2011 MBA Craigslist/Venmo Story

not a lot you can do mate - Take it on the chin lesson learned.

 

I would report it to the police. You already met one of the girls and you have the cell phone numbers.
Don't just let it go. Hopefully the police will bother to help you.

 

First, I'm really sorry to hear this. Second; if you have phone numbers, even if they go to voice mail, can't you contact law enforcement? I don't think it'll hurt if you do, and perhaps there's something more they can determine.

(eta: Jinx, z31; we posted at the same time!)

 

It's always good to file a police report anyway, and keep a copy. I've done so in a very different kind of situation, and having a copy of the report ended up being useful. Good luck. It's a terrible feeling.

 

The Venmo website could be a lot clearer about that. I found their policy, but only by using a Google search on their website content. Sympathies and good luck.

 

I would also report this to the police.

But I wouldn't be too optimistic--the cell phones could have been burners.

I've done a million transactions on Craigslist and I love it. But I almost always insist on meeting at a busy Starbucks that I'm familiar with, during the day, and payment in cash. Doing transactions like this should also put buyers at ease, if they are worried about being ripped off.

 

File the police report. They stole from you. Do you know the serial number? you'll need it to get the computer back. This may be a pattern. Maybe the police will get it back.

Some credit cards or homeowners/renters policies may cover the loss. They will need the police report. Contact credit company first.

Learn your lesson but don't just get rolled over.

 

If you have a renters or homeowners insurance policy, this will most likely be covered less any deductible. You'll need a police report to make the claim.


If you have the cell phone number, LE can get the names and addresses of the owners. If they were using anonymous throwaways, it's tougher and likely not something LE will pursue.