Online scams targeting hobbyists and collectors are prevalent, with counterfeit goods sold through convincing websites. One such scam site is Us-Discountstamp.com, which promotes fake discounted USPS postage to unwitting stamp buyers. This article will examine how this scam operates, how to avoid it, and what to do if victimized.
What is Us-Discountstamp.com?
Us-Discountstamp.com is a fraudulent website that claims to sell legitimate US postage stamps and rare philatelic items at extraordinarily low prices, up to 90% off face value. However, the site is not associated with or authorized by the United States Postal Service in any way.
How Does the Us-Discountstamp.com Scam Work?
The site lists stamps like the Inverted Jenny and rarities from the early 1900s available for a fraction of real market prices. Images are stolen from genuine dealers to appear credible.
When victims purchase from the site, they either receive cheap counterfeits far less valuable than described or no stamps at all. Their money is pocketed by scammers who vanish.
Other deceitful tactics include using a domain name one letter off from the real USPS and promoting unbelievable deals. Fake positive reviews posted by the scam operators boost legitimacy.
In essence, the site relies on deceiving collectors with phony discounts on stolen images of high-value stamps that are never fulfilled. Victims lose money while the scammers profit.
How to Avoid the Us-Discountstamp.com Scam
While enticing, these red flags can help identify and avoid this scam:
- Prices massively below any feasible market rate
- Lack of company details, verifiable address, or contact information
- Fake reviews and endorsements using stock images
- No sales proofs or stamp authenticity certifications
- Domain name resembling USPS but slightly altered
Carefully researching sellers, verifying endorsements, and avoiding unbelievable deals can help prevent falling victim.
What to Do if Scammed by Us-Discountstamp.com
If you paid this fraudulent site and never received your stamps, take these steps:
- Immediately report unauthorized charges to your payment provider to reverse if possible
- File detailed fraud reports with the FBI, FTC, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service
- Warn other collectors by leaving online reviews detailing the scam
- Consult a lawyer regarding any potential legal action against the scammers
Though damage may be done, acting quickly can potentially help recover losses and prevent the site from victimizing others.
Conclusion
Us-Discountstamp.com exemplifies how scammers exploit passions like philately to fraudulently profit from counterfeit goods and ignorance of unbelievable deals. But consumers can mind red flags and verify sellers to avoid such deception. Spreading awareness of these scams helps the collector community while hampering these criminal enterprises.
