Beware, scammers everywhere

Another TIP...

When considering a private-party purchase, I ask the seller to provide the items SERIAL NUMBER, when applicable.  

Scammers hate this question because it allows potential buyers to verify the item is REAL, and usually, what retailer the item was originally shipped to for sale.

I always call the manufacturer and/or the retailer to confirm the item's identity.  As a bonus, the manufacturer usually tells me which, if any, upgrades are appropriate.

Just this week, a I was looking at a potential upgrade.  The seller refused to forward the preamp's serial number.  He also insisted that payment be via direct deposit.  Bothe are Red Flags for me...

I hope this this is useful...

Buyers should only purchase when they have some type of financial protection. Trusting an unknown person does not elevate your human status. FWIW used audio gear is a dime a dozen that's why it sells for 1/3 retail.

I have only bought one second hand piece of gear from a private seller in my life, and for that we went COD.  Is COD still a viable option?

If someone sends you money VIA EFT, Wire etc.  You need to wait 48+ hours after the money hits your bank so they cannot call it back.  I had an aerospace company and a customer once sent us $32k VIA EFT in error.  We actually caught it on our end.  Never send the money back!  Wait for it to completely close then send them the money.  Ask your bank. The girl in the customers acct dept was livid!  Tough luck lady, it was your error.  Send them the money and they recall the funds and then WE would have been out the $32k.  -John

I tried to sell a lof of things on facebook market. Every scammer had one thing in common, they repeated the same "you can trust me", "you should believe me", "I am out of town but" lines. I would always ask: has it ever worked?

And then I tried to buy a used washing machine on craigslist and the seller called me a fraud when I asked if I can pay with venmo or zelle or she’d prefer cash.

I don’t know if this is how evolution had intended to work or it’s taking a pass on humanity?