I think that the way it operates is as follows:
You receive a cheque for 7000 euros which, contrary to what you were given to believe, you can't cash immediately but have to deposit in your own bank account. But you will be asked to send the balance (4,500) immediately to the conman, as a Western Union transfer, therefore non-recoverable, before the cheque has cleared. By the time the bank tells you that the cheque has bounced, it's too late.
I am a motorcyclist and belong to a bikers' forum in N.Z. on which this scam has been discussed several times. Apart from the strange language used at times, one of the things that would make you suspicious is that the conman never tries to negotiate over the price - he always agrees to whatever you are asking, even if it is unrealistic.
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