Warning Over 'Benson Avocado' Scammer Targeting Car Sellers

In recent months, a concerning pattern has emerged where countless individuals across the UK have reported receiving suspicious messages from a scammer operating under the name "Benson Avocado." The scammer is targeting those selling cars on Gumtree, using a consistent narrative that has alarmed many potential victims.

The Scheme Unveiled

Reports started accumulating in late 2019, with the majority of comments highlighting the same script. Victims often receive a message asking if their car listing is still available, followed by a convoluted story about buying the car for his disabled daughter, "Jennifer." Many users noted that they were solicited to complete transactions via PayPal, with the promise of the money being transferred before the car was picked up, supposedly by a hired courier.

A recent comment from December 2023 encapsulates the widespread anxiety surrounding these calls, stating, "Received so many missed calls." Another from May of the same year reads, "Received a text message from 'AvocadoBens' asking if I was still selling my car on Gumtree. Let me save you some trouble, it turned out to be a scam!"

Repetitive Tactics

Individuals have reported that this scammer has attempted to victimize them multiple times, often using different names and phone numbers but sticking to the same fraudulent storyline. For instance, one individual noted, "This man now calls himself David Hornick," while another echoed this sentiment, suggesting the same person has also gone by names like Michael Hayes, Rynolds Littledale, and, more notoriously, Benson Avocado.

The consistency of the narrative is particularly striking, with many users stating nearly identical experiences. Such redundancy poses a clear indication that this is not an isolated incident but part of a calculated scheme.

The PayPal Trap

Many victims have shared alarming details about the procedures the scammer employs. A comment from late October 2019 described how the scammer insisted on using PayPal to complete the sale and provided a list of personal information that he needed from potential sellers. As one victim phrased it, “He was keen on details, wanted my PayPal email, my address, and even to know the VIN number of the car!”

Crucially, the PayPal method is a red flag. Various commenters have pointed out that PayPal transactions can easily be reversed, giving potential scammers the upper hand. "Never sell a car with a PayPal payment; it’s only secure for deposits," warned one concerned seller.

One victim, reflecting on their near-miss, added, “Thank goodness I googled him and saw a number of messages. However, with a name such as his, it did make us wonder.”

Reporting the Scam

As the echo of complaints grows, individuals are urged to report encounters with this scammer to Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. Many have expressed gratitude for the online shared experiences that helped them avoid financial loss. For example, one commenter concluded, "Thank you, honest people. Just had this Benson Avocado try to buy our car from Gumtree. Sounded suspect, so googled his name and got your helpful input."

Many individuals, having learned from previous victims, are now taking precautions and sharing vital information. "The more complaints, the more they have to build a case," one comment asserted, highlighting the collective power of community vigilance in combating scams like these.

Conclusion

The case of "Benson Avocado" serves as a crucial reminder for anyone selling items online, especially high-value products like cars. Stay alert for warning signs, take time to verify, and report any suspicious behaviour to appropriate authorities. Community efforts can go a long way in safeguarding others, so sharing your experience could not just protect you but also save someone else from falling prey to this persistent scammer. If you receive similar messages or calls, proceed with caution and do not provide any personal information.