BBB Serving Connecticut is conducting an ongoing investigation. Versions of this scam, which often requires the interested party to pay via wire transfer or a peer-to-peer app, continue to target consumers. New reports popped up on BBB Scam Tracker as recently as August 2nd.
Victims of social media ad scams, even those who don’t lose money, should share their experience at BBB Scam Tracker. That report could help other consumers spot a scam before it’s too late, as it did for one man who reported being targeted by this scam.
“Once she mentioned the specific moving company (ascot), I went to check out their website and it seemed highly suspicious to me. That’s when I searched here at bbb.org and came across the scam report,” he told us, adding that once he mentioned this to the scammer they cut off all communication.
How to avoid this scam
- Never wire funds or complete bank-to-bank transactions. Scammers love this kind of transaction because there is no way for you to get your money back once it is completed. Instead, make legitimate purchases by check or credit-card.
- Be wary of a moving company that won’t take payment on delivery. Reputable movers will not require you to pay until your items are delivered.
- Don’t pay a stranger with a peer-to-peer app. Only use these apps the way they were intended, with people you personally know. Unlike more traditional banking systems, many payment apps will not shoulder the cost of fraud.
- Avoid deals that involve third-party shipping. It’s best to purchase items directly from the seller. Asking for payment for escrow services or shipping is a common scam tactic when it comes to buying items online.
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