So I listed my 05 996 Turbo S for sale and almost immediately I received a text message from a guy asking me to email him some basic details on the car; what's my bottom line price, what's the condition, etc. They were pretty vague questions and I suggested the usual, PPI, physical inspection and test drive, inspect the service records. He said that he was working at sea, could only email for the moment, and was buying the car for his sons graduation. I explained to him that this sounded like a scam but if he wanted the car he could pay my asking price and confirm whatever details for payment and shipping. About 30 minutes ago he emailed asking for my PayPal ID and full name and wanted to know what my asking price was so he could PayPal transfer the money. Is this guy trying to take me for a ride or is this legit? Keep in mind we have had no phone conversation and he has not asked for any info on the car other than what I outlined in the Autotrader ad. How should I proceed?

 

I would not take paypal. Fees alone would be killer. I would request a wire transfer.

 

LOL yeah sounds way sketchy. and skrew paypal

 

Yeah they would be almost $1800. I can't get over the fact that this guy is so nonchalant about buying the car sight unseen. Granted its a good car and he wouldn't have a problem but I take more time deciding what coffee I buy in the morning!

 

I've been in similar situation and told the guy I didn't want to sell. I may have lost a sale but I followed my gut.

 

Cashiers check or wire transfer ONLY

I know of some great PayPAl scams out there.... even cars on ebay which sell avoid paypal

 

also if he can access a pc to paypal you, he can access the same fooking bank account to WIRE you

BTW what is the car............................ PM me with details or advert, guy here is after a TTS 996

 

like others have said, if he can access a computer to e-mail you he can get to a wire transfer. I am taking more time trying to decide if I should show the boss pictures of your car or not

 

If he's working at sea, I'd assume military or cruise operator. Did his email come from a .mil address or from a recognizable cruise operator domain?

Seems fishy (ahem...), but hey IF he checks out, and IF it's a good deal on a great car, then you can't knock him for being eager.

Trust but verify.
-V

 

It's a gmail e-mail address

 

Classic scam, I am a car dealer and receive emails like this on a daily basis for cars I have for sale.

 

scam for sure

 

Definite scam. Got the same sort of email when I put my boat up for sale.

 

Ditto - I get these kind of scam emails for everything from boats to riding lawnmowers I've listed for sale. Ignore and move on.

 

Scam.

After you give him the info you will get a (fake) confirmation from paypal that $asking plus $2500 was put into your account.....then, shortly afterwards the 'buyer' will ask you to wire the $2500 to western union to go to the shippers as they want to be paid up front prior to 'collecting' the car.


The scam reveals itself slowly, as the mark tastes the sale....