Was trying to sell a car, this is a new one for me.

Posted a car on Craigslist. Received a text asking whether it was still available, I replied yes, then got this:

Hello,

4 days ago I had a rod blow a hole in my engine block on my truck. I am in need of a vehicle ASAP. I do not have funds for a new vehicle outright atm, but I get a guaranteed fund from a Trust for $500 every month that I can transfer direct to you, on top of paying whatever I can on top every month.

The vehicle can be put in contract with the trust itself to satisfy any security concern, and I would sign to the effect that if 3 payments are missed in a row, the title would automatically transfer back to you. With witness and notary if you like.

I would also provide addresses, emails, relations contacts, and whatever else you might need. Please let me know how you would like to proceed.

Thank you,

[NAME]

Then sends a couple pics of himself, which are hard to verify as the exact same person. I received no info on his location nor did he propose a time to meet. The phone number had a local area code although that of course can be spoofed.

Is this kind of thing happening more now? I’m used to the check-in-excess scam, but the angle here sounds like he planned on getting my car for a single payment of $500 (then he dips because he provided fake info or somesuch) or even $0 because he thinks I’ll hand it over and just trust him.

It was beater car, ended up getting rid of it as a trade in, had it listed for a few grand.