Warning of fishing scam by auto broker

I received an odd email about an hour and a half ago, that raised my suspicions. When I google search some of the details in the message, I found threads on other forums of this fishing attempt. Apparently these are coming from Milford Auto Mall in South Bellingham, MA. The folksy way it was written caught me off guard, but the obvious cut and paste was a tip off (different fonts, which is not showing in my copy and paste). Here is what I received, posted as an FYI:

Hello XXXXX, I apologize for my email!
Bob (here in copy of this message) referred me to You. I restore and collect with my brother in law Italian cars. I'm actually looking to buy a 60's to 90's Ferrari ( F355 etc..). Also very interested in Alfa Romeos, Lancias, Fiats and Maseratis in any condition.
Please let me know if you can help or advise me. There os no hurry and feel free to call me anytime at 617-777-7478 Thanks in advance.
Tim & Serge
617-777-7478

The senders email was: Tim McDowall <[email protected]>
The email of the fictitious "Bob" referenced (and cc'd) in the email is [email protected]

 

Oh, and forgot to mention the subject line was "Looking for an early Ferrari Or Italian make // Ref. Bob"

 

Yes, that is one of several threads that come up when you google search the emails or phone number. They appear to be a legitimate used car dealer, but certainly use some shady marketing practices.

 

Misrepresenting who they are and their intentions. They claim to be mutual friends of "Bob", and that they are simply collectors and restorers. In reality, they have no relationship with potential sellers, and are themselves, simply brokers flipping cars. Dishonesty is not a great way to begin a business transaction, and while it may work out fine, does not bode well for potential sellers, thus the warning.