There was an ad in my local Craigslist for a 1DsIII, which has turned out to be a scam. I'm wondering if there's anything I can do with this, besides ignoring it. Any law enforcement types out there?
The add I responded to was titled: Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III 21.1 MP Digital SLR Camera Body Low Price - $2600. I responded and entered into the following conversation:
Me:
Can you tell me about your camera? How many shots taken, condition, etc. Are you the original owner and why selling. Also, where are you located?
I'm very interested if it's still available.
Thanks,
Jon
Them:
The Canon is in an excellent condition, no dents or scratches. I don’t want to offend you but the Canon is priced for a fast sale so please if you intend to apply for a loan or financing do not reply.
The transaction will be made through eBay company for the safety of both. I’ve already included the Canon into eBay Purchase Protection, so I will sell only through this.
If you want to buy the Canon, and you agree with my terms please reply so I can give you a detailed description of the eBay Purchase Protection.
Waiting for your reply
Me:
Hi Thomas. I'm not sure I understand about using ebay, but I'm sure you will explain it if things move closer. I have the cash, so you don't need to worry about that. I will need the ability to thoroughly inspect the camera before purchase. I've purchased things on Craigslist many times and you are the first to require using eBay. Please explain how this works and when and where I can inspect the camera.
Thanks,
Jon
Them:
The price of the Canon is $2,600 includes all the shipping costs and handling.
The Canon is located in Dallas,TX at a shipping and storage company. The sale will be managed through eBay under their Purchase Protection Program since they offer the highest rate of safety and reliability during online transactions.Here is how it works :
- you give me your full name and shipping address
- I start a transaction with eBay,
- they send you the payment instructions,
- you send the money into eBay trust account,
- they confirm me that the payment was received,
- I ship the Canon
- you receive the Canon in 3 days,
- they send me the money.
The payment type will be establish by eBay after start the transaction. They will hold the money until the Canon is delivered to you. You have 5 days for the inspection period. If the Canon is not like described you will have to ship it back in 30 business days on my expense, but I am sure that you will love it.
In order to move forward I will need the following info from you so I can set up a new transaction case through eBay:
1. full name
2. shipping address
3. phone number
So, that's where we are so far. I suspected a scam based on the price, which was proven at the first response when they were talking about eBay. Does anyone know if they are breaking any laws, and what law enforcement agency would have jurisdiction? I guess they could be anywhere in the world. If nothing else, maybe one of you will learn by this and not loose your money.
