Online Tractor Deal Ends In $23,500 Scam
JOHNSTON COUNTY – A Johnston County man lost a significant amount of money after falling victim to an online scam involving the purchase of a farm tractor.
The 49-year-old victim had been searching online for a Kubota tractor when he came across a social media advertisement offering one at an unusually good price. The seller claimed to be located in Florida.
After initiating contact, the victim agreed to purchase the tractor and wired $23,500 to the seller with the understanding that the equipment would be delivered within a few days. However, the tractor never arrived. When the victim attempted to follow up, the seller had disappeared and could no longer be reached.
Authorities are investigating the case as an online fraud.
Tips to Avoid Online Purchase Scams:
- Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often lure victims with below-market prices to create a sense of urgency.
- Research the seller. Look for reviews, business listings, and verify contact information. Be cautious if the seller is unwilling to speak by phone or video.
- Avoid wire transfers or direct bank deposits. These forms of payment offer little to no protection and are favored by scammers. Use secure payment platforms that offer fraud protection.
- Request verification. Ask for recent photos or videos of the item with a timestamp, and request proof of ownership.
- Meet in person if possible. For expensive purchases, consider inspecting the item in person or hiring a trusted third party to verify its condition and legitimacy.
Anyone who believes they have been the victim of an online scam is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov
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This is so sad to read. Good people scammed out of money they’ll never see again, because of some sleazy low life fraudster.
I so agree..that is a lot of money for someone to steal from an honest man..I hope karma bites him hard
If it sounds too good to be true , chances are its a scam
These days it is rare we can honestly buy something online except from Amazon, Etsy, Ebay and other companies that offer guaranteed refund. Sometimes facebook offers that as well. But we must be very vigilant. This was a young victim. I’ve lost a few hundred dollars on something so cheap it had to be true. They like to start small with us and progress into something far larger.
Do not trust anyone online and never pay for anything online from an individual. Meet the person and pick up your purchase because unfortunately online scams are far too common and I am so sorry for this one is pure evil. I hope the thief is caught.