Leah
Reported Scammer
Scammer Details
Date of Incident: Sep 26, 24
Scam Category: Fake goods
Associated Email: wiztechusa1@gmail.com 7 reports
Target Country: Global
Scam Description
The user contacted me under the name Leah pretending to be a student of art.
Ugh, that sounds like you were targeted by Leah using the email wiztechusa1@gmail.com in a fake goods scam! It's frustrating to be tricked, but don't worry, there are steps you can take. Here's what you should do:
- Stop all communication with Leah. Don't respond to any further emails or messages, even if they offer a refund.
- Report the scam. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/. This helps track scam activity and potentially helps others avoid similar situations.
Unfortunately, recovering money from fake goods scams can be difficult. However, you can minimize the damage:
- Dispute the charge with your bank (if applicable). If you paid with a credit card, contact your bank and explain the situation. They might be able to reverse the charge.
Here's a unique strategy to potentially find the real artist (if applicable):
Search Online Art Marketplaces:
- Identify the Artwork (if possible). Do you have a picture of the artwork you were sold? If so, this can be helpful.
- Look for Similar Listings: Search for similar art pieces on online marketplaces like Etsy, Society6, or Redbubble. These platforms often host independent artists.
Here's why this might be helpful:
- Find the Original Artist: If you find a similar piece on another platform with a different artist name, it suggests Leah might have stolen the artwork.
- Contact the Artist: If you find the original artist, you can let them know their work is being used fraudulently.
Important Note: Exercise caution when contacting the artist. Be polite and explain how you found their work. Don't accuse Leah directly unless you have concrete proof.
General Tips to Avoid Fake Goods Scams
- Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. If the price of artwork is significantly lower than similar pieces, it could be a red flag.
- Research the seller. See if there are any online reviews for the seller, or if they have a website or social media presence.
- Use secure payment methods. Avoid cash or money transfers. If possible, use a credit card for online purchases as it offers some buyer protection.
- Consider buying directly from artists. Many artists sell their work directly through online platforms or at local markets. This way, you can be sure you're supporting the true creator.
Remember, staying vigilant and doing your research before buying art online can help you avoid scams. You can also support legitimate artists by purchasing directly from them whenever possible.
Evidence Files
No evidence files uploaded.
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