Does this sound like a scam?
Discussion
I had an email from a "home furnishing" company asking for a price for 6 units of my highest ticket item for their client, they've given a UK address for a business park but whilst the park exists it only goes up to no. 14 and they're stating units 15/16.
I've replied with a price but stated BACS only expecting no reply. They have replied saying that's fine please send payment details.
Whilst it is feasible someone may want 6 units at a time, they're more likely to buy direct from the distributor. I can't find any info on the "company" emailing me (from a hotmail account, all replies are late evening) and there is no "client" at the address they've given. I replied asking for company derails, client details and contact numbers but don't really expect a reply.
So it rings scam to me and I won't be going any further but I'm curious as I've not come across this before, how does this scam work? Money laundering maybe if they ask for a refund after? However most companies aren't going to do this if they've already sent goods until received back? And if the address doesn't exist then they won't receive the goods either! The value is about 6000 any ideas what their plan could be?
I've replied with a price but stated BACS only expecting no reply. They have replied saying that's fine please send payment details.
Whilst it is feasible someone may want 6 units at a time, they're more likely to buy direct from the distributor. I can't find any info on the "company" emailing me (from a hotmail account, all replies are late evening) and there is no "client" at the address they've given. I replied asking for company derails, client details and contact numbers but don't really expect a reply.
So it rings scam to me and I won't be going any further but I'm curious as I've not come across this before, how does this scam work? Money laundering maybe if they ask for a refund after? However most companies aren't going to do this if they've already sent goods until received back? And if the address doesn't exist then they won't receive the goods either! The value is about 6000 any ideas what their plan could be?
Most likely they'll pay a cheque into your account and then push you to dispatch quickly. Hang around the industrial park with a van, take delivery and then in a few days the cheque will bounce.
If you check your online banking, you'll see the amount in, but not the type of payment for a day or two.
Delay dispatch until you can get all info on the 'bank transfer'.
If you check your online banking, you'll see the amount in, but not the type of payment for a day or two.
Delay dispatch until you can get all info on the 'bank transfer'.
Another modification to the above. They pay a (fake) cheque or banker's draft over the counter that's over the amount, ask for a refund. After several weeks, the bank realises the error and cancels the payment. No recourse for you. Essentially, you lose the refund plus waste time and money on the product.
The Moose said:
Most likely they'll pay a cheque into your account and then push you to dispatch quickly. Hang around the industrial park with a van, take delivery and then in a few days the cheque will bounce.
If you check your online banking, you'll see the amount in, but not the type of payment for a day or two.
Delay dispatch until you can get all info on the 'bank transfer'.
Lots of business being hit with this scam in N.Ireland. Th police have issued a warning.If you check your online banking, you'll see the amount in, but not the type of payment for a day or two.
Delay dispatch until you can get all info on the 'bank transfer'.
t. Not worth bothering with.Gassing Station | Business | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff