Stephen Gale, Senior Partner at GAB Garden Machinery in Somerset, has contacted us to warn dealers about a potential phone scam.
Stephen says, "Recently we had a potential sale for a HRH536 Honda and a brush cutter over the phone.
"The customer said they were not sure just what to go for and would be guided by us for the brush cutter. A decision was made on the HRH536 and a SRM236 Echo.
"'How soon can you deliver?' they asked.
"I replied that you have not provided us with an address yet sir!
"When the cusomter asked for a delivery to the Scottish Highlands I said that as we are based in Somerset, I'm sorry but we can't deliver to there!
"This did not deter the individial who replied that he would get the order collected. He then asked could I process the transaction and provide him with the authorisation number."
Stephen said the deal was then done, with the funds received at their terminal.
"Something was bugging me though," Stephen continued, "the man's way of providing information was not the usual way.
"I asked for details of the collection process he was going to provide. He was reluctant to give me any further information - so we did not proceed with the PDI of the aforementioned machines.
"He returned a telephone call to us after close of business, therefore we were not able to confirm anything about the person or address provided.
"The customer phoned the following day to see if machines were ready for collection and was told the order has been declined.
"He then became abusive, and as yet has not asked for the money to be refunded."
Have any other dealers experienced a similar encounter?