Scams on Audiogon (McIntosh Amps)

I wouldn't say that. There was a tribe of thieves operating on some county roads that spanned a half dozen jurisdictions. When caught, individuals said they were making low six figures and the year or two in prison was well worth the risk. Criminals often do the ROI calculations.

Yep and the guy who comes here on agon and uses his PayPal or CC to pay for a scam ad...is also related to the guy who writes a note that he is robbing a bank on the back of his own deposit slip. 

Not real smart.

Likely the scammer doesn't care what the Audiogon cost is because he's using a stolen credit card number to fund his scam ad. 

Yes this is endemic everywhere.

Those who consider becoming scammers calculate the deal on a risk/reward basis.  The risk is that of being caught multiplied by the penalty.  These are in inverse ratio.

There is a very low probability of being caught.  Ergo to deter, the punishment needs to be very severe, 

Currently the punishment is not severe.  Ergo there is a lot of scamming.

It's in our hands to solve this.  No point in whinging here.

There are "knockoffs" of McIntosh gear made in China...They look Exactly like genuine Mac gear. On Mac's website they name the dealers that are NOT authorized Mac dealers. Always check there before any Mac purchase.