I was selling an item on Craiglist for $115 and I had a guy tell me he was interested in buying my reel. We corresponded by email and work out deal. He sent me a check for about $1,960 and wanted me to wire the difference less an additional $100 for the trouble to ship item with wire through Western Union.

My scam alert was up; and I let him know first of all I would not be doing anything until I knew the check would clear and that would be at least a week. I called name of the company on the check and learned that the check was bogus. I had already decided I was not going to cash the check and go through the trouble but glad I learned more. I had already sent the guy that I wanted to talk to him first and that I would need a check just for the $115 and instructions on where to mail the reel.

I am posting this on the main board because I know many of you buy and sell on this site. I also know you often refer others to Craiglist. I am not saying don't use Craiglist, I am just saying be careful with who you are dealing with. If it looks like too good of a thing; it usually is.

By the way; checks take 5-10 working days to clear. Use caution with personal checks. Most people are honest; but it only takes one time to be burned. If you do a deal with a check in person; get information off their license and compare it to the check. Make sure you have address and phone number of the person also in case you have a problem. I know most of you know this.