The TDR Classifieds - A warning on possible scams

Classified advertisements can be an excellent source for products and services for your Cummins turbo diesel truck. Unfortunately, there are a number of "scams" being perpetrated on the Internet every day. Internet fraud is a serious problem. It is your responsibility to be an informed consumer and take preventive measures to protect yourself.

Please note that the Turbo Diesel Register does not guarantee the reliability or completeness of any information provided in the TDR classified advertisements. The publication of a classified ad is not an endorsement of any product, service or individual. When using classified ads to purchase products/services, remember that the best deal is not always the cheapest deal. And if something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. A good strategy is to establish a relationship with any organization or individual you're considering making a purchase from. Talk with them. Ask for references. Check them out to verify their legitimacy.

Recently, we been made aware of an Internet scam where classified ad sellers are contacted (via email) by individual(s) offering to broker a purchase of their advertised item. These scams involve counterfeit money orders (or related instruments) often for an amount over the requested purchase price. These money orders or cashier's checks, etc., are cashed at your bank, and only after the vehicle or item is "gone" does the bank find out that it was counterfeit. You do not get your money, you have lost your vehicle or other item, and to add insult to injury, you may get hit with a service charge by your bank.

Another common scam involves payment via Western Union. The seller requires payment before shipment, then never ships the item. Western Union is like cash. Once you send it, it is gone. Western Union will help you file a complaint with the FBI, but you will likely never see your item or your money.

When selling, even COD can be risky if you do not specify verification of the financial instrument used for payment by the delivery service. There are several escrow services available that you can research, and Paypal offers some excellent options as well as insurance.

Please educate yourself; and remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

For more information and tips for protecting yourself, check out the following websites:

- http://www.ifccfbi.gov/strategy/fraudtips.asp
- http://www.netsafe.org.nz/fraud/fraud_scams.asp
- http://usgovinfo.about.com/cs/consumer/a/aaspoofing.htm
- http://www.crimes-of-persuasion.com/Nigerian/nigerian_auction_scams.htm