I went on Craigslist to search for a used car, and came across an ad that seemed too good to be true, and after corresponding with the seller, Brenda Cox, I realized it was a scam. Here is her response to my quiry: "
Thanks for taking the time to look at my listing. I am glad that you are interested in my vehicle. Please allow me to introduce myself:
My name is Brenda Cox, I'm 47 years old, and I'm the owner of the Honda CR-V. I’m selling this vehicle because I lost my husband, but he didn't use it as he died in 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group,Kunduz, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained while engaging enemy forces, 7 months ago. It brings me a lot of memories that make me suffer, and I’m a single mother, with 2 children's and I ended up with a lot of debts and with no idea how to pay them off that’s why I’m selling it so cheap. I am looking for selling online at this price $1.500.
It's registered on my name, and the title is clean clear (no loan or lien). It is a 2006 model loaded with everything. 124,000 miles, never had or need any paint/body work done, garaged always keep, without any mechanical problems, tires and wheels are in great shape as well, electric is working perfectly. The engine 2.4 L, 4 Cylinder runs excellent and the automatic transmission shifts perfectly. Has a clean and clear title in my name and there are no liens or loans on it. It was always garage kept. Recently I had it serviced which includes: changing all the fluids breaks, new rotors and new pads front and back. The vehicle is ready to be driven for the new owner. If you are interested in buying the vehicle, I found a solution that is safe for both of us. The vehicle is priced for a fast sale, so it would be better if you don't need financing.If you have any other questions or need more info and pics, please free to ask. I look forward to hearing from you."
Feeling a bit sorry for her, I replied that I was interested. Here is her next response:
"As I told you in my first email, I recently lost my husband I have moved to my parents home in Hamilton, Montana for a while, because I think they are only people who can help me to pass this challenging situation. The car is in Amazon custody in Hamilton Montana at their shipping company ready to be shipped with all the documents. The shipping will be free because my husband worked for the US Army and I have these facilities from them.
I will use Amazon Payments in this transaction for our protection. You send me your full name and your full shipping address and phone number so I can initiate the transaction. Amazon Payments contacts you with further details regarding the payment and shipping process. You submit the payment to Amazon Payments, Amazon Payments confirms the payment and asks me to release the shipment. I ship the car which should be at your door within three business days with all the necessary papers (clear title, bill of sale signed by me, user’s manual, insurance, etc.). You have a five days inspection period before you confirm the deal and Amazon Payments forwards the payment to me or you cancel the deal and get your money back. Amazon Payments holds your money safe until you confirm that this car is what you have been expected and you want to buy it. It is not a sight unseen deal. On the other hand, I can ship my car knowing Amazon Payments has your money and you won't "disappear" with my car. We are both covered. Sorry for the long emails I have tried to touch all bases.
P.S. 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 Amazon Payments and ask them to send you the terms of this deal. ( with no further obligation or fees). Here you can see the pics:
postimg.org/gallery/261muvsxo/God bless you"
Well, I responded that I would contact Amazon, and after a quick Google search I found an interesting and nearly identical listing reported on Ripoff Report for a Selena Nolan. You can compare the scams here: ripoffreport.com/reports/selena-nolan/internet/selena-nolan-beware-false-car-selling-trick-on-cragslist-httpwwwclickovercomjoupg-1349415 . The WORDING IS ALMOST EXACTLY THE SAME!!
I'm glad I didn't get scammed and I hope you don't either!!