Craigslist Scam

DATE & TIME: 08-03-2021 @ 9:03 am

LOCATION: Rural Beatrice, Nebraska

OFFENSE: Craigslist Scam

CASE #: 2021-3164

A resident of rural Beatrice advised a Gage County Sheriff’s Office that an unidentified suspect with a foreign accent attempted to defraud him out of several thousand dollars in relation to an item he had for sale on Craigslist.

He was contacted by the suspect from phone number 870-200-9946 about an item he had for sale for $500.00. The suspect agreed to purchase the item and did not quibble about the price, which the victim thought was strange, but was willing to accept the agreed upon price. A few days later he was contacted by the suspect via text message and then began telephone communication with him. 

The victim had received, what turned out to be, a bogus check for $2,900.00 and the suspect told him his “secretary had sent a check for the wrong amount” and wanted him to send the balance back. The victim did not send back any money and did not disclose any personal, financial, or confidential information to the suspect.

The Gage County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to be cautious when dealing with any financial transaction, whether online, over the phone, via mail, or in person. Often, the suspect offers a deal better than what was asked, but then want some type of payment or reimbursement in advance.  Payment is often asked to be made using “gift cards” by providing the redemption information to the suspect, who then electronically transfers the money, possibly several times, to hide the funds.

Call law enforcement if you believe you are becoming or are a victim of a fraud, theft, or scam.  If you need assistance or want to report a scam call the Gage County Sheriff’s Office and ask to speak with a deputy or an investigator.

Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903

Sergeant T. Hanson #90310