[email protected] - fake paypal scam

Standard Craigslist approach--scammer shows interest in item, pretends to pay for item plus shipping, then sends fake paypal email (coming from a free email account, not from paypal) with instructions to forward cash to the "agent," who is actually the scammer. In this case the scammer is not after the item for sale--he just wants the cash.

Below is an example of the fake paypal email used by this scammer.

Dear xxx,


This is to confirm to you that we have received your payment of
$1,250.00 USD
from Larry Mathew for the Merchandise he bought from you and the
$1,250.00 USD
will reflect in your PayPal Account after all due measures have taken place.We need the MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number), sender's name and address used to make the transfer of the
$400.00 USD
to his Pickup Agent from you to complete this transaction. We Advise you to send the said amount meant for his pick up agent so that we can Credit your account.Kindly provide the MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number) so all procedures in checking the correctness of funds into your account can be completed.We are working together with Western Union Money Transfer on this transaction.

The money has now been deducted from the buyer's account and is ready to be deposited into your PayPal account. The MTCN number is to be sent to us at
[email protected]
.

This is due to new policies at PayPal to protect both the buyer and the seller in the face of the growing number of fraudulent activities perpetrated via the internet. Your payment is intact. You are Advised to complete this transaction.

If you have questions about this payment for your sold Merchandise or service, please contact PayPal directly by replying to this email. Your query will be answered promptly.

Here at PayPal you can be assured that your security and safety is our topmost concern.

We hope to read from you soon.

Thank you for using PayPal!
The PayPal Team
PayPal Email ID: PP307