An ad in Craigslist offered a new Sharp Aquos 52" LCD HDTV for $800 USD. I posted a query as to the availability of the set; and was told in a response that the TV was still available; but was located in the UK. Seller advised that he would pay for shipping the TV to the USA (first alarm bell rang mentally)
I responded to seller asking for details of his fin. institution so I could have a confirmed letter of credit prepared by my bank and sent to his. Seller responded by advising of HIS choice of financial and shipping handler (second alarm bell rang mentally).
I began web search for info re: seller's proposed shipper/financial handler and found that "TNT" IS a legitimate int'l shipping company; but its address is slightly different from the one provided by seller. Further web search found "complaint website; and reports of the scam.
Thanks to the internet (and mental alarm bells), no money has changed hands. Craigslist has been informed of the ad, as have South Carolina State law enforcement authorities.
0 comments