Piano scam (free piano)

rsl12

This is an old issue, most of you probably know about it, but it's interesting to see a story about it on TV news:

https://www.wbay.com/2025/12/05/consumer-first-alert-dont-get-played-by-piano-scam/

It’s a unique scam, where thieves tell an emotional story about a beloved piano they want to go to a good home. They want to give away the piano because a family member died. There are more than 100 complaints into the Better Business Bureau scam tracker. The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau says the scammers are targeting churches, schools and music lovers. Many complaints say the offer is for a baby grand in perfect condition. The catch is, you have to pay the moving fees -- almost $2,000. That piano will never arrive.

Nightowl

rsl12 I can see why people might fall for it, because it's true that a lot of old pianos in poor condition are given away free due to the rise in popularity of DPs. These scammers are so devious, they know just the right words to use to draw people in.

ShiroKuro

I’m glad it’s getting some attention in the news. All scams are horrible, but there’s something about a scam that preys on people’s desire to have a cheaper way to acquire one of the most expensive musical instruments that feels especially cruel.

JillCrosslandPiano

Someone I knew was approached by such a scammer (UK), but as they were doing normal due diligence and asked a friend to go and play it, the scam ended there....