Forum Moderators: LifeinAsia
Facts common on both phone conversations:
•Used AT&T Telephone Relay Service
•Wanted to purchase similar products
•Claimed they would arrange local pick-up for out of country delivery, at least they claim it will be. Once their carrier were to pick the goods up, who knows what the final destination would be.
•Wanted to use US Credit Cards
•Both had Y.com email addresses; nothing against Y :)
•Even when presented with our policy that International customers and/or shipments require wire transfer of funds prior to product shipment/pick-up, they wanted to use the credit card.
•Both asked for our wire transfer information
Neither of these orders have reached a conclusion. Since, there is a telephone relay service involved and most likely non traceable email, are people likely to be stealing credit card info and/or personal banking info, purchasing product, arranging pick-up all under fraudulent pretense?
Think about it for a second. To do a wire transfer all I have to do is give my bank my account info and it’s done. If someone has someone else’s account info what’s to stop them from committing this fraud?
Lastly, I wonder if it’s terror related, because they both wanted high velocity gas appliances. (I know, too much caffeine right?)
[edited by: Jack_Hughes at 5:27 pm (utc) on June 30, 2007]
It's also illegal not to sell to deaf people, I think. That being said if you have this policy for shipping overseas, stick to it - I think it's excellent. Also I would suggest reporting to the credit card company the numbers you received.
You could also institute a positive ID requirement for TTY related calls, but I would consult with a lawyer because this may violate ADA.
oziman
you have this policy for shipping overseas
If you're in the US, there are a lot of rules that apply to overseas shipping, a lot of rules. If you do not already have a T&C of sale, including conditions for overseas, I strongly recommend you implement one. First, it can give you an out and second, it may protect you in court. As for the disabled/physically challenged, it is illegal to refuse any service when reasonable accommodations can be made or are in operation already, such as ATT. However, you probably could have a clause in your T&C governing third-party transactions. Regardless, always err on the side of caution.
Marshall
Post Script:
I should add that another REALLY big scam has become the use of fraudulent cashier checks and money orders. Generally the person sends a “cashier’s check” or “money order” for substantially more than the amount then asks for “change.” There is no clear way to detect a fraudulent form except wait and see if it clears. If anyone accepts these forms of payment, I also suggest adding to your T&C something to the effect that “item will not ship until payment has cleared.” Not good legalize, but it gets the point across.
[edited by: Marshall at 9:40 am (utc) on July 1, 2007]
I do appreciate the responses I've gotten back on this. :) And would like to add that we've just received another Sprint Telephone Relay. Again, it's someone wanting a heater. That's 3 within the past 96 hours.
I will follow up and let everyone know how it goes. :)
we do not ever discriminate
Propools,
I hope you do not think I was suggesting you did.
I too was disabled for a period of time
As was I for nearly two years from a car accident. I was making a general comment.
Sorry if there was a misunderstanding.
Marshall
