I would like to share some information I’ve found concerning the eBay Vehicle Protection Program through various channels on the internet. My goal is not to produce a culprit as I do not have that final answer, instead I hope that this post can be instrumental to the victims and watchdogs who report the crimes and are trying to prevent further scams. I will do my best to organize the information for you all here, but remember all the relevant information WILL be found here even if it is not organized in the best way. If you have reported a crime to ic3.gov using this information and IF it is relevant to your situation, then add additional information to your complaint using the password emailed to you as it will increase the likelihood of your complaint being investigated.

First, the email sent from scammers posing as “eBay motors” came from a domain that intends to impersonate the real eBay. There may be variations but, it is mainly “motors-ebay.com” and if you look at sites such as this (http://whois.domaintools.com/motors-ebay.com) there is an owner’s name.

This is their information:

Name: Jay Chow

Address: 515 anting road

3 floor

shanghai

Shanghai,20112

Telephone: +86.5123211

Remember to check the email interactions you’ve had with the fake eBay Motors domain, you can do so by checking the email and clicking on “details” or something similar in your email client. The email address may look like this: “donotreply@motors-ebay.com.” Next, the domain name is what comes after the “@.”

Second, if one searches for the person and their address there are several things come up. The first is that the physical address that the domain and a variation of it is registered with is connected to “Brose” an international engineering company (http://www.brose.com/ww/en/pub/company/international_locations/engineering_sales/shanghai.htm).

Now, the address for the eBay Motors domain is different from the one on the Brose website. But if you look at this other fraudulent domain (http://www.v3whois.com/w/beautifulagany.com) it shares the same address as Brose, except that the owner is Jay Chow.

This is unusual. I’ve tried to contact the company about this case of a scammer squatting on the physical address of their reputable business. I was not contacted back about the situation. You would think a company would be more concerned about being connected to fraudulent activity, but I was unable to get acknowledgment from several people, or email addresses from that company.

Is this one of those facade companies that are used to legitimize large amounts of money that cannot be explain legally? I wanted someone from the company to hopefully deny any connection to “Jay Chow” and hoped that they would try to report the list of sites incorrectly attributed to their physical address, but did not get this.

Also, here is a paypal complaint by a customer who claimed to have been scammed by a “Jay Chow” over a PSP electronic device:

(https://www.paypal-community.com/t5/How-to-use-PayPal/buyer-received-crap-and-seller-rejoice/m-p/33077)

Third, there is a roundabout process that one must do to report these websites to get more information. The “motors-ebay.com” had domain owner information protection by (privacyprotect.org). Now, what you have to do is fill out the form you see on the right hand side of this page, but the only way for them to confirm that domain is used for fraud requires JPEG picture files of the emails. But, there is no space to upload these picture files on the form, so it automatically results in a rejection to release the owner’s confirmation. The solution is to respond to the rejection email with the JPEG pictures attached as it is replied to “abuse@privacyprotect.org.” Since, the information is now public (http://whois.domaintools.com/motors-ebay.com) it does not matter.

But, the actual domain hosting site for “motors-ebay” is REGISTERMATRIX (http://www.registermatrix.com/domain.php). In a similar roundabout way you have to report the fraudulent activity of the domain to them because they are the one’s hosting the site. But, you have to fill out a form that is very similar to (privacyprotect.org), which does not allow you to provide JPEG picture files, which will automatically result in rejection because textual information from the emails is not sufficient evidence. The bigger problem with reporting the fraudulent activity to this site is that they say they will NOT contact you about the status of whether the information was acceptable or not and whether they believe that the site is acting in a fraudulent manner. I reported it to them several weeks ago and it seems that there was no action taken, consider this in contrast to privacyprotect.org’s acceptance by releasing the contact information. To be realistic, if they eliminated this client, they would lose a paying customer (who pays with your funds) and to convince REGISTERMATRIX of the severity of the problem, it may require that more people will have to report it to them. Then, they will realize that keeping one client is not wise if quite a few of FTS community members know of their illegal activity.

Fourth, “Jay Chow” provides (domains@mediaelite.biz) as his email address in the contact information, this address is shared with an “Alex Do” on another site like:

http://www.who.is/whois/wwwsportitalia.com/

Lastly, I hope this will help the community. It takes a community to attack the root of the problem. Other activities, such as reporting the fraudulent ads on Craiglist, are equally important, but if you have the involvement to report or further investigate the root of the problem in ways I have overlooked and did not realize you can lessen the frequency of those CL ads! I will try to keep up with this post and answer more relevant question for the next week or two. Let’s get involved!

Also, your personal situation does NOT need to be outlined in replies to this post. The most important thing to do is to continue adding relevant information to your ic3.gov complaint using the password sent to your email address. If you are involved but do not have a complaint to add to, you can help by facilitating information that can help others when reporting their complaints.

Thanks FTS community members, you and your site are impressive!

Scam reported at FightTheScams.com

eBay VPP Domain Owner request

While searching for a vehicle on Craigs List I came across this nearly too good to be true listing for an immaculate Expedition.  I found it listed on several different cities listings.  When I emailed to inquire about the vehicle this was the response I got.

Hello, 
 The car it’s still available, has 18,583 miles, automatic transmission. It’s in perfect condition, no engine problems (8 Cylinder Gasoline), no accidents/liens/loans. Exterior no scratches, never been repainted, interior no rips/tears/stains, never smoked inside. I have all the car’s manuals, 2 spare of keys, clean title, documents. This Ford Expedition was my son’s car, he loved it very much, but he didn’t enjoy it…He died in a bike accident 9 months ago and now…I don’t need it anymore. It brings very bad memories to me and I want to get rid of it….The price is $3,800.00.
 Me and my husband travel a lot with our business and we want to make this deal through eBay’s Vehicle Purchase Protection Program. I just need your full name, full shipping address, along with your home/cell # so I can open a case (with no further obligation or fees). eBay will contact you with all the Transaction/shipping details you will need.
We hope to hear soon from you.

For more pictures copy or click the following link:
http://s1188.photobucket.com/albums/z412/2000-Ford-Expedition-Eddie-Bauer-Edtion/

May God Bless you Every Day,
Jessica & Martin Brown

P.S: Here’s the VIN # 1FMPU18L1YLA06242 so you can run a CARFAX Report just to make sure you know exactly what you’re buying!!!

After that sappy response I emailed :

Jessica,

I got back on the internet and looked at the pictures on the link from your email.  I actually had your add printed out.  I seen it was listed on both the Kansas City and Des Moines Craigs List links.  Where exactally is the Expedition located or where could I meet you to look at it?  We are willing to drive to you to view it.  I don’t understand the ebay Protection thing, so I would like to speak to you via phone.

  I appreciate your serious intentions in making the deal on the spot, however we decided to post the car on several cities so we can sell it faster. I also choose to use the services of eBay Purchase Protection Program (Buyer Protection Plan) as they provide the most reliable assistance in which regards the on-line sales.
  Let me tell you that my car is located in Morrow, Georgia right now at DAS( Dependable Auto Shippers ) and eBay Purchase Protection offers you a 10 days inspection period and also an Agent will assist you during this period (time of 10 days) with all that you need. The shipping will be made by DAS-Auto Shippers in a sealed container with their 3 days door-to-door Program. Also you will have to decide if you want to keep the car only after your 10 days inspection period. I will have to pay for the shipping prior to get my car shipped and also if you decide that you don’t want to keep my car I will have to make arrangements so I can get my car back. There are no hidden fees or something like that. You will receive the car with the clean title already signed on your name, bill of sale, two spare of keys, & all the paper work.

So let me know if you would like to register you as my client and start the process asap! If so, I will need your full name, full shipping address along with your home/cell # so we can get the ball rolling. After I will register you as my client, they will contact you by e-mail and also by phone with all the information that you need!
 
Very respectfully,
Jessica & Martin Brown

  Let me explain you now how this eBay Purchase Protection Program works. First I have to open a case with your name and your address. After that, they will contact you with an Invoice and also by phone( The Agent who handle our Transaction will assist you during this period ).  You will have to pay for the car price directly to them, not to me and they will keep the funds until you decide if you want to keep the car or not ( the 10 day inspection period ).
  I will have to make a reservation at DAS and pay prior to have the car shipped. In 2 to 4 working days the car will arrive at your home address with the original title, bill of sale, plates, paper work, etc. After you test it, check it by a mechanic, you will have to announce them that you want to keep the car or not! If YES you will have just to register the car on your name…if NO I will have to pay for the shipping again and get my car back! There are no hidden fees or something like that!
Let me know.

Thanks a lot!
Jessica & Martin Brown

Scam reported at FightTheScams.com

Craigs List 2000 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer Edition: Jessica is up to something!!!!

Troy,

I still have a few questions. I was wondering why you are selling your car? Also, why you weren’t just selling it locally near the area you live? Would it be possible for me to check the car out?

Thanks,
Jodie
(just sent this e-mail out, thank goodness I looked more into it)
—————————-

From: troydeneau67@live.com
To: jodi3_is@hotmail.com
Subject: RE: about e320
Date: Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:00:07 -0700

Hi again,

I want to tell you that we will use eBay services (VPP) in this transaction in order for both of us to be 100% protected and insured by them pay any additional fees( shipping and handling) only 4000 $ firm .As soon as we have a settlement I ‘ll ship the car to your address along with all the paperwork and you will have time to check the records and condition.I want to finish this deal through eBay Protection Program.You will receive the car for inspection before you make any payment to me. They will hold ( A DEPOSIT YOU HAVE TO SEND TO THEM ) and release it to me only after you will receive, inspect and agree to keep the benz . I will give you 10 inspection days.I will start the shipping in the same day with the payment confirmation from eBay.The delivery process will take 3-5 days depending of your location.If you are interested please let me know and i’ll contact eBay to open a case to them. I just need your approval to send your email address to them so they can contact you regarding this transaction.

Thanks Troy

PS: Here are some pics attached. VIN: wdbuf65jx3a312330

From: jodi3_is@hotmail.com
To: troydeneau67@live.com
Subject: RE: about e320
Date: Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:18:44 +0000

Hi,

Could I get more photos of the car, and do you have a carfax? Since you are all the way in oregon, it would be hard for me to look at the car before hand. Also, could I know when the most recent check up was? How tires are? And if there still is still warranty on it, etc.

Thanks,
Jodie
From: troydeneau67@live.com
To: jodi3_is@hotmail.com
Subject: RE: about e320
Date: Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:47:10 -0700

Hi again,

I have listed the Mercedes on several locations as I wanted to attract more interested buyers.The car is already in a shipping company in Wood Village, OR packed and ready to go. DELIVERY IS AVAILABLE only if you want to use eBay services (Vehicle Protection Program) in this transaction in order for both of us to be 100% protected and insured by them ( shipping will be included in the starting price 4000 usd).Please contact me if you are interested and i’ll explain you how the transaction process work thru eBay services.If you need any additional photos or info please ask.

Thanks Troy

From: jodi3_is@hotmail.com
To: troydeneau67@live.com
Subject: RE: about e320
Date: Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:40:08 +0000

Troy,

Everything sounds great! Do you have a carfax and when was the most recent check up? How are the tires? And is there still any warranty on it, etc. Also where are you located?

Thanks

From: troydeneau67@live.com
To: jodi3_is@hotmail.com
Subject: RE: about e320
Date: Mon, 26 Jul 2010 06:47:57 -0700

Hello,

Sorry for the late answer.My E320 Mercedes Benz is in great shape, no engine problems, damages or hidden defects, no rust at all, no work needs to be done.It has a 6 Cylinder 3.2 Liter engine with 67,000 miles, is an automatic ,Interior color: gray , Exterior color: white. Has never involved in any accidents.It was always garaged and never smoked in.The price is $4,000 . If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to email me as I will gladly answer your questions.

Thanks

From: jodi3_is@hotmail.com
To: troydeneau67@live.com
Subject: about e320
Date: Sat, 24 Jul 2010 17:39:39 +0000

hi! i was on craigslist and saw your ad, and i was wondering why it was such a low price considering it’s such a nice car? has it been in any accidents, etc? thankyou.

jodie

Scam reported at FightTheScams.com

Craigslist 2003 Mercedes e320 Ebay VPP Scam

Here are a few of her emails:

Hello ,

I’m selling this BMW because my platoon has been sent back to Afghanistan and don’t want it get old in my backyard. The price is low because I need to sell it before Aug 16. It has no damage, no scratches or dents, no hidden defects. It is in immaculate condition, meticulously maintained and hasn’t been involved in any accident. I have the title clear, under my name. Only 44,129 miles.

I’m asking for the BMW US $ 4,800.00, this price includes the door to door shipping, handling and insurance fees for shipping within the continental US. You will have 5 days for inspection and possibility for a refund policy. The vehicle is located in Leawood, KS.

Vehicle description :

2004 BMW X5 4.8is SUV AWD

Vehicle title: Clear
Body type: SUV
Engine: 4.8L V8 FI DOHC 32V
Exterior color: Le Mans Blue Metallic
Transmission: Automatic
Fuel type: Gasoline

Please click here to view more pictures ( If the link doesn’t work,copy and paste it into a new browser page ) :

http://picasaweb.google.com/Parker671/2004BMWX5?feat=directlink

The transaction will be fully under eBay‘s surveillance, I will post the X5 on eBay and I will give you the URL link to press ”buy it now” option .

Please get back to me if you’re interested in buying it.
Thank you !

LTC Jennifer H Parker
2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment
Fort Riley, KS

THIS IS ALSO ONE:

announce you that everything is prepared.

Congratulations ! Now the SUV is yours. You’ll receive important guidelines and payment instructions from eBay. You should periodically check your email. So, the next step in our transaction is to initiate the transfer to eBay’s agent Vehicle Protection Program. As soon as the payment is confirmed, I will start the shipping process.

It’s been a real pleasure working with you!

LTC Jennifer H Parker
2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment
Fort Riley, KS

SHE ALSO USES THE FALSE ADDRESS:

8715 Cherokee Lane

Leawood, Ks

66206

Scam reported at FightTheScams.com

Craigslist,VPP,Ebay,2004 BMW X5,Jennifer Parker,parker671@gmail.com,VIN 5UXFA93554LE81940