I had a similar email about 3 years ago at work. I thought my dreams had come true until I read 'please give us you bank account information, love from a.nigerian'
Since then I've been lucky to spot these a mile off.
As you know, RC, I'm always scouring the cycletrader and autotrader sites. Here's a cut and paste of my latest efforts in the fight against these scammers (I have removed my email address from the text below):
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From: Jennifer Garnett [mailto:
[email protected]]
Sent: Monday, June 20, 2005 1:26 PM
To:
Subject: RE: Report of Suspicious Activity SCAM
Thank you very much for your concerns in this matter. The information you forwarded has been helpful in removing undesirable ads and sellers from our site. We appreciate your help in policing our site; thank you for your continued faith in Trader Online.
For more information about protecting yourself online as a buyer and a seller, please visit the TraderOnline Security Center at
http://securitycenter.traderonline.com/.
Sincerely,
TraderOnline.com
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From: Shared acct for Cycle CS [mailto:
[email protected]]
Sent: Monday, June 20, 2005 12:33 PM
To:
[email protected]
Subject: Fw: Report of Suspicious Activity SCAM
Scam advertisement
http://adcache.cycletrader.com/5/9/5/79450595.htm
I live in Benbrook where the bike is advertised. I emailed the seller to see if I could meet with him to see the bike. They responded that they have moved to Europe and taken the bike with them.
It's the old 'I've moved to Europe and the vehicle wont pass emissions' story. Emissions tests are more stringent in the USA than Europe so I believe this, together with the cheap price (The bike is advertised at 55% of market value), to be a scam.
Check the advert out and the email below. He sent photos which were not taken in Benbrook (very small city where I live) nor Italy, judging by the background.
Regards
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From:
[email protected] [mailto:
[email protected]]
Sent: Monday, June 13, 2005 11:54 AM
To:
Subject: Re: GSXR600
Hello
I'm very sorry for this late answere but I had same business to resolve.
Here are a few information regarding the bike.
The Bike it's Absolutely perfect condition with not one scratch on it.
It has only 868 miles on it,Engine: 599cc.Bike runs perfect.Never been droped ..
It will came with a Clean Title ,Original Certificate from SUZUKI warranty paper , warranty utill january 2008.
I'm from USA but right now I'm in Italy with same business, the bike will be shipped from here with Free Shipping.
If you want to buy it I will put your name and address on all that papers so you can be the owner of this bike.
The bike was garage kept so it run like new.
I have attach you same pictures with the bike.So,if you want to purchase this bike then all you have to do is to email me with your shipping address so I can prepare the shipping and after that you must go at any Bank with WesternUnion and send half on the money to my name and address so I can ship your bike,and after you will receive and inspect the bike then you will send me the rest of the money. I will pay all the taxes from here and you don't need to pay other taxes to receive the bike . In max 2 days you will receive your bike with all papers on your name .The price that I'm asking for this bike is $4700US Dollars including all the shipping taxes to your location.2005 SUZUKI GSX-R600, only 868 miles. Mint condition. The color is the limited edition silver with black flames. I have never taken this bike past 7k (break-in period is 500mi). This bike is unmolested, i have not added any aftermarket parts to it. I dont have time to ride it, my loss your gain. The bike also comes with a mens large HJC helmet, large Frank Thomas Jacket, and large gloves.
I sell this bike because like I told you right now I'm in Italy and it is impossible to register this bike here because it has has all the papers from USA. Also I will put your name on the Title so you can be the owner of this bike. Yes the bike is available for sale and if you are interested to buy let me know soon your shipping info so we can start the deal.
I'm waiting your email if you want to close the deal with me.
Thank's a lot and I wait your prompt reply with your shipping address so we can start the deal.
With Respect Jeffery Maestas
______________________________________________
From:
Sent: Monday, June 13, 2005 10:08 AM
To: '
[email protected]'
Subject: GSXR600
Hi
I am also located in Benbrook. When would it be convenient to view the Suzuki?
Thanks
TransAm2001