Los Angeles: The Los Angeles police Department’s Commercial Crimes Division has become aware of an internet scam that is being perpetrated on unsuspecting victims. Legitimate advertisements are placed on Internet sites selling items including bicycles, vehicles and horses. The seller receives a reply from a person who says that he is a broker for a potential buyer. The "broker" then tells the unsuspecting seller that the potential buyer has supplied him with a cashier’s check, which is over the amount of the purchase price of the item. He advises the seller to deposit the check in his account, wire the additional funds to him, and together they will arrange for shipment of the item.

The cashier’s check appears to be genuine, however, it is eventually returned by the financial institution and the victim is responsible for the funds.

For further information or questions, please contact Detective Yarbrough, Commercial Crimes Division, Valley Forgery Section, at 818-756-8323.

This news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.