Apr 11, 2014
Glad you recognized the scam.
There are at least two variations to this scam:
1. The check is phony, but the bank does not notify you until after you shipped the item.
2. The check is written for more than the asking amount. You are instructed to send a MoneyGram for the difference. In this variation, the scammer does not care about the item. All they want is to get the MoneyGram before you learn the check bounced.
So, instead of cashing the check, file a Mail Fraud Complaint!
Read the info at Craigslist, for helpful advice:
Short warning from the Craigslist site:
DEAL LOCALLY WITH FOLKS YOU CAN MEET IN PERSON!
follow this one rule and avoid 99% of scam attempts.