On May 25, I saw an add in a Google search for 2 ATV's, contacted seller (Victoria Smith) and asked about the status of the sale items. She replied and sent me information on how to purchase the ATV's using Google Checkout. I checked Google Checkout online and it appeared to be a good means to pay. On 5/27 Victoria sent me an email whith her link to Google Checkout and her phone numbers. On 5/28 I asked Google Checkout to verify the transaction and they sent me verification and approval and how the payment process was done. I called Victoria and received assurance that the Google Checkout that she referred me to use was safe and secure. It seemed very safe and I bought the ATV's. On 5/29 Google Checkout (checkout. [email protected]) sent me verification Victoria was proceeding with the Google Checkout process and an official email from Google Checkout (using the Google logo) and telling me of the Fraud Prevention security program and directing me to send the $2700 to a Google agent (Jeffery Miller), fax Google Checkout (1-734 574 6581) the Western Union MTCN # and that he would hold the money until the ATV's were delivered and inspected and accepted by me. Victoria was not to recieve any momey until the delivery process and acceptance was complete and explained the Vehicle Purchase Protecion. On 5/31 I received verification that Jeffery got the payment and that the ATV's would be given a tracking # so I could check on the delivery status. On 6/1 I began to worry because I had not gotten a tracking # and I contacted Google Checkout asking about the #. On 6/2 I received a return email saying that I had to pay an additional $1600 to Steven Taggart (that would be refunded) for a State of Origin Tax and additional insurance premium to continue the shipping and that if I did not pay that my original $2700 would be refunded minus the money for the Taxes (which I did not authorize to be paid).
I called Victoria (seller) and told her about the $1600 and she hung up her phone; I have tried to call her several times since but every time I get a busy signal.
I investigated Google Checkout further and it looks like a fraud - there is appearently a Google Checkout associated with Google but the one that the seller gave appears to be a fraud; they stole the Google name and logo, and my $2700 $150 sending fee. They say they will send a full refund of my $2700 minus a State of Origin Tax; I do not beleive this.
I have copies of all emails, names, email addresses and phone #'s.
John Haspert (Personal Info Removed)
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