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Buyer wants copy of passport?

I have bought and sold expensive equipment for may years both here on audiogon and on Europe’s audio markt.de and I have good feedback on both.
for years buyers was satisfied with photo of the equipment and as a buyer I was to.
Now  buyers wants videos of the equipment playing and also copy of passport and pictures of yourself together with the equipment. Would you accept such demands?
sending pictures of passports to a stranger seems not so comfortable !.?





128x128ulf
schubert
7,386 posts
 
I understand your irritation ulf.
I don’t say things for no reason , I read all the posts and no one was getting through to him . In the 70 years I’ve been old enough to give and receive advice, I’ve found that the person that "jerked my chain" was, in the long run, the one who helped the most, and said chain goes both ways  . Near total naivete is a good reason to
shake someone up and unlikely to traumatize them from someone they do not know .
 My concern is for individuals and I am not greatly concerned by the state of a hobby community that will not be affected by any thing I say  anyway .
.
minorl
1,016 posts
 

I'm not sure this is a scam.

It may just be a potential buyer that is afraid of sending large sums to someone sight unseen before the item is delivered in the stated condition.

don't get me wrong.  I wouldn't send a copy of my passport anyway.

If I am correct, there are escrow services that can be used that are legitimate and will keep the funds the buyer submits in escrow until the package is delivered.

I would contact the potential buyer and suggest either paypal or an escrow service.  If the potential buyer isn't happy with those suggestions, I would walk quickly from the deal.

I don't like paypal because it protects the buyer and not the seller at all, but options are limited.

I prefer that buyers agree to a purchase in writing and them come pick up the unit personally.  That way, not only can I connect the unit to let them hear it (after they have agreed to the purchase. I'm not a stereo store one can demo equipment), they also would know for certain it works and looks as described.

Another suggestion is that they empower an agent or friend to come and pay for the equipment and take delivery.

enjoy

schubert
7,386 posts
 
You're not sure? How about law of gravity ?
inna
7,296 posts
 

Schubert wants to protect 'his children' and he is right, yes they do need protection. And he used very mild language. However, his message, I believe, should be translated as follows - Are you out of your mind, son , to even consider it ?
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