Before you sell the cattle: the buyer check.

Fake buyers on Marketplace for cattle and machinery are one of the scams that actually target the bush. The deal looks keen, the money looks sorted, and the stock is gone before the bank says otherwise. Seven things to check before you take a buyer's word for it. Tick them off; if you can't tick one, slow the deal down.

• They've come and looked. A real buyer inspects the cattle, or sends someone who does. A buyer who won't inspect is telling you something.
• They'll talk on the phone. Messages only, a new profile, or photos that aren't theirs: ask for a call. A real buyer rings back.
• The payment is ordinary. Bank transfer to your account, or through your agent. Odd payment methods, an "overpayment" you're asked to refund, a transport agent you have to pay first, or "sort the rest later" are the scam, not the deal.
• Your bank says the money is there. Not a screenshot, not a "cleared" message from the buyer. Ring the number on the back of your card and ask. Your bank will never rush you or ask for a code.
• Nothing leaves the paddock before the money lands. No pick-up on a promise. If the truck is booked before the funds are in, the truck waits.
• You're allowed to take your time. A buyer in a hurry who won't let you be is pushing for a reason. Slow it down. The deal that's real will still be there tomorrow.
• You've asked someone you trust. Your agent, the saleyards, a neighbour who sells. One phone call before you commit costs nothing.

Cyber Bushies · cyberbushies.com · cyber awareness built for the bush · Brian Colyer, 0409 065 200 · Free to copy and hand round.