Classified scammers!

I think your classified section is very good, I have posted a number of ads. But sadly I have been targeted by scammers and opportunists as a result. It would be interesting to hear if similar has happened to other members?

Has the Norton Owners Club ever thought about making it accessible for members only? That may avoid any future problems.

I know the Matchless owners club have a popular classifieds section that is limited to members only.

Be interesting to hear anybodies thoughts…..

Hi Benjamin,

I have not been scammed, but I would like to see a members only classified. It would be safer for the membership, & might inspire someone to join who just want to buy from the classifieds. It only seems fair that members only get to use the classified ads.

Skip

Yes, the Classifieds on this site do draw the attention of scammers from time to time and it's unavoidable.  See my previous posting in the News and Views section entitled Classified Ads scam where I have given some hints and tips on how to spot these if you become the target.

I too have posted wanted add's on the site and have been contacted by scammers. The ususal trick is to email you a picture of the bike of which you are looking for a part for. Invariably they will claim to be breaking the bike for parts. The scammers always get these pictures from a photo library like Google Images, yahoo Images or a some kind of photo bucket web site. Don't be fooled. If the bike looks too good to break then it's a scam. It's all to easy to be drawn in when you think you have found that part to finish your project. Always ask them to email you a picture of the specific part. If they make excuses then they are scammers. Never send money unless you are 110% sure that it is a genuine sale. These scammers never realy know there tecnical stuff so ask lots of questions.

There is no need to change the way things are advertised on our website, just for memebers to apply a little common sense before buying or selling anything.

Hey

I appreciate that users need to be aware. Its apparent is that the contributors to this thread are sharp and smart users. However, there are some more naive and trusting users that are more exposed to exploitation.

Would it not be wise that as part of the NOC membership fee the club offered some sort of protection for the classified users?

I think a ‘members only’ classified section would promote more use, and a safer environment. I agree with Eugene_brolund, it may also contribute to an increase membership applications. Also it would avoid members having to turn to the inflated prices on ebay!

Any more thoughts?

Cheers

Ben

Hi.

I was contacted after posting for a single lower fork shroud for long roadholders. I was offered one for £100 (Errr.......?). Away from the NOC there is someone offering a 48 Manx engine on 'Craiglist' under the name of 'George Walker' although the item is listed as being in Watford, 'George' claims to live in the Shetland Isles! Needless to say he will not give a landline telephone number but will kindly answer any questions via E. mail. He will also (surprise, surprise) only accept money via bank transfer. Claiming to live in some inaccessable part of the country (as if I can talk!!!) seems to be a common ploy and a refusal to give a landline telephone number and address that can be verified is a dead give-away. Personally I think that the NOC should be just that - a club and website exclusively for NOC members only - it might even encourage a few more to join.

Regards.

Ian.

Hey

I contacted Chris Grimmett who is the NOC webmaster. He said that changing the forum to members only wouldn’t be a challenge, but he can only do it if he gets club approval. He suggested I write a letter to Roadholder or raise it as an issue at the AGM. 

I will endeavour to do both!

Ben