WHAT IS A NIGERIAN SCAM?

Well there are a few different versions. I know this scam did originate in Nigeria!  Third world countries trying to make money by purchasing high ticketed and popular items like computers, Xbox and Ipods.

HOW DOES THIS WORK?

Here is one version. Unsuspecting sellers put these items up for bids and someone bids an exorbitant amount way over the usual selling price.  The buyer then emails the seller (not through ebay) stating he made a mistake and is willing to pay actually a very large amount for the item above the usual price but needs to be reimbursed with a refund for the "overpayment."  In the seller's greed he agrees.  The buyer wants the refund in a form of a money transfer or such.  And the buyer usually has a new account or very low feedback score! BEWARE!

THEN WHAT IS THE SCAM YOU SAY?

The buyer sends the seller a phony email, which looks like a legitimate notification of payment email, stating the buyer paid and then the seller mails the item without actually getting paid!  The buyer also may request a money transfer for his "overypayment refund."  In this case since money transfers are not traceable like paypal payments the seller will be out his item and cash!  Incredible but this has happened!

SUMMARY

Sellers if it sounds too good to be true it probably is!  DON'T click on ANY email links EVER!  There are many scammers out there trying to get your money AND password!   Always go in your Ebay or Paypal account to check that you have actually been paid BEFORE mailing items!  And DON'T ever do wire transfers for paying or refunds!  This is Ebays recommendation!

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