Free High-End Items Scams
Messages claim to offer "Free" high-end items
This scam is traditionally known as the "Grand Piano Scam" because the scammers frequently offer a very valuable piano, typically a high-end baby grand piano for free. The scam has evolved into offers of welders, drones, cameras, electric bikes, guitars, or anything of higher value.
Messages typically contain an emotional hook
The offer is often accompanied by an emotional or sympathetic story to make the request seem genuine. Common backstories include:
- The item(s) belonged to a recently deceased spouse or family member.
- The owner is moving to a smaller home, assisted living, or overseas and cannot take the item(s) with them.
- The owner doesn't need the money and simply wants the cherished item(s) to go to a "loving home" or an institution that will appreciate it.
There's a catch: Shipping
When a person expresses interest, the scammer claims the item itself is free, but the recipient must cover the shipping or moving costs. This fee is typically a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Once the payment is sent, the scammer disappears. The victim is out the money, and none of the high-end items ever existed or arrive.
Messages should be reported
Please report suspicious messages to infosecurity@ewu.edu so we can take action if needed
Example Message
