PayPal
Complaint 144339 Details

Hello,

I have become a victim of a horrific scam. I posted an ad for expensive China on craigslst. I have used Craig list for years, never a problem.

Two offers came through from potential buyers. Each offer agreed to use pay pal for the payment due.

Each person offered me a similar package.

The price of the goods $3,000.00
Shipping Cost & Western Union rate $1100.00
Handling Fee for my service $100.00

Total $4200.00

I agreed to this. The buyer sent money to Pay pal in this amount. I received several email requests from Pay pal. Three of them requesting I pay $1000.00 for shipping expenses to the Shipping Company of the buyer's choice. I did set-up n account with Western Union (on-line) and sent the $1000.00 and paid WU a $95.00 fee. I did receive confirmation from Western Union and forwarded the receipt to Pay pal.

This morning, I checked my pay pal account to see if the funds are pending. Nothing has shown up in my account. Normally, if the money has been sent to my email address, the account summary will have the amount listed and status of the funds (i.e. pending or completed). I am now suspicious.

The Buyer sent another email requesting me to send another $800.00 to the shipping company for insurance. I also received the same request from Pay pal. I emailed the Buyer immediately, informing this person, Insurance was never agreed to or discussed. Please handle that on your own. If the $900.00 shows up in my pay pal account, I will return it to you.
By now, I realize this is a scam. I contacted a service rep. at Pay pal. He confirmed there has been no activity with my account. He told me send all email correspondence to [email protected] to investigate this matter. I have done that. I am now out $1095.00. If you require more information or would like to see the email messages sent to me. I would be happy to assist. I know this is a scam. In fact, I am still receiving emails form the buyer to please send the Insurance money. The buyer wants to pick up the merchandise as soon as possible. I did let the buyer know that I am wise to this scam, and I am asking or Pay pal to investigate this matter as confirmation.

I would be happy forward the mails to you. Te dialog is very useful for supicius behavior.