with high foot traffic, such as a police station, bank parking lot, or a shopping center. While it’s not a guarantee, meeting at a police station significantly discourages criminals from targeting you.

  Bring a friend or family member with you. If that’s not possible, inform someone of your whereabouts and the details of your meeting. Provide someone with the seller’s information and the meeting location.

  Avoid carrying large sums of cash. Consider using secure payment methods like bank checks or electronic transfers. If a cash payment is necessary, conduct the transaction inside a bank where security measures are in place.

  By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of being robbed or harmed while shopping for a used or classic car online. Always prioritize your personal safety over the potential deal.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on June 18, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: backyard breeders ( 3 ), craigslist, puppy scam ( 37 ), Scams ( 1,354 ), sick puppy ( 3 )   

  Another reminder not to get pets from Craigslist 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Online marketplaces offer endless possibilities, but they also come with risks, especially when it comes to pet adoption. One family learned this lesson firsthand when they set out to bring home a new dog. The stepfather, convinced by a Craigslist ad for a $100 dog, persuaded the family to welcome Mason into their home. Little did they know, they were stepping into a world of deception.

  Craigslist has become notorious for pet scams, where unsuspecting buyers are misled about the age, health, and background of the animals they adopt. In this case, the family believed they were getting a young, vibrant dog. Mason, however, was far from the three-year-old pup they were promised. Soon after Mason joined their family, they noticed he spent an unusual amount of time sleeping. Concerned, they took him to the vet and received shocking news: Mason was actually ten years old and suffering from major heart problems. The vet estimated he had only about nine months to live.

  The realization that they had been scammed was disheartening. The family had hoped to share many active years with a young dog, but instead, they were faced with the impending loss of an elderly pet. Despite the initial shock and disappointment, they decided to make Mason’s remaining time as happy and comfortable as possible.

  Mason’s story is not just one of love and resilience; it also highlights the risks and heartbreak that can come with pet scams. Many families fall victim to these deceptions, ending up with pets that are older or sicker than advertised. The emotional and financial toll can be significant, as families must adjust their expectations and provide care for animals with unexpected health issues.

  Unfortunately, Craigslist is notorious for harboring backyard breeders. These individuals breed puppies with little concern for the animals’ health and well-being. Often, the animals are raised in deplorable conditions without proper medical care. The term “backyard breeder” refers to these unscrupulous breeders who lack certification and professional standards. Although Mason’s situation likely didn’t stem from a backyard breeder, it underscores the mistreatment pets sold on Craigslist can suffer.

  To ensure you’re buying a healthy pet from a reputable breeder, it’s best to avoid platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. These sites are often where backyard breeders post their advertisements. This is why Geebo.com, for example, doesn’t allow pet listings. Legitimate breeders typically welcome visitors to their facilities and provide health certifications for their animals.

  Moreover, we strongly encourage adopting a pet from your local shelter. Many wonderful dogs are in need of loving homes, and adoption is both a responsible and humane choice.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on June 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: California ( 21 ), craigslist, Facebook Marketplace ( 62 ), geebo ( 22 ), government ( 2 ), legislation, Nancy Skinner, SB 1144   

  Proposed law punishes classifieds users 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The State of California, like many others nationwide, faces a significant retail theft problem. Shoplifting incidents now frequently make headlines, unlike in the past. Instead of addressing the root causes of this issue, a California State Senator has proposed legislation targeting classified sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Geebo.com, along with their users.

  California State Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) introduced SB 1144 to the state assembly last week. This bill aims to deter the sale of stolen items on online marketplaces by requiring these platforms to collect personal and financial information from frequent users. This includes bank account credentials, copies of valid driver’s licenses, and Social Security numbers.

  Although we at Geebo.com often critique the practices of Craigslist and Marketplace, we oppose this legislation. We believe it is both misguided and an overreach of government authority.

  Senator Skinner may think these proposals will stop the sale of stolen goods on online marketplaces, but in reality, everyday users will suffer the most. Many users have established businesses on these platforms, selling goods they bought wholesale from retailers going out of business or simply reducing inventory. These individuals will be unfairly targeted by SB 1144.

  Under this law, they would have to submit their personal and financial information just to sell a few used iPhones online. This puts users’ data at risk, especially given Facebook’s poor track record for protecting user information. We doubt Craigslist would fare any better.

  Furthermore, these proposals are unlikely to affect the sale of stolen goods from retail thefts online. Major theft rings would simply use information obtained from identity theft victims. Given the frequency of major data breaches, it wouldn’t be difficult for thieves to acquire such information.

  In conclusion, while addressing retail theft is crucial, SB 1144 imposes burdensome requirements on legitimate users of online marketplaces without effectively tackling the core issue. By shifting the focus from root causes to excessive data collection, the proposed legislation risks compromising user privacy and security. It’s essential to find balanced solutions that protect both consumers and businesses without overreaching government authority or jeopardizing personal information. We urge lawmakers to reconsider and develop more effective strategies that genuinely address retail theft without placing undue strain on everyday users and small businesses.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:02 am on May 30, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist, Facebook Marketplace ( 62 ), Scams ( 1,354 ), used car ( 33 ), vin cloning ( 3 )   

  Below-market vehicle deals are a growing scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in scams involving the sale of stolen vehicles online. These fraudulent schemes often take place on popular platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. The common thread among these scams is the suspiciously low price tag on the vehicles, which is significantly below their actual market value.

  The scam operates in a deceptive yet sophisticated manner. Criminals acquire a stolen vehicle and then search for another car with the same make, model, and similar mileage. They use the legitimate vehicle’s details to create a counterfeit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) sticker, which is then applied to the stolen car. This fake VIN gives the vehicle a seemingly clean history, making it appear legitimate to unsuspecting buyers.

  Potential buyers are lured in by what they perceive to be an incredible deal. The vehicle’s history appears spotless, with no indication that it has been stolen. However, the reality of the situation becomes apparent only after the purchase is complete. Once the buyer discovers that the vehicle is stolen, they face the harsh truth that the car must be returned to its rightful owner or the insurance company. This leaves the buyer without the vehicle and out of the money they spent.

  The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) has issued several warnings regarding this scam. According to the DFA, the largest red flag is the vehicle being sold for cash only at a price significantly lower than its actual value. Most recently, scammers have been targeting newer model pickup trucks, offering them for tens of thousands of dollars below retail value.

  The DFA advises buyers to exercise caution when searching for vehicles on these sites. Here are some key tips to avoid falling victim to this scam. Always verify the vehicle’s history through reliable sources. Be suspicious of any discrepancies or missing information. Legitimate sellers are usually open to various forms of payment. Insistence on cash transactions can be a red flag.

  Ensure the VIN on the vehicle matches the one on the title and other documents. Check for signs of tampering or replacement stickers. Consider using professional services to inspect the vehicle and verify its legitimacy before completing the purchase.

  By following these guidelines, buyers can better protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent activities. While online platforms offer the convenience of purchasing vehicles, they also present opportunities for scammers. Staying informed and cautious can help prevent unfortunate and costly mistakes.

  In summary, the public is urged to remain cautious when encountering seemingly fantastic deals on vehicles. Performing due diligence and recognizing the warning signs can save buyers from the pitfalls of this growing scam.

   
• 

  Geebo 9:00 am on February 21, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist, distraction scam, Facebook Marketplace ( 62 ), Scams ( 1,354 ), used car ( 33 )   

  When selling a used car, look out for this new scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In a world where barely moderated online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist offer convenient platforms for buying and selling goods, it’s essential to remain vigilant against potential scams. Recently, the Placer County, California, Sheriff’s Office issued a reminder to the community to guard against a particular car-buying scam that has been occurring in both California and Nevada.

  The scam, as reported by the Sheriff’s Office, involves a deceptive tactic where buyers, often working in collusion with others, arrange to meet sellers who have listed their vehicles for sale on classified advertisement websites. These meetings typically occur at a designated location, such as parking lots or even at the seller’s residence.

  Once at the meeting place, the suspects employ a carefully orchestrated scheme to manipulate the situation in their favor. They arrive with at least two accomplices, and while one individual pretends to inspect the engine compartment, the others engage in distracting the victim or creating a diversion of some sort. During this time, the main suspect surreptitiously pours oil into the radiator and on top of the engine manifold, while the accomplices may also pour oil near the rear of the vehicle.

  Subsequently, the suspect requests a test drive of the vehicle. As the engine heats up during the drive, the oil poured onto the manifold starts to smoke, creating the illusion of a serious mechanical issue. When the vehicle is brought to a halt, the suspect seizes the opportunity to open the radiator cap, revealing the oil within and falsely claiming that the engine is “blown.” Exploiting the victim’s moment of distress, they proceed to make an extremely low-ball offer to “take the vehicle off their hands.”

  This elaborate scheme not only deceives the seller into believing their vehicle is severely damaged, but also coerces them into accepting an unfairly low price for it. What’s more concerning is the collaborative effort involved in executing this scam. By many reports, this scam has been taking place up and down the state of California recently.

  It’s imperative for individuals engaging in online transactions to exercise caution and take preventive measures to protect themselves from falling victim to such scams. Before agreeing to meet with a potential buyer, engage in communication to gauge their seriousness and legitimacy. Ask pertinent questions about their interest in the vehicle and their intentions.

  Choose a public, well-lit location with plenty of foot traffic for the meeting. Places like shopping center parking lots or police station parking lots are ideal choices. Bring a friend or family member along to the meeting for added security and support. Having another person present can deter potential scammers and provide assistance if needed.

  Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle before meeting with potential buyers. This includes checking the engine compartment, fluid levels, and any visible signs of tampering or damage. During the meeting, maintain control of the vehicle at all times. Avoid allowing the potential buyer to take control of the keys or access the engine compartment without supervision.

  Pay attention to any suspicious behavior or red flags during the meeting. This includes excessive distractions, pressure to make a quick decision, or attempts to manipulate the situation. If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts and proceed with caution. Don’t hesitate to walk away from the transaction if you feel uncomfortable or unsure.

  By taking these proactive steps, car sellers can minimize their risk of falling victim to car-buying scams and protect themselves from fraudulent activities in the online marketplace.

   
• 

  Geebo 9:00 am on February 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist, real estate ( 127 ), rental scam ( 87 ), Scams ( 1,354 )   

  Craigslist rental scam leaves landlord and tenants in a bind 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In a cautionary tale that underscores the importance of due diligence in the rental market, a landlord and four unsuspecting residents in Virginia Beach found themselves ensnared in a potential rental scam. What began as a seemingly routine rental agreement ended in confusion, financial loss, and upheaval for all parties involved.

  The story revolves around a realtor, who leased a four-bedroom home in late 2023, only to discover that she had fallen victim to a scam orchestrated by someone posing as the property owner. Initially, everything appeared to be in order, with rent payments arriving punctually. However, by December, the payments ceased, and communication with the supposed tenant abruptly halted.

  It wasn’t until February, when the realtor visited the property, that the full extent of the deception became apparent. Instead of finding her tenant, she encountered unfamiliar faces, shocked to learn that the person they had been paying rent to wasn’t the true owner of the property. Locks had been placed on individual bedroom doors, and the house was being sublet to unwitting tenants.

  Further investigation revealed that the imposter had listed individual bedrooms for rent on Craigslist, collecting money from multiple tenants while failing to fulfill his own financial obligations to the realtor. The deceit extended to using a different name in the listings, potentially to obfuscate his true identity.

  The ramifications of the scam were profound. Not only did the realtor face financial losses and property damage, but the unsuspecting residents also found themselves displaced and potentially out of pocket.

  This serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of rental scams and the need for vigilance when navigating the rental market. Verifying property ownership is a crucial step for potential renters to ensure they are dealing with legitimate landlords and avoiding rental scams.

  Most counties maintain online databases where property records are publicly accessible. Prospective renters can search for the property address on the county assessor’s website to find information about the current owner. This information typically includes the owner’s name and contact details.

  Property tax records are another reliable source of information regarding property ownership. Renters can visit the local tax assessor’s office or access their website to inquire about property tax records. Tax records typically include the name of the property owner, the assessed value of the property, and tax payment history.

  Renters can directly verify property ownership by requesting proof of ownership from the landlord. This could include asking for a copy of the property deed or rental agreement. Legitimate landlords should be willing to provide this information to establish trust and transparency with potential tenants.

  By utilizing these methods, potential renters can verify property ownership and protect themselves from rental scams and fraudulent landlords. Taking the time to conduct due diligence and verify ownership details can help ensure a safe and secure rental experience.

   
• 

  Geebo 9:00 am on November 20, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: backyard breeders ( 3 ), craigslist, puppy scam ( 37 ), Scams ( 1,354 ), sick puppy ( 3 )   

  The puppy scam that’s even more cruel 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The majority of time we discuss puppy scams, we elaborate on the one where the puppy doesn’t even exist. That’s the scam where a puppy will be advertised for sale online, and once the scammers get their initial payment, they’ll try to get additional payments from their victims for things like special shipping crates, insurance, and other fees they can dream up. At least in that scam, there are no actual animals being harmed. We wish we could say the same for the other puppy scam.

  The other puppy scam is perpetrated by what’s called backyard breeders. These are people who will breed a popular breed of puppy regardless of the health and welfare of any animal in their care. Their goal is to crank out as many puppies as they can to get as much money as they can. Too often, the animals used and produced are kept in substandard living conditions, and are often sold after contracting a terminal disease.

  A family in Southern California were recently ordered to pay restitution after they were found to be selling sick puppies on Craigslist. One of their victims paid the family $1100 for a goldendoodle puppy. After getting the puppy home, the puppy began to get severely ill. After taking the puppy to a vet, it was discovered the puppy had the deadly parvovirus. The new owners spent $10,000 to treat the puppy, who thankfully survived. But that wasn’t the end of the scam. About a month later, the puppy’s hair started turning white. The puppy wasn’t a goldendoodle at all and had its hair dyed to pass it off as one.

  To make sure you’re buying a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder, avoid places like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. That’s where the backyard breeders mostly post their advertisements, and it’s why Geebo.com doesn’t allow listings for pets. Legitimate breeders will almost always allow you to visit their facility and check their health certifications.

  And as always, we would prefer if you adopted a pet from your local shelter instead. Many wonderful dogs are in need of homes, and adoption is a responsible and humane choice.

  Responsible breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and will be transparent about their practices. By taking the time to research and ask questions, you can make an informed decision and provide a loving home for a healthy puppy.

   
• 

  Geebo 9:00 am on November 8, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist, rental car ( 6 ), Scams ( 1,354 ), stolen cars ( 10 ), used car ( 33 )   

  Used car scammers are selling rental cars 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A woman from Houston, Texas, was shocked when two men showed up in her driveway looking for the car she had just bought. She had just purchased a 2019 Toyota Camry for $11,000 through a Craigslist seller. A little below Blue Book value, but not an unreasonable price. She even did a car history check, where nothing unusual turned up. Yet, there were the two men saying the car was theirs.

  The two men had rented the car and tracked it using an Apple AirTag. Now, that may sound like a scam itself, but according to police, their claim was legitimate. This left the woman confused because she had the car’s title. Unfortunately, the title turned out to be a fake.

  The car was returned to its owner, leaving the victim out of her $11,000. A man was arrested for selling her the car and producing a fake title.

  Houston police said you can tell a title is fake by holding it up to the light, if you don’t see the state seals, the title is fraudulent. They also suggested taking the title to a local police department and having them check if the title is valid.

  Buying a used car from a private seller should be treated just like any other purchase. If you don’t want to be ripped off or robbed, the best place to complete the transaction is at your local police department. This will dissuade a lot of scammers and thieves from pulling their scam on you.

   
• 

  Geebo 8:00 am on August 30, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist, puppy scam ( 37 ), Scams ( 1,354 )   

  Puppy stolen during scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Previously, we’ve discussed many reasons why you shouldn’t buy a puppy online. In summary, there are two main scams that happen when trying to buy a puppy online. There’s the scam where the puppy doesn’t even exist, but the scammers keep asking victims for additional funds for things like a special shipping crate, traveling insurance for the puppy, etc.

  Then there are the backyard breeders, who are essentially a homegrown puppy mill. They’re the people who just keep breeding puppies in dismal conditions and don’t care about the welfare of the puppies. Often they’ll sell puppies with infectious and sometimes terminal disease.

  But, did you know there’s also a scam that targets people who are selling puppies online? A seller in Cerritos, California, was selling American Bully puppies through Craigslist for $2000. The seller met a woman who wanted to buy one of the puppies in the parking lot of a local mall. The woman asked to pay through Zelle and asked to hold the puppy while the transfer went through. By the time the Zelle transfer was denied, the woman had walked away with the puppy into the mall and fled the scene.

  If we had to hazard a guess, we’d say the scammer will probably try to sell the puppy themselves. If not on Craigslist, then on some other online marketplace. Due to the myriad of animal welfare issues with buying and selling pets online, Geebo.com stopped allowing animals to be listed for sale years ago. Craigslist technically does not allow animal sales, but they have a ‘rehoming fee’ loophole, which users take advantage of.

  Just like with any item, if you’re going to sell a puppy through an online marketplace, the best way to try to prevent a scam is to meet the buyer at a local police station. While not perfect, this will go a long way in discouraging scam artists and thieves from showing up.