Complaint Review: AUTO MARKETING SYSTEMS

I received a message from "Brad" noting my recent vehicle for sale ad in the local newspaper. In his message he indicated that Auto Marketing had customers specifically looking for my vehicle.  I returned the call and spoke to "Amanda".  As described, their advertising network sounded like a good idea, especially because it would only be marketed in my local area.  Amanda took down all the vehicle details, developed an ad and charged $129.00, $100.00 to be refunded if not sold.  It was also indicated that this company was approved by the BBB and the parnet company  (Longwood Industries) was a 501(c)(3)1 class - non-profit?

I followed up, asking where it was advertised since it wasn't on AMS website.  I was given two obscure websites I had never heard of before; my ad wasn't on either.  I googled the company and never saw so many scam complaints.  The BBB covering the western part of VA reported that AMS was not listed by them, and the BBB had received 161 complaints during the previous 36 months.  I couldn't find anywhere on the internet to verify that Longwood was a 501(c)(3)1 company.

Too good to be true? Yes!

Should I have googled the company first? Yes!

Don't repeat my mistake, check first; the internet can be a great tool.  I see my $129 flying off into the sunset. I guess it was an "educational expense".