My friend got ripped off $15000, can anyone help?

By joining our community you will have the ability to post topics and access other forums reserved for members. Registration is quick, simple and absolutely free. Join our community today by clicking here.

Posted: Thu Aug 09, 2007 12:21 pm

Hi 419eaters!

Cool site, glad to have come across it.
This is a bit of a sob story but I'll be brief.

A good friend of mine was buying her first descent car (shes only 20) and borrowed some money off her father.

She spotted a good deal on www.drive.com.au and contacted the seller who emailed her back many times with info on how to pay for the vehicle.
As NIEVE as she was she sent the person money via Western Union (such a lovely service they provide for criminals!)... and now of course no money and no car.

She of course is devastated.
And the sad thing is this is happening to many honest citizens everyday, and the crooks and gangs are getting loaded.

She contacted drive.com.au who told her that ad was removed for suspect fraudulent behaviour but unfortunately too late for her.

She contacted the police who basically said there�s nothing they can (or want to) do about it as the money was picked up in Brescia (italy) somewhere and is apparently all too hard to work with other countries police services.
What a joke!
Anyway she was stupid for doing it but here is a case of a young innocent lady being *UCKED over by these stains of society. If anyone can help or give advice I would be most appreciative. Thanks for taking the time to read this thread - below is the email correspondence. I have changed her name and details for privacy...

It will make you cringe reading this...

Oh and if the criminals who did this read this, I hope your kids get cancer and you spend your elderly years in a small dark cell...

ORIGINAL EMAIL HEADER
MIME-Version: 1.0
X-Originating-IP: [172.167.194.202]
Received: from bay0-omc1-s12.bay0.hotmail.com ([65.54.246.84]) by
bay0-imc1-s28.bay0.hotmail.com with Microsoft SMTPSVC(6.0.3790.2444); Wed,
13 Jun 2007 19:07:53 -0700
Received: from BAY141-W23 ([65.55.152.58]) by bay0-omc1-s12.bay0.hotmail.com
with Microsoft SMTPSVC(6.0.3790.2668); Wed, 13 Jun 2007 19:07:50 -0700
X-Message-Info:
LsUYwwHHNt0yvR6EbKRcxBa4BarjnCWVCGq7bUvget7vnsyx5sPZkM6u0Mdh6sSV
Return-Path: [email protected]
X-OriginalArrivalTime: 14 Jun 2007 02:07:50.0693 (UTC)
FILETIME=[CF85DD50:01C7AE28]

Hey ,
I was wandering if you have the time to complete the payment today?
Please get back to me.
David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 12:55:05 +1000

ok no problem I can do the final payment tomorrow hopefully. Fax no. is (07) ** *** *** **. Just put ATTENTION if thats ok. thanks. SALLY

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 14:50:34 +1200

Hey SALLY,
When I woke up this morning, Drive.com.au sent me a notification since you decided to ship the car they will need the final transfer so they can finish this transaction in their data base. Its a standard procedure they need to finish.
Here is the registration number: 404HHA
The car is register in Cairns City, Queensland, Australia but the car is in Sydney as I told you.
I will arrange my flight for this weekend and I hope you will have your car Monday or Tuesday.
I hope there will be no problem for you to arrange the final payment by the end of this week.
Also I will fax you the car papers as soon as I get to AU.
I will need a fax number.
David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 10:16:38 +1000

No problem, thanx David. Can you also let me no the rego no. please. And when you roughly will be able to fax all the paperwork and when you think the car will be coming. Just so I have an idea. But I'd like to know the rego no. asap. thanks. SALLY.

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2007 12:14:10 +1200

Hey SALLY,
I receive the confirmation from Drive.com.au that you made the down payment.
I will organize my schedule and I arrange the shipping of the car.
I will keep you posted.
David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2007 13:00:27 +1000

ok. No worries... Just wanted to check I'll go do that now. SALLY

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2007 14:53:15 +1200

SALLY,
I will pay for the Western Union fee, don't worry about that.
So you deposit 8000$ including the fee.
Waiting reply.

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2007 10:13:38 +1000

Hi david i just went and filled ouit the western union form and took my $8,000 cash, however I did not realise the fee would be so much (its around $360) so I was unable to put the money in before speaking to you. Is there not another way like depositing it into your bank? As I don't have that extra $360 today and would have to wait another day to complete the down payment? I also thought I could deposit $8,000 with the fee included in that? so it did not exceed $8,000 that way I could still do it today? let me know asap. thanks, SALLY.

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Fri, 15 Jun 2007 13:04:55 +1200

Hi SALLY,
I thought it was clear that I am in Italy anyway it doesn't matter because as soon as I receive the confirmation from Drive.com.au that you have made the down payment using Western Union services I will be there in 2 days.
So if you make the deposit today I will be in AU this weekend.
Also I want to tell you that I will pay the fee from Western Union.
Please tell me as soon as you made the transfer in Italy so I can arrange my arrival there.
Thank you.
David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Fri, 15 Jun 2007 09:44:15 +1000

Hi dave, I was unaware you weren't in Aus. Ok so I'll make a down payment to drive.com when I get a chance then I'll email you once thats been done. Thanks SALLY

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Fri, 15 Jun 2007 09:52:16 +1200

Hey SALLY,
As you already know I am not in Australia right now and its impossible for me to send you a NRMA rapport right now because all the car papers are there. I left it in a safety deposit box there because I didn't want to lose any of it.
As soon as I get there we will have all the inspections done and you will decide if you want to buy the car or not.
I hope you understand my situation and I hope we can make this deal.
As soon as Drive.com.au confirms me that you made the down payment I will be in AU in 2 days.
If you make the transfer today I will be in AU this weekend.
Waiting reply.
David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2007 15:06:57 +1000

I would like to come and see the car and check it over with NRMA before exchanging any money. I can't see there being any problems as you say its in excellent condition but I'd like to do that just to cover myself. Would that be a problem?
SALLY.

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2007 14:07:50 +1200

Hi SALLY,
I just got an invoice from Drive.com.au, in which they explained to me how we should proceed with this transaction.
As I can see now everything it's up to you, please let me know your final decision so I can plan my trip in advance as I have a busy schedule.
I hope everything is fine at your end and I look forward to conclude this deal with you.
David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2007 11:57:13 +1000

Fantastic, so will it be fine to get NRMA to check it over first?
SALLY Sally
SALLYS
Shop 4/18-20 ***** Cres
***** QLD 4575
(07) *********
phonenumber

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2007 10:09:44 +1200

Hey,
I agree with the price but don't book your flight yet.
Please send me your full name and address first because I want to make this deal through Drive.com.au.
They will contact you and let you know how we will do this deal.
Waiting reply.
David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:34:01 +1000

Hi dave, I am very interested!!! I live on the sunshine coast but would happily fly down and drive it back. However I will have to change rego over to QLD rego etc which I know is not your problem so after the costs of driving it back and changing rego to QLD rego I and can offer you 16,000 cash? Are you interested?
If so I'll book my flight!! Smile

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2007 10:03:22 +1200

Hey,
Here are the specs and pictures:
This MINI is in excellent condition. It has two brand new tires and I do have the Safety Certificate Label. If you will purchase this car you will not be disappointed and you will enjoy the attention you get for driving such a lovely Mini. Only 15'570 km's!!!
There is a very little dent in the front bumper, underneath the number plate. I took a picture, but it is so small one can't really see it. This is the only fault this car has.
- 17" Alloy Wheels Crown Spoke - Fog Lamps - Front
- HiFi loudspeaker system - Headrests - Integrated 2nd Row
- ABS (Antilock Brakes) - Leather Trim (incl. seats, inserts)
- Adjustable Steering Col. - Tilt only - Leather Steering Wheel
- Climate Control - Metallic Finish Dash Board
- Airbags - Driver & Passenger (Dual) - Metallic Finish Inserts
- Airbags - Head for 1st Row Seats (Front) - Multi-function Steering Wheel
- Airbags - Head for 2nd Row Seats - On-board Computer
- Airbags - Side for 1st Row Occupants (Front) - Polished Fuel Filler Cap
- Body Colour - Bumpers - Power Door Mirrors
- Body Colour - Grille - Power Windows - Front only
- Bonnet Scoop - Rear Wiper/Washer
- CD Player - Seatbelt - Load Limiters 1st Row (Front)
- Central Locking - Remote/Keyless - Seatbelt - Pretensioners 1st Row (Front)
- Chrome Exterior Highlights - Spoiler - Rear Roof Mounted
- Chrome Grille Surround - Sports Seats - 1st Row (Front)
- Control - Automatic Stability - Sunvisor - Illuminated Vanity Mirror for Driver
- Control - Traction - Sunvisor - Illuminated Vanity Mirror for Passenger
- Cruise Control - Suspension - Sport
- Disc Brakes Front Ventilated - Tacho
- Disc Brakes Rear Solid - Tinted Windows
- Engine Immobiliser - Trip Computer
- Tyre Pressure Sensor

If you are intreasted please reply me with your full name and address.

David

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Tue, 12 Jun 2007 09:59:30 +1000

Hi david,
Sorry but which car is this? I enquired about a few, and I'm very keen on the 3 I enquired about. So please let me know and I will get back to you! thank you.

From: David Adler <[email protected]>
To: SALLY Sally <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
Date: Tue, 12 Jun 2007 08:59:37 +1200

Hi mate,
I am glad that you are interested to purchase my vehicle and I hope you are a serious buyer and that we will have a smooth transaction.
As you can see in the pictures and description the car is in a mint condition, never involved in any accidents.
I also want to tell you that I work in advertising and that this car was a "deal bonus" from my company and recently I had to relocate on a better position in Italy, lucky me my wife is very understanding.
I did some research on internet and I also consulted with my broker and I came to the decision that the best way to do this deal is through Drive.com.au.
To go through with this transaction please send me your full name and address and I will initiate a transaction through Drive.com.au, after which you will get all the information you need to complete this deal.
If you have anymore questions feel free to ask me anything.
Regards
David Adler

> From: [email protected]
> To: [email protected]
> Date: Fri, 8 Jun 2007 17:08:49 +1000
> Subject: Expression of interest from drive.com.au user
>
> ****************************************************************
> Lead Provider: drive.com.au
> ****************************************************************
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
> CONTACT DETAILS AND PREFERENCES:
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
> Name: SALLY Sally
> Number: phonenumber
> Email: [email protected]
>
> Preferred contact option: via phone or email
> Preferred contact day: daytime or evening
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
> VEHICLE INFORMATION:
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
> Vehicle: MINI COOPER S
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
> ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
>
> very interested.
>
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------
> This message was generated directly by a user of the drive.com.au website.
> John Fairfax Holdings accepts no responsibility for the content of the message.

Posted: Thu Aug 09, 2007 1:05 pm

That is a really sad story, I'm very sorry about what happened.

The website in my sig (last one) ScamWarners (and also at the top of the forum) is a really good site that explains and warns people about other types of scams.

I hope your friend is ok Sad

If you want to start baiting, I recommend you sign up for a mentor

http://forum.419eater.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=16765

and read all the stickies!

Posted: Thu Aug 09, 2007 1:36 pm

That is indeed a sad story. I don't believe there is often any satisfactory outcome in cases like this. Unfortunately this sort of scam is world wide now and the chances of identifying the scammer are just about zero. I think you and your friend have done a wonderful service by telling your story. Did the car actually exist? I suspect not. I guess that drive.com.au does not conduct any diligent investigation into a seller's bona fides. As a fellow Australian I feel very sad for you

Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 2:13 am

I think the car did exist but was ripped off from another ad.
Yeah we figured there's fairly little chance of catching the crooks.
The next step she is looking at is being re-compensated by the website involved. These classified websites need to more secure to help stop this crap. If every ad was personally checked out this crime would greatly reduce. They did eventually remove the ad for suspected fraudulent behaviuor but unfortunately too late for her.
- This to me looks like negligence on their part... Why wasnt the ad immediatley removed???
Has anyone reading this heard of sucessful lawsuits against ebay or similar sites like this for scams?

Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 2:39 am

The only litigation I've heard of regarding scams are against the victims in check mule scams. Sad

Going up against ebay or other sites commonly used by scammers would be EXTREMELY hard, long, and expensive because you would have to prove negligence. eBay (and most genuine sites) tries to raise awareness of scams and does not take part in the actual transaction so I'd say they're pretty well covered. Of course, this unfortunate creates a disincentive to PREVENT the scammers in the first place and- waitwaitwait I've got to stop talking like an economist. You get the idea. Rolling Eyes

Than again I don't keep up with ebay news so maybe someone else will post below me that they pay out millions a year for claims.

EDIT: Of course, I totally understand your desire to nail someone over this Mad

Posted: Mon Aug 13, 2007 10:09 am

@ Geteven

The group is a part of the Fairfax Newspaper Conglomerate, so it would be well and truly lawyered up from a legal liability perspective, although there are no obvious disclaimers about that on the site.
Also legal claims are very expensive affairs.
What I would suggest if you are really committed, then write very strong letters, including the evidence you posted here to the following

NSW Dept of Consumer Affairs
The NSW Ombudsman
ACCC
Fairfax, as well, and MOST IMPORTANT, keep up a dialogue with drive.com.au

It doesn't cost much to make up a form letter, keep it updated, and keep sending it on a regular basis. If Fairfax gets enough unwelcome attention, they may, and I say this with reservation, just lift their game.
Ebay avoid most liability by claiming they are not one of the parties to the process, and when they are liable make it almost impossible to get.
If you live in an area where there is a local regional newspaper not owned by Fairfax, you might get a bit of space on a story like that. At worst, the authorities mentioned will check if there is any unfair or unscrupled trading, and with the right burocrat at the wheel, they are capable of causing some heartburn. These people don't like adverse publicity, but do make sure it's not libellous.

Posted: Tue Aug 14, 2007 10:03 pm

Hey Get Even! Welcome from Down Under!

So sorry to hear about your story! This just goes to prove how easy it is for innocent people to get sucked in!

If you can PM me your details, once we've gone through all of the facts etc, I shall give drive.com.au a call which I shall broadcast on my radio show! If they weren't thinking of compensating you, then they may change their mind once they realize that they are being listened to by thousands of people and need to demonstrate that they are a responsible website...

Can't guarantee it will work, but it's worth a try! Very Happy

NTBS!!!!

Posted: Wed Aug 15, 2007 2:00 pm

That's a darn good thought NTBS. It far exceeds the impact value of what I suggested. I really hope you and Geteven can work something out here. It may instil a bit of morality into what is purely a commercial enterprise. Goodonya!

My friend got ripped off $15000, can anyone help?	View next topic View previous topic