Scammer Response to Scope WTB Advert -- Warning

[NC/Br Shooter]

I had my no. Posted in a want add for a scope.
They texted me multiple times. Said they where a cop from Texas. Good decent deal. I asked multiple times to call me. They declined multiple times. They sent pictures and insisted they where trust worthy. I asked what their call name was from the forum. The said a friend told them about the add and they needed to sell to take care of a sick kid. I got their phone no. And pictures of a badge trying to prove who they where. And they still would not talk on the phone. I'm taking my no. Down.
I mean I'm looking hard for a decent deal, not looking for a hand out but somebody has to talk to me before I go sending $$ anywhere. This is a first and I just wanted to pass this on. This literally just happened. I made point to block the no. And go on about my day. Being a member on here goes a long way. Alot further than I realized. Trading history and good name is key, and I had no idea what I was thinking by posting my no. I guess the personal message is the first line of creditability.
I recon I'll keep looking but with caution
.

 

[rockhound78]

Glad you weren't taken to the cleaners so to speak

 

[Kevin1990]

Glad you didn't get scamed. As soon as someone refuses to talk to me on the phone, its an automatic no from me, and if I can block them, I do so.

 

[NC/Br Shooter]

I got to thinking about it, and I coulda had his friend that he said was a member sell it for him if they would vouch for the sale. But I did kinda do that because he wouldn't give up his friends name or handle. Seems like Iv seen a scam before where the suspect poses as an officer. Is that a thing?
Does being a police officer make you more credible? Somehow?

 

[Forum Boss]

It is against Forum rules for a new member to respond to WTB ads in the first 30 days. This scammer was trying to get around that by saying he was not a member.

We also have very tough background checks for sign-ups.

With ANY folks offering a product for sale, you must ALWAYS:

1. Insist on a VOICE phone Call -- not just text, not just email. VOICE!!! The overseas scammers know they can be revealed by their accents. You can also get forewarned if the number goes through Google voice or some other "bouncing" system.

2. Verify the person's full name and location. TruePeopleSearch.com is a good first resource and it is FREE.

3. Always, always, always INSIST on custom photos. If the guy claims to be selling a scope, tell him to tie a ribbon around it and put in on the dashboard of his vehicle with a hat next to it (or some other custom setting that is unusual).

4. Personally, I would only purchase from an upgraded Gold or Silver member. The upgrade process requires that the member, at some point, had to provide valid financial information or a check that didn't bounce.

NOTE: Even with upgraded members, still do #1-3 because it is rare, but possible that an upgraded member has been hacked. This occurred once last year when the member had his passwords in a phone App that was hacked.

 

[nakneker]

Good advice

 

[NorCalMikie]

WTB? Send me the scope. If it's what I want and I like it, I'll send you the $$$.
WTS? Send me the $$$ and I'll send you what I'am selling.
Can't get much easier than that.