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 Accord

Hello 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….

623 Responses to “Used car buying scam from “military” personnel”

  1. jaz Says:

    wow just today I got the same thing. I lowkey knew it was a scam as it was too good to be true then I seen your story which popped on google and read it. I just got the same thing.

    Hi,

    Thanks for replying to my ad. I’m selling it because I’m serving in Offutt AFB, Nebraska but I was promoted and transferred to Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage Alaska for a 3 years period, so I don’t need it anymore at this time. Let me give you a few details about it: 2009 Land Rover Range Rover Sport – 4×4 HSE with only 88,385 miles on it, no accident history, clear title, no dents or dings and no scratches. Always adult driven and garaged, never abused or raced. If you are interested, it’s still available for sale and the price, as stated in the ad, is $2,000.00, so if you have the money ready to buy it email me back.

    Some details of the car:
    Vehicle title – Clean
    Mileage – 88,385
    Engine – 4.4L V8
    Transmission – Automatic
    Fuel type – Gasoline

    I look forward to hearing from you,
    SSgt. Emily Martin
    Hi again,

    As I’ve told you, at this moment I am in Offutt AFB, NE in a military base. I do a special training program each day and I am not allowed to get out of the unit or call whenever I want. The reason I’m selling this car way below market value is because don’t have time for negotiations and I need money before Sept 06 for my next house in Anchorage. The car is already at our Offutt Air Force Base Library form Offutt AFB, NE crated and ready to go. Like I already said, the delivery process will be managed by me. I think I can have it there at your home address within 1-2 working days. It will come with a clear title and reg. I am a member of the eBay buyer protection program and using this service you will get a 10 days testing period after delivery. During that 10 days testing period I will not be getting any money. I need to know if you are interested so I can ask eBay to send you the details on this deal. If interested please include in your next email your contact info for eBay (full name, shipping address and phone number), so we can move forward with this transaction.

    Please visit this link for photo gallery: https://www.use.com/OhM2k

    Thank you!

    ** 2k for a ’09 Rover, What a dream.

  2. Lucy Williams Says:

    Perhaps a new variation….. Sgt Walter Moore, Utah National Guard selling a 2015 Exxis horse trailer on multiple Craigslist sites in California.
    For sale is a 2015 4-Star Horse Trailer 2-Horse Slant Wdressing Room. For more photos please ask!
    This trailer is in excellent condition, Original owner. Front Dressing Room 5′ x 53″ w/ window that opens in the door. Drop Down Feed Door w/Window Per Horse w/Drop Down Window Bars. Collapsible Rear Tack w/Removable Post. Saddle Rack can also be mounted in Dressing Room.

    7′-0″ Height
    2 – 3500# Torsion 102″ Axles – Electric Brakes
    15″ Aluminum Wheels
    Removable Half Divider w/Pad & Holdback
    High Turn Signals
    Halogen Load Light

    No accident history, original paint. It was my father’s but unfortunately he can’t use it anymore as he died 3 months ago. I sold almost all my father’s stuff including the farm, I have a military career and it has to go. After I sold the farm the new owners didn’t want to purchase the trailer as they don’t need it and I let in a storage garage in Draper, UT and in case it gets sold I will take care of shipping process. If you decide to buy it, you’ll receive all the papers, owner manual, a buy-sell contract signed by me.. I have a low price ($2000), because I want to sell it in the next 10 days. I am in US Army and my unit will be sent back oversea to replace and help the troops scheduled to come home this year. This transaction will be made trough eBay Insurance. In this way you can receive assistance for shipping, titles transfer, etc.
    If you are interested to buy it, reply me back and I will explain how eBay work.

    Looking forward to hear from you,

    Staff Sgt. Walter Moore
    128th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
    Utah Army National Guard

  3. Alicia Says:

    The one we got is from Patricia Keys… Her husband died and she doesn’t want memories of this car. She is in Nebraska and the car will be shipped from there at no cost to NY, lol

    My 2002 Honda Accord EX , is still for sale. This car is in great shape.
    I’m the original owner. It has no damage, no scratches, dents or hidden
    defects. It is in immaculate condition, meticulously maintained and
    hasn’t been involved in any accident…Has only 105,345 milles, with 6
    Cylinder Engine 3.0L is V6, Exterior Color: Gold, Interior Color:Tan. I
    have a clear title, without liens or loans on it, under my name. I am
    selling it at this final price of $1500 because my husband died 1 month
    ago and it brings me bad memories and that’s the reason I want to sell
    it a.s.a.p. I want to use eBay services for the safety of both of us so
    if you’re interested in purchasing this car can notify eBay that you are
    selected as my possible buyer and they will contact you to explain the
    entire procedure.

    Thank you,
    Patricia Key

    Our response:
    Hi Patricia,

    We understand your concerns about the transaction and we are E-bay users. Our ebay username is Maliciaguilucha, if you would like to check our ebay history (haven’t used ebay this much lately, though), so there will be no issues on doing the transaction through ebay. The only thing is that we would want to see the car first before buying, it looks great but we are old school buyers especially for a used item and even though the amount is great for the car, it’s a large disbursement to do a blind buy. We can even meet in a public place if you prefer.

    We are buying this car for our 16 years old daughter.

    Please let us know.

    Thanks,

    Her response back:

    Hi again,
    Thanks so much for getting back to me, as I have told you in previous
    email my husband died recently. Right now i’m in a military base (Offutt
    Air Force Base, Nebraska), training and getting ready for leaving the
    country. My presence won’t be necessary because I prearranged the deal
    with eBay Money Back Guarantee program. The car is here in the custody
    of the Military Logistic Department, ready to be delivered to its
    hopefully future new owner. You`ll get free delivery and it will arrive
    at your address in 2 to 3 days. In addition, you will have 5 days to try
    out prior to making any purchase and if by any reason you find something
    you don’t like about it you can send it back at my expense.
    If you are ready to buy it, please reply with your whole name, address
    and phone # so I can notify eBay that you are selected as my buyer, and
    they will contact you right away with all the details about the transaction.

    Regards!

  4. Dani Says:

    This is the one I got. I am frustrated because I am trying to buy my first car and this person is playing with my feelings >:-(

    “Hello,
    I apologize for the delay in replying, the Car is still for sale if you want to buy it. My name is Angela Ramsey and I am the legal owner of the 2012 Toyota Camry SE that I have decided to sell for $2600. The car has 51,942 actual miles. It is Automatic transmission, engine 2.5L, Gasoline. The car has all of its original floor mats, all books, complete set of tools and keys. Everything works in the car lights, gauges, radio, windows, locks, a/c blows ice cold, etc…It has no leaks or drips and does not smoke at all, slightly used in 100% working and looking conditions with a clear title free of liens. The car has been well cared for and fully serviced. New battery (with warranty), new brakes, dealer premium oil change service, etc. If you buy the car,I want to let you know that you will have 5 days to inspect it once it is delivered to your address. I have all the documents, service records, owner’s manuals and will come with the Car.

    Unfortunately, my father passed away two months ago, and we no longer need it. The car was never driver, since he died and it was stored properly. The car is located in Omaha, NE but the shipping is already paid so you don’t need to worry, I had a buyer in your region who couldn’t take the loan from his bank after we made arrangements to ship the car and the trucking company won’t refund me so it can be delivered to your address if you buy it.Here you can find some pictures, please click on the link : https://imgur.com/a/Pg2bWG7 If you have any questions about the car please feel free to ask.

    God bless you,
    Maj. Angela Ramsey”

  5. Tyler Says:

    Crazy this scam is still going on a decade later. I got this today after responding to a Craigslist ad.

    “Hi again Tyler,
    I will do my best to walk you through the process. As I told you in my first email, my medical team will deploy back overseas. Right now I’m in a military base (Blank Base, Blank Place). We are in the final stage of our training and I am only allowed to check my email so we have to stick to email for now. The vehicle is here with me at the base and the delivery process will be managed by me, ready to be delivered to its future new owner. The deal is handled by eBay so I don’t have much to do about it. I think I can have it there at your home address in 2-3 days. In addition, you get 5 days to try it out before buying it, and if you don’t like it, you can send it back at my expense. For more info on how it works, I can ask eBay to send you an email with more details on how to buy it. They will contact you shortly, as soon as they have your personal details. If you would like to receive the email from eBay Motors with transaction information, please reply with your name, address and phone # and they will contact you right away.
    Thanks”

    Seriously just copy and pasted the e-mail into the search bar and this forum was first in the results. Keeping this post alive baby WHOO!

  6. Colin Says:

    I just found a scam of a similar nature from a woman named “Karen Denise.”

    One other thing I noticed: The photos she sent me show the car parked in a nice driveway in a well-kept yard in front of a nice looking house. I used Google Street View to look at the area/neighborhood where the circle on the map of the ebay listing indicated it was, and it was pretty much the ghetto, with zero upscale, well-kept housing like where the photos had been taken. Nothing adds up.

    Talking more about this kind of scam would be redundant at this point given the number of comments already here, but I’ll just list keywords so that if someone else is thinking of buying this particular car, a google search will hopefully take them here. Thanks for this blog post!

    Scam Karen Denise [email protected] military base car scam Honda Accord EX-L Philadelphia con artist

  7. Nelson Wells Says:

    It is 2019 and these scams are still running rampant. Got one today, from a Sgt Ryan W Novak:
    [email protected].
    was “in Athens,” Georgia. but now the “car is in Arizona..”
    the whole EBay pay off garbage same as all of these.
    what always triggers it for me is the poor grammar and misuse of English. dead giveaways.
    This one got me far further than most however, because the first email was very astute and proper as I would expect from a young service member representing a sale.
    Blah blah.
    Here is what I RECOMMEND WE ALL DO!
    Forward any and ALL of these emails to:

    Scam reports:

    Federal Trade Comm Scam & Spam ,
    Phishing scams US GOV ,
    Spam Fraud Watch Fraud Watch scams

    Just hit FORWARD, and paste them all in and send.
    We have to be vigilant and stop scammers from taking money from innocent people.

    cheers,
    Nelson Wells, Athens, Georgia
    http://nelson-wells.com/classic-cars-for-bitcoin/

  8. M. Morenz Says:

    Hello to all concerned – please know it is May 2019 and this exact scam is still running. Today in response to emails about a trailer for sale in North Dakota from a “Sandra Thomas” who is to be deployed to Syria in the Air Force, recently divorced, etc., it is word for word nearly to the above emails from 2008. THe trailer was to be sent from North Dakota to Las Vegas, all through Ebay, and five days to inspect, no money up front, etc. Exactly like the thousands before it. My brother nearly fell for it and I thank every one of you good people who have posted to this site. Thank you so much! . This has been going on for over 11 years and must be successful if they are continuing to pull it. Please be aware, fellow humans! Best wishes

  9. M. Morenz Says:

    My post is the one above and I wanted to send this scammer’s email in case someone googles it, as this just happened, and this person is an active scammer. Their email is [email protected] and here is the email
    Hi again, I have the clear title and the bill of sale. All the paperwork notarized by a legal attorney are ready to be transferred under new owner’s name. I also want to let you know that the price is firm, non negotiable $1,500.00 Right now I’m at Minot AFB in ND, doing a special training and getting ready for my deployment to Syria. The trailer is already at the eBay warehouse, here in Minot, sealed and ready to be delivered to your place in 2-3 days. The transaction will be done ONLY through eBay. They will handle the shipping, the payment and the paper exchange. By dealing through eBay, we are both covered 100% and nothing wrong can happen with my trailer or your money. You will benefit of free delivery (3 days top) and a 5 day period to test, inspect and accept the trailer. The best thing to know is that the money won’t leave your hand until you will receive, inspect and decide if you want to keep the trailer.
    If you’re interested, please reply with your full name, shipping address and the best phone # where you can be reached at. I will forward your details to eBay and they will contact you with more info on how to purchase it and how to make the payment.

    ALSO they sent:
    Hi,

    My name is Sandra Thomas, and I’m emailing you about 2012 8.5×20 Haulmark Edge Race car trailer.
    This trailer features includes 5200lb torsion axles, rear ramp, all lights work, electric brakes, Goodyear Radials tires, black flooring, overhead cabinets, A/C and heat, quarts light on both sides, 50 amp electrical service, plug for power, two rear stabilizer jacks, and more!
    The price was reduced at $1,500.00(including delivery to your home address) because I’m recently divorced, after the divorce I owned the trailer and I don’t need it. I need to sell the trailer before 31 May when I will be leaving the country for a year on military duty with my medical team and I do not want to store it.
    Looking forward into receiving your reply if you are interested!

    Thank you,
    Sandra Thomas

  10. Paula Edwards Says:

    Same thing here… add Dr. Mindy Thompson [email protected] to the list of scammers. I knew it was too good to be true but ya know, just in case, I e-mailed for info. Here’s the response.

    Hello,
    My apologies for the delay. My name is Mindy and I am the owner of the 2012 Honda CR-V EX-L that I decided to sell for $2,000.
    It has V4 2.4L Gasoline Engine, 60,601 Original Miles. FWD. Air Conditioning, Cruise Control, Power Locks, Power Windows, Power Seats. Automatic transmission. Gray Exterior, Gray Leather Interior. Front tires are new, nothing mechanically wrong as this CR-V is in great condition. All maintenance up to date, drives like new. No engine/tranny leaks. CD Player, Sunroof. The Title is clean and clear.
    It has been stored inside and covered properly. Everything works flawlessly. My medical team will deploy back overseas on June 30th for a 18 months contract and it’s not worth keeping insurance and paying the storage fees for it so there’s no use on keeping it, therefore I need a fast and reliable buyer. I inherited the SUV after my father passed away. Please feel free to ask any question about the SUV or if you want more photos.

    With Esteem!
    Dr. Mindy Thompson

  11. Danny Says:

    Wow. Had no idea this was so common. My dad always said “if it’s too good to be true, it probably is”.
    I found a 2017 Jayco 25’ camper on Craigslist listed at $8,000. When I called the number and left a message of interest, I received a text message back with her mother’s email. The seller’s name was listed as Lara Brown. She was stationed at Kessler AFB. All the details were too good, the transaction too clean & easy, the pictures too pretty. The price was about 1/2 the value. She was divorced and about to be deployed. I’m in Texas, she’s in Mississippi. She mentioned that the trailer was in storage and ready to be shipped to me without me even telling her where I lived. Checked out my area code I guess. Just far enough that I couldn’t come by to see the trailer. This is sad that people do this and can’t be caught. So sad that they impersonate military. Scum bags,

  12. Bran Wak Says:

    Someone tried to sell a used Tacoma on NextDoor. These are the responses:
    “Thank you for your interest in purchasing my 2005 Toyota Tacoma SR5. The reason I’m selling this truck way below market value, is because I’m serving in Offutt AFB, Nebraska but I was promoted and transferred to Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage Alaska for a 3 years period, so I don’t need it anymore at this time. I don’t want it get old in my garage, and I need to sell it before August 18th. The truck, is in pristine condition, clear title, no dents or dings. Always garaged, never abused or raced, 74,793 miles, gas fuel type, 4.0L V6 4WD engine and automatic transmission. If you are interested, it’s still available for sale and the price, as stated in the ad, is $2.000. Let me know if you are interested.

    USAF SSgt. Irma Davis”

    After I asked if I could see it:

    “Hi again,

    As I’ve told you, at this moment I am in Offutt AFB, NE in a military base. I do a special training program each day, and we are not allowed to use phone line or get out of the unit, during training, otherwise I would have called you and seal the deal on phone. At the moment, email works best for me. The truck is already at our Offutt Air Force Base Library form Offutt AFB, NE sealed and ready to go. The delivery process will be managed by me. I think I can have it there at your home address within 2-3 working days. It will come with a clear title and reg. I am a member of the eBay buyer protection program and using this service you will get a 5 days testing period after delivery. I need to know if you are interested so I can ask eBay to send you the details on this deal. If interested please include in your next email your contact info for eBay (full name, shipping address and phone number), so we can get the ball rolling.”

  13. Herman Villarreal Says:

    So, i go the following email from a USAF Sgt. Tiffany Jodie:

    Thank you for your interest in purchasing my 2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. The reason I’m selling this SUV way below market value, is because I’m serving in Offutt AFB, Nebraska but I was promoted and transferred to Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage Alaska for a 3 years period, so I don’t need it anymore at this time. I don’t want it get old in my garage, and I need to sell it before August 28th. The SUV is in pristine condition, clear title, no dents or dings. Always garaged, never abused or raced, 69,192 miles, gas fuel type, 4.0L V4 4WD engine and automatic transmission. If you are interested, it’s still available for sale and the price, as stated in the ad, is $1,600. Let me know if you are interested.

    USAF Staff Sgt. Tiffany Jodie

    Does anyone know of this SCAM? Thank you.

  14. HH Says:

    hi again,
    Thank you very much for getting back to me but I would like to clarify some things first. I am selling the RV at this price because my husband passed away not long ago (he was very sick) and this RV brings me bad memories and that’s the reason why I want to sell it asap. Another reason for selling it is because I work in military and right now I’m on a military base. We are training and getting ready to leave the country. The RV is already at the shipping company CMC Auto Shipping ready for delivery because someone agreed to buy it, but in the end he never got the loan. For this reason, the shipping is already paid for. I will use CMC Auto Shipping in this transaction for our protection. If you are not aware of this program, you should know that it will allow you to test and inspect the RV before paying me. The inspection period will be set to 5 days and I think that is enough time for you to make a decision about the RV. If you won`t like my RV you notify CMC Auto Shipping and you send it back at my expense. But I assure you that won’t be the case.
    If you want to continue the purchase, please reply with your full name, delivery address and phone number so I can start the transaction with CMC Auto Shipping and ask them to send you the terms of this transaction. ( with no further obligation or fees).
    God bless

  15. HH Says:

    Asked to drive to the state and look at the RV from my state, after refusing to wire money. Was told it was in shipping company’s control and that the owner was in the military in training in another state to just wire the money. Again I refused the transaction. The individual got really bossy and insisted that I wire the money. Again I refused. The add was posted on craigslist in Michigan and the rv was suppose to be in Michigan then after contacting the individual it was not in Michigan but Minnesota.

  16. WS Says:

    Still going on – seller on local neighborhood site wanting to sell 2003 jeep rubicon in perfect shape for $1800. Followed-up just to see the sequence and when I did not send them money to their fake eBay Motors at their scam domain confirm-payment-transaction.com, they follow-up and said the site was down and to call (818) 351-9304 to close the transaction.

  17. Paul Wolf Says:

    Hello,

    Thank you for your interest in purchasing my 2008 Honda CRV EX-L. The reason I’m selling this SUV way below market value, is because I’m serving in Offutt AFB, Nebraska but I was promoted and transferred to Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage Alaska for a 3 years period, so I don’t need it anymore at this time. I don’t want it get old in my garage, and I need to sell it before September 24th. The SUV is in pristine condition, clear title, no dents or dings. Always garaged, never abused or raced, 76,192 miles, gas fuel type, 2.4L V4 4WD engine and automatic transmission. If you are interested, it’s still available for sale and the price, as stated in the ad, is $2,000. Let me know if you are interested.

    USAF Staff Sgt. Irma Davis

  18. Craig Clarkson Says:

    Just happened to me today. Glad I Googled once my inner alarm bells started twitching. This post helped me. Thanks!

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Hi again,
    As I’ve told you, at this moment I am in Offutt AFB, NE in a military base. I do a special training program each day, and we are not allowed to use phone line or get out of the unit, during training, otherwise I would have called you and seal the deal on phone. At the moment, email works best for me. The Suv is already at our Offutt Air Force Base Library form Offutt AFB, NE sealed and ready to go. The delivery process will be managed by me. I think I can have it there at your home address within 2-3 working days. It will come with a clear title and reg. I am a member of the eBay buyer protection program and using this service you will get a 5 days testing period after delivery.

    I need to know if you are interested so I can ask eBay to send you the details on this deal. If interested please include in your next email your contact info for eBay (full name, shipping address and phone number), so we can get the ball rolling. Thank you

    On Tue, Sep 17, 2019 at 12:16 AM wrote:
    I’m interested. Is the Jeep in Nebraska?

    From: Deborah Marshall
    Sent: Monday, September 16, 2019 6:30 AM
    Subject: Re: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

    Hello,

    Thank you for your interest in purchasing my 2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon The reason I’m selling this SUV way below market value, is because I’m serving in Offutt AFB, Nebraska but I was promoted and transferred to Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage Alaska for a 3 years period, so I don’t need it anymore at this time. I don’t want it get old in my garage, and I need to sell it before September 29th. The SUV is in pristine condition, clear title, no dents or dings. Always garaged, never abused or raced, 69,192 miles, gas fuel type, 4.0L 4WD engine and automatic transmission. If you are interested, it’s still available for sale and the price, as stated in the ad, is $1,600. Let me know if you are interested.

    USAF SSgt. Deborah Marshall

    On Mon, Sep 16, 2019 at 9:29 AM wrote:
    Saw you bro-in-law’s post on NextDoor app. Can you provide me some added details and maybe more pics if the Jeep is still available?
    Thanks

  19. MM Says:

    Add “ Melissa Davis “and “ Stephanie Clark “ to the list [email protected]
    [email protected] who posted a 2003 Toyota Tacoma on Next Door
    Hello there, sorry for my late response!

    My name is Melissa, the owner of the 2003 Toyota Tacoma SR55. The car is in perfect working condition, no body work or paint ever done, garage kept, no mechanical problems whatsoever.
    It has low miles (87,572), 3.4L, V6- gasoline engine 4WD, runs smooth and the automatic transmission shifts perfectly. The interior is like new. All regular maintenance was performed at an authorized garage. It will come with a clean and clear title under my name free from any loans or liens.
    If you decide to buy it, you’ll receive all the papers(including a clear title), owner’s manual, keys and a notarized buy-sell contract already signed by me. The price was reduced at $1600 because I’m in a hurry to find a buyer.
    I need to sell the car before 28th September, when I will be leaving on military duty with my unit to replace and help the troops scheduled to come home this year.
    Hate to sell it but it’s not worth keeping insurance and paying storage fees for a year. If you are still interested I can send you pics.

    Staff Sgt. Melissa Davis
    Bravo Company, 29th Infantry Division
    Virginia National Guard

    again,

    As I told you in my first e-mail, I’m in the army and right now I am in a military base in Virginia. We are training, getting ready for leaving the country. Before leaving I had prearranged the deal with eBay so my presence isn’t necessary. The delivery process will be managed by me. I think I can have it there at your home address within 2-3 working days. It will come with a clear title and reg, all the documents you need for ownership; title, manuals and the bill of sale, etc.. You will have 5 days to test and inspect the vehicle prior to make any purchase. During that 5 days testing period I will not be getting any money.
    I need to know if you are interested so I can ask eBay to send you the details on this deal. If interested please include in your next email your contact info for eBay (full name, shipping address and phone number), so we can get the ball rolling.

    I’ve attached a few pictures of the car.
    Looking forward to hear from you!

    Then came this:

    Hello there, sorry for but my sister Melissa has a problem with the mail.

    My name is Stephanie, I would like to know if you are still interested in the car (2003 Toyota Tacoma SR55). You received the invoice from eBay?

  20. LJ Says:

    i got the same email….
    Thanks for your interest in my white 2008 Toyota RAV4 4dr SUV . The car has a clear title, 62,300 miles, I4 2.4L Natural Aspiration ,Automatic 4-Speed, perfect condition with clear title, no accidents and completely serviced. The engine runs excellent and the automatic transmission shifts perfectly.
    I sell it at this low price ($1.200 including delivery) because I’m recently divorced, after the divorce I owned this car and don’t need it and also I don’t have space to store it. I have to sell it ASAP because I’ll be deployed for a year with my medical team. I decide to make this deal with eBay Online Services because this way we’ll both be protected. eBay give you 7 days to test drive the car for free. All documents including the title will come along with the car in 2-3 days.

    If you are interested in buying my car, feel free to email me at any time.
    I attached more pictures
    I REPLY.
    i am interested how can we proceed
    SHE SAID
    Right now I’m at Keesler AF Base in Mississippi , doing a special training and getting ready for deployment.The car is already at a storage place in Biloxi , sealed with all documents inside and ready to be delivered to your place in 2-3 days. As I said in my first email it has a clear title and the price is $1.200 including delivery to your address. I decide to make this deal with eBay-Online Services because this way we’ll both be protected. By dealing through Online Services we are both covered and nothing wrong can happen with my car or your money. They will handle the shipping, the payment and the papers exchange. You will benefit of free delivery and a 7 day period to test the car . Your money will stay in your possession and you won’t release any payment to me until you inspect and accept the car.

    If you’re interested please reply with your full name,phone number and delivery address so I can start the transaction with eBay and ask them to send you the invoice with the terms of the transaction (with no further obligation or fees) God bless you
    ME
    I DID SEND HER MY NAME EMAIL ADDRESS AND NOT MY CORRECT HOME ADDRESS
    HER
    I got your info and I will send them to eBay to initiate the transaction. Once that is done, you would probably be informed in the next 24 hours upon all the details of the transaction (terms, buyer protection coverage, payment instructions, invoice for the purchase).Keep me update with any news from eBay.

    Thank you for the great collaboration!
    Hello,
    Did you receive the invoice from eBay Motors at your email address? Please check your inbox/junk email/messages(spam), the invoice may have ended there because of the ever increasing filters of the emails nowadays. Let me know!

    Thank you!
    ME
    i received the email from ebay motors…. the invoice looks legit when i read through the email and there were a number where i can call when i did the guy said I have to purchase 6 ebay card and put $200 on each to make the payment. that’s when i emailed her back.
    HER
    In order to receive it you have to deposit the money with eBay. They will hold, protect and guarantee your funds until you get it, you inspect it for 7 days and you make a decision if you want to keep it or not. In case you won’t like it you can send it back on my expense and eBay will refund you in full.
    If you decide to keep it, eBay will release the money to me. The car is ready for delivery i just need to wait until eBay Motors will receive your payment confirmation so i can proceed with the delivery. Thank you

    that’s when I stopped. I knew all along they were trying to scam me but i wanted to know how far they were willing to take it…. later on i found that same car on craiglist with a different number to contact the same lady replied to me did not even realized if it was the same number. when asked for my email i provided her with a different email all of the sudden the mileage of the car is decreasing

  21. Allison Butler Says:

    Add Lt. Melissa Ruth from Maryland

    This was today – October 31,2019- on Craigslist for a camper. There was a phone number to text, then replied she was at work and asked for my email to send more information – got this email with pictures attached. Trailer was in pristine condition, license plate missing. It seems this person has made some changes to their reply that made it seem a little more legitimate at first glance. Scary!!

    Thank you for your interest in 2006 Fleetwood Prowler 28′.This is a 1 Owner Camper that has been very well maintained, it weights about 7,200LBS so it can be pulled around with a half ton truck. The camper Length is (feet): 28.The camper is very clean inside and out, it has never been smoked in or neglected. The roof does not leak and it appears to be very solid,Tires are not new but they are in great shape and hold air. Comes with two full size propane tanks, full size fridge, shower & queen size bed and matress. This is a very popular camper and the layout is very desirable, inside is very roomy and comfortable. This Camper is the perfect size for a couple or a family looking for a escape. I have the Original owners manual and booklets that will go with it, as well as all of the hoses and fittings for drainage. This is a Slide out camper and it slides out on one side and it works beautiful. This is a Camper that you can buy with confidence, the only thing I would say it could use is a new awning but that’s about it. I have a clean title in hand as well,This Camper can sleep 6 it has a Oven and Propane Stove, Microwave, and full size fridge and freezer, lots of counter top space and a large sink. The AC works great as well, all of the lights are in working order too.
    I have been in business for several years and maintained 100% positive feedback. Very difficult to find an better, I’m currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Air National Guard Readiness Center (ANGRC), based at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland , I’m stationed on a military training facility. The camper will be delivered from here, it is stored in a military compound.I have dropped my price to $1,200 (purchase price) including delivery and handling to your address,since this is an Urgent Sale, will be delivered free of charge through a military transportation service to a designated location of your choice, average delivery time is 3-5 business days, depending on destination. It has been reduced because I need to find a buyer before my next deployment take place and I don’t want to waste more time negotiating.

    I will not negotiate the price.I will take in consideration only those buyers who are really interested in buying The camper,to be sure that I don’t waist my time with endless discussions.This way, I shall be assured of the serious intentions .

    If you want to continue the purchase,I will post it on eBay and I will send you the link where you can buy it very easy without an account or something hard. I have 876 feedback on eBay. You will pay on eBay and they will hold your payment until you receive and inspect the Travel Trailer.eBay will release the money to me ONLY with your approval.

    If you are ready to buy it and you have the cash available, please reply with your zip code and phone number. I need to verify if I have free shipping in your area.

    Thank you and God Bless!
    Lt Melissa Ruth

    Joint Base Andrews, Maryland
    1684 Starkey Ave

  22. Big Billy Says:

    I almost fell for the same scam. The ad I responded to was on my neighborhood NextDoor website. I got suspicious with the vague wording of the replies I received back. When I googled the military person’s background, I learned she retired from the Air Force way back in 2013. Among the google listings for this military person was a warning for just this type of scam. Again if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

  23. Julie Cox Says:

    Scam is still going strong:

    Hello,

    Thank you for your interest in purchasing my 2004 Ford Ranger XLT. The reason I’m selling this truck way below market value, is because I’m serving in Offutt AFB, Nebraska but I was promoted and transferred to Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage Alaska for a 3 years period, so I don’t need it anymore at this time. I don’t want it get old in my garage, and I need to sell it before February 15th. The truck is in pristine condition, clear title, no dents or dings. Always garaged, never abused or raced, 98,718 miles, gas fuel type, 4.0L 4WD engine and automatic transmission. If you are interested, it’s still available for sale and the price, as stated in the ad, is $1,600. Let me know if you are interested.

    USAF SSgt. Deborah Marshall

    Yes, we are still interested. When would we be able to take a look at it? Thank you!

    Hi again,

    As I’ve told you, at this moment I am in Offutt AFB, NE in a military base. I do a special training program each day, and we are not allowed to use phone line or get out of the unit, during training, otherwise I would have called you and seal the deal on phone. At the moment, email works best for me. The truck is already at our Offutt Air Force Base Library form Offutt AFB, NE sealed and ready to go. The delivery process will be managed by me. I think I can have it there at your home address within 2-3 working days. It will come with a clear title and reg. I am a member of the eBay buyer protection program and using this service you will get a 5 days testing period after delivery.

    I need to know if you are interested so I can ask eBay to send you the details on this deal. If interested please include in your next email your contact info for eBay (full name, shipping address and phone number), so we can get the ball rolling. Thank you

    Nope I don’t think so lol