KDLY/KOVE

The Lander Police Department would again like to caution people when making purchases over the internet. Saturday a woman reported she believed she purchased a 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser over the internet for $18,500.00. The “seller” stated the vehicle would be delivered after payment was made through MSN Money. After funds were transferred the “seller” suddenly was unable to be located and the police were called. In this case the would be seller used computer savvy to create a web site that made it look like the buyer was using the MSN Money service but changed codes to direct the funds to be transferred elsewhere. We have contacted the local division of the FBI who are assisting us with the investigation. Unfortunately often times these scams originate outside the jurisdiction of the United States and prosecution is all but impossible. Any purchase over the internet is risky business. The old saying “if it sounds too good to be true it probably is” rings true once again. If you’re going to purchase a big ticket item over the internet I’d suggest making arrangements to meet with the seller so you can inspect the item and make sure you’re getting what you’re paying for.