Forum Discussion

BobsYourUncle's avatar
BobsYourUncle
Nomad
Aug 25, 2022

How safe is etransfer - selling big items?

With all the scams, swindlers etc out there, just thought I'd throw this out for anyone who may know more than I do:

For over 20 years I have had a totally rebuilt 348 Tri-Power for a 58 Impala. I always wanted to find a 58 Chev convertible for it, but never did. I just sold the engine on Kijiji yesterday. The buyer lives in the next province from me, so I have not met him. Everything was done by email.

He sent me a sizable deposit by etransfer to hold it until he can drive out and pick the engine up, at which time he will etransfer the balance. Ok, sounds good.

The question I am pondering is: How safe is etransfer? Funds are in my account. Can these be scammed? Can it be reversed somehow? I am leery of any transaction with a stranger for large amounts of money. Everything seems fine, but I believe in being very careful with Kijiji transactions.

Anyone have real life experience with this?
(Not looking for wild guesses - I can do those myself)

Thanks.
Seeking Advice
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Aug 25, 2022
    afaik when using these transfer services like Zelle and maybe Kijiji that it is difficult to reverse or dispute the transaction once it is sent. Generally the sender needs to be very cautious that the recipient can be trusted to follow through.

    Beware if somehow they overpay and want an immediate refund.

    Verify dispute options with the service or your bank.
  • BobsYourUncle's avatar
    BobsYourUncle
    Nomad
    Aug 25, 2022
    wanderingbob wrote:
    Have him send the money to me and I will forward it to my banker in Nigeria and then I will send you a certified check and an offer to extend the warranty on your auto , all at no charge to you ! P.S , how is your supplemental insurance ?

    That's awesome, thank you!! I'll get right on it! :B
  • wanderingbob's avatar
    wanderingbob
    Explorer II
    Aug 25, 2022
    Have him send the money to me and I will forward it to my banker in Nigeria and then I will send you a certified check and an offer to extend the warranty on your auto , all at no charge to you ! P.S , how is your supplemental insurance ?
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    Aug 25, 2022
    Zelle is not available in Canada as far as I am aware.

    I've used payline by ice for many years and never had a problem. It is credit union based.
  • LouLawrence's avatar
    LouLawrence
    Explorer
    Aug 25, 2022
    Transfers like Zelle or similar are very safe and is a transfer to/from your bank. No worries. Wire transfers as well are very safe. You can call your bank or check your account online to see if the money has arrived. If you have concerns you can call your bank and make sure that transfer is safe.
  • Old_Days's avatar
    Old_Days
    Explorer II
    Aug 25, 2022
    I do not trust any of that stuff, I will meet the person at my bank and bring cash. Also meeting in front of your police station works well.
  • midnightsadie's avatar
    midnightsadie
    Explorer II
    Aug 25, 2022
    your very best info should come from your bank, ask them. on here a scammer could tell you anything. deal with your bank.

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