Making sure a used Macintosh has not been stolen

[Epaminondas]

I am about to buy a used Macintosh off of eBay and I would like to make sure that I am not dealing in stolen goods.

I have the Mac's serial number.  Is there a database of stolen Macs somewhere where I can check this out?


I have never had a problem buying Macs off of eBay, but then again, I never thought to check this out before.  

A friend did buy a stolen Mac once.  A physician's Mac, as I recollect - with patient records on board.  Got the Mac back to the Doc and helped set up a police sting on the perpetrator's mailbox - but he lost out on a great deal!

Plus there is the time and aggravation.


Any help would be appreciated.


Thank you,

Epaminondas

[Highmac]

I know I've read in the last couple of months about a database of stolen computers, but can't find it now. However, an exchange on a UK forum involving a stolen laptop suggested checking with the manufacturer - apparently many keep a database of computers reported to them as stolen, so they can spot them when they turn up for repair. Might be worth checking if Apple does this.

Highmac
Happiness is a warm (but not hot!) Macintosh

[bobw]

I would contact Apple to see if they have anything.

http://www.stolencomputers.org/home.html

http://www.ccmostwanted.com/serial.htm

http://www.itsbeenstolen.com/

If you can find out where the seller is from, contact that police department.