Fraud Seller - under user name Zia LB1 - don't trust

CrazyCobraManTim · Mar 8, 2021

Thanks Mods / Community for this thread!

I attempted to purchase a Ruger via Gun Broker from a virgin seller who's been through Gun Broker's "extensive" vetting process.

As we closed in on a too-good to be true deal - the seller couldn't seem to understand why I needed his name, email and phone number. Well - it was predominately since the seller wanted to use Zelle - and those 3 items are required by Zelle.

Suffice to say once I pinged him a 2nd time in 12 hours for the attempted purchase - he suddenly pulled down his multiple ads.

A search of Google for this Zia LB1 user name came up with a few spam and dating sites (not to mention the few Gun Broker ads). Not that someone who needs love and has their user name on spam sites still can't be a "reputable" seller....but Caveat Emptor neighbors!!!

Moonpie · Mar 8, 2021

One trick I've used a goodly number of times now is to ask the seller for additional pictures.
Something unusual like Could I get a close up of the rear sight aperture or a close up of the butt plate please?
Something that makes them snap a new pic.
Its not about the picture(although the photo may provide additional info) its about making the seller show they have the gun in their possession.
Most sellers are , OK, sure. I'll send you some.
No pics. No sale.
If the seller balks its a scam.

JDD · Mar 8, 2021

That’s a good idea

CrazyCobraManTim · Mar 9, 2021

Update - he sure seems to have been a fraud. When we began discussing payment - three times he asked for my Zelle payment. 3 times I told him - I need his name, email and phone numbers - since this is what Zelle requires for the system to ID him and allow the bank funds transfer.

About the time we're going back and forth and I'm asking for his required info - the seller shuts down all 3 of his ads on Gun Broker. This effectively released me from any bid I had (item's no longer listed), and it also disabled Gun Broker's $500 buyer protection plan for non-performing sellers. In reality - it's only $400 at the end of the day - since you have to pay a $100 deductible to get the $500 (but that beats a sharp stick in the already blackened eye).

Lesson learned for sure...