A Twentynine Palms resident is out $2000 due to a Craigslist scam. According to a Sheriff’s report, the victim tried to buy a 2001 Dodge 1500 truck, and the seller requested the buyer send the funds via ReLoadIt, a prepaid debit card. When the seller requested more money for the sale, the victim refused, at which time, the seller stopped returning phone calls, and the victim contacted the Sheriff’s department Monday afternoon. Anyone with a similar experience, or with more information should call the Sheriff’s Department at 760-366-4175. Managing editor Tami Roleff offers the following tips to avoid being the victim of a scam…
Moneypak cards like ReLoadIt or Green Dot can be used to add money onto prepaid debit cards and should be treated the same as cash. Do not reveal the reload card’s number to anyone; scammers use this number to transfer all your funds to their accounts, and the action is untraceable. The funds on these cards are not insured and you won’t get your money back from the card company. Legitimate vendors and businesses will not require you to pay only with a Moneypak card. Anyone claiming to be from a government agency, utility company, law enforcement agency, or a lottery company, and demanding that you send money via reloadable card like Moneypak, ReLoadIt, or Green Dot, is looking to steal your money. If you feel you have been a victim of fraud, contact the Sheriff’s Department.
