I finally got to see one of these scams first hand.  I have a 87 Vanagon for
sale on the internet and I received an email from "Mathais" say he was
interested and would like more info.  I sent a few links to pictures and he
responded with the following email:

<<START OF EMAIL>>

"Hello Jeff,
Thanks for your response to my inquiry. I am glad to know that the 1987 VW
Vanagon is still for sale and in good condition. I would be glad to say from
the pictures that its a nice one and i dont mind the dings on it,so to
fasten up the transaction,I need to purchase it urgently ,As i am giving it
to my daughter as birthday present,I am ok with the price and will send you
payment as soon as I get your contact details where payment will be sent to.

Regarding payment, I have suggested that my client residing in the states
should call and send you a certified check of $4,800.00 which will cater for
the cost price and for shipping.I have an International shipping agent that
will pick-up and ship the car over to me here in Amsterdam(Netherlands) and
its expensive though. So, on getting the check, you are to cash it and
deduct the cost price then do me a favour of sending the remaining funds
meant for shipping to my Internationalshipper via Western Union/Money
gram.Immediately he gets the money, he will come for the pick-up.Confirm
this and send your full name,address and which will be used in mailing the
check payment to you via usps courier. I'll be waiting for your favourable
reply.
Thanks and regards,
Mathias"

<<END OF EMAIL>>

Needless to say, I laughed my ass off!  I'm tempted to send this putz my
address just to see what kind of phoney check he sends.  But I figure it's
better to just let it go.

Happy Friday,

Jeff