'I got scammed by a heartless mum with a pram on Facebook'

Don't miss out on the headlines from Parenting. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Buying and selling items on Facebook can often feel like a game of luck.
Sydney mum Jaime Lee joined a local pay it forward Facebook group to try to help ease the cost of living burden.
But when she clicked on an ad offering a free pram, she didn't realise she was stepping into a scammer's trap.
Want to join the family? Sign up to our Kidspot newsletter for more stories like this.
RELATED: Teachers reject 'small way to say thanks' from school
"She said that people kept ghosting her"
The mum of two had been needing a new pram for a while, so when she saw a post offering one for free she jumped at the opportunity.
'By the time I went to comment 'may I please pick it up tomorrow' there had already been almost 10 other comments,' she told Kidspot.
Jaime figured she'd commented too late, but to her surprise the seller reached out to her.
'She messaged me the next day seeing if I still wanted the pram. Of course I said yes."
Initially, she was cautious.
'I questioned her. Did no one else want the pram? She replied that people kept ghosting her,' she explained.
Nothing screamed a red flag, so Jaime began to arrange picking up the pram.
Jaime questioned why nobody else had wanted the pram. Image: Supplied
RELATED: I'm slammed for living in a 'shoe box' with my kids
"The vibes and area seemed sketchy"
'She seemed like a good person trying to do something nice,' Jaime admitted.
They began to communicate and arrange pick up.
'She didn't give me the address until I was about to leave. I just knew what suburb I was going to. She knew I had a fair drive to get to her with my two younger kids in the car, but I didn't mind at the time as my one year old needed a good functional pram,' she explained.
Once she got there, the facade began to crack.
'Upon arriving there I felt uncomfortable. Just the vibes and area seemed sketchy,' she explained.
While her partner waited in the car with her already fussy kids, Jaime got out of the car to meet with the seller.
'The girl told me to message her once I had arrived and that's what I did. She told me five minutes and she would be down,' Jaime recalled.
Five minutes passed and still no one had come to meet with her.
'She didn't answer when I tried calling her,' Jaime complained.
'It was cold. I was just standing outside waiting for her to whole time while my partner attended to our crying kid.'
Jaime was let waiting half an hour before giving up and leaving empty handed. Image: Supplied.
RELATED: My husband is obsessed with buying costly 'big boy toys'
"Scams can happen. Even without sending money"
Finally Jaime got a message from the seller. 30 minutes later.
'She replied and said 'I can't see you I'm going back inside' even with me following all her directions,' the mother said.
She was forced to return home empty handed without the pram she had been promised.
Jaime believes it's hard to fathom why someone would waste her time so carelessly.
'I myself have sold and picked stuff up on Facebook before… I would do everything in my power to communicate better and try to find the person. Not just give up so easily or mislead them. Especially mother to mother,' Jaime said.
'I think this was all a game to her. Just to have a little laugh. She probably likes to waste people's time.'
Jaime shared the experience to the page the pram was initially posted on to prevent others experiencing the same false hope.
'Other parents need to know that there's other ways that scams can happen. Even without sending money,' Jaime warned.
'This girl never asked for any payment which made it even more believable. This was the first time I have ever experienced this and it's just a lesson learned on my end. Sometimes if something seems too good to be true than it probably is.'
Kidspot was unable to contact the seller as the ad has since been removed from Facebook.
Originally published as 'I got scammed by a heartless mum with a pram on Facebook'

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

SBS Australia

2 hours ago

• SBS Australia

'My toddlers are terrified': How Australians are navigating pets in public spaces

Sarah loves dogs but cannot have them in her home because they terrify her children. Source: Supplied Furry friend or public pest? Not everyone wants to be pawed by a pug in public. Is the increasing humanisation of pets and the inclusion of them in society the best thing for us all? Watch Insight episode It's Just A Dog at live Tuesday 24 June at 8.30PM on SBS or live on on SBS On Demand . Sarah Baum loves dogs ; her kids do not, and she feels there are no safe public spaces to take her children. Despite her fondness for them, she cannot have dogs in her home. "My toddlers are terrified of dogs. They will scream and become very hysterical," Sarah said. She believes the trigger for their fear may have been when a pair of unleashed greyhounds spilled the twins from their stroller when they were eight months old. "It tipped upside down and then they were jumping … on top of the pram, and the babies were underneath." Since then, the sight of dogs in public has caused terror for the twins, now aged four. "We were in the playground one day, a dog bounded, past, and my kids got terrified and were screaming. They tried to climb me like I was a tree." Sarah says pet owners can be part of the problem. "The dogs' owner ... she looked me up and down, and snarled: 'Get control of your kids'. "It's made me quite anxious about being in public with my twins, in case we come across a dog." For Chris, navigating everyday life would be much harder without his registered assistance dog Lachie. However, as an accredited handler, Chris says: "I'm acutely aware people may not like dogs and my first thoughts are really for others." When asked if animals should be able to go anywhere their human goes, Chris says it's a hard question to answer. "The problem then arises when it becomes a safety issue or an unknown," Chris said. "I have to always be on top of what's happening with myself and the dog. Because I've got an obligation to protect the dog ... and an obligation to work the dog." While Lachie is legally allowed to accompany him in most spaces, Chris says varying standards of training for other companion animals — such as emotional support animals — can jeopardise his safety. "I don't know how your dog is going to react. I don't know how well that handler has trained that animal." Fomer dog trainer Gabriele Marranci believes that there is an over-humanisation of pets that can lead to poorly trained and socialised animals. "I think we should treat them with a lot of respect and patience ... and with the understanding that they are just dogs. Their brains are quite different from ours." Having lived in several countries, including Italy where he trained dogs for the military, Gabriele believes Australia is behind Europe when it comes to training pets. He says that in Australia — as it's not as dog-inclusive as other countries as Italy — dog owners don't have as much opportunity to expose their dogs to different situations in public. "Every time we don't expose dogs to a situation … they will not learn and that becomes a problem," he said. "Dogs don't read books. They learn by exposure, reward or correction when it's needed." He says that the more dogs stay at home without getting experience in public, "the more dangerous ... the dog can become". He does not believe that all dogs should be allowed in public. However, he suggests there could be potential for something of an obedience test a dog must pass first to be able to be safely be present in public spaces. With an estimated 28.7 million pets, Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world (with 48 per cent of households owning a dog) — according to 2022 research by Animal Medicines Australia. Jennifer Kent, a University of Sydney senior research fellow and urbanism research lead, says we need to be smarter about how we integrate dogs into our public spaces. "Compared to Europe, North America, South America ... we are very restrictive about what we allow people to take on public transport in terms of pets. Kent suggests adapting public transport to meet the demand for dogs by potentially introducing a "dog-only carriage" like some European cities have introduced. The researcher says there's merit in referring to what other countries and jurisdictions (including Victoria, Australia, which allows small pets to travel on buses, trams and trains) have done to "make their public transport system more equitable". Anupam Sharma is a veterinarian and part-owner of a dog-friendly Melbourne bar that caters to the canine clientele. She feels that the current restrictions on dogs in Victorian bars and venues are too restrictive. "They're allowed in the courtyard ... but unfortunately, because of the legislation, we can't bring them inside like you can in Europe, North America and South America." She feels this is a shame, especially considering that in her experience, "most dogs behave a lot better than the humans at the bar". We have noticed very drunk people throwing up in the dog bowl. Anupam Sharma Anupam added: "We have noticed very drunk people throwing up in the dog bowl." "If you're going to be banning anyone based on their behaviour, you'd be banning the people." Sumi Mahendran, who is in the third of Australian households owning a cat (according to Animal Medicines Australia), is determined for her and her "baby" Zara to enjoy the same privileges as dogs and their owners. Sumi has started walking her cat on a leash but says that most places aren't setup for cats in public. "There are more things geared towards dog owners — even in pet stores — and the ability for dogs to go into public." Sumi says her life "revolves around" Zara, to the point of turning down overseas job opportunities, and hopes cats are soon more accepted in public spaces. Although Sarah can't have dogs in her home with her twins, she can have cats. While she says their cat Leo is part of their family, like Gabriele, she says we need to remember that pets aren't human. Understanding the "immense support and attachment" that comes with pets, she says she would still would never have left her cats alone with her children when they were babies. "I trust him 99.99 per cent of the time ... but what if?" Sarah acknowledges she loves her pet but at the end of the day, he is an animal. "I'm treating him as a cat. "I'm not treating him as a human being."

News.com.au

2 hours ago

• News.com.au

Carlton: Victorian masterpiece hits market

Steeped in history, this double-storey Carlton Victorian terrace was built circa 1890 and merges both contemporary urban living with timeless charm. 'We've lived in this beautiful brick heritage house for four years,' says the vendor. 'It has some classic Victorian architecture, combined with natural light from the northern aspect, which we've enjoyed.' Inside, original hardwood floors, four open fireplaces, and classic period features blend seamlessly with modern updates including stone benchtops and stainless-steel appliances in the light-filled kitchen. 'There's so much charm in the spacious rooms, high ceilings, and unique architectural elements typical of Victorian design, including the original stained-glass windows,' says the vendor. 'The natural light flooding through large windows during the day adds to the warmth and beauty of the space, making it a cosy haven.' Upstairs are three of the four bedrooms, two with access to the iron-laced balcony. 'It has so much warmth and character,' says the vendor. 'This is especially evident in the upstairs study where we've spent many hours looking north over the parklands.' The flexible layout has provided the perfect location for family get-togethers and entertaining. 'The house has been a gathering place for family and friends, hosting dinner parties, celebrating milestones, including university graduation dinners and a recent wedding,' he says. With rear lane access, the property also features a private courtyard, low-maintenance gardens and a separate studio at the rear, providing an additional space for work or accommodation. But it is perhaps the location, in one of Melbourne's most sought-after inner-city pockets, on the quiet tree-lined O'Grady St, that has been the highlight for the vendor and his growing family. 'One of the best aspects of living in Carlton North is the sense of community and the local parklands,' he says. 'The local cafes offer a perfect spot to unwind, and with an 8-month-old baby girl meant the parklands nearby are a perfect spot to hang out,' he says. The property is situated in a convenient location, zoned to Carlton North Primary School and within walking distance to a whole host of amenities, including public transport, RMIT, and Lygon Street. 'Carlton North is a vibrant suburb with proximity to Melbourne Uni and the hospital district,' says the vendor. 'It meant I could commute easily to Royal Melbourne and St Vincent's hospitals for work. Rathdowne Street's trendy coffee shops and cafes were where I spent most Saturday mornings.'

The Advertiser

3 hours ago

• The Advertiser

Renters fearful of speaking up about essential repairs

Almost seven in 10 private housing tenants worry about asking for repairs in case they face a rent increase. A survey of more than a thousand renters across Australia has also found a third would be unable to afford a five per cent increase on what they're currently paying. Half the respondents live in homes that need repairs and one in 10 need them carried out urgently. Conducted by the Australian Council of Social Security, University of NSW, Sydney-led Poverty and Inequality Partnership, National Shelter and the National Association of Renter Organisations, the study is the 26th published by the advocacy network. It found 31 per cent of rental homes have cockroach, ant or other pest problems, almost a quarter are leaky and one in five have issues with hot water, while almost as many feature mouldy bathrooms. Rents have, meanwhile, surged a staggering 47 per cent in the past five years amid calls for nationwide rental increase limits. Even so, researchers found 68 per cent of tenants fear asking their landlord to repair their residence would mean upping the rent, 56 per suspect it would get them evicted and 52 per cent worry that they would be placed on a blacklist stopping them renting another property. The findings were magnified for tenants in disadvantaged groups, especially the unemployed, poorly educated and disabled. ACOSS chief executive Cassandra Goldie says the study highlights the serious failings of Australia's housing market. "It is completely unacceptable that people in the private rental market are nervous about asking for essential repairs because they fear a rent increase or eviction notice," she said. "Everyone deserves to be able to live in secure homes without the constant fear of losing their home." National Association of Renters' Organisations spokesman Leo Patterson said the report validated what tenants already knew. "Despite extensive rental laws on paper, it exposes the stark gap between legislation and reality," he said. "Weak oversight of rental costs, property standards and industry practices have denied renters the benefits of a safe, stable and healthy home." The agencies involved in the project are calling for a limit to the amount and frequency of rent increases, improved legal security via the abolition of no-grounds evictions and more funding for tenants' advice services. Almost seven in 10 private housing tenants worry about asking for repairs in case they face a rent increase. A survey of more than a thousand renters across Australia has also found a third would be unable to afford a five per cent increase on what they're currently paying. Half the respondents live in homes that need repairs and one in 10 need them carried out urgently. Conducted by the Australian Council of Social Security, University of NSW, Sydney-led Poverty and Inequality Partnership, National Shelter and the National Association of Renter Organisations, the study is the 26th published by the advocacy network. It found 31 per cent of rental homes have cockroach, ant or other pest problems, almost a quarter are leaky and one in five have issues with hot water, while almost as many feature mouldy bathrooms. Rents have, meanwhile, surged a staggering 47 per cent in the past five years amid calls for nationwide rental increase limits. Even so, researchers found 68 per cent of tenants fear asking their landlord to repair their residence would mean upping the rent, 56 per suspect it would get them evicted and 52 per cent worry that they would be placed on a blacklist stopping them renting another property. The findings were magnified for tenants in disadvantaged groups, especially the unemployed, poorly educated and disabled. ACOSS chief executive Cassandra Goldie says the study highlights the serious failings of Australia's housing market. "It is completely unacceptable that people in the private rental market are nervous about asking for essential repairs because they fear a rent increase or eviction notice," she said. "Everyone deserves to be able to live in secure homes without the constant fear of losing their home." National Association of Renters' Organisations spokesman Leo Patterson said the report validated what tenants already knew. "Despite extensive rental laws on paper, it exposes the stark gap between legislation and reality," he said. "Weak oversight of rental costs, property standards and industry practices have denied renters the benefits of a safe, stable and healthy home." The agencies involved in the project are calling for a limit to the amount and frequency of rent increases, improved legal security via the abolition of no-grounds evictions and more funding for tenants' advice services. Almost seven in 10 private housing tenants worry about asking for repairs in case they face a rent increase. A survey of more than a thousand renters across Australia has also found a third would be unable to afford a five per cent increase on what they're currently paying. Half the respondents live in homes that need repairs and one in 10 need them carried out urgently. Conducted by the Australian Council of Social Security, University of NSW, Sydney-led Poverty and Inequality Partnership, National Shelter and the National Association of Renter Organisations, the study is the 26th published by the advocacy network. It found 31 per cent of rental homes have cockroach, ant or other pest problems, almost a quarter are leaky and one in five have issues with hot water, while almost as many feature mouldy bathrooms. Rents have, meanwhile, surged a staggering 47 per cent in the past five years amid calls for nationwide rental increase limits. Even so, researchers found 68 per cent of tenants fear asking their landlord to repair their residence would mean upping the rent, 56 per suspect it would get them evicted and 52 per cent worry that they would be placed on a blacklist stopping them renting another property. The findings were magnified for tenants in disadvantaged groups, especially the unemployed, poorly educated and disabled. ACOSS chief executive Cassandra Goldie says the study highlights the serious failings of Australia's housing market. "It is completely unacceptable that people in the private rental market are nervous about asking for essential repairs because they fear a rent increase or eviction notice," she said. "Everyone deserves to be able to live in secure homes without the constant fear of losing their home." National Association of Renters' Organisations spokesman Leo Patterson said the report validated what tenants already knew. "Despite extensive rental laws on paper, it exposes the stark gap between legislation and reality," he said. "Weak oversight of rental costs, property standards and industry practices have denied renters the benefits of a safe, stable and healthy home." The agencies involved in the project are calling for a limit to the amount and frequency of rent increases, improved legal security via the abolition of no-grounds evictions and more funding for tenants' advice services. Almost seven in 10 private housing tenants worry about asking for repairs in case they face a rent increase. A survey of more than a thousand renters across Australia has also found a third would be unable to afford a five per cent increase on what they're currently paying. Half the respondents live in homes that need repairs and one in 10 need them carried out urgently. Conducted by the Australian Council of Social Security, University of NSW, Sydney-led Poverty and Inequality Partnership, National Shelter and the National Association of Renter Organisations, the study is the 26th published by the advocacy network. It found 31 per cent of rental homes have cockroach, ant or other pest problems, almost a quarter are leaky and one in five have issues with hot water, while almost as many feature mouldy bathrooms. Rents have, meanwhile, surged a staggering 47 per cent in the past five years amid calls for nationwide rental increase limits. Even so, researchers found 68 per cent of tenants fear asking their landlord to repair their residence would mean upping the rent, 56 per suspect it would get them evicted and 52 per cent worry that they would be placed on a blacklist stopping them renting another property. The findings were magnified for tenants in disadvantaged groups, especially the unemployed, poorly educated and disabled. ACOSS chief executive Cassandra Goldie says the study highlights the serious failings of Australia's housing market. "It is completely unacceptable that people in the private rental market are nervous about asking for essential repairs because they fear a rent increase or eviction notice," she said. "Everyone deserves to be able to live in secure homes without the constant fear of losing their home." National Association of Renters' Organisations spokesman Leo Patterson said the report validated what tenants already knew. "Despite extensive rental laws on paper, it exposes the stark gap between legislation and reality," he said. "Weak oversight of rental costs, property standards and industry practices have denied renters the benefits of a safe, stable and healthy home." The agencies involved in the project are calling for a limit to the amount and frequency of rent increases, improved legal security via the abolition of no-grounds evictions and more funding for tenants' advice services.