Who, us? Scammed? It happens, and with this amazing looking Freightliner, we nearly got taken for a rather unceremonious ride.
Roman can’t leave Craigslist or Marketplace alone – the temptation and potential (and the potential for being scammed) are far too great. You would think we would know how to spot something that’s too good to be true, but that’s not always the case. Roman found this amazing looking 2006 Freightliner M2 Sport Chassis… for $28,900… yeah, that should have been our first major indication that it was a total scam.
The second red flag Roman and Andre found was that it was listed in Colorado and Wyoming. Now, from time to time, we’ve known legitimate folks who can’t get a bite in Wyoming, and head to our state to make a sale. So, perhaps we could dismiss that. Then, after both Andre and Roman separately send emails, the response triggers another red flag.
Rather than respond with a phone call, which is what Roman wanted, both get the exact same screen shot of a response. In the response, the poster says they are selling it for their aunt (yet, another red flag) and to contact her with questions. Once they respond to the screen shot email, they get a response.
When hope outweighs logic, you’re vulnerable to being scammed.
Prepare for the next, HUGE red flag: the response comes from the former owner’s “wife.” She claims to be old, infirm and wheelchair bound – with a speech impediment. This is the easiest way to explain why “she” didn’t like the idea of calling. Right. In a response, detailed with personal information, this still might seem legit to some.
Roman still pursues the scam, hoping that his logic, and gut are wrong. He asks the poster, either show me a photo with you next to the vehicle, or call me. The response finally seems to end the speculation on Roman’s behalf as the information becomes ridiculous. According to the poster, the trucks is actually in Boston, MA at a shipping and logistic company. According to the poster, they will take car of everything. On top of that, we have up to five days to walk away from the purchase. They will handle the transaction after certain forms, and money are secured.
Finally, Roman backs off. At the same time, Andre (already skeptical of the price) does some research and finds trucks like the one we looked at are pricing at over $100,000. Yes, indeed, we dodged a bullet.
Here’s the original (suspicious) post:
Selling this 2006 Freightliner M2 106 SportChassis 7.2L L6 Diesel Sport Chassis 106 Business Class M2 with only 63900 miles on it! Perfect shape! See pics! It has an upgraded sound system with backup camera. -All maintenance up to date. Have all service records and original manuals.
Amazing truck with the cummins diesel and only 63811 miles.push button dump rear suspension for easy loading or attaching a trailer, rear bumper pull tow receiver,
cd player, dvd player, and backup camera, Freightliner LED headlights, LED fog lights, full power doors and windows, LED lights inside of bed, super bright LED reverse lights, dual 80 gallon fuel tanks with locking fuel caps, auto-dimming rearview mirror with temp and compass, and much more.This truck is very clean well-maintained needs nothing.
Craigslist
