AWESOME!!!

I've done the same thing with some scammers... most recently a person who posted a plasma TV on my local Orlando craigslist page, then claimed she was in England and wanted to sell it quickly and would ship it to me at a crazy low price (I guess selling it to someone IN THE U.K. made life too easy for her).  I love those ones, but when I offer to have my sister who 'happens to be in college and living right near you' pick it up personally and pay them on the spot, I never seem to hear back!

However, I've never seen anyone short of Dateline's Chris Hansen take it as far as you did.  Kudos for your research -- although I'm sure the satisfaction of ruining a scammer's day is all the recognition needed to keep you going!

Indeed it is. I enjoyed it most when they said the minister of finance was arrested and asked that I contact Western Union to straighten it out. As for James's comment about the time it takes; it's not for everyone. I don't spend that much time on it, and by getting to share my findings on this blog I feel it's worth it. Often in Washington it will rain non-stop for a month or more and I'm stuck at home. One can only send so many emails and listings to clients before they need a break.

This has given me a source of entertainment and cost me nothing. It's amusing to see how frantic they get when WU says they don't have the money. I just keep telling them it must be a mistake and send them back. As I mentioned in my previous blog, I've even had one tell me he would contact the FBI if I didn't send the money. I simply said thats great, because I gave the check to the FBI and they wanted to speak with him anyway. I even gave him their number. Needless to say, he never wrote back. It's almost as though they feel it really is their money because they rightfully conned you out of it and you have to pay it like you said you would! I suspect many times they have already have made plans for the money or possibly borrowed against it beliving it's on the way.

If you would like to read the most amusing tale of one such scam click on this link:

http://allreaders.net/allscams/thetaleoftunde.html

That was the one and only time I convinced a scammer to give up his own identity, address, and the fact that it was a scam. In the end he claimed to be giving up his dishonest ways. Posing as a young lady named Missy Prissy I baited him into falling in love, and we all know love is blind. You can even see the photo's he sent Missy, and you will be amazed when you see what kind of person is actually ripping Americans off for billions!

Glad to see a thorough post on this scam.  Thanks for the info!

-Eric C. Lowery, EquityShack.com, The Good Broker, LLC., Lawrenceville, GA

Often the way people are conned into sending the money is through what they believe is a third party. These emails are from another scammer that responded to the ad on craigslist:

 ______________________________________________________

Hello Mishy

Did you get the check of $3,900 from my Financier , My Robert Reyes ? I asked my shipper to contact you and kindly let me know when you will be able to forward my balance to my shipper when you get up this morning , I will like you to kindly help me forward the payment to them when you get up this morning . Please write to me when you get my email . please kindly make a withdrawal of the balance today when you get to the Bank , so that my items can be shipped down to you . I asked them to contact you about the payment .

Esther

Then you receive this from the bogus shipper (although it is the name of a real furniture oulet)

________________________________________________________________________

Phone # 206-666-2674                                 Ref #: 01815
 
Dear Sir/Ma,   
 
We are to contact you on behalf of our valued client (Miss. Esther Naomi ) concerning the payment of the delivery of her items . We would need a Deposit/Advance payment to secure her order with us,  She told us that she has sent you a check payment for the item including the Our shipping charges, We want you to send the payment to us via western union money transfer. We urge you to send the sum of $2,150.00 to our Secectary, then we can arrange for the delivery. We  request a time and date for the Delivery Of Her Items .

Considering the limited time that we have, Miss. Esther Naomi has instructed us to expect the cost of the shipping charges from you this week, all instructions and information to send the funds to has been sent to Miss. Esther Naomi  which we believe its already given to you. So you get back to our client asap so he can provide us the information to get the funds picked up so we can schedule a delivery time with you soon.We will contact you to schedule the delivery date of the furniture at your convenient time. At Ashley-Ships , we are proud of our past, encouraged for our future and genuinely excited to make Delivieries for the most important people there are - you. 
 
Thank you,
 
Mr. Brian Brennan { Director }
Cell ; (601) 857-1171  

Well, well,. its the legendary Ardell! I'll try to explain my motivation behind my unusual hobby as best I can. Many years ago my wife was ripped off for over $80,000 by a con artist mortgage broker (we had only just met one another at the time) and I saw the damage it did to her self esteem and confidence; I then developed a real hatred for all con artist. These email idiots I just get to run in circles since they're so far from home, but I waste their time, and it's time they would otherwise spend ripping off a real victim. I've even taught others to do it as you can see on the allreaders message board.

I've also had a client that was the victim of the "straw mortgage" scam and it ruined her life to the point where she lost everything she had, and then tried to kill herself. Many people are simply amused when they see on TV that some "dummy" lost their hard earned money to some low-life con artist in some type of scam; I don't find it amusing. Leading the con artist into thinking they have swindled me, only to swindle them in the end I do find amusing. Often they are very bold and a bit nasty when you don"t send them your money as you are told and I suspect many weak people are pressured into doing it; as you can see in the email I received recently when I requested to see ID prior to wiring the money.

 ________________________________________________________

From: Veronica Coley <veronica_luv147@yahoo.com>
To: mish550@aol.com
Sent: Wed, 12 Sep 2007 7:09 pm
Subject: Payment Status: DELIVERED,Delivery Time: 1:46:00 PM.Act Fast!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Its ok that you got back to me, And i want to tell you again you dont need to keep asking to scan my ID befor you can sent the balance of the money to my travelling agent ok. All what i want you to do when you got the check get it cash and get the balance sent to me Asap. Stop asking me for what is personal to me.

U keep asking all this annoyne Questions,  ok.When i try to no the status of the payment online here's what i was told. See it Below   US Postal Service Tracking Number: 03071790000167326473

So i want you to get back to me Asap. Hope to hear from you soon, Thanks for your understanding and caring.

Stay Bless ,  Veronica

Yes, they dont mean much anymore as trophys (I have over 60k in checks), but I do like to see the various qualities of forgeries out there. Some of the Visa Travelers Checks and US Postal Money Orders are of high quality and would likely fool anyone. It's just fun to waste their time when I have a spare minute. It makes them pretty upset at times. I got this email recently )I even had to censor it):

-----------------------

Re: TRACKING NUMBER FOR THE PAYMENT..............(7924 2038 7183)

Good morning Michelle How are you doing hope you are doing Great.Well i am very pissed,you made me fool a whole Company i passed the fuxxxxx information you gave me to the ticketing company and they sent their agent down to western union store to pick the founds with the printed western union form you sent me But to my Greatest sujrprise they told me That their is No Order in that Name

That the form was Fake  why all this bullxxxx what are you trying to do please if you know whats better then do it i need you to send the rest of that money Now to the Ticketing company's Info that i gave you ok do that Now am pleeding in Gods Name

Please try and do this for me so they can get all her flying Documents Ready so she can leave here and come to you Now ok please do this for me Now and the Phone Number you gave me i tgried calling the number But it has been disconected why is that well thats not a problem to me Just get the money sent today and i don't need any more of your fuxxxxx Jokes Ok am very serious Now Ok so go and send the funds Now Ok.Reply Now!!!!!!!!!!!!

--------------------------------

So as you see, I do have the pleasure of ruining their day.

------------------------------------------------

Hahaha... LOL. I love it, keep up the pressure on those bastards....

I have not encountered this particular scam yet, but I *every* day I get the lottery scam messages, sometimes even three or four a day... I keep a count on how much money I have "won", and by now I top $2870 MILLION! (Yes I am a "rich" man).

 I  also tried to misguide them, but was not so successful. Now that I've read yourblog I got a few good ideas how to approach tem next time...

Here is a copy of my email with a scammer. I'm glad people are sharing information about these people and hope that it helps minimize the scams. I thought it was odd that he gave so much personal information, but I'm sure they have a ring out there to answer all inquiries. We even checked out the street address, and it is valid. Nothing on the internet about the employer. After reading all the other info that people have posted, it's obvious it's the same scam.

 Hello..
 Thanks for the details on the house. I am a supervisor of a local construction company in Wales which specialises in construction of companies and houses.I am sent over to states to study Construction and house development so to improve our standard.I like you reserve
the place for me upon my arrival .
 Contrary to payment,all my expenses including house rent will be taken care of my the company .Be advised that my manager will be effecting payment with a certified cashier check drwan from a US bank worth $6,800(which is a relocation grant from my employment and i have decided to use it for the deposit, interiordecoration and getting furnitures for the place).You will then have to deduct an initial deposit of $1,495 (which is the move in cost).All subsequent monthly rent would be paid by me in cash. You will have to forward the excess funds on the check to the interior decorator(who will be responsible for shipping of furnitures, electrical appliances and other personal luggages). I hope this is clear between us? mail me back with your details:
 
your full name to be written on check:
Address to send to:
Your cell phone number
 
Below are my full details :
Name: Dawkin Rhodes Current Address:14B Cathedral Road Cardiff, CF11 9PH ,North Wales
Age:39
Marital status:Married
Profession: Estates Consultant
Sex:Male
Phone :+44-702-408-4960
009-44-702-408-4960
 Check below for my referal ,he his my current landlord ,you can ask him about my rental history and behaviour :
 
Name: George Honson
Same Address:14B Cathedral Road Cardiff, CF11 9PH ,North Wales
Email:gleslie443@yahoo.com
 
And also this is my Employer Contact information :
Wen Consultants Ltd.
Wendel Lazo
009 703 401 3193
sdll95@yahoo.com
 
I'm a Gentleman,dont smoke..
Your response will be appreciated.
Regards.

They do get creative. I got this one last week it's from yet another poor refugee trying to smuggle millions out of the country. I forwarded it the Bank of Scottland:

-------------------------

Hello my dear how are you? together with your work i feel all is fine.I am happy to read your mail once again, and i have had what you said. As i ealier told you the situation of the kind of enviroment i stay does not give me the opportunty to do such.   Besides, my picture is not a guarrantee for you to be convinced regardness to my fact, since we still have the opportunity to meet in America.

Here i attach with, the (BANK INFORMATIONS FOR YOUR VERIFICATION.) God will bless and reward you for every effort you are about to make to see me out from this horrible prison called refugee camp where i am
living today as a result of  the untimely death of my parents (may their gentle souls rest in peace).
I thank God for the life of Rev Rev .Emmanuel George the pastor of the church located in the camp where i recieve and send emails to you. When you call tell him that you want to speak with me so that he will send to me.

He is like a father to us here as his church assists united nations here in Senegal in taking care of refugees.i'm living in the females hostel.
Here  is the contact information of the bank in Scotland where the money was deposited by my late father is as follows,
 
NAME OF THE BANK - ROYAL BANK  OF SCOTLAND
NAME OF THE TRANSFER - OFFICER IS MR BRAIN WILSTON
TELEPHONE NUMBER IS   +44-7045-7323-74
FAX  NUMBER                   +44-70-45-723-797
 
EMAIL  ADRESS-(Royal_Bank_Scotland@mybestmail.com)
                           (royal_bank_of_scotland@ommail.com)
        
Already i have informed this bank about my intention to claim my late father's deposit of which my name appears as the next of kin. The only thing the bank told me is to look for a foreign partner who will assist me in the transfer due to my refugee status here in Senegal as a refugee i am not allowed directely claim of the money but through an apointed representative as the united refugee law governing refugee all over the world states.

Based on this information i will like you to send an email to the transfer department of the  bank today with this email addres (Royal_Bank_Scotland@mybestmail.com) Attentioned Mr Brain Wilston the foreign transfer officer of the bank telling him that you are my representative and that you want to assist me transfer my four Million US Dollars deposited by late father of which i am the next of kin. after you contact the bank you call me on phone today.
 
THE ACCOUNT INFORMATION ARE AS FOLLOWS.
ACCOUNT NAME IS  (DR MIKE WILSON )
AMOUNT $9.7(NINE.SEVEN  Million US Dollars).
NEXT OF KIN MISS (JULIAN MIKE).
ACCOUNT NUMBER (CTB791103546/CMT/91/S)
 
God bless you as you do this today,

Yours
Julian .

Here is a copy of my email with a scammer. I'm glad people are sharing information about these people and hope that it helps minimize the scams. I thought it was odd that he gave so much personal information, but I'm sure they have a ring out there to answer all inquiries.  Nothing on the internet about the employer. After reading all the other info that people have posted, it's obvious it's the same scam with same company & landlord's name but his name is different.

 Hello..
 Thanks for the details on the house. I am a supervisor of a local construction company in Wales which specialises in construction of companies and houses.I am sent over to states to study Construction and house development so to improve our standard.I like you reserve
the place for me upon my arrival .
 Contrary to payment,all my expenses including house rent will be taken care of my the company .Be advised that my manager will be effecting payment with a certified cashier check drwan from a US bank worth $10,800(which is a relocation grant from my employment and i have decided to use it for the deposit, interiordecoration and getting furnitures for the place).You will then have to deduct an initial deposit of $1,495 (which is the move in cost).All subsequent monthly rent would be paid by me in cash. You will have to forward the excess funds on the check to the interior decorator(who will be responsible for shipping of furnitures, electrical appliances and other personal luggages). I hope this is clear between us? mail me back with your details:
 
your full name to be written on check:
Address to send to:
Your cell phone number
 
Below are my full details :
Name: John  Weaser Current Address:35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli, SA14 8BE
Age:39
Marital status:Married
Profession: Estates Consultant
Sex:Male
Phone :+44-702-408-4960 (same number on the other scam)
009-44-702-408-4960
 Check below for my referal ,he his my current landlord ,you can ask him about my rental history and behaviour :
 
Name: George Honson (same number on the other scam)
Same Address:14B Cathedral Road Cardiff, CF11 9PH ,North Wales
Email:gleslie443@yahoo.com (same number on the other scam)
 
And also this is my Employer Contact information :
Wen Consultants Ltd. (same number on the other scam)
Wendel Lazo
009 703 401 3193
sdll95@yahoo.com
 
I'm a Gentleman,dont smoke..
Your response will be appreciated.
Regards.

Funny thing is, months after I posted this story, our very own NWMLS finally felt the need to bring this issue to agents attention. Here is what they had to say about it.

----------------------------------------- 

Beware of Scams on Craigslist

This person is using a listed property to lure potential renters, gather deposit money and then defraud. THIS HOME IS NOT FOR RENT. It is a scam.

From: Clementine Paradise (clementine.paradise@yahoo.com )

To: xxxxxxx Subject: Re: house for rent

Date: Sun, 20 Jan 2008 12:47:20 +0000 

Thanks for your email and interest in my house.May the peace of the Lord be upon you and your family.I am Clementine Paradise the owner of the House you are interest in located at Washinton. Presently am on a missionary work transfer to WEST AFRICA.I went there with all my family ,On getting here,i discoverd that my missionary work will last for 5 years so i decided to look for a responsible and caring person to maintain and take proper care of my House as i do.Please i want you to know that i am a kind and honest Man of God also i spent alot on my properties so i will want you to treat it as your own.

You will pay $700 /month, The money involved does not matters to me but i want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for a check up. the house is located at 2017 Northeast 137th Street, Seattle WA 98125 Firstly,i will like you to go take a look at the exterior part of the house > because you will not be able to go inside to see the interior hence i have all the keys and security code here with me.you can get back to me if you are truely interested.

My house contains utilities such as:  Wardrobe,Double Bed,Sheets & Blankets with Air Conditioning in the Bedrooms, Furnished, TV, Iron, Sofa, DVD, Internet service and Air Conditioning in the Livingroom. Also, Washing Machine, Fridge, Gas Hob, Oven, Microwave, Plates & cutlery in the Kitchen, etc. 

Do get back to me if you are truely interested and sure of taking proper care of my house there is a rent application form which i will like you to fill it and send back to me. If you can do all this for me,then i will be willing to rent my house to you. Looking forward to hear from you. Your full information will be used to process all documents that will be comming together with the keys leading to the house and this will come to you through DHL courier service. Thank you and remain Blessed.

Clementine

xxxxxxx@comcast.net wrote:

Hello, I was inquiring about your house for rent. Is it still available? If so, I would like to arrange a time to take a look at it. It sounds really cute.  Thank you!

Posted January 21, 2008

Northwest Multiple Listing Service

-----------------------------------------------

Glad to know MLS is on top of things.

where do I forward scam emails?  FBI - what link?  I was responding to a scam today, but something kept nagging me until I searched for rental property scams and pulled up your blog.  Now, I just want to know where to forward his emails so he can possibly get caught.

 Vikki

Theres really no FBI Link to forward such emails to, there just to many of these for them to pursue. If the person contacting you claims to represent a particular company, then contact the company and they can complain to the Secret Service. On one such occasion I did do that, and once I tricked the fellow into revealing his true identity, he was arrested.

I owned a resturant and filed bankruptcy recently.  I needed desperately to sell the remaining equipment from the store.  I was approached with very similar offers all overseas want to buy the most expensive stuff.  They wanted to 'overpay' to convince me how serious the offer was?  I was to forward back a large amount to UK (for the shipping fee, that the buyer suddently knew even though they didnt know the weight or size?)  But they were sure the shipping/handling fee was very high.  I hadnt been online in years and nearly feel into this until all the questions started and the buyer wanted to know way more then needed to just buy some equipment.  Same hussle but just to sell some stuff on craigslist, I was flooded by these type emails.

 I ran a trace route on the emails IP's and found them all in South UK, interestingly the buyer claimed to be another person with a new email addy, which traced back to the same IP....fun fun.  IF you take a 'certified cashiers chk' NEVER send anyone the 'change' or you'll be paying it back yourself.

 JOE

Well I'm glad I did some good. I recently ran another ad on Craigslist in an effort to rent my home out. I received about a dozen such solicitations in one day. Here are a few:

From: Ena Kenrich <naturalgift1@hotmail.co.uk>
Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2008 5:58:52 AM
Subject: I'm Interested

Good Day,

I am pleased to contact you about your accommodation which you have for rent. I am 28 years old lady from a good background in UK. Do not smoke, drink nor a party type.I like reading, watching TV (mostly Discovery Programmes) and meeting people, working with Premier Oil & Gas Plc in
Republic of Ireland as a Geophysicist.

I will be coming to USA for a research project in less than a month, and which will last between 11 - 12 months. So, I need an accommodation to stay for the period of the research project, and I will like to secure an accommodation before my arrival.

Therefore, let me know if your accommodation is available for me, if yes, send its address with brief description of its vicinity to me. Also let me know the rent cost per month and security deposit.

Thanks for your co-operation,while I can't wait to read your prompt response.

Cheers,

Ena Kenrich,
Assistant Field Geophysicist
--------------------

From: Sarah Moak <shongatz@hotmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 17, 2008 7:33:22 PM
Subject: i am interested in your RENT‏

In search of  a room or an apartment ,i came across the posted rent advert & ll like to know if its still available .I am in London as at now where i just finished my professional programme and relocating.
 
I am  a friendly and easy going person who like to acquaint with people from diverse races ,background and origin. my hobbies include music, movies, computers, poetry and giving an helping hand to whoever that needs it. My interest is not limited in anyway and i love trying out new things .I will like to know the location of the room/apartment ,with more details about the actual amount to be paid.
 
kindly email me again with the below details so we can proceed and have some things done concerning the Rent.

1} RENT FEE\MO ?
2} MOVE-IN DEPOSIT ?
3} ADDRESS OF THE PLACE FOR RENT ?
4) WILL YOU TAKE A CERTIFIED CASHIER'S CHEQUE FOR MOVE-IN DEPOSIT ?
5} HOW LONG RENT LEASE DO YOU REQUIRE?
6) DO YOU HAVE PICTURES ?
7 ) HOW FAR IS THE STORES , BUS-STOP & TRAIN STATION FROM THE PLACE ?
8) RENT START DATE ?

I will be expecting to read answers to the above questions asap .
 
Best Regards.
Sarah.

---------------------------

From: nike joun titi4care_2006@yahoo.com
Sent: Thursday, April 17, 2008 8:50:42 PM
Subject: Roommate

Hi  roommate How are you doing ? i am from dallas, I speak both English and Spanish fluently, and i am 32years of age. I am currently working with the Federal Agency of Works and Natural Resources in Spain.I am currently on a reseach programme,and i am desperately looking for a place to stay.

I read your profile about the room and i would really want to secure the room before my arrival,and more so to know if it would be possible for me to pay for the room before my arrival,So i will like to know the total amount of the room per month and the utility included.All these information are very important so that i can submit my proposal to my Organization.

My Organization will be responsible for all the fees and the payment will be by United State  money order. I will need the following information to get the payment to you.

(1) Full name as it will appear on the payment.
(2) Address
(3) phone number
 
I would be glad to see your quick response.

-------------------

From: Wendy Vincent wendyvincent90@hotmail.com
Sent: Friday, April 18, 2008 1:44:00 AM
Subject: Roommate

Hi,
 
How are you doing? Guess fine I presume. Am writing you in regards to your advert on Craigslist.com and I'm interested in your room apartment, Am from canada and I will be having some seminars coming up soon in US. Right now am working for a Non Government Organization on a program on children with orphans and heart related probs.
 
My next program/seminars will be in US and I will need a room to stay for these seminars, so I want to secure a room before my arrival to the states. I can't wait to arrive to US cause I've heard a lot about US.Moreso I will be staying for the period of 12-13 months, Pls do get back to me with the room description, move in rent fees for the first month, Utilities and deposit if included. And if any picture of the room is available, kindly attach it with your reply please.
 
Hope to read from you. Have a wonderful and productive day.
 
Kindest Regards.
 
wendy vincent
--------------------------

From: "janeparker49@aol.com" <janeparker49@aol.com>
To: creelrealty@yahoo.com
Sent: Friday, April 18, 2008 3:20:13 AM
Subject: $1950 Executive Lease - Fully Furnished (Newcastle, WA.) (map) ----------------


Hello
How are you doing today?I'm Jane and 26 yrs I saw your advert on craigslist and am interested in been  your roommate.Do you still have it available? please get back to me ASAP Thanks

------------------------

From: Jarry John jarryjohn33@yahoo.com
Sent: Saturday, April 19, 2008 7:48:23 AM
Subject: am intrested

attn: i am interested in renting your Room and i am willing to pay whatever amount you are willing to collect for the Room.i won't be able to come by to see the place but Heres a little info about myself.

I am sandra martins,i am 29 years old,Am a Female Single.I am originaly from North Carolina but presently in W/Africa ,i hold a degree in BUSINESS AND RESOURCES MANAGEMENT FROM THE METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY IN LONDON U.K,i worked for two years in UK before leaving for West Africa where i am at present with my mum who is on a missionary project here.

Consequent to this and in order to make arramgment in easier and quicker i am searching for Timeshare early and i saw your add on the web and i want to make a reservation for your timeshare.I can assure you that you will not have any regrets letting out this Room to me.

I am a quiet person and can get along well with any body,i am coming over alone,with no family or pets,i do not smoke and i drink very lightly.Please reply me as soon as you read this email.You can contact me via email.(sandra_martins2000@hotmail.com)...and if you have a yahoo messenger please feel free to add me to your list....Hope to hear from you soon....

regards

(Sandra Martins I've run into before while trying to rent property-see below)
-------------------

From: Sandra Martins <sandra34456@yahoo.com>
Sent: Mon, 3 Sep 2007 6:11 pm
Subject: I need a room/Things to know about the place

Hi There,
                           
           How re you doing? I hope all is well. I'm Sandra Martinez, am 26 yrs old and Am originally from Barcelona, Spain . Graduate of Huelva University on the Costa de la Luz , I have a master degree in  interior fashion and I work as a professional fashion designer. I moved to Phoenix , AZ two year ago for work and that's where am living.

I'm am not in the states right now, i am presently in West africa . I am currently working on contract for a company call (African Family Home Fashions) here in West Africa ( Nigeria ) which the contract will be ending soon. I will be returning to the states in two weeks time and I don't want to go back to my where am living in Phoenix because my house rent has expired there. I enjoy traveling, It is very interesting to get more knowledge about the new countries, new people and traditions. It's great to have such a possibility. As i was searching through the web i saw the advert of your room.

I would like to know maybe it's still available becasue i'm extremely interested in it. Here are the questions i would like to know about the room before planing to move in to the following questions below:
 
A}I will like to know the major intersection nearest your neighbourhood.like shopping mall,Churches,bus line e.t.c
 
B}I will like to know the total cost for the my initial move as in first month rent and if you accept deposit.
C}I will like to know if there is any garage or parking space cos I will have my own car come over.
 
D}I will like to have the rent fee per month plus the utilities.
E}I will like to have the description of the room, size, and the equipments in there.
 
F}I will also like to know Your payment mode.
G}I will like to know if I can make an advance payment ahead my arrival that will be stand as a kind of commitment that I am truely coming over and for you to hold the room down for me.

She is a volunteer at the sister's of the eucharistic heart of jesus convent,here in Barcelona , Spain . I have been wanted to relocated to the US longtime ago even while i was a little girl growing up and my mom is in support.It' been a long dreamed come true for me when i finnally settled in the US now. I have chosen your city for me to live when i arrive. I am easy to get along with and well mannered.

I do not use people's items without permission and consideration. Kindly get back to me ASAP with the your monthly rent and the deposit i need to pay to enable you turn down other interested parties and keep the place for me until i arrive,because i will like to pay for the deposit before my arrival and i will like to know the total amount the rent for a whole year would be,as i am more interested in a long term lease,but still open to any form of lease you want. But i will like to pay the deposit first of all before i arrive to show my seriousness and so that you can hold the place for me until i arrive.

I am single as i said and i am not attached to anyone at the moment. I do part time modeling; i call myself an amateur though,LOL,just something i take as a hobby and also i have a masters degree in interior fashion which i bagged from the Huelva University on the Costa de la Luz in Spain . I will be looking to pick up Fashion Designer jobs once i arrive in ur city, Fashion Designer is my life and i love it. I am new living all alone as i have lived with my mom alone in the past but i have no doubs in my mind about my ability to live peacefully with as i was raised to be a lover of peace.

A friend just introduced me to this thing and i really wish that i am able to find the good cultured kind of Place i am looking for here. I hope i am doing it right anyways.LOL. Well,i think we will get along well because am a easy going person who respects ones privacy,like i said i dont do drugs or smoke but i drink only occasionally,i strongly believe there will be any problems living with me as i was raised by strong catholic Christain parents and have inbibed such good qualities from childhood.

I will love to see your pics and those of the place as well.I'll be so glad if you can reserve the room for me and remove all your the adverts abt the place as i'll love to rent the place. Get back to me ASAP
 
Thanks and have a good time.

Warmest Regards,
Sandra

----------------------------

As you can see, it just never ends. It's the closest thing to a job these people have. I read a blog awhile back that made me laugh. The writer said that any agent not advertising their clients properties on craigslist was doing a disservice to their client. Thats funny.

Thank you all, for this web-site and sharing your experience about scammers.

Today I've got a scam from Mike Lexy.It is very similar to the story provided here by Michelle. I didn't want to play game with this scammer, so I've just responded that I would not deal with his cheque, etc.

Here you can read what kind of scam I've got on my simple advertisment for appartment rent. May be it could help to somebody to avoid having deal with this kind of scammers!!!!

"Hello larisa,
     I got your mail. Thanks for geting back to me so quick and I am extremely interested in ur property and i don't want you to rent it out to any other person,You seem to be a very good and nice person. I want you to know that i'm a very straight forward and honest person.Contrary to payment,all my expenses including house rent will be taken care of my the company .Be advised that my company manager will be effecting payment with a certified cashier check drawn from a US bank worth $6,400(which is a relocation grant from my employment and i have decided to use it for the deposit, to book for my flight back to the states).You will then have to deduct an initial deposit of $749.00(which is the move in cost).You will have to forward the excess funds on the check to My Traveling Agent, I will be paying ahead my arrival for a month, which is very important and that will secure the Place for me, and as soon as I arrive others important things will be taken care of before moving in the Place.
So i will inform him to issue out the check to you, so that the check can stand as the payment for the property.
All you need to do now is to send me your details Below:
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:
PHONE NUMBER :
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:
 
so that i can forward it to my company manager who will issue the check out to you.As soon as i get these info i requested for, i will forward them to my company manage immediately. As soon as you recieve the check you will deduct your move-in cost ($749.00)out of it you will now help me forward the remaning balance to my traveling Agent so that i can use it to book for my flight back to the states.
I just want to make sure i get the room before i get back to the state. I will like stay there for a year even more that till when i will have my own personal place but I will prefer a year lease.
 
Check below for my referral ,My current landlord ,you can ask him about my rental history
and behavior :
 
Name: williams cole
zip code SA14 8BE
Email:lexymike@yahoo.com
 
Employment Verification:
Wen Consultants Ltd.
The company's web site is under construction for update and it will be unvieled on 01 of April
2008.
Wen Saint
Cell 1:  (+44) 7033260111
 (+44) 7031917677
(+44) 7031827081
My Informations.
Full Name: Lexy Mike
Zip code 14 8BE
Age:45
Drinking: No
Pets: No
Date of birth: 10th of Oct 1962
Socially Marital Status: Married
Children: I have no kids
Religion: Christianity
Occupation: Estate Consultant
Phone:Cell 1: +44 70 45 744484
Cell 2:  + 44 703 195 7888
Am cool headed and easy going person with no criminal record and i like to have a roommate or neighbor's who is very responsible and understanding,someone i can really get a long. As soon as you get this mail pls get back to me with the info i requested for so that every thing can be done fast.
Take care and I will be looking forward to hear from you soon.
Thanks and have a good time.
Warmest Regards,"

You Saved Me!! Thank You!

Here is the scam that I almost fell for until I saw that the guy was going to send me money and wanted me do do odd things with it for him. I thought I should check it out and yup it was the same scam. Starting with the most recent email I copied the dialogue below.

Oh Sorry Sirs, I am actually going to rent the apartment to my friend who works for the Government, splitting his time between the FBI and Interpol. He has already paid me. Good Luck Gettin Rich, Justin From: geo_willis@hotmail.com

To: justin4t@msn.com Subject: details... Date: Sun, 18 May 2008 12:30:35 +0000 Hello.. Thanks for the details on the house. I am a supervisor of a local construction company in Wales which specialises in construction of companies and houses.I am sent over to states to study Construction and house development so to improve our standard.I like you reserve the place for me upon my arrival . Contrary to payment,all my expenses including house rent will be taken care of my the company .Be advised that my manager will be effecting payment with a certified cashier check drwan from a US bank worth $6,000(which is a relocation grant from my employment and i have decided to use it for the deposit, interiordecoration and getting furnitures for the place).You will then have to deduct an initial deposit of $867 (which is the move in cost).All subsequent monthly rent would be paid by me in cash. You will have to forward the excess funds on the check to the interior decorator(who will be responsible for shipping of furnitures, electrical appliances and other personal luggages). I hope this is clear between us? mail me back with your details: your full name to be written on check: Address to send to: Your cell phone number Below are my full details : Name: younces Kes Current Address:35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE Age:39 Marital status:Married Profession: Estates Consultant Sex:Male Phone :+44-702-408-4960 009-44-702-408-4960 Check below for my referal ,he his my current landlord ,you can ask him about my rental history and behaviour : Name: George Honson Same Address:35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE Email:gleslie443@yahoo.com And also this is my Employer Contact information : Wen Consultants Ltd. Wendel Lazo 009 703 401 3193 sdll95@yahoo.com I'm a Gentleman,dont smoke.. Your response will be appreciated. Regards.

From: justin4t@msn.com To: geo_willis@hotmail.com Subject: RE: $867 / 2br - Luxury 2BR 2BA, ShortTerm, 1st Month Free (North Austin) (map) Date: Sat, 17 May 2008 23:28:32 +0000 1. 3rd floor, vaulted ceilings, 2BR 2BA, 1124sf, view of cattle ranch from balcony, swimming pools and full amenities, clean, bright, safe area, close to Mopac & Toll-45 & La Frontera Shopping Center etc. 2. $867 3. The Preserve at Rollling Oaks located ... 15450 FM 1325 Austin Tx 78728 (close to everything North Austin) 4. Move in June 1st 2008 and stay until 9/21/2008 or longer 5. Pictures are listed on Craigs List 6. I own the lease but will be able to add you once you visit the complex office and are qualified through their standard leasing proceedure Kindly Get back to me ASAP I can't write these responses fast enough... the apartment is gaining a lot of attention, let me know what you would like to do Date: Sat, 17 May 2008 16:13:56 -0700 From: geo_willis007@yahoo.com Subject: $867 / 2br - Luxury 2BR 2BA, ShortTerm, 1st Month Free (North Austin) (map)

To: justin4t@msn.com Hello, I will like to know if the property you listed is still avaliable.If yes. pls do give me the following information. 1.A brief discription of the apartment 2.Cost for one month rental + Deposit? 3.Location of the apartment 4.Your available date to move in? 5.Do send me the pictures for proper viewing sine am not in the state. 6.Let me know if you are the owner and about your lease agreement and also i will fill the application after i arrive in the state. kindly get back to me before the end of the day.

Glad to help. Here is a recent from a scammer that sent the check last week and never heard back from me:

----- Original Message ----
From: Sarah Moak <shongatzzz@hotmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, May 17, 2008 10:09:42 AM
Subject: CHEQUE/PAYMENT DELIVERED ( RENT ) !

Good Morning,
 
How are you doing today and hope you having a cool weekend ? Was just kind of worried when i look up to my emails all the time without a message from you. ll really appreciate if you can update me with the situation of things. I will be expecting a reply today please, OK.
 
Have Fun !
Sarah Moak.

---------------------------------------

----- Original Message ----
From: CreelRealty <creelrealty@yahoo.com>
To: Sarah Moak <shongatzzz@hotmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, May 17, 2008 11:59:33 AM
Subject: Re: CHEQUE/PAYMENT DELIVERED ( RENT ) !

I'm so sorry luv, didn't hear from you from so long, and didn't receive a check in a timely manner, so I rented the room to someone else. I can mail your check back to you.

------------------------------------

----- Original Message ----
From: Sarah Moak <shongatzzz@hotmail.com>
To: CreelRealty <creelrealty@yahoo.com>
Sent: Saturday, May 17, 2008 1:32:36 PM
Subject: RE: CHEQUE/PAYMENT DELIVERED ( RENT ) !

Hi,
 
I understand your plight and immediately you receive the cheque, deduct what you have lost and have my remaining money sent to me via western union as explained. I am very sorry for the pain caused and i hope thats Ok by you.
 
Thanks,
Sarah.

--------------------------

From: CreelRealty <creelrealty@yahoo.com>
To: Sarah Moak <shongatzzz@hotmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, May 18, 2008 10:52:41 AM
Subject: Re: CHEQUE/PAYMENT DELIVERED ( RENT ) !

Well Sarah, I don't really see a need for all that trouble. I'll just return the check to you and we can call it even. I'm simply to busy to go to Western Union, after all, your the one that delayed and caused the trouble. Keep in mind, I don't know you, or work for you. You've really imposed on me quite enough, so I'll merely mail the check back. 
 -------------------------

To see other variations of this scam, and to understand just how big it is, visit http://allreaders.net/allscams.html

On Tue, May 27, 2008 at 9:11 PM, Weaser Kent <littlewhite122@hotmail.com> wrote:
Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $2900 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............
PHONE NUMBER :.............................

I received this mail for my propery rental AD

Weaser Kent <littlewhite122@hotmail.com> wrote:

Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $3590 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............
PHONE NUMBER :...................................
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.
So the check of $8900 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $3590 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.
 
Also for familiarization I am Weaser Kent,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.
 
I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.
I await the details.
you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802
+ 44 703 190 0807
 
Below is my present landlords information for reference :
Name: Kolo Miguel
Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE
Email:kolomiguel@yahoo.com
 
Cheers

I also received this same e-mail from Weaser Kent.. Thanks for this blog...very helpful

I also received the same e-mail from Weaser Kent. His name should be WEASEL not Weaser.  Thanks for this blog. 

Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me. So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $2400 can be processed and posted to you soon.

FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:....................... CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:............. PHONE NUMBER :................................... YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................

I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states. So the check of $7900 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $2400 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive. Also for familiarization I am Robertini Darek,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets. I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you. I await the details. you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802 + 44 703 190 0807 Below is my present landlords information for reference : Name: Kolo Miguel Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE Email:kolomiguel@yahoo.com

This is the email exchange we had...

Subject: Eager to rent..........

Hello,

Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.

So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $2400 can be processed and posted to you soon.

FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................

CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............

PHONE NUMBER :...................................

YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................

I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.

So the check of $7900 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $2400 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.

Also for familiarization I am Robertini Darek,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.

I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.

I await the details.

you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802

+ 44 703 190 0807

Below is my present landlords information for reference :

Name: Kolo Miguel

Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE

Email:kolomiguel@yahoo.com

Cheers

xxxx@yahoo.com> wrote:

The house is available July 1. The deposit is one month's rent, which is $1200. You get the deposit back when you move out if the house is left in the same condition as when you moved in. We're looking for a 6 month or 1 year lease. We accept cash, personal checks, money orders, or cashiers checks. But if a personal check bounces for one month's rent, we will not be able to accept personal checks after that. If you are interested in seeing the house, we can arrange to have you do a walk through one Saturday.

Let us know if you have any other questions!

XXXX

----- Original Message ----

From: Robertini Darek <falabom@yahoo.com>

To: xxxx@yahoo.com

Sent: Thursday, June 12, 2008 5:44:19 AM

Subject: $1200 / 3br - Home for Rent! (Seagate Village)

Hello,

Kindly bear with me, i came accross the posted property for rent. i'll like to know if its

still available you can email me back with the rent details like rent fee, move in deposit,

long term lease require and mode of payment, do you have pictures? so we can proceed and have some things done concerning the Rent.and please let know the move-in date?

I will be expecting to read answers to the above questions asap

Best Regards.

We got this email from Weaser Kent too.... Thank you so much for putting these blogs up about these people!!

Man I was hit with one of these scams.  I should of went with my gut but my whole mind set was trying to get rid of my apartment without having a broken lease on my record. Now I am even farther set back in bills and payment and my credit history is a lil damaged.  I wish I did some better research about this before hand.  Its good to read and verify that I am definately not alone.

I just got this email from Kent Weaser.  I am so glas I thought to research it a little before I went any father.  Thanks so much.

Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $1100 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............
PHONE NUMBER :...................................
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.
So the check of $6900 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $1100 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.
 
Also for familiarization I am Weaser Kent,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.
 
I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.
I await the details.
you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802
+ 44 703 190 0807
 
Below is my present landlords information for reference :
Name: Kolo Miguel
Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE
Email:kolomiguel@yahoo.com
 
Cheers

 
 

Your Welcome, I've collected quite a few emails lately from another property I listed on Craigs List, so I may be putting out a new post soon showing some of the latest efforts they're making.

It appears to be helping some people since the names the scammers use on the letters I collect come up on Google when people search it. I've gotten many emails thanking me for this post, so I'm glad it served a purpose. I got a lot of flack for it from other agents. :)

I recently posted a home that I have for rent on Craigslist.  I've used it several times for property that the real estate company that I work for manages. I was contacted by someone claiming to be from overseas, and working for a construction company.  I never do business with people over the internet like this, especially with rental property.  I did send a few emails back and forth just to be polite but when my skepticism kicked in, I googled the alleged company that they "worked" for and found this website.  I'm really grateful that I wasn't fooled but they do talk a good game and people with less experience could easily be fooled.

I've now since contacted the local media to inform them of this scam and even posted a warning.  Thanks for the information and thanks for preventing another person falling prey to their game.

Regards and gratitude from Central Arkansas!

Hello, Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me. So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $2500 can be processed and posted to you soon. FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:....................... CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:............. PHONE NUMBER :................................... YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:.......................... I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states. So the check of $7900 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $2500 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive. Also for familiarization I am Weaser Kent,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets. I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you. I await the details. you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802 + 44 703 190 0807 Below is my present landlords information for reference : Name: Kolo Miguel Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE Email:kolomiguel@yahoo.com Cheers

Thanks for the blog!!!!   Keep posting them.......

Tucson, Az

Many thanks to your prompt response and brief details on this unit. I am indeed a potential tenant and serious about renting this unit. As a Bristish Fossils hunter, Having discovered lots of Dinasaurs fossil such as Dinosaurs Megalosaurus ,Oviraptor, Pinacosaurus, Saurornithoides, Velociraptor,plesiosaur, Ichthyosaurus etc.Am coming to state to Trade those fossils with some US Museums. In view of my work schedule, i would want us to finalise basic arrangements. I'm and i am currently working with British Fossil hunters team on late 1880's Imperial Dinosaur Fossil Research in Middlesex. London UK. I will be in the states for the next one year with my wife and my six years old daughter and during my stay i will be Trading dinosaur fossils with Some USA Museums and Research with some America Palentologist on fossils hunting and field work. Am willing to offer you 1month rent + the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to my arrival to state, and on my arrival, i'll pay for the 11months fees in Cash. My Trustee in the states will be the one to handle the Move in fee, and we will instruct him to send you the check for this as soon as you give us the go ahead to make payment to you. Due to the limited time that we have before our arrival, we are making arrangements with a furniture company there in state to supply the home with some befitting furnitures. We can start the lease at your ealiest convinient time and we will be effecting a one year lease although, we will be arriving on 2nd of July 2008. You can prepare the lease in me and my wife name "Prof David / Mrs Laura Clay Once again, thank for the measurements that you sent to me, it will indeed be of great help to deternine the Sieze of Furnitures that my furnitures company will supply to the unit... As regards my furniture, am planning on having them delivered to the house before our arrival so that we can settle in comfortably, you can understand that transporting furnitures across atlantic is not easy, so we are making arrangement with the furniture company there in State to deliver the furnitures before our arrival after the rent and security deposit has been fully paid to you by my Trustee. I want to seek your indulgence and favor. Can we rely on you to take delivery of those furnitures for us when they are delivered? We will instruct the furniture company to contact you to schedule a delivery date and time that will be convenient for you to receive those furnitures for us. As you will be handling the delivery of those furnitures for us,we may ask our Trustee to include the costs of our furnitures with the rent and deposit to be sent to you so that you can help us to make the payment when it is delivered. We will really appreciate if you can do this for us and promise to compensate you adequately for your time and efforts on our arrival in your place. Please let me know if this will be okay with you so that i can instruct our Trustee to go ahead with the payment. Let us know how to move ahead as we intend to complete this deal before we move in by 2nd of July 2008,we will let you know the exact date as soon as we get a booking on a flight to the states. I want a less risk, fair,transparent and a hitch free transaction so i attached the pictures of my family so that you can have an ideal of who you are dealing with. If you require any specific information, pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented for international calls . {+447024017688 or +2348027171717} P.S: Forward the lease agreement/application form to Review it ahead of time. I would eventually have it signed physically when i arrive to state. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. Please, send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms only if that will not take time to do. This is an international situation and am not sure how you can run my employment and Credit check background, there's no way we can go about this until i arrive to state, hope you understand my concern. With this arrangement, my Trustee in the states,will be effecting your payment deposit to you. I believe we can work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. For Payment, Get back with the below details 1- Name to be written on the certified American check 2- Mailing address , No p.o.box 3- Phone Number 4- City 5- Zip Code 6- State Thank you for your understanding and co-operation. Professor David Clay Tel: +447024017688 or +2348027171717 British Fossil Hunter {Paleontologist} Griffin Close Burnley Lancashire BB11 5SG United Kingdom.

He actually sent me pictures with ihs email - Google search didn't find anything on a Professor David Clay in UK - email is similiar to the ones posted here....   Just another name to add to the SCAM list...

Good Moring how are you doing today? i hope you are doing pretty good well, I saw your advert online and I am interested in your room /apartment, I was born in greater Nishitenma, Kita-ku in Japan and I will be having my Study leave as a student doctor coming up soon in the USA.Right now I am in Romania for a programmer on children with heart related probes. My next programmers will be in the USA and I will be needing a room to stay for this programme and I need to secure a room before my arrival to the US.I am having fun here in south wales and I can't wait to arrive to the states.Pls do get back to me with the room description,move in rent fees for the first month and any deposit if included. My name is kate kelly and I am 28years old from greater Nishitenma, Kita-ku in Japan . i will be staying for a minimum of 6 -12 months and am planing to be in state as soon as possible, i don't drink nor smoke,no pets and no boyfriend because i am a very busy lady only dedicated to my work...... I like honest,trustworthy and hardworking people while i dislike laziness,messy,uncaring , my job involves traveling which is one of my hobbies.i will be through with my programmer here in Romania and will be having my studies leave in UNITED STATES I will still be getting paid for my leave as allowances and compensating salary ,so paying my rents on time won't be an issue of discussion. It's really great to keep contact close with you in respect of the room, I have informed my boss about this and he promised to make sure that I will meet up with the payment arrangement so that I can depart from here as scheduled.He also said I will have the advantage to make payment for deposit,I should arrive to US 06/30/2008/JUNE if everything worked out as planed so pls keep the room for me till my arrival as soon as possible. (1) I would like to know maybe there are shopping mall,Churches,busline, rail way lines that is very close to your neighbourhood (2) I would like to know the total cost for the myinitial move such as the first moth, last month, utilities and if you also accept deposit for the place (3) I would like to know if there is any garage or parking space cos I will have my own car come over. (4)I would like to have the description of the room, size and the equipments in there. (5) I would also like to know Your payment mode because i would prefer to pay with a Certified Check (6)I would like to know if I can make an advance payment ahead my arrival that will be stand as a kind of commitment that I am truely coming over and for you to hold the room down for me. I will be very glad to have all this questions answered in your next email. My mode of payment will be in US Certified Money Order or a certified cashier check as it pleases you , so pls let me know if this mode of payment is ok by you, and if YES pls provide me with the following information to get the payment to you. (1)Your full name as it will appear on the Money Order or cashier check. (2)your work or home address to ensure delivery in your hands through regular mails or a courier service. (3)your phone number to keep contact close and avoid package missing in transit. Applicant's employer: children with heart related probs in Japan . Address: Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420 Japan Please take the room advert off internet for a secure deal as am extremely interested in renting from you mail me back at kategent@hotmail.com My regards to your Lovely family.hope to read back from you. THANKS

Sure sounds like the same MO...

Thanks again for the blog.......

Thanks for the contribution, here's one from my own archive:

From: Grace raphs grace_rph@hotmail.com
Sent: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 9:37:28 PM
Subject: I am Interested in The place for rent

From: Grace raphs <grace_rph@hotmail.com>
To: oliu321@gmail.com
Sent: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 9:37:28 PM
Subject: I am Interested in The place for rent

folder=[SCAMS]

Hello Roomie..
I am'm Grace raphs ,28 yrs old Citizen in The united state ,Northcarolina 
.Graduate of Barcelona University on the Costa Brava,i have a masters degree in 
accounting.i planned to relocate back to the United States Of America because it 
is where my Parents were born.i will planned relocating to the states To Start 
up a New Life and also get a Good work There .. I Urgently need a place to 
settle in the states and i saw your advert and am sincerly intrested. Please I 
will like to have answers to the following questions below: I will like to know 
the major intersection nearest your neighbourhood.like shopping 
mall,Churches,bus line e.t.c... I will like to know the total cost for the my 
initial move as in first month rent and if you accept deposit.I will like to 
know if there is any garage or parking space cos I will have my own car come 
over.

I will like to have the rent fee per month plus the utilities. I will like 
to have the description of the room, size, and the equipments in there.I will 
also like to know Your payment mode. I will like to know if I can make an advance 
payment ahead my arrival that will be stand as a kind of commitment that I am 
truely coming over and for you to hold the room down for me. I will be very glad 
to have all this questions answered with out leaving a stone unturned...now a 
little about myself;I am from The united state , North carolina and had all my 
education in Spain . 

I am 28yrs old and very much single,the only child of my 
only parent,my mother alive, i lost my father and my only brother years ago 
while i was still a kid in an auto accident.I am currently living with my mom 
who's a catholic volunteer worker,but also manages her antique business.She is a 
volunteer at the sister's of the eucharistic heart of jesus convent,here in 
Barcelona,Spain.I have always wanted to relocate to the US even while i was a 
little girl growing up and my mom is in support.It'll be a long dream come true 
for me when i finnally settle in the USA.I will be working as an accountant once 

i arrive and i also have an Ameriacn Immigrant visa on my passport and that allows 
me to work anywhere in the USA.I have chosen your city for a start to my new 
life in the US.I am easy to get along with and well annered.I do not use 
people's items without permission and consideration. Kindly get back to me ASAP 
with the your monthly rent and the deposit i need to pay to enable you turn down 
other interested parties and keep the place for me until i arrive,because i will 
like to pay for the deposit before my arrival and i will like to know the total 
amount the rent for a whole year would be,as i am more interested in a long term 
lease,but still open to any form of lease you want.But i will like to pay the 
deposit first of all before i arrive to show my seriousness and so that you can 
hold the place for me until i arrive.I am single as i said and i am not attached 
to anyone at the moment here and do not have anythinh holding me back since my 
mom ha given me her full support.I do part time modeling;i call myself an amateur 

though,LOL,just something i take as a hobby and also i have a masters 
degree in accounting which i bagged from the Barcelona University on the Costa 
Brava in Spain last June before picking up a few accounting jobs here and there 
here in Spain.

I will be looking to pick up accounting jobs once i 
arrive,accounting is my life and i love it.I am new living all alone as i have 
lived with my mom alone in the past but i have no doubts in my mind about my 
ability to live peacefully with as i was raised to be a lover of peace.A friend 
That i stayed with in Nigeria just introduced me to this thing and i really wish 
that i am able to find the good cultured kind of Place i am looking for here,i 
hope i am doing it right anyways.LOL.Well,i think we will get along well because 
am a easy going person who respects ones privacy,like i said i dont do drugs or 
smoke but i drink (Especially Non-alchol)only occasionally,i strongly believe 
there will be any problems living with me as i was raised by strong catholic 
Christain parents and have inbibed such good qualities from childhood.I will love to 
see your pics and those of the place as well.I'll be so glad if you can reserve 
the room for me and remove all your the adverts abt the place as i'll love to 
rent the place. 

Please Get back to Me as soon as possible ..God Bless You 
 
Miss Grace Raphs..
_________________________________________________________________

I just got an email from Kent Weaser. Same as above. Who can we report this kind of thing to??

Reporting it to anyone would be an exercise in futility, thousands of them are sent out each day. I always tell them I'll rent to them and have them send a check, then I tell them I never got the check, so send another one. Then I just stop responding to them.

Each check they send cost them money. They operate on commission just as agents do, and they have to pay their own expenses. So, as you know, after chasing so many leads, eventually they have to close a deal, or they're out of business.  

There will always be more to take their place, and you can usually tell how long they've been doing it, and how well funded they are, by the speed in which you get the check, and the quality of the check.

beware of Paul Long from England.  He uses the same renting techniques then hits you with the

"furniture delivery".  Enlgish is poor, which made me suspect.  Gave too much information.  Don't

consider renting to foreigners without having them in front of you.

Concerned Realtor.

I was just contacted today from these guys wanting to rent my house. Found your blog and now they won't be wasting anymore of my time. Thank you.

PS. Man, they are IDIOTS!!! I mean complete MORONS!

They'll never stop trying to waste your time.  Thanks for posting your experience.

just got this response  to a craiglist for rent

From: Younce Kes [mailto:carpenter.y@live.com]
Sent: Wednesday, July 16, 2008 10:06 AM
Subject: Eager to rent...

Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $1987 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............
PHONE NUMBER :...................................
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.
So the check of $7500 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $1987 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.
 
Also for familiarization I am Younce Kes,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.
 
I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.
I await the details.
you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802
+ 44 703 190 0807
 
Below is my present landlords information for reference :
Name: Bill Williams
Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE
Email:Bill_Land@yahoo.com
 
Cheers

Congratulations, you've landed a scammer. Let him send the check, then post it.

This one is very simillar to the other posts.  A UK man contacts my rental agent who is handling my rental.  He and his wife are arriving and want all of their furniture in place when they arrive and wish not to sign anything until they arrive.

They send a cashiers check for $8800, 2800 for deposit and 5000 to be paid to a mover.  The check gets deposited but within 3 days notified the check is fraudulant.

Luckily, the rental agent did not send the money to the mover who is part of the scam.

They also asked for a 2 year lease which is so ideal especially in this real estate market.

Unfortunately for these scammers they use the same MO and just cut and paste the same email probably to several hundred people and maybe get lucky on a few.  Lucky for us this posting of scams identifies the same info.

Good Luck!

My husband and I suspected a scammer and Thank God we found your website!! We got stuck with the David Clay one, the weird paleontologist who wants to come to the US to trade fossils. Jerks!! What I want to know is how on earth do they benefit from these scams? Just to waste our time because they hate Americans?

First Initial Response:

Hello. I saw your advert concerning the apartment for rent and am very much interested.Kindly get back to me as soon as possible with the present condition. I like you send me most recent interior photos or the room dimensions .
How much is required to move-in  ?
I Await your Urgent Response..
Regards,

Second Response:

Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $3800 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............
PHONE NUMBER :...................................
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.
So the check of $9500 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $3800 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.
 
Also for familiarization I am Robertini Darek,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.
 
I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.
I await the details.
you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802
+ 44 703 190 0807
 
Below is my present landlords information for reference :
Name: Bill Williams
Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE
Email:Bill_Land01@yahoo.com
 
Cheers

Third Response:

Hi,
        My employer insists on sending out a single check on security reasons.He urge me to keep decorator out of this since i dont need his service until you have the check and still confirm availability of the property.He further gave instances when he asked a landlord to reserve a condo  for him,on getting to states,the home was taken.
You dont need to write a check to decorator,deduct your deposit and send the balance to my decorator via Western Union Money Transfer .
I guess you dont want to write out any check for security reasons.
Let me know what is on your mind ????
Do write back.

Then I caught on to the scam and found this website....Thanks so much!!!

I just got a similar email from a Bourne Weaser ocated in the UK. Same format. I become suspicious as soon as I read the second email, which stated that he wanted to the property from overseas. These people must be desperate and also a bit naive, thinking that someone would not think that it is a scam. 

There was far too much information provided in the email which made me suspicious and once I googled the company he said he was working for, I came across these postings

Thank you

ALMOST FELL FOR THIS ONE!!  THANKS FOR THE HEADS UP LIST!!

Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $1625 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............
PHONE NUMBER :...................................
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.
So the check of $7300 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $1625 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.
 
Also for familiarization I am ______, I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with ____ Consultants Ltd.  as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.
 
I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.
I await the details.

WOW!.... The scrammers are good..   Thanks for the heads up --I happen to know alot of people in the UK..  this guy didnt ck out.. nor the company... It is sad that honest people have to put with  people who want take adv. of us.. I appreciate  the inside (thanks to internet)

Here is the lastest and greatest with J Bourne Weaser (jbourneweaser@hotmail.com)

hanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me. So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $3000 can be processed and posted to you soon. FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:....................... CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:............. PHONE NUMBER :................................... YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:.......................... I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states. So the check of $8,900 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $3000 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive. Also for familiarization I am Bourne Weaser,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets. I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you. I await the details. you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802 +44-702-408-4960 Below is my present landlords information for reference : Name: Aaron Thomas Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE Email:gleslie443@yahoo.com Cheers

A fool and his money are easily parted.

Nigerian scammers are just the open manhole cover of the financial world.  Be careful where you walk.

Personally, I think we should sever all external e-mail and outbound Internet traffic from Nigeria, let them read things for educational purposes, but remove their lines of communication.

I got the same exact email from Professor David Clay who claims to be a fossil hunter. I guess I don't get what the grift is, how they get someon stupid enough to send money.

I've recieved emails from people that have sent the money, so I assure you, it happens. Heres a few examples of other victims:

A Czech pensioner who had been defrauded by a criminal gang operating the notorious Nigerian e-mail scam has been arrested on suspicion of shooting dead a Nigerian diplomat, according to reports.

Michael Lekara Wayid, Nigeria's consol in the Czech Republic, was shot and killed at the Nigerian embassy in Prague on Wednesday, and an embassy clerk was also injured. A 72 year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken into custody.

Early reports from the scene suggest that the pensioner had contacted the embassy to complain about being defrauded after falling for the infamous Nigerian email fraud, also known as the 419 email fraud, and losing his life savings.

This scam claims to be a get-rich-quick scheme involving the liberation of money from a Nigerian bank account, although recent variations have claimed to involve the transfer of money from Zimbabwe, Bosnia and even America. In return for a share of a multi-million pound fortune, potential victims are urged to contribute thousands of pounds to aid the transfer of the cash.

Source: Graeme Wearden @ ZDNet (UK)

3 DEC 2005
From The Punch ("The Saturday Punch"), a Nigerian
newspaper:

Four foreigners lose $ 18, 800 to ‘EFCC chairman'

Sesan Olufowobi

A man, who allegedly duped four persons of $18,800 by parading
himself as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission, has been arrested by operatives of the agency.

Saturday Punch gathered that the 30-year-old man identified as Anslem
Nnabuugha Afam allegedly created a website with EFCC's logo as well
as the name and pictures of the commission's Chairman, Mr. Nuhu
Ribadu.

Findings by our correspondent revealed that Afam posted a "To whom
it may concern letter" on his site, urging foreign contractors owed by
Nigeria to contact him on a phone number listed on the site to discuss
how they would be paid. He also stated that they would be required to
obtain an EFCC affidavit of claims certificate from the "Lagos State High
Court Commission."

To process the claims and obtain the affidavit of claims, however, the
contractors were required to pay $4, 700 each. It was learnt that at least
four persons fell victim of the scam before he was caught.

An EFCC official told our correspondent that the commission stumbled
on the site and succeeded in tracking him down.

"He had some of his education abroad and I think this gave him some
advantage in knowing how to trick foreigners, especially in the United
States," the official said.

Afam also told interrogators that he had defrauded only four persons so
far, adding that he had not been in the business for long.

Saturday Punch also gathered that the commission was still
investigating his claims to ascertain whether there were more victims,
adding that officials of a Nigerian bank, which the suspect used to
transfer money, were also being questioned.

Head of EFCC's Lagos Office and Director of Operations, Alhaji Ibrahim
Lamorde, confirmed the arrest and stated that the matter was being
investigated.

--------------------

21 NOV 2005
From Vanguard, a Nigerian newspaper:

$242m scam: Nwude strikes  deal, surrenders to EFCC
By  Ise-Oluwa Ige

ABUJA  Four days before an Ikeja high court convicted and sentenced Emmanuel
Nwude to 25 years imprisonment for participating in defrauding a Brazilian, Mr Nelson
Sakaguchi, a whopping sum of US$ 242million between 1995 and 1998, he had
voluntarily surrendered majority of his choice assets, both in Nigeria and abroad, for
total and final settlement of the case.

Vanguard learnt at the weekend that Nwude, last Tuesday, in Lagos, personally signed
a document titled "Settlement Agreement," which ceded to Sakaguchi, all his legal and
equitable rights to the choice assets.

A copy of the agreement made available to Vanguard indicated that the trial judge,
Justice Olubunmi Oyewole substantially premised his judgment on the substance of the
‘settlement agreement' on forfeiture of the choice assets.

The voluntarily surrendered assets include real estates, a number of expensive  cars
and large public quoted shares in a number of blue chip companies. 

He signed away his possessions of the assets on November 15,  in Lagos when it
dawned on him that he had a very bad case in court and after striking a deal with the
EFCC on the settlement of the case.

While serving his jail term in Lagos prison, he is expected to deliver to Sakaguchi, all
title documents to all the assets voluntarily surrendered by him within a maximum of 15
days.

The ultimatum for the delivery of the titled documents expires November 29, this year,
otherwise the settlement agreement already signed by him would be deemed void.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission which prosecuted him in court was the
engineer of the settlement agreement.

According to the agreement, the commission is also expected, in principle, to vet and
okay the agreement especially its compliance within 30 days from the date both parties
(Nwude and Sakaguchi) or their nominees, appended their signatures on the
agreement.

By  implication, EFCC is expected to okay the agreement on the surrender of Nwude's
assets before December 14, this year.

The surrendered assets are to be disposed off with the proceeds from the sales
exclusively used to settle a judgment debt entered against Nwude and his accomplices
at a Superior Court of the State of California more than two years ago over the US
$242million scam, the biggest single fraud ever in the world.

In the final judgment off-shore, Chief  Emmanuel Nwude Odinigwe was ordered to pay
the plaintiffs in the suit including Sakaguchi, Leo Wallace Conchranc and Leo Wallace
Conchranc (jnr) a whopping sum of US$134,277,500.00.

The court also ordered him to pay interest on the principal judgment sum at the rate
of  7% per annum "from the various dates of conversion until November 30, 2004,
amounting to US$74,903,563.00.

In all, Chief Nwude and his accomplices were expected to pay    US $209,181,063.00
amounting to N29, 076,167,757.00k (N29billion).  Part of the proceeds made from the
sale of his assets is also expected to be used to pay the legal fees incurred in a
separate action commenced against him (Nwude) and his accomplices before the
English high court of justice, Chancery division over the same US$242million scam.

Probably because Nwude was not operating as a one-man-squad, Sakaguchi is
demanding from him a total sum of US$120,000,000.00 as final and total settlement
of the case made against him.

***********************************************

15 NOV 2005
From WBAL TV News, NBC Channel 11, Baltimore MD:

TOWSON, Md. -- You've won thousands of dollars and you have a check to prove it, but
are you the target of a scam?

Maryland, 46 other states and Western Union hope a new initiative will end scams run
by people in foreign countries. The goal is to protect senior citizens and others who fall
prey to false lottery notifications and money schemes.

It's considered a $40 billion a year problem -- consumers losing money they sent to
fraudulent telemarketers and scam artists. Now, in an agreement between Western
Union and 47 state attorneys general, customers will be warned before they wire money.

Attorney General Joseph Curran said Maryland was part of a multi-state investigation of
telemarketing fraud. The investigation found nearly 40 percent of all telemarketing
transfers that went to Canada were fraudulently induced. It also found of those
telemarketers who are dishonest, 8 out of 10 of their victims were seniors.
 
Sandra Hubbell received confidential letters from Nova Management and Payment,
Inc., of Nova Scotia telling her she was the winner of $100,000 in a lottery. She even
received a check for $3,600.

The catch: she had to deposit the check into her bank account. It would then be used to
pay for processing and surcharges. She became suspicious.

"Not to mention I don't even remember entering a sweepstakes," Hubbell said.
"According to the letter, it was 2 or 3 years ago I entered and they are just getting around
to sending me my money."

Her bank found the check was bogus. She worries about seniors who may get similar
letters or phone calls and then open up their bank accounts or send money transfers out
of the country.

"It's terrible how people can prey on other people, especially the elderly," Hubbell said.
"It's sad."

But Hubbell is glad there's an effort to prevent the fraud. Western Union will spend $8.1
million on a national consumer awareness program for seniors and post warnings to
customers. The company will block transfers if fraud is suspected and fire any of its
agents who assist in fraud.

According to Western Union, customers who wire money and then think they are being
scammed can stop the transaction and get reimbursed as long as the wire transfer has
not been picked up on the other end. On the company's Web site, Western Union
president Christina Gold said, "Consumer fraud is an issue we take very seriously."

I'm so glad I googled Weaser Kent and saw your site! I received a Cashier's Check today - only the remitter shows Alex Canfield. I don't think I'll spend a lot of time on the email exchanges, though.

Thanks!

Thank you for this blog!  I googled Younce Kes and sure enough your blog mentions him.  Thanks for helping me avoid any further contact with a creepy person who takes advantage of others good intentions. 

Since Google Search has done such a fine job of crawling this site and finding the names of the scammers, I'm going to post a cache of email addresses and names of knowm rental scam artist (I have personally dealt with each of them). I'm also posting the first paragraph of their initial contact email, which often includes the name of their fake employer. Its a long list:

From: catalina mandoser catalina_m202@yahoo.com

How are you doing, I went through your advert on craigslist, my name is Catalina mendoser,25 yr's of age-female. work with a ACTEXO TEXTILES LIMITED in mexico, gentle easy going i dont smoke but sport lover and outgoing person, am 5.4fit plus tall. Moreso i do want to know from others and to seek others  people opinion and respect others choices as long as they do not harm each others. generally am very happy.i like to stay outdoor and enjoy meeting others. I am very interested in other cultures and find each and every person interesting to me and like hearing what they have to say on matters. Well, I guess that is about me for now.nI'll expecting your email as soon as possible..pls kindly reply back to my privat email box ( catalina_m202@yahoo.com ),I await your kind response .

From: Sandra Martinez  sandra_martinez27@hotmail.com

How re you doing? I hope all is well. I'm Sandra Martinez, am 26 yrs old and Am originally from Barcelona, Spain . Graduate of Huelva University on the Costa de la Luz , I have a master degree in  interior fashion and I work as a professional fashion designer. I moved to Phoenix , AZ two year ago for work and that's where am living. I'm am not in the states right now, i am presently in West africa . I am currently working on contract for a company call (African Family Home Fashions) here in West Africa ( Nigeria ) which the contract will be ending soon.

From: ronda james rnd_jms01@yahoo.com

I saw your advert you posted at Craigslist i am much interested in renting the room, i am female 25 years old  from Ireland(Dublin),I just finished my degree course in Tilburg University Netherlands in Art And Design and want to relocating to the state for a sabatical leave for a year,which will take me for a year....I will like to know the condition and the price of the room ..So i  will like to pay for a month rent in advance and the form of payment will be by cashier check, so please let me know if thats okay by you cause i will need your full name,address and phone number so that the check can be issued out to you  asap.. hope to hear from you soon....

From: susan seun susan_seun02@yahoo.com

I saw your advert online and I am interested in your room apartment .i was  born in greater london in united kingdom and I will be having study leave coming up soon in the USA. Right now I am in new south wales Australia for a programme on children with heart related probs.My next programme/seminars will be in the USA and I will be needing a room to stay for this seminars and I need to secure a room before my arrival tothe US.I am having fun here in south wales  and I can't wait to arrive to the US. Plsdo get back to me with the room description, move in rent fees for the  first  month and any deposit if included .I await your reply .

From: shola odunfa skelemafia@yahoo.com

Hello, I came across your profile for your place to be rented out. I am interested in renting your place for my niece who will be coming to US for vacation in the US. she will be staying in the place for the duration instead of an hotel due to the exorbitant price. Please answer my following questions below:

From: andy micheal andymicheal223@yahoo.com

Hello Rommie,Am Florence, I am writing just to confirm if you still have the room for rentHere is all I can say about my self for now.I am 28  years old  female and I work full time,, Monday through Friday and have weekends off except for once a month. I was born in Ft. Worth, Texas, but I was brought up in europe I moved to 23 years  ago after the death of my father, one of my cousin who live and work in europe took me there for my studies since my mother cannot take care of me after my father's demise.I work in share holders company and i am planning how to make my own bussiness when i get to the state.I am not really a sports person,, BUT I do love Hockey Games. I am a VERY out going person and fun to be with. I do play the organ and piano,, and I do have BOTH piano and organ here at my house.I am not a drinker and I don't smoke and I don't do drugs.

From: Esther Naomi baby4me12001@yahoo.com     Esther Naomi baby4me1001@yahoo.com

Hello, I found your room listing on Craigslist for rent and I am interested. So i will want you to email and tell me the best price for it,send me some more pictures if avaliable. About me: I'm a 26yrs single Female. I'm very laid back and easy going with a warm sense of humor and fun loving. I love to laugh and make people  laugh. I'm extremely easy to get on with. I love to cook, read, listen to music (I like everything), and cinema (I do it all year round)  Hanging out with friends, camping, family, and travel and trying new things.

From: Helen Cart  helenercart@googlemail.com

I am willing to rent a room or seek a roommates who is nice and honest. My name is Helen and I am 28yrs, Single, never been married, I am originally from Harrisburg, PA but I am currently out of the United States, I should return back to the State, as soon as I am able to secure a room where I will stay. I am honest, trustworthy and caring person, who enjoy making good friends, I dont smoke and I dont drink ( but I am not against it), my hobbies are traveling, and Singing, I go to a friends party, but I dont stay late at night. I would have loved to come and look at the room, but I am not in the States yet, so I will trust you on what you tell me regards the room. I am currently working for GVI (GLOBAL VISION INTERNATIONAL) and I travel most times to the UK, I work as resercher on a construction Project/Research and Exploration Expedition.

From: Kathy Woodsworth kwoods53@yahoo.com

My name is Mss Kathy Woodsworth, a single female of 27 years from United Kingdom (England).I will be coming over to the States  this month hopefully, I am coming over for a trade fair, tourist and research and to explore my talent in tourist and research over there in the States, I am currently self employed which brought me into Africa where am doing some research for the year trade fair tourist and research, because that's what I do for a living, I was formerly into modeling before I quit and go into this new job am doing and I love my job because am self employed, and I hope to come down to the states as soon as I can to explore my talent, although I don't have any job waiting for me out there, but am sure, I can be working from home ( Internet )or get one upon my arrival I am looking for a comfortable place, either an apartment or a roommates I could share or rent and I think I can afford any of the two and am planning on staying for a very long time as my first time of coming over to the States, and I'm ready to pay whatever  you required monthly.

From: Larenz Graham lar_graham_1682@yahoo.com

I am Larenz Graham, i am much interested in the room you advertised on craigslist, am male 25years old from England, I just finished my degree course in university in london and I am relocating on sabbatical leave for a year..and I'm hoping to find a room or an accomodation before I arrival for the period of 12months.I don't smoke, I keep my place clean, and I like to cook.Also, I'm easygoing, Keep no pets, the condition and price is OK. Please at what price per month as well as the deposit required. So i will like to know the availability of the place as I await your response

From: May Lucas maylolspride@yahoo.com     May Lucas maycrown@yahoo.com

I'm May Lucas from United Kingdom. I came across your profile for your place to be rented out. I am interested in renting your place for my niece who will be coming to the US for vacation and She will be staying in the place for the duration instead of an hotel due to the exhorbitant price of the hotel. and I will like to know till when your room will be available for 3months and also i will like to have the description of the room, size, and the equipments in there to know what she will bring along when coming including the rent fee you charge per month plus the utilities and if you require deposit. I will like to know if you accept paying the rent monthly, in addintion i want to know if you accept cashier check or money order for payment so I can make an advance payment before her arrival that will stand as commitment.

From: Patience Paul patience_paul1@hotmail.com

My name is Mss Patience Paul, I am 25 years of age from the Great Britain, a very simple and quiet person to live with. I love travelling, sporting and enjoy meeting people. I dont smoke but do not mind people who do being around me. I am cool, pretty laid back and easy going person and like to have a mate who is very responsible and understanding mate.
 
I work currently in the field in Africa. I'm working presently with my company JEK Construction Inc here in Africa. I had CCNA in certification and do hope to end my current assignment soon.

From: Cassie Kim kimcassie57@yahoo.com

Hello, I found your room listing on Craigslist for rent and I am interested. So i will want you to email and tell me the best price for it, send me some more pictures if avaliable. About me: I'm a 26yrs single Female. I'm very laid back and easy going with a warm sense of humor and fun loving. I love to laugh and make people  laugh. I'm extremely easy to get on with. I love to cook, read, listen to music (I like everything), and cinema (I do it all year round)  Hanging out with friends, camping, family, and travel and trying new things. Ideally I would like a roomie that I could be fast friends with and a kind of family atmosphere and in the same token completely respect privacy and have mine respected as well.

 From: Veronica Coley veronica_luv147@yahoo.com

I am a very easy going kind of girl, pretty laid back and with a modest sense of humour....Am Veronica Coley, I am 26 yrs old and very much single, the only child of my only parent, my mother alive, i lost my father while i was still a kid in an auto accident. I work full time, Monday through Friday and have weekends off except for once a month. I was born and raised in Ireland, but presently in United Kingdom in London on a business trip for more than 10 months.. . It'll be along dream come true for me when i finally settle in the US.I have chosen your city for a start to my new life in the US. I am easy to get along with and well mannered. I do not use people's items without permission and consideration.

From: Jane Parker janeparker49@aol.com

How are you doing today?I'm Jane and 26 yrs I saw your advert on craigslist and am interested in been  your roommate.Do you still have it available? I am 26 yrs old and am graduate, I am respectful, responsible, and sociable. I am respectful of other's personal lifestyles,belongings, as well as their privacy.All I ask in return is for my future friend to reciprocate the very same actions that I give to them. I have a very culturally diverse personality,therefore I have the ability to connect to individuals from different walks of life.  I like to know your age, your job and your sexual orientation.    please get back to me ASAP Thanks

From: Sarah Moak  moak.sarah@yahoo.com

In search of  a room or an apartment ,i came across the posted rent advert & ll like to know if its still available .I am in London as at now where i just finished my professional programme and relocating.

From: Rose Brown rosebrown89@yahoo.com

i am presently in W/Africa on a contract and i will be coming to the USA immediately after the payment for the room had been made.. feel free to E-mail  me anytime and i would like to know if you accept cheques as a payment method if you do please let me have the name and address and also phone number and your personal e-mail address where the cheque can be sent to immedaitely.

From: Jarry John jarryjohn33@yahoo.com

i am interested in renting your Room and i am willing to pay whatever amount you are willing to collect for the Room.i won't be able to come by to see the place but Heres a little info about myself.I am sandra martins,i am 29 years old,Am a Female Single.I am originaly from North Carolina but presently in W/Africa ,i hold a degree in BUSINESS AND RESOURCES MANAGEMENT FROM THE METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY IN LONDON U.K,i worked for two years in UK before leaving for West Africa where i am at present with my mum who is on a missionary project here. Send response to: Sandra Martin sandra_martins2000@hotmail.com

From: Wendy Vincent wendyvincent90@hotmail.com

How are you doing? Guess fine I presume. Am writing you in regards to your advert on Craigslist.com and I'm interested in your room apartment, Am from canada and I will be having some seminars coming up soon in US. Right now am working for a Non Government Organization on a program on children with orphans and heart related probs.

From: nike joun titi4care_2006@yahoo.com

Hi  roommate How are you doing ? i am from dallas, I speak both English and Spanish fluently, and i am 32years of age. I am currently working with the Federal Agency of Works and Natural Resources in Spain.I am currently on a reseach programme,and i am desperately looking for a place to stay.

From: Rebecca Johnson  rebe.johnson00@yahoo.com

Thanks for being there for me all this while,I really appreciate it. I want to let you know that i'll make it up to you.The payment will be  mailed out to you tomorrow via regular mail and it will take 7 or 8 working days for it to get to your place.. I want you to know that my car,computer and other luggages will be delievered before my arrival,please do let me know if you can be there to help me recieve my stuffs ,it won't cause any problem because my Boss will include the shipper's fee in the payment.......So you will be getting the shipper's fee and the rent fee together.You will just deduct your rent fee and keep remaining money for the shipper till the shipper comes to deliever my things

From: faith walcott  faith4sure14@yahoo.com

My name is Faith Howell, i am 28 yrs old, From Georgia in europe,i saw your room/Apt advert online and am interested.

From: Ena Kenrich  naturalgift1@hotmail.co.uk

I am pleased to contact you about your accommodation which you have for rent. I am 28 years old lady from a good background in UK. Do not smoke, drink nor a party type.I like reading, watching TV (mostly Discovery Programmes) and meeting people, working with Premier Oil & Gas Plc in Republic of Ireland as a Geophysicist.

From: teresa  teresabelle11@yahoo.com

I am Teresa belle and i am 23 years old.I am interested in your house for rent.I am a very tolerant person .I dont interfare into other peoples matters.I like to respect their rules of the house. i don't do drugs.I am a model(professional). Please you could email me back if the room is still available . i look forward to hearing back from you ASAP. regards teresa.

Hi - I got one of these today and googled Wen and got your site - thanks for saving me!!!

Here is the jerk - off's email

<script type="text/javascript"></script> From:    Patrick Ritches <kabba001@live.com>   To:	« Previous  |  Next »

Your welcome, glad its working.

Hello! Thanks for this page! I'm renting my apartment through facebook and craigslist. This is an email I got from someone presumably interested. After reading your posts, no doubt it's a scam. Thanks again!

"My name is Brian Dickson,I am 30 years of age from the Great Britain,a very simple and quiet person to live with. I love travelling, sporting and enjoy meeting people. I dont smoke but do not mind people who do being around me. I am cool, pretty laid back and easy going person and like to have a mate who is very responsible and understanding mate.

I work currently in the field in Uk.I'm working presently with my company JEK Construction Inc here in Uk.I had CCNA in certification and do hope to end my current assignment soon .

I hope to come down as soon as I do to explore my talent and love to have a more profitable job .I'm willing and ready to lease for 9months. I saw your advert and I'm sincerely interested in the place advertised as I will be moving to the in as soon as I leave here (Uk).
Please reply to my message if it's still available for rent.

Thanks as I anxiously await your response. I am looking forward to hear from you soon.please respond only to my email address (brian1dick1@yahoo.com) not on facebook coz i will be shuting down my facebook account just after you receive my msg and hope to read your reply in my email address .

Regards
Brian ."

PLEASE READ THIS RESPONSE THAT I REC'D FROM INQUIRING ABOUT A RENTAL PROPERTY. I NEW IT WAS A SCAM AS SOON AS IT STATED.  SEND ME A DEPOSIT BEFORE I COULD EVEN VIEW THE INSIDE.   SOMETHING TOLD ME TO LOOK INTO THIS

Hello,

Thanks for your prompt response to my email, My wife and I feel so excited after reading your email and all that you have said really make me happy, so i want to use this medium in thanking you for the informations that you have provided. The Keys and other essential documents to the house are right here with me in Cotonou, Republic of Benin, West Africa and that We would like to send to you via FedEx shipping courier service to the address which you would have to provide to me as soon as you are ready to take charge of the house, you will therefore be notified with the tracking number as soon as the packages has been sent. This will enable you to possibly occupy our house.You will be advice to pay the Deposit of the first month rent, this will enhance my ability to ship the keys and other essential documents over to you and you can occupy the House with immediate effect as soon as you received it.

Here are the contents of the document which will be sent to you Via FedEx:

1)  Entrance and the rooms Keys.
2)  Paper/Permanent house form.
3)  The house documentary file.
4)  A Copy of Signed Lease Agreement form

Once again , I want you to know that the absolute care of my house is my major priority, so i will want you to promise me that absolute care of the house will be taking as if it is yours. It would be fine if you would let me know how soon you intend moving into the house and how soon would you be willing to receive the Package to the house? Immediately the package has been sent, you will be updated with the 12digit tracking number which you will use to check the status, delivery date and time of the Package, but the Package will be delivered 48hours upon shipment. I will be waiting to read an email from you as soon as possible. I must let you know that i am presently out of the Country and will not be back for the next 5years but you can go ahead and view the exterior part of the house. To view inside of the house, a deposit will have to be made, which will be used to ship out the Keys and other papers to you via FedEx.

Thats a new one. Usually this scam is run to get the renter to cash checks for the owner and wire the money in exchange for a free place to live.

See below:

Missy,

Thanks for the email. Nice hearing from you. Just to let you know that the House is still available. I appreciate that you are willing to do this. I will provide you with all other information you would need. As for the house you'll be moving into, you will have to send me your recent contact address so i would send you the keys to the apartment.

So this simply means that you would be moving in until you've gotten the keys and the necessary papers of the apartment. As to the process of cashing the payments, You would be receiving the payments on my behalf. which means the payment would be made payable to you (you'll have to provide you full name as it would appear on the check. Once you receive that, you would go ahead and cash it. you would then deduct 10% of any amount you receive as your wn payment, and send the balance to my associate via western union.

I hope you fully understand this now. Again you can stay in the apartment for as long as you want to. You wont have to pay any rent or any bills. I would take care of that myself. So pls provide all the details required (full name and contact address) so the necessary papers and keys to the apartment can be sent.

I will also notify you when you woud be receiving the first payment which will serve as a test for you. Have a lovely day.

Frank Berry

---------------------------------------------

Now in the above scam, Mr. Berry did in fact send me almost $10,000 in fake travelors checks within a three day period. He was quite irate when he realized I wasn't sending any money, and actually insisted I send the checks back! I told him they were given to the FBI.
 

Thank you so much for posting this information.   I am currently e-mailing with someone who I know is trying to scam me.   I told my husband I expect the guy to ask me for money.   He sent out a non-refundable deposit on my townhouse.   I plan on giving him the runaround until I find out if the check is real.   I so agree with the saying, 'if it seems to good to be true it probably isn't.'.

Thanks.

You should make your bank aware of your concerns when they process the check. Sometimes the checks are stolen, or forgeries on real accounts. So in those instances the fraud may not be discoverd for quite awhile. I've received personal checks on real accounts that were obviously stolen, as they were sent from a different State than the checks were from.

Michael:  This took some time for you to put all of this together.  There have been two attempts to scam me over the past week on two of my listings.  I suspected scam from the very start but followed through with due diligence only and up to a point.  This really seems to be a huge problem that is out of control.  My policy will be to delete and block and report from here on out.

They have come-up with various ways to scam people involved in realty. I also wrote a piece on current loan scams from Nigeria:  http://activerain.com/blogsview/635516/Liars-Loans-are-Back

I have also received this week a scam response, just like the Wen Cunsultants one above, for our rental townhome in Nashville advertised on craigslist.  The guy's email ("Tom Weaser") said that he would send a check for $8,700, and we should cash it and keep the $3K for the deposit and first month's rent and give the remainder to his "interior decorator".  Yeah, right.

The sad part about these letters is that they would not be around if people did not fall for them.  I was listening to Dave the other day on the radio and heard of the man who was had for $60k from one of these scams.

-Murfreesboro Townhomes

I also received an e-mail like this, and mistakenly I fillout what they ask and send one of our picture, hoping that they are not going to use our picture and name to make people believe to them.  It is good that we have find out before we get the checks. This is the e-mail what I got:

FW: AM SERIOUS ABOUT RENTING THIS UNIT...

Date: Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:45:40 -0700
From: selinaramos777@yahoo.com
Subject: AM SERIOUS ABOUT RENTING THIS UNIT...
To: selinaramos777@yahoo.com

Thank you so much for this website! I almost sent a Western Union money order to some people in NIgeria who said they were doctors who wanted to rent out their house. Is there anywhere I can report this? Or should I just tell them in my next email, actually I forwarded this to the FBI, have a great day.....Please help me, I totally almost got screwed from Craigslist!

Your quite welcome, glad you avoided disaster. I am curious as to why you were willing to send money to someone overseas to rent a house you obviously had never been in. If someone overseas had a home in the US to rent, they would use a property management service. They also didn't likely ask you to sign a release for a credit report, or do a background check. It was also likely a "to good to be true" rental offer. I'm always curious about the dynamics that lead normally very intelligent people to fall for these scams.

As for reporting the matter to the police, in all honesty, they reserve what efforts they put into such investigations for those that actually did get screwed, not almost. So theres really nothing you can do about it (sorry). It would be nice if you could take the time to post the series of emails between you two, it may cause them to come up in a future search by another potential victim.

I would say to my fellow Realtors that this is what happens when we advertise legitimate real estate on such scam filled sites. We give the sites credibility.

I'm sure you are a very trustworthy, God-fearing individual.  However, there are just too many scams out there and I do not take risks like this.  Perhaps it's a better idea for you to continue your search for another place with a landlord who's willing to do this your way.

Best of luck to you.

Sabrena

From: littlewhite122@live.com
To: simcbride@hotmail.com
Subject: RE: Eager to rent...
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 2008 17:33:04 -0400

Hi,
        My employer insists on sending out a single check on security reasons.He urge me to keep decorator out of this since i dont need his service until you have the check and still confirm availability of the property.He further gave instances when he asked a landlord to reserve a condo  for him,on getting to states,the home was taken.
You dont need to write a check to decorator,deduct your deposit and send the balance to my decorator via Western Union Money Transfer .
I guess you dont want to write out any check for security reasons.
Let me know what is on your mind ????
Do write back.

 
 
 


 

From: simcbride@hotmail.com
To: littlewhite122@live.com
Subject: RE: Eager to rent...
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 2008 16:17:00 -0500

Hello Weaser.  Thanks for the additional details and the reference.  I'm happy to place a hold on the house for 5 business days until I receive the deposit.  Please feel free to send the $9800 check to your decorators directly and have them provide the $4125 to me since the majority of the funds will go to them.  I'd prefer not to be responsible in getting funds delivered to a 3rd party.  I hope you understand.  You can feel free to put the decorator in direct contact with me once I have the deposit so I can give them access to the property before your arrival.
 
Please let me know if this works for you.
 
Best regards,
 
Sabrena

From: littlewhite122@live.com
To: simcbride@hotmail.com
Subject: Eager to rent...
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 2008 16:21:08 -0400

Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $4125 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:
PHONE NUMBER :
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT: 
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.
So the check of $9800 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $4125 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.
 
Also for familiarization I am Weaser Kent,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.
 
I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.
I await the details.
you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0802
+ 44 703 190 0807
 
Below is my present landlords information for reference :
Name: Bill Williams
Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE
Email:Bill_Land01@yahoo.com
 
Cheers
 
 


 

From: simcbride@hotmail.com
To: littlewhite122@live.com
Subject: RE: $2125 / 4br - Brand New House for Rent (Maple Valley) (map)
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 2008 14:47:23 -0500

The house is currently available.  Unfortunately I won't be able to send you photos until tomorrow - they're on my machine at the office.  The house is newly built and have never been lived in.  This is a new subdivision and it's the same floor plan as the model home which is open for viewing daily until 5pm.  It's the Arbors 2701 floor plan (http://cambriahomes.com/floorplans.html) with all bedrooms upstairs.  The amount required to move in is $4125 -- $2000 deposit  + 1st month's rent.
 
Please let me know if you have further questions.
 
Thanks,
Sabrena
425-722-7551

From: littlewhite122@live.com
To: simcbride@hotmail.com
Subject: $2125 / 4br - Brand New House for Rent (Maple Valley) (map)
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 2008 14:50:22 -0400

Hello. I saw your advert concerning the apartment for rent and am very much interested.Kindly get back to me as soon as possible with the present condition. I like you send me most recent interior photos or the room dimensions .
How much is required to move-in  ?
I Await your Urgent Response..
Regards,

They never rest.

Thanks Michael for detailing this out for people like me.  I too had an add on Craigs list..  I also recieved not 1  but to emails back..  After the second email had similar content and the very same first name on the girl I  began to google search ..  I ran in google the first few lines of the email .. And I found your article..  Thanks for putting this out there..

Here is the first email I recieved ..

Hi,
 
I'm responding to your posting on Craigslist.com that you have a room for rent.. I really do appreciate the breakdown details of the house due to what you have on your posting...I will like you to know the full information about me.I was born and raized in Spain .I speak both English and Spanish fluently quiet and easy going person to live with. I'm 26 years of age,I am extremely clean,quiet and respectful,I am a sensitive,intelligent,patient and caring person,have a good sense of humor and am easy to get on with.I am a faithful and committed person,who is very considerate of other people's feelings. I don't  drug, I don't smoke and i do take little drink occassionally...I enjoy going out with my friends to movies, plays, parks, hikes, anything to do with the ocean and horses but i'm cool living with people. Right now am working for a Non Government Organization on a program on Pediatric Brain Tumor and cerebral related probs.The purpose of this seminar is to describe some thevast array of research that is being done to accelerate progress in the fight against brain tumors.We are set to increase public awareness about the severity and prevalence of childhood brain tumors,Find the cause and the cure of childhood brain tumors through the support of medicalresearch....This seminars and research will be in United states And Canada and I will be needing a room to stay for these seminars in your State,so I want to secure a room before my arrival to the States and i will be staying for the period of 6-7 months, Pls do get back to me with the room description, move in rent fees for the first month, Utilities and deposit if included. And if any picture of the room is available, kindly attach it with your reply.I will need the following information to get the payment to you.
(1) Full name as it will appear on the payment.
(2) Address not Po.Box
(3) phone number
I would be glad to see your quick response.once more am alleged to any preference either male or female to
leave with.Feel free to write me back soon.
Have a pleasant day...
 
Cheers,

 Sarah ,

Then I recieved this one  about 1 hours after .

Hi There,  How are you doing? I hope all is well, I'm Sarah Roberts, i'm 26 yrs old and i'm originally from Barcelona, Spain. Graduate of Huelva University on the Costa de la Luz , I have a master's degree in Interior Fashion and I work as a professional fashion designer. I moved to New York, NY two year ago for work and that's where i'm living. I'm not in the states right now, i am presently in West africa . I am currently working on contract for a company called (African Family Home Fashions) here in West Africa ( Nigeria ) which the contract will be ending soon. I will be returning to the states in 8 days time and I don't want to go back to my where i used to live in New York because my house rent has expired there. I enjoy traveling, It is very interesting to get more knowledge about the new countries, new people and traditions. It's great to have such a possibility. As i was searching through the web i saw the advert of your room. I would like to know maybe it's still available becasue i'm extremely interested in it.

Here are the questions i would like to know about the room before planing to move in to the following questions below:

A}I will like to know the major intersection nearest your neighbourhood.like shopping mall,Churches,bus line e.t.c

B}I will like to know the total cost for my initial move as in first month rent and if you accept deposit.

C}I will like to know if there is any garage or parking space cos I will have my own car come over ( If none i can park outside.) D}I will like to have the rent fee per month plus the utilities.

E}I will like to have the description of the room, size, and the equipments in there. 

F}I will like to know if I can make an advance payment ahead of my arrival that will stand as a kind of commitment that I am truely coming over and for you to hold the room down for me.

I will be very glad to have all this questions answered with out leaving a stone unturned... Now a little about myself;I am from Barcelona, Spain : that means i am Spanish and had all my education in Spain . I am 26yrs old and very much single,the only child of my only parent,my mother is alive but i lost my father and my only brother years ago while i was still a kid in a motor accident.I am currently living with my mom who's a catholic volunteer worker,but also manages her antique business. She is a volunteer at the sister's of the eucharistic heart of jesus convent,here in Barcelona , Spain . I have been wanted to relocated to the USA longtime ago even while i was a little girl growing up and my mom is in support.It' been a long dreamed come true for me when i finnally settled in the USA now. I have chosen your city for me to live when i arrive. I am easy to get along with and well mannered. I do not use people's items without permission and consideration. Kindly get back to me ASAP with your monthly rent and the deposit i need to pay to enable you turn down other interested parties and keep the place for me until i arrive,because i will like to pay for the deposit before my arrival and i will like to know the total amount the rent for a whole year would be ok,as i am more interested in a long term lease,but still open to any form of lease you want. But i will like to pay the deposit first of all before i arrive to show my seriousness and so that you can hold the place for me until i arrive.I am single as i said and i am not attached to anyone at the moment. I have a masters degree in Interior Fashion which i bagged from the Huelva University on the Costa de la Luz in Spain . I will be looking to pick up Fashion Designer jobs once i arrive in ur city, Fashion Designer is my life and i love it. I am new living all alone as i have lived with my mom alone in the past but i have no doubts in my mind about my ability to live peacefully with as i was raised to be a lover of peace. A friend just introduced me to this thing and i really wish that i am able to find the good cultured kind of Place i am looking for here. I hope i am doing it right anyways.LOL. Well,i think we will get along well because am a easy going person who respects ones privacy,like i said i dont do drugs or smoke but i drink only occasionally,i strongly believe there wont be any problem living with me as i was raised by strong Catholic Christain parents and have inbibed such good qualities from childhood. I will love to see your pics and those of the place as well if u have them.I'll be so glad if you can reserve the room for me and remove all your the adverts as i'll love to rent the place. Get back to me ASAP  Thanks and have a good time.
Warmest Regards,
Sarah

I emailed second girl.. Thanks for your interest .   However we are only interested in Locals..

I emailed the second girl asking her for personal info and a fax number to

forward to her a credit application and a Background check for her to authorize me to 

run both on her..    As any one who is protecting her family would do..

I of course never got a responce back . 

As the saying goes.. If it sounds to good to be true  IT IS   !!!!!! 

Got The David Clay Scam on my craigs listing. Thanks for the site!! No Loss.

Many thanks to your prompt response and brief details on this unit.I am indeed a potential tenant and serious about renting thisunit. As a Bristish Fossils hunter, Having discovered lots of Dinasaurs fossil such as Dinosaurs Megalosaurus,Oviraptor,Pinacosaurus, Saurornithoides,Velociraptor,plesiosaur, Ichthyosaurus etc.Am coming to state to Trade those fossils with some US Museums.

In view of my work schedule, i would want us to finalise basic arrangements. I'm and i am currently working with British Fossil hunters team on late 1880's
Imperial Dinosaur Fossil Research in Middlesex. London UK. I will be in the states for the next one year with my wife and my six years old daughter and during my stay i will be Trading dinosaur fossils with Some USA Museums and Research with some America Palentologist on fossils hunting and field work. Am willing to offer you 1month rent + the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to my arrival to state, and on my arrival, i'll pay for the 11months fees in Cash. My Trustee in the states will be the one to handle the Move in fee, and we will instruct him to send you the check for this as soon as you give us the go ahead to make payment to you. Due to the limited time that we have before our arrival, we are making arrangements with a furniture company there in state to supply the home with some befitting furnitures.
We can start the lease at your ealiest convinient time and we will be effecting a one year lease although, we will be arriving on 17th of Oct 2008.You can prepare the lease in me and my wife name "Prof David / Mrs Laura Clay

Once again, thank for the measurements that you sent to me, it will indeed be of great help to deternine the Sieze of Furnitures that my furnitures company will supply to the unit...As regards my furniture, am planning on having them delivered to the house before our arrival so that we can settle in comfortably, you can understand that transporting furnitures across atlantic is not easy, so we are making arrangement with the furniture company there in State to deliver the furnitures
before our arrival after the rent and security deposit has been fully paid to you by my Trustee. I want to seek your indulgence and favor. Can we rely on you to take delivery of those furnitures for us when they are delivered? We will instruct the furniture company to contact you to schedule a delivery date and time that will be convenient for you to receive those furniture for us. As you will be handling the delivery of those furnitures for us,we may ask our Trustee to include the costs of our furnitures with the rent and deposit to be sent to you so that you can help us to make the payment when it is delivered. We will really appreciate if you can do this for us and promise to compensate you adequately for your time and efforts on our arrival in your place.Please let me know if this will be okay with you so that i can instruct our Trustee to go ahead with the payment.

Let us know how to move ahead as we intend to complete this deal before we move in by 17th of Oct 2008,we will let you know the exact date as soon as we get a booking on a flight to the states. I want a less risk, fair,transparent and a hitch free transaction so i attached the pictures of my family so that you can have an ideal of who you are dealing with.

If you require any specific information, pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented for international calls . {+447024017688 or +2348027171717}

P.S: Forward the lease agreement/application form to Review it ahead of time. I would eventually have it signed physically when i arrive to state. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. Please, send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms only if that will not take time to do. This is an international situation and am not sure how you can run my employment and Credit check background, there's no way we can go about this until i arrive to state, hope you understand my concern.

With this arrangement, my Trustee in the states,will be effecting your payment deposit to you.I believe we can work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding.
For Payment, Get back with the below details

1- Name to be written on the certified American check
2- Mailing address , No p.o.box
3- Phone Number
4- City
5- Zip Code
6- State

Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.

Professor David Clay
Tel: +447024017688 or +2348027171717
British Fossil Hunter {Paleontologist}
Griffin Close
Burnley
Lancashire
BB11 5SG
United Kingdom.

HI, I AM THE REAL SARAH MOAK AND WHEN I GOOGLE MY NAME, THIS ARTICLE POPS UP.  THIS IS BULLSHIT.  JUST ON A WHIM, I LOOKED UP THE EMAIL PROVIDED ON THE AD "FROM SARAH MOAK", AND THE FOLLOWING MYSPACE POPPED UP.  I NEVER HAVE RAN AN APRTMENT RENTAL SCAM.

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=5590194&MyToken=233a0d57-d35c-4ba1-8cb3-4d2633bd65a2

Ms. Moke, as you can see below, when Googling my name several hits came up that I assure you are not me. Thats life, we simply aren't granted the privilege of exclusive rights to our name unless we copyright it. Even then, if its another persons name, we have to share. Also, it's not polite to use profanity on a blog.

Michael Creel's homepage

Michael Creel. Contact and CV. Contact information, working papers, computer code, etc., are here · CV. Disclosure. As an occasional professor of statistics ...
idea.uab.es/~mcreel/ - 5k - Cached - Similar pages - Note this

Michael Creel Profile - Forbes.com

Michael Creel compensation, earnings, stock options, career history, current profile and additional information at Forbes.com.
www.forbes.com/finance/mktguideapps/personinfo/FromPersonIdPersonTearsheet.jhtml?

Michael's Steaks and Seafood comes to Galleria - Birmingham ...

Besides Michael's, Creelowns five Golden Rule Bar-B-Qs: in Birmingham, Calera and Madison, Ala., ... Beige Book: Economic weakness in Southeast continues ...
www.bizjournals.com/birmingham/stories/2006/07/17/story7.html - 81k -

THANK YOU GUYS SO VERY MUCH.. I got hit from the FOSSIL GUY UNDER TWO NAME 1ST PROF.BARNES CALLAWAY AND LETS NOT FORGET HIS WIFE MELISSA THEN PROF BARNES & MELISSA CLAY  IT WAS ON A HOUSE FOR RENT ON CRAIGSLIST.COM  ALSO  ALFRED POWELL AND WAYNE M. JOHN BOTH ARD ON LIVE.COM   THERE EMAIL ADDRESS NOW CALLAWAY IS ON YAHOO.COM

I just wanted to thank you for putting this out - after getting an email expressing interest in my apartment I googled some of the info they sent me and your page was the first thing to come up in the search. You've saved me a lot of trouble. Keep it up.

Thanks for the website.  Just stopped another attempt at their game. 

I received an email from these scammers.:

Can they get any access to my computer of emails or passcodes?

I am dissapointed that people can be so desperate to try to take advantage of innocent people who are just trying to get their houses rented to common people in their area.

Thanks for the info. This was the first place I was directed to when I googled the company the scammers claim to work for.

No need to worry about them invading your computer files, as you can tell by their mastery of the English language they're not exactly geniuses,

Unfortunately, people have been taking advantage of others trust for a long long time. I recently rented a home of mine to a reputable real estate broker with a 3 year lease. Ninety days later the Broker put the keys in the rain gutter and left town!

Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to go ahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and please reserve the property for me.
So i will be needing the following informations so that the check for payment of the deposit $4500 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:.......................
CONTACT ADDRESS WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:.............
PHONE NUMBER :...................................
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:..........................
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with an interior decorator who will be handling the purchase of furnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in the property,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down to the states.
So the check of $9900 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grant by my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $4500 and you will forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as i arrive.
 
Also for familiarization I am Younce Kes,I am 45 yrs of age,a British citizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I am a Christian, reserved in Nature, Non smoker also i don't keep pets.
 
I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as a tenant with you.
I await the details.
you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 0842
+ 44 703 190 0827
 
Below is my present landlords information for reference :
Name:Williams Bill
Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BE
Email:bill_land001@yahoo.com
 
Cheers

Well it's still going on.Someone responded to my email as well exactly like the last responce Yonce Kes, what a busy man. Luckily I didn't feel right while reading it and someone advised me to Google it. And sure enough THANKS ALOT.

HI i thought it was great that you have done this for people i wasn't sure when i got an the email fora house that they wanted to overpay for and (it did not feel right ) so i googled the company he supposedly works for and your site came up 

Thanks again

Thanks so much for this information!  yesterday one person who is called Helena sent me 4, 200 dollars for deduct all necesary for rent the one room and the rest the money sent to the travel agency, your email is helena4kids@yahoo.com, or libertyinternationalconsultant@yahoo.com, she say " i work in actexo textiles limited in london".

First, I just want to say thanks for having this site.

Got hit today with a scammer for rental. Same technique as many posted above. The name was Cole Rooney with Wen Consultants. Just an FYI .....

Again THX!!!!

I just got slammed with the same scam and found Wen Consultants listed in several cases cited here as well.   I list it here for the benefit of all...

 Good Luck, Joe

I have received two scam emails now from a Younce Kes and a Janet Will....very strange and I haven't given them any info regarding myself or family as I had a feeling these were possible scams....the last email I responded to I asked if this were a joke and if so to stop at once.  We will see if they email me back again...thanks for this info...it is amazing that they have hit Craigslist...but then, desperate people do desperate and illegal things......thanks again

Yesterday was a very busy day for my hotmail account after I posted a rental ad on craigslist.  Just wanted to give you some names to add to your list. 

• Mariah Kenwood of African Family Home Fashions
• Stephanie Williams from Dublin
• Jasmine Branco
• Erin Lillee from Romania
• Nancy Glover
• Tallis Johnson
• Tina James with the Federal Agency of Works and Natural Resources
• Kenny Smith the Canadian giving seminars in the US and works with 'child orphans with heart problems'

Sure, I live in Charlotte, a very transient, culturally diverse city, but this crew set off some major red flags.

Glad I found your post.  You surely saved me from financial ruin.  :)

Surprised there were no Paleontologist! That seems to be the going thing lately (they must watch FRIENDS in Nigeria).

Yes Ben, the Nigerians are really enjoying the housing crises, from loan scams to rental scams they are making a killing.

 
 
Hello,
 
Thanks for the details on the Property, i am satisfied and will like to goahead with the renting process,i will like you to go ahead and pleasereserve the property for me.So i will be needing the following informations so that the check forpayment of the deposit $3,150 can be processed and posted to you soon.
 
FULL NAME TO BE ON CHECK:......................
CONTACT ADDRESS ...................................
YOUR CITY..................................................
YOUR STATE...............................................
WITH YOUR ZIP CODE:...............................
PHONE NUMBER :.......................................
YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT:...........................
 
I will also want to notify you that i have in the mean time arrange with aninterior decorator who will be handling the purchase offurnitures,entertainment system and other appliances that i will need in theproperty,they will as well be incharge of moving down my luggages down tothe states.
 
So the check of $6,500 will be sent over to you which is a relocation grantby my employer, and all you need to do is deduct the deposit $3,150 and youwill forward the rest to the Decorators so i can have the place all preparedfor my arrival. All applications and lease will be signed as soon as iarrive. Also for familiarization I am Walker Alan,I am 45 yrs of age,a Britishcitizen,I work with Wen Consultants Ltd. (UK), as a Estate Consultant, I ama Christian, reserved in Nature, Non moker also i don't keep pets. I look forward to meeting you and hope to have a good relationship as atenant with you.
 
I await the details. you can reach my at this number Phone: Cell 1: +44 703 190 7802+ 44 703 190 0823
Below is my present landlords information for reference;Name:Williams BillSame Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BEEmail:bill_land001@yahoo.com Same Address35 Ynys Wen Booth House, Felinfoel Llanelli SA14 8BEEmail:bill_land001@yahoo.com
 
Cheers..
 
 
 

Hello everyone. I just received cashier's check from one of these scammers today. Is there any money on the actual check once you deposit it? I want to know what are your experiences after you deposit it. I almost fell for one of these, but right from the start I was very suspicious. When I told the guy to send me his company name, his manager's name and a contact number from an unknown name on the check he stopped responding to emails so far. Now I am waiting for his move  if it comes.

The check is fake, its printed from their own computer, or purchased from a pro that makes them. If you tell them you never received the check, you'll get another exactly like it with the same serial numbers. The bank will keep the check and tell you it's fake in about 3-4 days. Sometimes you don't hear from the sender for awhile because his email account gets shut down.

I just had a fellow contact me a month after sending the check.

Hello Michael, I've seen notices at my bank warning customers about checks received that may be from this type of scam.  The details you provided were GREAT and I really found your post to be informative.  I wondered how they would get money from a leasor, very clever on their part... and tragic for the leasor. I've NEVER even answered an email from "Nigeria" or any other country, because of all the media attention given to these scams. 

The games you play with these scammers are quite amusing!  I got a real kick out of it.

I have another question people. I perfectly understand how all this scam works. However, can somebody tell me how is it possible that sometimes it takes banks up to three weeks to figure out that there is nothing on that cashier's check. Isn't is supposed to be figured out within 2-3 days? Why takes banks so long? I do not get that part.

Thanks Cheryl, glad you enjoy it. Happy to see banks finally posting warnings about this type of thing, I wish Western Union would take a more active role. They make millions off of the scam also.

Rick, computers handle checks, not people. Often those fake checks are real accounts held by large corporations. I suspect the checks get kicked around quite awhile by the computer, then flagged and rejected, then a human tries to see what the issue is. Often money orders are bought for a few dollars, then washed and the amount payable is changed. This also takes time to catch.

I have seen checks bounce back relatively quickly in the past. I have also received checks that were apparently stolen from someone, thus were real checks on a personal account.

karen scott (karenscottie62@googlemail.com)

Hello,
 I am so glad to hear from you, Please I will like us to round things up in a timely manner way because i will be coming over and I really need a nice place to stay. I am extremely clean and quiet; I am a sensitive, intelligent, patient and caring person. I am giving, outgoing, have a good sense of humor and am easy to get on with. I am a faithful and commitment person, who is very considerate of other people's feelings. I don't do drug, I don't smoke either will I drink. I am willing to pay the said amount plus the utilities fees, because it is very urgent I will be paying for 1 month making the total amount of how much ? but I will be staying for as long as 6 months or more.I hope this is ok by you, do you require a deposit fee (refundable). As regards payment, this is what I am going to do; I have a client there in the US who is owing me some money. I would instruct him to make out check to you in that amount you can now deduct your money your rent fee from it and send the balance to my traveling agent for him to get my flight arranged, although the value of the Check is more than the asking price but I think I should be able to trust you with my balance. The reason why I am doing this is that it would take a Check sent from over here in Cyprus takes 31days to clear over there, whereas a check sent from the US would clear tops within 24hrs. Please let me have your full name and contact address and phone #, where the check will be mailed out to, also I will like to know the full name the check will be made out to so that I can instruct my client to make out the check to you. Please get back to me as soon as you get this e-mail so that we can round things up in a timely manner. You will email me a copy of the receipt after payment as been received. I will like to see some pictures of the room if available. I'll get myself a car a soon as i arrive! What is the nearest air port to you? Can you come and pick ME up once I arrive?
 Thanks in this regard
    Karen..

Here's a dozie I just got. 

Hello ,

Thanks for your mail, I will be willing to offer you 2months rent to start with plus the security deposit in order to secure this unit prior to my arrival.

I am an Engineer by profession and I am currently working with Wessex Survey & Design Ltd UK. I will be coming to the state for the next one year and during my stay, I will be working with Black & Veatch Engineering Limited, a leading global engineering, consulting and construction company specializing in infrastructure development in energy, water, telecommunications, management consulting, federal and environmental markets.

I have a financier that is based in the States and he will be handling the rent deposit payment on my behalf, I will instruct him to send you a Certified Check for this as soon as you give me the go ahead to make out payment to you. Due to the limited time that we have before our arrival, we are making arrangements with a furniture company to supply the home with furnitures,so we will need you to provide us with the the following:

# Measurements of the living room and bedroom.

# Picture viewing the living room and the bed rooms.
 
# As regards the lease agreement and application, I want you to send it to me for my review. I will eventually have it filled and signed on my arrival in your place as I am of the opinion that such documents are best filled and signed physically. We can start the lease by November 15th and I will be doing a one year lease. You can prepare the lease in my name.
 
 I will look forward to your e mail with the required information.
 
Thanks and sincere regards from me and my precious  family. I await your urgent response.

Engr. Frank
+447031833187

Reference:
Karen Daniel
Chief Financial Officer
Black and Veatch Engineering
832-615-1294

They never sleep do they!

This is in response to a rental ad on Craigslist:

Re: $1500 / 2br - Contemporary 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1168 sq. ft. townhouse (walnut creek) (map)

Hello,      Thanks for the email. The home is still available for rent. The rent fee include ultilities like hydro,heat,laundry facilities, Air condition, Internet and phone line. And I also want you to know that it was due to my work transfer that made me and my wife to leave the home with an intention of giving it out for rent. I am looking for a responsible person that can take very good care of it as we are not after the money for the rent but want the property to be kept clean all the time as it is our hard-earned property. If you are honestly interested and will  absolutely maintain my property (Taking care of it like yours) as i hope i can put my trust and confidence in you.I earlier wanted to sale the house but had a second thought to rather put it up for rent,  because as a matter of fact l will be coming back home in the next  3yrs and would need a place to live in. Presently, We are here in west Africa doing the Lord's duty for humanity, for through our direct service to mankind, the blessings and promises of God will manifest today. The home vital informative documents and the entrance keys to the home are with us, we try to look for dependable agent to handle the rent but could not find one due to the limited time we had before leaving the United State. Mostly we do not want our property to be given to any sort of person to avoid damages and troubles. I and my wife came over to West Africa for a missionary work, So I hope you will be a good tenant which we've been praying to get.

The refundable security deposit is $800 with a lease term of 6 months -- 2 years.
Will you be able to take care of the home like your own?
  Also, Let me know if i can forward you the rental application form for you to fill. Note: if you know that you can't good care of my home or if you know that you are not responsible please don't reply back because i don't need an irresponsible tenant that will destroy my home badly. I don't want to regret renting out my home to an irresponsible tenant. So please just take your time and reason with what i said then reply back if you know that you have all it takes to qualify as my new good tenant.
 
Kindly get back to me as soon as possible.    Kind Regards, Christian Bossa
Cell Phone: +2348053513093 Email: christianbossa009@gmail.com

Sure sounds fishy to me.....

It's a Scam, I assure you of that. Don't waste your time or money.

I just got contacted with the same scam email when I had an apartment for rent. I sent in a complaint to www.ic3.gov

Please do the same with an information that you have especially email address, tel, address. They can try to link them together.

Today I got a scam artist to admit what they were doing, why they were doing, and how it all works!

 ---------------------------------------------------------

From: Rose William roseinforx@yahoo.co.jp

Date: Sunday, November 16, 2008, 2:34 AM

 Thanks Mic   well what you said about 419 is the truth; as well i admit it.  something about life some time is in this life you will see yourself do somethings you don't like to do; its all economical background of your country.

there is no good job to work here in my country it is so difficult for me to take care of my self, and when you come out you will see the 419 people living in the best houses, best car and they look very good. if they happen to come close to you baby, you will like to join them becouse everyone need a good life. 

i have one nigrian boy who put me into this 419. anytime he called me to come and anwser calls for him may be woman call  others he want to use woman to anwser so there that is how i get involved  with them.   so if you if you have any help to give to me please do it. i don't like people cussing me with name of God, i don't like it but what can i do? please if there is anyway you can render help to me please help, i promiss that i will quit  anwsering the calls.

they give me only ten percent of the money they make, please if you can help me, but if you can not, thats good as well.  

Thanks  and have a wonderfull weekend  

Rose

YOU CAN READ THE FULL STORY HERE: http://allreaders.net/

Thanks for the heads up!

Now you can search the entire craigslist system with one click

http://www.searchtheentirecraigslist.com

This happened to me too....  A house in Baton Rouge, LA was posted on craigslist.  This was a nicer 3BR/2Bath house.  When I emailed, the guy responded:

<!--StartFragment-->Hi,

     I got your mail in regards to my house for rent, but I have been

very busy with work, it is still available for rent. What really happened is this, am not giving my house out for rent just because of money but because of my transfer to  United Kingdom. Am an x-ray welder under ship building, I have been working with Nassco ship building here in united state, you can view site at www.nassco.com , but have just been transferred to Strabag dock London plc, you can also view site at www.msc.com.

I left united state with hope that I will be coming back in a month's

time, but right now the company have ask me to stay for 3yrs under

contract with them, that is why I have made up my mind to put up my

house for rent to whom ever that will take good care of it.

Please if really interested you can contact me on  +4470-4573-2599,

also how long do you intend to stay?

I allow pet based on abiding on the policy

You can go check out the house now and get back to me for more information and Rental application Form.



Thanks
<!--EndFragment-->

Thank you for posting this.  I ran an ad on Craigslist for a rental unit and I was suspicious of the one contact so I googled his e-mail address and found your web page.  Here is a copy of the e-mail that I received from kabba001@live.com.

Greetings,
  How are you doing today. I’m responding to your listing on Craigslist and am highly interested in renting the property. I’ll be glad if you could give me a little more details about the property such as the total amount needed for move-in, i have seen pictures of the place and when would the property be available.
The move in cost would be paid with a cashier's check ,while other monthly fees would be paid on my arrival as and when due.
Kindly get back to me ASAP as i awaits your response.
Regards,

Thanks for the info. Just a few days ago I received an email from so-called Professor Matthew Mrs Selina inUK. He asked me to send him my address so that he can ask his trustee in US to send certified check to me. The wording is exactly the same as the one posted here.

Thank you so much for making the rest of us aware of such a scandal. Thanks to you we can avoid having this happen to us!

Your welcome, unfortunately my blog on this subject sometimes gets read after-the-fact. I got this email recently:

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Message details:
From: Vladimir
Email: alexee@ya.ru
Subject: HELP

Hello, Michael.

I'm a foreign student (sorry for my English) and I need your help.

Last week my brother was scammed by the same person that you describe in your post.
My brother lives in Cleveland and he was looking for a job. He found an ad on craiglist.com that a help needed.

The scammer sent him a check for 2900$ and told him to deduct 500$(first salary) and to send the rest to the address

NAME: Quadry Etsegbe
ADDRESS: 50 let oborony
City: Lugansk
COUNTRY: UKRAINE
Zipcode: 91045

My brother did this operation, but later the bank said that the check was falsified! Now my brother has to return to the bank 2400$

Please, help us. Give us any advise what we can do.

------------------------------

I did communicate with the fellow for a bit and connected them to the Secret Service to try and pursue the matter, but it's obviously to late and the money is gone. For every 500 people that laugh at these emails and delete them, theres one or two that fall for it.

It's sad, because its usially the people that can't afford it.

Today I received this:

From: Juliet Jones <julietjones06@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wednesday, December 3, 2008 8:34:20 AM
Subject: Hello

I apologize to my visitors about the bizarre wide format of this blog. It could be prevented, but ActiveRain has stated it's a low priority. It's caused by the pasting of scammers emails, and there's nothing I can do about it without AR's cooperation, which I don't currently have.

This Blog has been visited Almost 13,000 times in one year, and I've recieved about 30 emails and a dozen or so phone calls from it. I'm glad it's been helpful to some.

Thank you for the information. It is unbelievable how many scams are on the web. We all have to be very alert and also keep our clients informed.

Jay Skinner
Myrtle Beach Real Estate

Great site, very informative.  I want to feature your site on my Craigslist anti-scam blog.  Keep up the good work.  clscambuster.blogspot.com

-CL Scambuster

Wow, great advice and examples of what to look out for. Try this alternative to Craigslist, www.January20.us, you can post and research available rentals for the upcoming inauguration.

            lissieo46@yahoo.com - it is a scam. The apartment is still available. As I said also in my ad, the apt. is located on 375 South End Avenue New York, NY 10280.

Beware. Don't send money using western union or money gram.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: klara moore <k.moore2k3@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Jan 23, 2009 at 11:30 PM
Subject: $1355 1BR/BH in 2BR/2BH (Jersey City Waterfront) (map)
To: hous-1004241617@craigslist.org

--
Hi,
I'm ,Klara and i am from spain, specifically malaga.I speak both English and Spanish fluently, and i am 27years of age.I am
currently working with the Federal Agency of Works and Natural Resources in Spain.I am currently on a reseach programme,and i am desperately looking for a place to stay in the state .I don't don't do drug nor smoking,i love pets very much .


I read your profile about the room and i would really want to secure the room before my arrival,and more so to know if it
would be possible for me to pay for the room before my arrival,So i will like to know the total amount of the room per month and the utility included. i will be in USA for more than 12 months but i will like to pay down the deposit regiure for the lease .
All these information are very important so that i can i can be assure of things that will be needed from me .My Organization will be responsible for all the fees and the payment will be by United State  money order or check . I will need the following information to get the payment to you.
(1) Full name as it will appear on the payment.
(2) Address
(3) phone number

I would be glad to see your quick response.

Klara

After getting a wierd vibe, I decided to check out the name of a potenial roomie.  Here's the email progress:

from klara moore <k.moore2k1@gmail.com> date Sun, Jan 25, 2009 at 9:04 AM subject $625 House Share in 3 bedroom Rancher  Reply to: hous-1003389811@craigslist.org mailed-by craigslist.org

hide details Jan 25 (2 days ago)

Reply

** CRAIGSLIST ADVISORY --- AVOID SCAMS BY DEALING LOCALLY
** Avoid: wiring money, cross-border deals, work-at-home
** Beware: cashier checks, money orders, escrow, shipping
** More Info: http://www.craigslist.org/about/scams.html




--
Hello,
I am klara moore and i am 24 years old.I am interested in your room for rent.I am a very tolerant person .I dont interfare into other peoples matters.I like to respect their  rules of the house. i don't do drugs.I am a model(professional). Please you could email me at k.moore2k1@gmail.com   i look forward to hearing back from you.ASAP.
klara

My reply:

Hi Klara,
My name is K.  I'm 26yo and work full time in Philadelphia. 
I'm looking to fill a spare bedroom in my house.  I'll include everything in the rent except the cable.  I do not have cable right now, but i don't mind it, and will split the cost of a basic package.
I have two small dogs, would you have any problems letting them out if you were home alone?
What are your hours for work?  I'm typically out by 8:30am and home around 6pm.
Let me know if you have any questions.  If you'd like, we can meet up to see how we get along.
Thanks!
Kelly

Totally odd:

HELLO
Thanks for the mail and i appreciate your efforts towards this .I am
interested in renting your room.I will  need more info from you
regards to the place and also  i need to know the deposit that i will
be paying before i arrive,i am from UNITED KINGDOM,i want to move over
to the US,Kindly get back to me ASAP with the deposit i need to pay
because i will like to pay for the deposit before my arrival and i
will like to know the total amount i will be paying for a whole year
but i will like to pay the deposit first of all,I do part time
modeling and also i have finished with my masters programme.I do
model and i have job offers already in the US,I have my masters degree
in accounting.My job will be based on contracts so i do not have to go
to work all the time,I will only need to go to work 3 times in a week.
Well, i think we will get along well because am a easy going
person,like i said i dont do drugs or smoke but i drink only
occasionally.
.Please kindly get back to me ASAP.Hope to hear from you soon.
Regards
KLARA

I have also recieved emails from the other people that are listed above.  Nothing had panned out from them. 

Thank you very much for posting this information.  I like to think I'm savvy enough not to fall for one of these bozos but I am happy to learn more about the methods to be more aware of the potenial of scammers.

I thought about scamming back, like people above have, by having them send a check and just not cash it.  I think I will just reply "I know you're a scammer, Thanks anyway!"  lol

Thank you!

1983lollipop@live.com  is an email for Wayne M. John  here is a recent attempt

Hi,
    I really appreciate you taking your precious time to writing me back.I am really impressed and thrilled with your email answering my questions as clearly as you can. They have really proved helpful.I must say your rental property suit my needs and I hope it would work out perfectly for me.Thank you for letting me know what the electricity/utility cost as i will really need to have this unit for myself. I will also like to confirm if the utilities bill will be put on my name?
 
I  work for a Local Auditing firm in the UK.Proper arrangement will be discuss between my financier & I concerning getting payment across to you promptly.I believe we can work in accord and reach mutual understanding that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding.
 
 A Cashiers Check drawn from a US bank of $8,000 (my relocation grant) will be sent over to you and all you need to do is deduct the Required deposit fee ($2600) and you transfer the rest to the decorators so i can have the place all prepared for my arrival.Future rental payment will be made to you in cash.Decorators will basically be handling the purchase of furniture,entertainment system,ornaments,wall frames and other appliances that is needed in the property.The Decorators are located in London.They travel to the States very often on job contract.I would have contact someone from US if only am sure of the designer that suits me like the one from London.
 
Below details are needed for payment be posted to you asap :
Name on the cashier Check...............
Full Mailing Address with zip code ...................
Contact Phone number............
 
In view of my work schedule, we should be able finalise basic arrangements about this rental.While in states, I'll be 
writing a project and make research for my company on how to step the company forward on a standard and competitive grounds in the international market .My arrival date will be once house designer /decorator confirmed house decoration is completed.A lease for 1 years starting from 03 March will be perfect.
 
If you require any specific information, pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone ,please dial as presented for
international calls 011-44-7023046695
 
Below are my personal information :
Name   : Wayne John 
Address: 11 Lakin str,
Moston,Manchester,
M40 9DT
Sex    : Male
Age    : 34
Occupation: Auditor
Marital Status: Married with a kid(6 years old )
Phone number: 011-44-7023046695
            
Reference:
Landlady: Stacey Hansen
Address: 11 Lakin str,
Moston,Manchester,
M40 9DT
Email.   stacey.hansen@live.com
Supervisor: Wen Saint
Address:184 Commonwealth way
Abbey wood, London
SE2 01E
Email.      w.saint@yahoo.com
Phone #  011-44-703-181-7574
                   011-44-703-181-7577
 
I am a Christian.I have no pet and do not smoke.
 
I will really appreciate your prompt response.
 
Regards.

Similar scams by chrisphi8181@yahoo.com and mpelectronics59@yahoo.com

Christine Phillips and "her father" Martins Phillipa

 BE AWARE

Add another scam artist on your list to look out for.  His email is Heathmark74@yahoo.com.  He claims to own a home at 1302 Valley Drive in Lansdale PA and would like to rent it for $800, he's in FLorida and will have his lawyer send you information.  Once he receives your check for the deposit, he'll send you the keys.  This guy is very stupid to think anyone would send him the money first, but he does try!  His phone number is listed on his emails as 206-666-1937, you never speak to him, just his voice mail and he only emails you back---because he's a chicken sh--t. 

This is the email I received, I typed the sender's email address in Google and it brought me to this page. I don't know how this scam works, does anyone else?

A & B Rentals is a company for renting and buying properties abroad. Our 15 agents in 5 countries act as the driving force of our company. The company is growing dynamically and its formation is ongoing. At this particular moment we are expanding our business area and increasing the number of property units in our database. For this reason, we are widening our network of real estate agents.

Duties:

1). Receiving rent payments from CANADA customers
2). Cash or process payments/cheques/money orders
3). Deduct 10% which will be your Commission/pay per Payment processed
4). Send rent payments to property owners thereafter

Salary Includes:

1). $1,200 per month. First salary you get after 30 days from the day you start working.
2). 10% from each received rent payment same day you receive it (cashiers checks or money orders) . 1-10 Rent payments per week. Amount of one rent payment :$1500-5000.

Requirements:

1). CANADA work authorization.
2). CANADA residencial address.
3). Computer knowlegde is a plus.

*We do not require an active agent license.
*We do notrequire your bank information.

We are sure this work will be interesting and simple for you. The greatest advantage of this position is its remote character and the possibility of spending only few hours a day working while earning a base $14,400 per year plus your commissions (up to $30,000 per year).

To complete this stage of your job placement you should fill the form below by sending it via e-mail:

First Name
Middle Name
Last Name
Address Line 1 (No.P.O.Box
Address Line 2
City
State
Zip Code
Age
Home Phone
Cell Phone
Email Address
Present Occupation (If any)
Best time to call

Thanks!


Location: CANADA
Compensation: Very good
OK for persons with disabilities
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't respond.
Please do not contact me about other services, products or commercial interests.

It's your typical check cashing scam. They send you fake checks, you deposit them and wire them money. Read more about it here: http://allreaders.net/jobscams.html

I am glad to see that we aren't the only ones being targeted! Our Nashville rental property website has been scammed about 18 times on Craigslist so far and we report each one of them. But, Craigslist never seems to do anything about it. What can we do other than to educate potential renters?

The Scam - I had an apartment for rent. They send a check for the rent and their furniture rental and asked me to send money to the furniture company for their furniture, but their is no store, just the scamers. OF COURSE THE CHECK  IS NOT REAL. BEWARE!!!

We recieved this and i went on ur site and sure enough there was the exact email just with a different Name.

Many thanks to your prompt response and brief details on this unit.I am indeed a potential tenant and serious about renting this unit. As a British Fossils hunter, Having discovered lots of Dinosaurs fossil such as Dinosaurs Megalosaurus,Oviraptor,Pinacosaurus, Saurornithoides,Velociraptor,plesiosaur, Ichthyosaurus etc.Am coming to state to Trade those fossils with some US Museums.In view of my work schedule, i would want us to finalize basic arrangements. I'm and i am currently working with British Fossil hunters team on late 1880's Imperial Dinosaur Fossil Research in Middlesex. London UK. I will be in the states for the next one year with my wife and my six years old daughter and during my stay i will be Trading dinosaur fossils with Some USA Museums and Research with some America Paleontologist on fossils hunting and field work. Am willing to offer you 1month rent + the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to my arrival to
state, and on my arrival, i'll pay for the 11months fees in Cash. My Trustee in the states will be the one to handle the Move in fee, and we will instruct him to send you the check for this as soon as you give us the go ahead to make payment to you. Due to the limited time that we have before our arrival, we are making arrangements with a furniture company there in state to supply the home with some befitting furnitures. We can start the lease at your earliest convenient time and we will be effecting a one year lease although, we will be arriving on 5th MARCH 2009..You can prepare the lease in me and my wife name "Prof Bobby King/ Mrs Mary king Once again, thank for the measurements that you sent to me, it will indeed be of great help to determine the Size of Furniture s that my furniture s company will supply to the unit... As regards my furniture, am planning on having them delivered to the house before our arrival so that we can settle in comfortably, you can understand that transporting furniture across Atlantic is not easy, so we are making arrangement with the furniture company there in State to deliver the furnitures before our arrival after the rent and security deposit has been fully paid to you by my Trustee. I want to seek your indulgence and favor. Can we rely on you to take delivery of those furnitures for us when they are delivered? We will instruct the
furniture company to contact you to schedule a delivery date and time that will be convenient for you to receive those furniture for us... As you will be handling the delivery of those furnitures for us,we may ask our Trustee to include the costs of our furnitures with the rent and deposit to be sent to you so that you can help us to make the payment when it is delivered. We will really appreciate if you can do this for us and promise to compensate you adequately for your time and efforts on our arrival in your place.Please let me know if this will be okay with you so that i can instruct our Trustee to go ahead with the payment.Let us know how to move ahead as we intend to complete this deal before we move in before the 10th of MARCH 2009,we will let you know the exact date as soon as we get a booking on a flight to the states. I want a less risk, fair,transparent and a hitch free transaction so i attached the pictures of my family so that you can have
an ideal of who you are dealing with.If you require any specific information, pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented for international calls . {+447031990764} P..S: Forward the lease agreement/application form to Review it ahead of time.. I would eventually have it signed physically when i arrive to state. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. Please, send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms only if that will not take time to do. This is an international situation and am not sure how you can run my employment and Credit check background, there's no way we can go about this until i arrive to state,hope you understand my concern. With this arrangement, my Trustee in the states,will be effecting your payment deposit to you.I believe we can work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. For Payment, Get back with the below details... 1- Name to be written on the certified American check
2- Mailing address , No p.o.box
3- Phone Number
4- City
5- Zip Code
6- State
Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.
Professor Bobby King
Tel: +447031990764
British Fossil Hunter {Paleontologist}
Griffin Close
Burnley
Lancashire
BB11 5SG
United Kingdom

Is there a Michael Holman 20 Bromley Road Bromley, B2 7HT working for Exxon Mobile  from UK England a consultant on your scammer list? Email is alholmanii@yahoo.com the phone number is 01144-783-280-7750  

He is trying to rent a condo from me here in Cape Coral Florida. Please advise me if it may be a scammer... Thanks

I found a property online and contacted Joel D. Valencia of CEO Realty ( http:www.joeldvalencia.com ) ( http://www.ceorealty.com ) the property manager/agent of Mr. Freddy DeCordova of whom he later stated was also employed by his company when the business card of the owner Freddy DeCordova, in the CEO Realty office while signing the lease. At the time I thought it seemed shady but was confused about it and sort of blew it off.

2 hours after signing the lease i went to the condo association to pay my additional $1000 deposit. The Condo association stated I could not move in until the owner paid his delinquent condo fees. Immediately I was beginning to get concerned that I've rented from a deadbeat owner but at the time I wasn't really thinking about foreclosure, I wasnt too educated on the entire situation since I've never owned or wanted to own. After I continued to follow up and complain that I would get a lawyer and not move in, the fees were paid.

About a week after moving in, I noticed a combination lockbox near the entrance of my apartment which was locked. Assuming a key to my rental was in this lockbox I contacted Mr. Valencia asking for it to be removed by email. I kept all his emails.

He responded that he has no idea whose lockbox it was. I told him I wanted it removed while I was renting there and did not feel safe with a key to the unit right outside. Nothing happened and I sort of forgot about it"</i>, he continued.

2 months later an unknown real estate agent and prospective buyer entered my unit when I was in another room. The agent stated he received the lockbox combination from Joel D. Valencia of CEO Realty. I confronted Joel and he repeatedly denied ownership of the lockbox. I secured the key from the intruder and I recorded the lockbox registration number. I plan on reporting this to the florida real estate licensing board.

Then about 3 months after moving in my access to the entry gate key and amenities were revoked due to the fact he had not paid his condo fees in 3 months which I soon found out. At this time I contacted Joel Valencia, and he revealed that owner had not paid his mortgage in '3 months' and was not planning on paying condo fees or any future mortgage payments. I ended up having to deduct condo fees from my rental payments and pay themselves to allow my access to my property which I felt really uncomfortable doing this, it was also a huge inconvenience and I decided to stop the payments after paying them for 2 months and just pay my full rent directly to CEO Realty as was stated in the lease.

2 weeks ago I received a foreclosure summons stating the owner had not paid his mortgage since jan 08. I have recently had to obtain an attorney Peter Weintraub, Weintrab & Weintraub PA, Boca Raton, FL, to represent me in this foreclosure and possible eviction as I am withholding rent as of the date I received the foreclosure summons. 3 days after withholding rent I received a phone call from Joel telling me to 'pack my stuff I'll be out in 20 days cause he's filing an eviction'

This entire process has been a nightmare and I intend on fighting the eviction, even though I believe its just a threat, but I am doing everything in my power to get Mr. Joel D. Valencia's license revoked. This guy is scam artist and needs to be acted against. I am furious.

Anonymous Avoid http://www.joeldvalencia.com and http://www.ceorealtyfla.com at all costs.

Yes, its most likely a scammer. First of all, I don't believe the address is legit. Bromley Rd isn't a very long road, and that address isn't on it.

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=20+Bromley+Road+Bromley&um=1&ie=UTF-8&split=0&gl=us&ei=0hjcSbCmKqfrlQemtbnzDQ&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=title&resnum=1

Simple rule is, if someone asks you to accept a cashiers check for a property they've never seen, and insist that you wire money to a third party on their behalf, its a scam. Its not rocket science.

I created a rental scam detection tool that you might find interesting. You can try it here: http://www.pickrent.com/stuff/scamquiz.cfm It would be an honor if you could let your readers know about our tool on this page. Thank you so much for any consideration.

With much respect,

Dave Dugdale

I've already gave out my name, my address, and my cell phone to the scammer.

I've also recived the checks yesterday. But I'm glad I can read your blog today before anything goes worse.

Is it dangerous that they have my information?

Would they come to my door and threat me?

thank you

No, they won't come looking for you. You have a better chance of winning the lottery than ever actually meeting one of these guys. As long as you didn't give them any of your bank account info your fine. Hang the check on your wall, thats all it's good for.

Dave, I'm going to put your program on allscams.us ASAP. Thanks!

I got two emails from a British Fossil Hunter named Vincent Daniel.  The first one sounded funny as it asked for details and photos that were already included in my craigslist ad.  The second email really made me suspicious so I decided to Google "British fossil hunter Vincent Daniel" and found your blog. Thanks for the information on the scam.  Here is a copy of the second email:

Hello,     Many thanks to your prompt response and brief details on this unit. I am indeed a potential tenant and serious about renting this unit. As a British Fossils hunter, Having discovered lots of Dinosaurs fossil such as Dinosaurs Megalosaurus ,Oviparous, Pinacosaurus, Saurornithoides, Velociraptor,plesiosaur, Ichthyosaurus etc. Am coming to state to Trade those fossils with some US Museums.       In view of my work schedule, I would want us to finalize basic arrangements. I'm and I am currently working with British Fossil hunters team on late 1880's Imperial Dinosaur Fossil Research in Manchester City. London UK . I will be in the states for the next two years during my stay I will be Trading dinosaur fossils with Some USA Museums and Research with some America Palaeontologist on fossils hunting and field work. Am willing to offer you 1month rent + the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to my arrival to state, My Trustee in the states will be the one to handle the Move in fee, and we will instruct him to send you the check for this as soon as you give us the go ahead to make payment to you.      We can start the lease at your earliest convenient time and we will be effecting a two years lease although, I will be arriving on 5th May 2009. You can prepare the lease in my NAME.      Let me know how to move ahead as we intend to complete this deal before I move in by 5th May 2009, we will let you know the exact date as soon as we get a booking on a flight to the states. If you require any specific information, pals let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented for international calls .. +447506713896 }   P.S: Forward the lease agreement/application form to Review it ahead of time. I would eventually have it signed physically when I arrive. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. This is an international situation and am not sure how you can run my employment and Credit check background, there's no way we can go about this until I arrive in the state, hope you understand my concern.
With this arrangement, my Trustee in the states, will be effecting your payment deposit to you. I believe we can work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding.   For Payment, Get back with the below details 1- Name to be written on the American check
2- Mailing address ,City ,Zip Code ,State
3- Home Number and Mobile Number   Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.   V.Daniel,
+447506713896.

I got two emails from a British Fossil Hunter named Vincent Daniel.  The first one sounded funny as it asked for details and photos that were already included in my craigslist ad.  The second email really made me suspicious so I decided to Google "British fossil hunter Vincent Daniel" and found your blog. Thanks for the information on the scam.  Here is a copy of the second email:

Hello,     Many thanks to your prompt response and brief details on this unit. I am indeed a potential tenant and serious about renting this unit. As a British Fossils hunter, Having discovered lots of Dinosaurs fossil such as Dinosaurs Megalosaurus ,Oviparous, Pinacosaurus, Saurornithoides, Velociraptor,plesiosaur, Ichthyosaurus etc. Am coming to state to Trade those fossils with some US Museums.       In view of my work schedule, I would want us to finalize basic arrangements. I'm and I am currently working with British Fossil hunters team on late 1880's Imperial Dinosaur Fossil Research in Manchester City. London UK . I will be in the states for the next two years during my stay I will be Trading dinosaur fossils with Some USA Museums and Research with some America Palaeontologist on fossils hunting and field work. Am willing to offer you 1month rent + the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to my arrival to state, My Trustee in the states will be the one to handle the Move in fee, and we will instruct him to send you the check for this as soon as you give us the go ahead to make payment to you.      We can start the lease at your earliest convenient time and we will be effecting a two years lease although, I will be arriving on 5th May 2009. You can prepare the lease in my NAME.      Let me know how to move ahead as we intend to complete this deal before I move in by 5th May 2009, we will let you know the exact date as soon as we get a booking on a flight to the states. If you require any specific information, pals let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented for international calls .. +447506713896 }   P.S: Forward the lease agreement/application form to Review it ahead of time. I would eventually have it signed physically when I arrive. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. This is an international situation and am not sure how you can run my employment and Credit check background, there's no way we can go about this until I arrive in the state, hope you understand my concern.
With this arrangement, my Trustee in the states, will be effecting your payment deposit to you. I believe we can work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding.   For Payment, Get back with the below details 1- Name to be written on the American check
2- Mailing address ,City ,Zip Code ,State
3- Home Number and Mobile Number   Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.   V.Daniel,
+447506713896.

I had a lady call me about my house that I am renting in VA. She said she wired $1,300 to "my husband who is a minister in Nigeria on a mission with his family" - fortunately she looked at the tax records and saw we are in LV, NV - NOT Nigeria and got my number from a neighbor. She sent me the emails and I am so surprised ANYONE couldn't tell it was a scam. AND when are the bank going to start helping clients "are you sure you want to send to Nigeria"

The sad reality is that no matter how much effort people put into warning others of these scams, there will always be someone thats falls for them. There have been countless news reports, there are hundreds of websites, and still, people do it. There may very well have been people that did warn the lady, and she disregarded them.

The Nigerians know this all to well.

Awsome Michael...thank you! I just ALMOST got scammed.....I think I am now going to try to outwit the scammer!

Glad I could help Brie, makes me happy.

Click here to read more of my rental scam adventures!

       http://allreaders.net/rentalscam.html

Man, wish I'd thought to look for this site yesterday.

I actually got the opposite version of this scam - I was looking for a property to rent and received an email telling me that as a first-time landlord and missionary in Africa, the owner of the property somehow couldn't find a real estate agent to handle rentals, and so would personally need my information and, I'm assuming would have requested X amount in payment before never providing me with a key to the property.

I pretty much saw it was a scam as soon as I read "missionary in Africa" so I ended communications with an admittedly juvenile email calling them out and asking them to remain just as stupid as they were so that they would be easy to spot as scammers in the future.

Now after looking up these types of scams, I wish I'd taken the time to take the whole thing farther.

Thanks for posting these scams and your responses to them. They're extremely amusing to read.

WARNING SCAMMER ON CRAIGLIST ---- MONEY WAS WITHDRAW IN ORANGE CA and ROCHESTER NY!!!!

I have found info about apart in NY in Craiglist. Terry Coleman of Terry Vacation Homes sent me description of flat and contract to sign. I have sent it back with deposit 50% that was sent by bank transfer on 06/04/09 to account 1177308390 of woodforest bank to Mr Jason Matthew Wade. second payment was asked by Money Gram and it was sent. After receiving the second payment the person is desappeared and he does not answer to mail or phone. the name appears in some scammers list on the internet.

I have payed the first 1900 USD to the following bank account as asked by the scammer: Bank name:Woodforest National Bank; Full name :Jason Matthew Wade; Account Number: 1177308390  Account Holders address:157 LaGrange Avenue, Rochester, NY 14613; Bank address:456 WEST 25TH STREET NEW YORK ,NY 10001 USA

The Money Gram Payment has been received in ORANGE California as confirmed by central office of Money Gram which has made a research on his database.

Thanks Michael for all effort to warn the AR community and consumers at large of these Scammers. GREAT JOB WITH ONE EXCEPTION. It is very unfair to single out Nigerians and slanderous ("The Nigerians know this all too well") to the huge country of Nigeria as if the majority of it's people are criminals or Scammers. if you have not met many of the decent, trustworthy and hardworking Nigerians either living in Nigeria or around the world including the U.S.A, I hope that you'll make effort to broaden your perspective about Nigeria and it's population of about one hundred million people. Please don't 'paint with a broad brush' when discussing an infinitecimal segment of a large population of people.

As a Nigerian-American Realtor that also receives these annoying scam e-mails as a consumer and potential target/victim, I am equally appualled that the blessed country of my birth is tainted by such scams. Since these Scam e-mails originate from many parts of the world, all of us need to be objective as we report them to law enforcement authorities for investigation and prosecution.

Kudos to you, Michael and others like you including Chris Hanson of NBC News, for the tireless effort to expose these losers and save some of us from falling prey to their scams.

Obviously the scam isn't confined to Nigeria or Nigerians, any more than the cocaine problem is confined to Mexico, or Columbia. However, it is their dominating crime problem. I've considered visiting Nigeria, but in all honesty I would be concerned for my safety.

Many of the scam emails come from Hong Kong, or the UK. The Nigerian emails have a style unique to them, so I can usually tell what nationality generated the mail. Since the email text is re-used to often. its impossible to know who last sent it, unless I engage them in conversation; which I often do.

I've built an entire website dedicated to the scams, you can visit it at allscams.us.

They do a very similar scam for tutors. I was contacted through craigslist with a scam almost identical to this. The dialogue was almost exactly the same, but instead it was focused on tutoring a child. Luckily, I found this blog and didnt get too deep in the scam. So, thank you!!!!

 When I post a add on Craigslist this is what i state at the bottom of the page:

 i HAVEA ROOM FOR RENT IN HOUSTON FOR $600.00.........

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

  NO PRE-PAY/ONLY US RESIDENTS

  RENT MONEY WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED ON MOVE IN DAY.

"this has helped get rid of most  all the scammer emails.They are very easy to detect and are way to willing to send their money away to a complete stranger"

We have been seeing this in many markets. These guys certainly are creative and persistent.

I Thank You for the info.  I had a rental property on CL and recieved an email from johnporter2000@googlemail.com  Told me he was a doctor at UK London hospital, coming to states with wife for 1 yr., even sent a web site address for the REAL doctor. I thought it was to good to be true,I did my own research and found email address off hospital web site and wrote email to him. I got a reply from the real doctor, he was not amused.  

After reading this blog I find so many simular phrases in the wording that these scammers us.  I wish CL would have this site linked to there housing site.  Thanks Again

Another internet scam (sort of) has a 604 number attached to it in particular: 6043230623

This is the number on the website of a seller who re-sells foreclosure lists. You can get these yourself for $8 to file and $1/page. And typically for profit you don't need the entire thing. It's a bit of a ripoff at $99 a month IMHO.

Thank you for this posting.  I recieved an email request for one of my rentals.  I had a feeling this was not right, and after doing a search I found your site.  Thank you for the heads up!

I received this email after inquiring about a job opportunity where you "work from home".  The email was sent from Connie Anne Hum (shongatz@hotmail.com). After searching her email, your site came up which raised some red flags.  I emailed "Connie" back with this information and she has yet to respond...odd.

A & B Rentals is a company for renting and buying properties abroad. Our 5 agents in 3 countries act as the driving force of our company. The company is growing dynamically and its formation is ongoing. At this particular moment we are expanding our business area and increasing the number of property units in our database. For this reason, we are widening our network of real estate agents. Duties: 1). Receiving rent payments from US customers. 2). Process Payments/cheques received from US customers. 3). Deduct 10% which will be your Commission/pay on Payment processed. 4). Sending rent payments to Landlords as you will be instructed. Salary Includes: 1). $1,000 per month. First salary you get after 30 days from the day you start working. 2). 10% from each received rent payment same day you receive it (cashiers checks or money orders). 1-5 Rent payments per week.. Amount of one rent payment: $1500-5000. Requirements: 1). US work authorization. 2). US residential address. 3). Computer knowledge is a plus. *We do not require an active agent license. *We do not require your bank information. We are sure this work will be interesting and simple for you. The greatest advantage of this position is its remote character and the possibility of spending only few hours a day working while earning a base $12,000 per year plus your commissions (up to $20,000 per year). To complete this stage of your job placement, get back to me with the below details: First Name Middle Name Last Name Address Line 1 (No.P.O.Box) Address Line 2 City State Zip Code Age Home Phone Cell Phone Email Address Present Occupation (If any) Best time to call

Heres one to play with if anyone wants it.  I have property I listed on craigslist, so far this is the only reply.  This ones from Belgium.  The apartment I listed is a studio for $550 deposit $550.  I stated several times that I need a background check but they are ignoring it trying desperately to give me a cashiers check, just as soon as they get my address and full name.  I will copy and paste the first letter from them.  The second one was long, drawn out my father died and my stepfather this and that.

 My first reply:

The space is still available.  I will accept a cashiers check but you must agree to a background check prior to any rental agreement.  The rent is $550 and deposit is $550.  The studio apartment overlooks Mobile Bay.  Appliances are furnished.

First inquiry I got from them:

-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Michael <sssanu538@gmail.com>
Sent: Sat, Aug 22, 2009 5:25 pm
Subject: RENTAL INQUIRY

Let me know if the room/apt you advertise on craigslist.com is still
available and let me know if you can accept certified cashier check as
mode of payment..And the last price for the space..

Incredible, I can't believe this scam just keeps happening - and getting worse, even. We just posted a story to our blog today about someone who has been making payments for two years towards the PURCHASE of a house he found on craigslist... only to have it taken right out from under him in a foreclosure. Turned out the "owner" posted it to craigslist without actually owning it!! We're regularly posting stories on our blog of rental scams and other scams facilitated by anonymous classifieds sites - we'd invite anyone here to submit their story too! http://www.safelist.com/blog

can some oe tell me if this is a scam and if they have heard of this before ?

email...

Pleasure in hearing from you,i really appreciate it and I'm okay with the condition of the room. I will like to inform you that i will be shipping some of my luggage's like  my art design and bedroom frames with my stored research profile desktop and Laptop computer and my car ( 2007 MAZDA CX-7 GS AWD  MODEL ) that my Organization bought for me for work,due to my job am very busy preparing for my trip.so i will like to inform you that i will Transfer the money for the shipment with the money for the rent to your account,so as soon as i get the money transferred you have to deduct the money for the reservation and send the rest to the shipper so the shippers will come to deliver my stuffs.I will really appreciate you if you can do this for me.i will inform you as soon as i get the money transferred to your account.
Pleasure reading from you soonest.

Because a few desperate morons continue to post ad's for scam products I strongly suggest you never purchase, I will have to disable comments on this post. Hopefully, one day AR will find a way to prevent this idiocy.