This summer and fall, we have had a small number of complaints about being scammed. Some have been contact about buying an item of interest like a motor casing or altimeter and others have been contacted because of their WANTED posts on the yard sale. Unfortunately, in most cases, it is impossible for TRF moderators or admins to track down their nefarious individuals.
I would recommend (partially borrowed from another moderator):
I would recommend (partially borrowed from another moderator):
- Make sure it is we well known member of the forum. Post count is not always reliable. Buying from XXX, who has only been a member for six weeks, is asking to be ripped off.
- If the deal sounds too good, think twice.
- You should NEVER use Venmo, or Zelle with someone you DO NOT KNOW since they offer no money back guarantees. I have only used the two with close friends & family. If that person refuses to use PayPal, then you should not do business with them.
- Paypal F&F are not entirely safe - see number 3. This has been overly discussed in other threads. It is safer than 3, but with there change in Paypal rules, I would not trust it.
- Emails and IPs can be spoofed. Don't trust them.
- The PM with an email is the known method of scammers going around the sites.
- TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS.
- If you have concerns, report the post or PM using the report link at the bottom of every post. We will look into the post and the forum member. We cannot guarantee it, but it will put it on our RADAR for investigation and you might protect someone else. I for one will at least try to see if the guy you buying from if from the location is he or she is reporting.
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