Missouri Buyers Scammed in Fake Farm Equipment Sale

The Better Business Bureau is reporting a new scam involving someone impersonating a Missouri equipment dealer, with more than $220,000 in losses already reported.

Missouri Buyers Scammed in Fake Farm Equipment Sale

The BBB is alerting consumers about a new online farm equipment scam that everyone needs to be aware of. A fake retailer, calling itself Cook Equipment & Trucking and claiming to be based in Marble Hill, Missouri, has been taking thousands of dollars from unsuspecting buyers.

How the Missouri Equipment Scam Works

The scam works like this: consumers attempt to purchase heavy equipment and farm machinery through a website or Facebook Marketplace ads. However, after victims transfer the money, the scammer ghosts them, and the equipment they purchased never arrives.

The Real Cook Equipment & Trucking Clarifies

There is a real Cook Equipment & Trucking, but the BBB has confirmed that this business does not have a website and is not affiliated with any online sales. Scammers have created three fake websites using this company’s name to trick buyers.

Tips to Avoid Online Equipment Scams

So, how can you avoid becoming a victim? Research the business at the BBB website, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, verify the website and phone number of the business, and read all terms and refund policies carefully. If you do become a victim, report the scam to the BBB immediately.