[bafreaka]

I received an email that someone in Greece wanted to purchase one of my paintings. We exchanged numerous emails, agreed on a price. We searched for shipping quotes, then they suggested a shipper they have used in the past. They then suggested I use Wave Accounting and Swipe (both reputable companies) to complete the transaction. I signed up and they sent me $8280. Swipes policy is 7 days for the money to be transferred into your account. A very smart woman (Leigh) employed by Swipe caught it and phoned me. They send you the money with stolen cards, then you pay the shipping cost ($2280) with your debit/credit card. Then the charges are reversed when it's discovered you've received payment with stolen credit cards. You are then responsible for $8280! A very smart and elaborate scheme.

Leigh that works at Swipe told me this has been happening for approximately two weeks. They are targeting artists with non store front websites. She said I was the first one she caught before the damage was done.

I was leary the entire time, yet flattered. Also, I couldn't figure out the scam since they sent me the money. I felt secure since I had the money and the painting both in my possession. Wrong. Please be smart and don't be afraid to ask questions!! No sale at all is better than you paying off an unfair debt for the next 10 years.

 

[TerryCurley]

Wow

My art is not of sellable quality so I don't have to be concerned but it's good to know that this is happening incase someone else gets approached.

I have to tell you my eyes popped when I read the amount of money.

 

[Liz]

Yeah this is a typical scam. Anyone who sells anything on the internet sooner or later will get one, no doubt this will not be your last. Whenever they suggest a shipper, that's a red flag. Another giveaway is very poorly written English, almost like words copied and pasted together from a dictionary.

Always sell on your terms, not the buyer's, your shipper, your payment method, etc., that way you have less chance of getting scammed.

Hey Terry, who says your art is not of sellable quality. Artists are their own worst critic.

 

[Eddieblz]

I do everything through paypal. Though I have been ripped off a few times over the years. Everyone thinks we should give our work away for free.

 

[Liz]

They don't want your art, they want your money. They make up a scenario in which they send you more money than what you asked. Then they tell you to send them the difference, and that's where you get scammed because the money they sent you is fake.