Learn information about fraud awareness and tips on how to prevent internet fraud.

The best tool for protecting yourself against internet fraud is knowledge. It is up to you to be able to recognize the warning signs of an internet scam and to protect yourself from becoming a victim of internet fraud.

Know The Warning Signs

Here are some warning signs to consider when selling or purchasing items online.

Buyers should be alerted to a possible scam when the seller:

• is offering an item at a price that is far too good to be true. Chances are, it is too good to be true. The item could be considered stolen merchandise or counterfeit.
• asks you to send money through a non-traceable avenue such as Western Union. You should ask yourself, "Why does the seller want a non-traceable payment?"
• requests to exchange payments through an overseas address.
• posts images for his or her advertisement that have been copied from another source, or if they don't match the animal(s), supplies, or equipment posted in the ad.
• refuses to provide shipping information or refuses to make reasonable pickup arrangements.

Sellers should be alerted to a possible scam when the buyer:

• sends you a cashier's check for the full amount or an amount over the originally stated selling price of the animal(s), supplies, or equipment, and then requests a refund from you through a wire transfer or money order.
• requests to send money for a portion of the amount, and then the remaining amount in the future. This isn't good practice to begin with so it should be avoided at all costs.
• requests that a third party send you a cashier's check for an amount greater than the price of the animal(s), supplies, or equipment, and then requests the balance be sent back in the form of a wire transfer or money order.

Common Advice for Sellers

Sellers are encouraged to use their best judgment when selling online.

• Secure the payment before giving up the animal(s), supplies, or equipment you are selling.
• Ensure that the payment received for the animal(s), supplies, or equipment is valid and genuine with your bank as well as the issuing bank. Confirm fund availability from the source of the check.
• Be wary of overseas addresses and any strange requests from buyers located overseas.

Sellers are encouraged to use their best judgment when selling online.

• Be sure you know the market value of the animal(s), supplies, or equipment you are looking at buying.
• Get the receipt for proof of purchase and the title of the merchandise purchased if available.
• If you are buying or selling motorized farm equipment, familiarize yourself with your state's title requirements.
• Inspect the animal(s), supplies, or equipment before making payment.

How To Report Fraud

We want you to help us stop fraud! Any instances of fraud or activity suspected to be fraudulent may be sent to us directly at:
FarmMedley.com at FarmMedley.com Fraud Alert.
You may also file a complaint with the Internet Fraud Complaint Center to inform federal and state law agencies.