How We helped you
Comments of our users who we helped NOT to get scammed!
| Chiv March 10, 2010 |
I came within a hair of sending off $1800 for a 5/5 apt on Broadway NYC. All sounded very good and legit. The phone # supplied was the 6268071824 Googled it and found this site. Close call forget Craigs list. The email address supplied was rentapt58st@aol.com |
| Tito March 10, 2010 |
This is the mail that I have received (many thanks for your site):
Name: Elsy Jones Details: from 05/05/2010 for 21 days Party Details: 4 adults, and 0 children ————————————–Dear Sir, Dear Sir, Dear Sir, Thanks for your responce ,We have just finished having a meeting with my clients this moment concerning renting your apartment and the price as you have tabled are ok by us, This clients are REAL ESTATE workers with RAYMOND WEIL GROUPS,My clients have agreed to go ahead with occupying the place for the period ,since they are group of 4 Adults and are being sponsored by there company they have decided to send you a Cheque of 1,800Euros been the full payment for the whole period according to them to be sure that they have finalized there booking since its there company who are taking sponsor of there trip,please kindly confirm your 1.FULL NAME to enable them send to you a Cheque for there payment while i will |
| Linda Y March 10, 2010 |
Just had the same. Have replied telling him to piss off, get a job instead of wasting people’s time and trying to get their hard earned cash. Told him he is infamous for his scam mails and to do a google search on his email addy to see there is actually a whole forum dedicated to his crap scam. |
| Jeanne Carter March 8, 2010 |
We are the authorized management company for this property and have been representing this property as a vacation rental for three (3) years. We heard about this scam from people who found us by mulitple means. They wanted us to be aware of the scam and to verify that we managed this property. http://www.destin-vacation-rental.com |
| David RR March 8, 2010 |
I got the Raymond Weil treatment today. Did not like the feel of it so Googled it and found this site! |
| Veronique March 5, 2010 |
I receive this annonce and I was thinking it’s a fraud I’m happy to see this website. I’m not crazy yeah! lol |
| Dolly March 4, 2010 |
I was looking for a vacation rental in Madrid and came across this guy too using the name Miguel Garcia and asking for a 700Euro deposit on a 450Euro stay at an apartment on 30 Plaza Mayor. I’m suprised someone hasn’t sent this turd a virus that wipes out his computer already. |
| Julie March 4, 2010 |
Unbelievable! I almost paid him. I am so glad I found your website!! ********** here is his email to me: ********** Thanks for your patronage. We are glad to serve you.The date requested for reservation of the property is available.Find below all relevant information,The property is located on 747 Scenic Gulf Dr. Miramar Beach, FL 32550 Property per sleep: 14 Bedrooms: 6 Baths: 5 Bedding’s: Room 1 (King) Room 2 ( King) Room 3 ( King/ Queen) Room 4 (King/Single) Room 5 (Queen) Room 6 (Twin Bed and Sofa )….Baths (Bathrooms/ Jacuzzi) Your Inquiry Details; Check-in date 2010-04-15 Check-out date 2010-07-22 Charges for the period of Your Stay (7Night) : $2300 Cleaning Fee: $200 Damages Deposit: $500 (refundable in cash on check out) Tax 10%: $230 Total: $3230 Lastly, I would like to know if you are going to maintain my Villa in orderly manner during your stay? Regards |
| Josh Mclean February 24, 2010 |
This scammer has been using my mailing address as his home address. I run a rental company in Destin, Florida and he contacted me 2 years ago. He obviously stole my mailing address of 121 Madie Lane, Santa Rosa Beach, Fl 32459 when we communicated. I have been getting returned checks that he sends out for these rental scams. Is there anything that I can do? |
| Mike Gaunt February 21, 2010 |
Can confirm that Dr David is spam too |
| teresa February 19, 2010 |
OMG i was about to send this person the money but something stopped me. i found this web page and all my fears were confirmed. Just be aware “he” is now going under the name of Julie cooper the emails are almost identical to the ones above. Glad i listen to my instinct. I am from the UK so if anyone knows how i can go about reporting it to the authorities then please let me know. i have contacted the internet company the apartment was advertised on www.escaperental.com. and warned them. Not sure what they will do!! |
| Carrie February 16, 2010 |
I wish I had seen this sooner. I just lost $1,400 to Richard Mergan Disney Beach Club Vacation Timeeshare ID#76885. I am devastated! Half of my family’s vacation fund for the year is gone! My kids are going to be heartbroken! I never thought there were people out there who did things like this. Very niave! Never again … I learned my lesson the hard way. |
| Giuseppe February 16, 2010 |
This is the last mail that I have receive. He contact me on Holiday Rentals
data 16 febbraio 2010 14.08 Dear Giuseppe, Thanks for your mail ,we appreciate your efforts,we confirm receipt of your full info for the payment,sorry for the unanswered calls,am always very busy in the factory as we also run a factory here and whenever am there i dont respond to my calls because of noises from big factory machines,we are responding late because we really had to finalise things with this clients before coming back to you….This moment we have just finished with this clients /sponsor company regarding the payment preparation,I am glad to tell you that we have concluded payment arrangements with them hence the booking of the apartment should be confirmed,Moreover we had a new development as because of the distance we were able to make an arrangement with a pre-paid car hiring agent who will supply the guests with vehicles and other logistics that will be used by the guests and fro your place.. Meanwhile as the payment Cheque has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there, however you will be recieving a cheque of 4,400Euros that will cover the cost of their accomodation which is 1,330Euros , while with your good office you send the balance of 3,070Euros to transport logistic agent for them to arrange Car hiring/ flight ticket to your property and other logistics arrangment, it is our duty to do this but because me and my husband will be out on holidays for 3weeks from 7th of March,we/they have decided to trust it on you to help us disburse the excess to the logistics so as to enable them continue with there’s,. Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address of the logistic agent ASAP:Please remember that the integrity of our agency is involved, so this business requires prompt response. I also hope that my clients stay will be comfortable in your apartment? I wait for your confirmation and have a wonderful day. Mrs Sandra Nathy(EUROAGENTS/CONSULTANTS) +41767737046 ,Kraftstrasse 33, 8044 Zürich , Switzerland |
| Barbara February 12, 2010 |
This rental inquiry from homeaway from home/cyberrentals did not seem right. I did a google search for Euro/Consultants since I had feeling something was not right. Thank goodness I did. They are now using a new name Thanks for your responces ,We have just finished having 1.FULL NAME to enable them send to you a Cheque for there payment while i will |
| Angela February 12, 2010 |
the same ‘David Francis’ email came re: renting our house in Greece for 2 months (as above 1/May-30/June, two different places at the same time!!). Thanks for all the information above, this is definately a spam, though via a rental web site. Donnot bother to respond. |
| Anne Tricklebank-Vowell February 12, 2010 |
I have also received an enquiry from this chap. Thought I’d google him after thinking it was a bit suspect and very interesting reading.Thanks to everyone for their comments. |
| Amanda February 11, 2010 |
Yep, we live in Austria and get so many of these it is unbelievable. The David Francis email came today and is a carbon copy of the one pasted here! This blog has helped alot so thanks to all you guys out there who keep posting the info. |
| Alison February 10, 2010 |
Glad I Googled too. Have been liaising with ‘Richard Mergan’ over the Disney Beach Club Villa too. Thanks for the advice. |
| Tim February 10, 2010 |
He tried it on with our holiday cottage, too. Identical letter to that received by Simon above (jan 11 2010). Good idea to waste his time – might do the same myself. |
| Giuseppe February 10, 2010 |
Today, arrived the same mail too, change the mail only: “Absender: Name: Mr. David Francis Straße: 121 Madie Lane Ort: 32459 Santa Rosa Beach Land: USA Telefon: 1386-490-1783 Telefax: 1206-202-4196 E-Mail: dr.david1100@gmail.com *** Fragen an den Vermieter: |
| marsha vaughn February 10, 2010 |
Got this email on 2/9/10. Seems like he found me on craigslist.
Hi, Thanks for the update. l appreciate the home and do wish to reserve The check payment is for the total of which the bill may came up plus Forward the following information:FULL NAME ON CHECK,DELIVERY ADDRESS Have a nice day Regards, |
| Patricia February 9, 2010 |
I just go a similar e-mail regarding a horse I have for sale: My Name is Sgt Derek Tang of the Persian Gulf,with members of the Hawaii Air National Guards 154th Security Forces Squadron.In respect of your advert,I am planning a surprise wedding gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife while currently on an active duty. Please update me if is still available to purchase in your very last asking price. l would be looking forward to read from you soon.rnrnSgt Derek Tang I really think this guy is a quack. |
| shawn russell February 9, 2010 |
My Name is Sgt Derek Tang of the Persian Gulf,with members of the Hawaii Air National Guards 154th Security Forces Squadron.In respect of your advert,I am planning a surprise wedding gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife while currently on an active duty. Please update me if is still available to purchase in your very last asking price. l would be looking forward to read from you soon. Sgt Derek Tang
This idiot tried to pull the same crap on me, how can I find him and kick his butt? |
| m February 9, 2010 |
Daniel’s on Craigslist today:
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1590955687.html I reported to IC3. So sorry for those of you that got robbed from this person!! |
| Sarah February 9, 2010 |
I’ve had two of these as well. He’s going to be spreading himself pretty thin, staying in all these properties this summer! |
| valerie houghton February 7, 2010 |
sun 7 feb 2010 – just to add to the list of above. he wanted to book my property for 2 months but i could only offer 1 month. his reply was he would take that month and has sent me the same email as others re: payment arrangements etc. |
| leo February 2, 2010 |
He is going by the name Richard Mergan email address (r.vacation01@yahoo.com ) He trying to rent out Disney BeachClub,Vacation TimeshareID#76885 . Thanks |
| Dawn February 2, 2010 |
Having been guided to this site only this morning, was amazed to receive an email from the guy this afternoon. his english appears to be improving! |
| Sally February 1, 2010 |
Same scam : Chose to ignore it, but Group Accommodation referred me to this link anyway:
Dear Advertiser, The following enquiry has been submitted about your property via the Groupaccommodation Main website: Property Name: The Beach House – Frinton on Sea, Essex Name: David Francis Arrival Date: 01/05/2010 Questions: Hello , David from florida state and i will like to know if your property is available from : Checking Date : 1 May 2010 Checkout Date 30th June 2010 2 Adults : 0 children Let me know if the property is available or not and don”t forget to include the prices if the property is available Thanks +1386-490-1783 Sent from my BlackBerry® |
| Harry Lakin February 1, 2010 |
Name: David Francis Address: undefined Email: dr_david1144@ymail.com Country Code: +1 Tel: +13864901783 Arrival Date: 01/05/2010 Questions: Hello , David from florida state and i will like to know if your property is available from : Checking Date : 1 May 2010 Checkout Date 30th June 2010 2 Adults : 0 children Let me know if the property is available or not and don”t forget to include the prices if the property is available Thanks +1386-490-1783 Sent from my BlackBerry® |
| Dorrit January 30, 2010 |
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1574443023.html
The new link to the scam. He still goes by the name Daniel Penn and email danielstonen1@aol.com. Thank you so much for posting your stories. It saved me a lot of money. I’m so sorry for all of you who lost your money. |
| Dorrit January 29, 2010 |
Thanks so much for this blog. I was just having a correspondence with Daniel Penn after seeing his post on craigslist. I thought it was too cheap to believe. So I just searched his email-address in Facebook. Thank god I did not go for this! And thank you so much for talking out loud about this scam! |
| William January 14, 2010 |
He’s going by the name Daniel Penn with the email address of danielstonen1@aol.com [mailto:danielstonen1@aol.com]
He is trying to rent out the following: http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1549381930.html. He’s using the money wired to the Redford family. I keep asking for a phone number but he won’t give me one and ignores my basic question. |
| Simon January 11, 2010 |
Received this Email today from a MicJohn William. The same wording as many others in the forum. Not sure exactly how the scam works but think its to do with money laundering. Anyway I’m going to play around with him for a while and waste his time.
Well i am very happy to read from you back as regard the property would be available from 1 march 2010 till 30 april 2010,I would like to let you know that i am okay with the asking price £1300 . Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement.I would have love to pay the Traveling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave America by Friday at most. As soon as you get the UK Check ,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight expenses,BTA (Basic Travelers Allowance) and some other necessary paperwork’s. The balance should be sent to our traveling agent whose information i would give to you as soon as you receive payment. Micjohn Williams Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. Full Name on UK Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest |
| bamagetaway January 8, 2010 |
Got this email 1/5/2010:
My Name is Sgt Mark Victor of the Persian Gulf,with members of the Hawai’i Air National Guard’s 154th Security Forces Squadron.In respect of your rental,I am planning a surprise vacation gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife alone with treat while currently on an active duty,the scheduled date will be 14th -29th February.2010, (14nights)if this has already been booked.please advice on the nearest 14nights you have available, cost for the period, Security Deposit,Cleaning fees, and Tax,all been totaled plus any order major services to be rendered,for the couple alone,no pets,they don’t smoke either.l will need to conclude this booking early enough for them to avoid any inconvenience during there stay. Another reply: Thanks for the update. l appreciate the home and do wish to reserve the specified date Upon receipt of the check payment deduct your total rental cost $3,668.54 and turn over the balance $4,000 to an agent who was recommended by a fellow comrade, to offset other logistics arrangements for the couples like flight tickets, car hire, sightseeing in the area, brief set up tours around, meals/chef and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a per-determined amount though the negotiation with the agent is not yet concluded, this is desired to make their honeymoon most memorable. As I write this,the agent is supposed to contact me through e-mail to assert his ability to take me up on the offer of logistics for the couple ,if Confirm this and send the following information:- Please confirm this arrangement and get back to me with your contact details as stated above. The guests informations are: Regards, |
| Neil January 5, 2010 |
I got a spam email from him also as below: —————————– Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding ,Well i am very happy to read from you back as regard the property would be available from 1 march 2010 till 30 april 2010,I would like to let you know that i am okay with the asking price £3200 . Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement.I would have love to pay the Traveling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave America by Friday at most. As soon as you get the UK Check ,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight expenses,BTA (Basic Travelers Allowance) and some other necessary paperwork’s. The balance should be sent to our traveling agent whose information i would give to you as soon as you receive payment. David Francis Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. Full Name on UK Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest |
| Grethe January 4, 2010 |
And another one from the same people:
Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding ,Well i am very happy to read from you back as regard the property would be available from 1 march 2010 till 30 april 2010,I would like to let you know that i am okay with the asking price £3300 . Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement.I would have love to pay the Traveling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave America by Friday at most. As soon as you get the UK Check ,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight expenses,BTA (Basic Travelers David Francis Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. Full Name on UK Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest Note I will forward the copy of my passport to you as well . |
| lewis January 1, 2010 |
I had a feeling it was too good to be true! From: danielstonen1@aol.com [mailto:danielstonen1@aol.com] Sent: Thursday, December 31, 2009 2:26 AM Subject: Re: $300 / 4br – Limited Dates Available On This Rare Luxury Apt . Inquiry No… Thanks for your interest in our property, This grand 4 bedroom{ 1 king size bed, 3double beds, 1 baby crib and a pull up sofa bed {optional} } 4 bathroom apartment is a true palace nestled over Central Park. The centerline view of the park from this 26th floor apartment is unmatched and is visible from almost every room. It has been recently renovated with every luxurious detail fit for royalty, the apartment is centrally located giving you easy access to all major parts of town. The apartment is located at 115 Central Park West {Lincoln Square/Upper West Side}, New York, NY 10023 and comes at a daily rates of $300 per night which does include all utilities and tax since your dates happen to fall within our special discount period. In addition we offer free airport shuttle, this is subject to confirmation on your travel details though. Deposit is needed to hold dates after the booking forms has been filled out ,this we would have emailed to you upon hearing from you. We would be looking to hear from you. Please note we have limited dates available so you would have to respond ASAP. Thanks http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1530766853.html |
| daniel December 31, 2009 |
Click My Villas Enquiry: www.clickmyvillas.com? From: dr.david1144@gmail.com Medium riskYou may not know this sender.Mark as safe|Mark as junk Sent: Thursday, December 31, 2009 8:08:08 PM To: svetlux@hotmail.com The following message was submitted from clickmyvillas.com: Property: Chisinau Center: beautifull fully modern 2 large bedroom (1162) Name: David Hello , ——————————————————————————– |
| Desiree Ratcliffe-Lattimore December 31, 2009 |
They are at it again via www.theholidaylet.com
Regards |
| Lynn December 30, 2009 |
I also got an email from “Sgt. Harry Miller” only he used a different e-mail address. It was hmiller612@gmail.com. He wanted to buy a horse from me as a wedding present to his godson’s wife. I was suspicious of him because he would never tell me where the horse was going to be shipped to. He wanted my name and address so he could send me a check. He was going to send his Vet out to examine the horse after the check cleared my bank. So I googled him and found out that he was a big time scammer! |
| Ian Wood December 30, 2009 |
Hi guys – I too have just had an enquiry about renting my property – what is this guy up to? Ian |
| Richard S December 30, 2009 |
Hi All,
Thanks so much for sharing. My mother-in-law had the same scam attempted for a holiday cottage, and this site helped her understand that someone was attempting to defraud her. From: David Francis Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding ,Well i am very Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you As soon as you get the UK Check ,you will get it deposited in David Francis Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not Full Name on UK Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read |
| Pat French December 29, 2009 |
I had the same one from Dr David Francis today 29 December:-
Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding Pat French,Well i am very happy to read from you back as regard the property would be available from 1 march 2010 till 30 april 2010,I would like to let you know that i am okay with the asking price £7,660 . Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement.I would have love to pay the Traveling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave America by Friday at most. As soon as you get the UK Check ,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight expenses,BTA (Basic Travelers David Francis Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. Full Name on UK Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest Note I will forward the copy of my passport to you as well . |
| Liz Stephenson December 29, 2009 |
We recieved this scam email yesterday (28.12.09), ‘Dr Francis’ wanted to rent our holiday cottage in Lincolnshire, England for two months. It was all a bit too good to be true and his reply talking about ‘UK checks’ and ‘sent from my blackberry’ (why would you write this unless you wanted to make the point that you could afford one?!) confirmed this. Thanks for the blog! The emails he sent us are below:
— On Mon, 28/12/09, David Francis wrote: From: David Francis Hello , Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding ,Well i am very happy to read from you back as regard the property would be available from 1 march 2010 till 30 april 2010,I would like to let you know that i am okay with the asking price £2,288 . Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement.I would have love to pay the Traveling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave America by Friday at most. As soon as you get the UK Check ,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight expenses,BTA (Basic Travelers Allowance) and some other necessary paperwork’s. The balance should be sent to our traveling agent whose information i would give to you as soon as you receive payment. David Francis Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. Full Name on UK Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest |
| Elaine December 29, 2009 |
29 Dec 2009 I had an email from this David Francis and my partner told me to walk away from it saying it just did not sound right so I googled his name and came across this forum.
Here is the email I received…. Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding Elaine,Well i am Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you As soon as you get the UK Check ,you will get it deposited in David Francis Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not Full Name on UK Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read |
| Meschell December 26, 2009 |
I have recenlty recieved a very simulair email from this Harry Miller. Same pretense of the godson getting mairried and so on so forth. Only difference is he was inquiring about a horse that I have recently sold. PLEASE, PLEASE BE AWARE!!!!!! Thankfully I remembered a story that my husband has heard at work and I decided to do some investigating. |
| Jared December 23, 2009 |
SAME SONG DIFFERENT VERSE –
hello, I am, Penn Rover i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates April 1th to April 10th 2010, for just me and my wife Rita Rover, please send me details cost per week or per night. Lluestowen, Bristol Road, Frenchay Bristol BS16 1LQ U.K.. |
| L. Whitson December 23, 2009 |
His name has changed again. This time he is Penn Rover. He is still working the same rental scam. We received this rental inquiry 12/22/09.
Name: penn rover Message From penn rover Hello, I am, Penn Rover i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates April 1th to April 10th 2010, for just me and my wife Rita Rover, please send me details cost per week or per night. Lluestowen, Bristol Road, Frenchay Bristol BS16 1LQ U.K.. |
| Margaret Wilson December 21, 2009 |
A few lately have been adding this as bait I guess, in addition to the unbelievably low rents
‘You ll need to Quickly Book down the Apartment for your dates cos someone else is begging for a Similar date. However, like I said there s an Airport Complimentary Pick up for you and your party members from the airport with my 2008 BMW M3 Covertible . 2008 BMW M3 Covertible ., so I ll need your flight details, Its free for my customers. Get back to me with the following information for date reservation.’ This one from Craigslist http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1515435289.html |
| BJ December 12, 2009 |
This guy is still scamming using rredford as a ref. and daniel s. penn as his name. He is using the address 115 Central park West. I found it on Craigslist. |
| miami beach hotel December 12, 2009 |
Why guys like this are doing bad against people. They are not thinking. |
| jo December 9, 2009 |
just received email from Anna Daniels. Exactly the same. I sent my phone no and address – am I in Danger??!! |
| chantalscottage December 6, 2009 |
Not sure if this guy is for real or not, but from the comments it seems that he is up to something no good….thought i would let you all know that he sent me the same email as many others…that in itself is strange. I googled the address and found this blog.
Aloha, The check payment is for the total of which the bill may came up plus extras in case of unavoidable circumstance, which I intended to use of in another arrangement for them on a trip to Hawaii but for less number of days, but since they are off their jobs they can spend more time together in your place. Upon receipt of the check payment,deposit it and allow the bank to process my payment,upon confirmation the funds have cleared say 48hours maximum, deduct your total rental cost and turn over the balance to an agent who was recommended by a fellow comrade, to offset other logistics arrangements for the couples like flight tickets, car hire, sightseeing in the area, brief set up tours around, meals/chef and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a pre-determined amount though the negotiation with the agent is not yet concluded, this is desired to make their honeymoon most memorable. As I write this,the agent is supposed to contact me through e-mail to assert his ability to take me up on the offer of logistics for the couple,if not I have you contact a local agent to do so for them that is if you don t provide such services. Forward the following information:FULL NAME ON CHECK,DELIVERY ADDRESS AND YOUR PHONE NUMBER while below is the guest information to prepare your rental agreement if need be and forwarded to me through attachment which l will sign AFTER i have secured all my financial commitments.The guests information’s are: +447011146339 Thank you and have a nice day. |
| denise December 5, 2009 |
Hi, I just saw a similar posting on craigslist for this address using a different email. It was for a one bedroom at $ 1000. Did the people who were renting say they were out of the country? Thanks! |
| ouiza December 5, 2009 |
be aware! RICHARD MERGAN is stil active he posted different ads on redweek #434639 #431374 manhattan club. now the only mean of payment he accepts is wire transfer.I offered to send him a money order check,he refused cause he had to give an address so I can send it to him The answer was :please proceed with your payment by wire transfer we don’t checks anymore. this guy is arrogant..Thank God I googled his name and found out who he is. BE CAREFUL and don’t forget what goes aroud, comes around# But, what goes around comes around| |
| Randy December 3, 2009 |
We ALMOST got scammed, but our quick thinking, and using all the information from emails, and phone. It will soon be returned back to them, and it will NOT be favorable |
| Hector December 3, 2009 |
Thanks to this blog I was almost robbed $900.00 with a craiglist add. there is whole bunch of them with different names BE VERY CAREFUL”,if it sounds too good to be true is not true.The name of the person is Daniel S. Penn on 115 Central Park. pictures does not match the location on google maps, SOMEONE HAS TO REPORT HIM TO THE AUTHORITIES IN NEW YORK |
| Laurent December 1, 2009 |
We have the same one :
PROPERTY ENQUIRY Contact: Dr David Francis |
| Chris and Julia December 1, 2009 |
Thank you so much for posting it! You just saved us $2300! I was ready to pay, thanks to husband who felt it was too cheap to be true! Thank you for your site! |
| Geoffrey Coan December 1, 2009 |
And I too have just received an enquiry from Dr David Francis in Florida. Pretty much the same enquiry details, same phone number, but his email address is now @gmail.com.
I won’t be bothering to reply. Thanks for the tipoff folks. I love the “sent from my Blackberry” to make it look even more authentic! Here’s what I received: Property:————————————————- |
| edith hawkins November 30, 2009 |
Hello out there look out for the scams i just got priority mail today nov 30th 09 from Mr. Henrey from the United Kingdom for$1,800.00 for the apt rental of his daughter and the money gram check was already cash in june and july of 09 and the money was use up and i phone the money gram company and the check is no good be careful of the uk’s rental now on the other hand i’m waiting for another check from Dr. Steve Murry for $1,000.00 also the will not come from the renters it will come in a person’s name that you never heard of or never talk with. well i got the checks and i’m laughing at you uks!!!!!edith hawkins |
| Nani November 30, 2009 |
I got this response, from this guy, asking for our name, a check, address, and phone, number, glad I did the google of the number…thanks Aloha, Thanks for the update. l appreciate the home and do wish to reserve the specified date Dec. 15th – 28th and am kind of assured they will enjoy their stay. Payment will be a cancelation refund by Cape home,a reservation I made earlier though a bit expensive that yours but was canceld due to fire incident. Mr Christopher,the property owner will send the refund payment by cashier’s check to reserve my booking,process funds to clear his bank for confirmation while the extra amount be used to reserve flight ticket and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a pre-determined amount to wellcome the couple. Due to orders placed on individual calls we have limited use of telephones for now, l would have preferred a direct call conversation with you. My home #206-338-2503 though currently disconnected to an answering machine being that am not at home.Forward the following information:FULL NAME ON CHEQUE,DELIVERY ADDRESS AND YOUR PHONE NUMBER while below is the guest information: NAME: Edward and Kimberly Moore Happy season. |
| susan Virr November 30, 2009 |
This is just another of many enquiries I receive weekly they are obviously a scam because they do not sound real. The Good Day is the first giveaway. |
| Maurice Johnston November 29, 2009 |
This was received by me on November 28th 2010 via www.structured.co.ukTo:——————————————————- >> Mr Maurice Johnston >> Property:————————————————- >> Name: Golden Pond Villa >> Address: >> Enquirer:————————————————- >> Contact: Dr David Francis >> Phone: +1386-490-1783 >> Email: dr.david1144@gmail.com >> Prospective Booking Details:—————————— >> Party Number: 2 >> Num Children: 0 >> Arrival Date: 1st February 2010 >> Departure Date: 30th March 2010 >> Message entered:—————————————– >> Hello , >> David from florida state and i will like to know if your property is >> available from : >> Checking Date : 1 feb 2010 >> Checkout Date 30th march 2010 >> 2 Adults : 0 children >> Let me know if the property is available or not and dont forget to >> include the prices if the property is available >> Thanks >> Sent from my BlackBerry? |
| Barbara Hull Francis November 28, 2009 |
Thank you so so much. You saved us. |
| Heath Foster November 28, 2009 |
I was just on the verge of wiring $1600 when I found this! He is a scam artist! |
| Anna Mdivani November 25, 2009 |
NOVEMBER 24th, this person goes by the name: Daniel S. Penn email: danielstonen@aol.com Exactly like you describe him, this guy is such an idiot. |
| jmc November 23, 2009 |
her e-mail is now litesate@rocketmail.com… got same e-mail. |
| JB November 18, 2009 |
Watch out for Daniel Stone 115 Central Park West. |
| Annette de Groot November 17, 2009 |
He’s trying Kugli.com!! I’ve got the same e mail. Is there anyone who’s paid him money? Is there a stop to this email fraud?!?!? His mail adres:axline777@gmail.com Is this mail adres alway the same? |
| Anne Widerstrom November 17, 2009 |
I too received Anna Daniels’ email. They must be making a ton of money with this scam because they keep at it. I discovered that al the funds wired to Western Union at picked up in Nigeria. The request I received for the check said please send to Emeka Nwoko in Athens Greece.
Beware of cashier checks and moneygrams/Western Union! |
| Aruba Dunes November 16, 2009 |
Exactly the same as the rest of you renters, Anna Daniels wasting my time…Get a life. |
| Jules November 16, 2009 |
Anna Daniels must have some air miles! We received the same on 13 November and realised that it is a money laundering scam! “Thanks for your mail ,we appreciate your efforts,we confirm receipt of the full Meanwhile as the payment Cheque has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there, however you will be recieving a cheque of $3,740USD that will cover the cost of their accomodation /security deposit which is $1,520USD , while with your good office you send the balance of $2,220USD to transport logistic agent for them to arrange Car hiring/ flight ticket to your property and other logistics arrangment, it is our duty to do this but because me and my husband will be out on holidays for 3weeks from Wenesday 18th of Nov,we/they have decided to trust it on you to help us disburse the excess to the logistics so as to enable them continue with there’s, Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address of the logistic agent ASAP:Please remember that the integrity of our agency is involved, so this business requires prompt response. I also hope that my clients stay will |
| Dan Rees November 16, 2009 |
Got the same email from Mrs Anna Daniels, with a follow for overpayment request …… !!
Is there an Authority to send this scam to ?? Mail 1 1.FULL NAME to enable them send to you a Cheque for there payment while i will Mail 2 Meanwhile as the payment Cheque has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there, however you will be recieving a cheque of $7,750USD that will cover the cost of their accomodation including all which is $1,804USD , while with your good office you send the balance of $5,946USD to transport logistic agent for them to arrange Car hiring/ flight ticket to your property and other logistics arrangment, it is our duty to do this but because me and my husband will be out on holidays for 3weeks from Wenesday 25th of Nov,we/they have decided to trust it on you to help us disburse the excess to the logistics so as to enable them continue with there’s, Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address of the logistic agent ASAP:Please remember that the integrity of our agency is involved, so this business requires prompt response. I also hope that my clients stay will Mrs Anna Daniels(EUROAGENTS/CONSULTANTS) +41767737046,Tödistrasse 7, 8027 Zürich, Switzerland |
| Bryan November 16, 2009 |
Miss Anna is at it again. She wrote to me. Luckily after a few emails I did a google search for her company and found this site.
From: litesate@yahoo.com Dear Bryan, Thanks for your responces an sorry we are coming back late,We have just finished having a meeting with my clients this moment concerning renting your apartment and the price as you have tabled are ok by us, This clients are REAL ESTATE workers with PANALPINA GROUPS,My clients have agreed to go ahead with occupying the place for the period ,since they are group of 3 Adults and are being sponsored by there company they have decided to send you a Cheque of $4,615.06USD been the full payment /tax for the whole period according to them to be sure that they have finalized there booking since its there company who are taking sponsor of there trip and considering the timing,while the security deposit and the cleaning fees will be paid cash on there arrival to your place,please kindly confirm your 1.FULL NAME to enable them send to you a Cheque for there payment while i will |
| virginia greene November 14, 2009 |
Anna has reappeared but with litsate@rocketmail.com. It sounded like a scam but as phone number was Switzerland I decided to give it a go – with very minimal details. She replied promptly asking for further costs. I’ve emailed to say I need more info before going any further. Should be the end of it. Virginia |
| justin November 14, 2009 |
He’s got another under Charmel Harrison. Couple of things to look at when renting. Ask the address and then use google maps street view. They noted the apartment for rent as on the 11th floor, however google showed the building to be only 8 stories. The listing was on destinationvillas.com. I reported it to IC3.
Next learn to read mail headers, first email we received was from Charles City, Iowa, all others then were being spoofed from Nigeria. They use AOL webmail, but you can still see the client IP and then use a site like infosniper.net to see where the IP is registered to. Here is a copy of a couple of the emails we got: Hello |
| G. Dandoy November 12, 2009 |
—–Original Message—– From: Kugli.com Visitor [mailto:faxline777@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, November 12, 2009 10:03 PM To: Kugli.com Ad Poster Subject: Response to your Ad: Beautiful Art Deco style vacation rental apartment near to Thermal Baths, max. 6 pers. Message: Aloha, |
| karo November 12, 2009 |
Moi aussi il vient de m’envoyer un chèque de 4800$ et il dit qu’il m’a envoyé un plus gros montant car moi je dois payer le shipping des meubles qu’il m’a achetés. Sur l’enveloppe du chèque il n’y a même pas d’adresse de retour. Très louche tout cela. |
| Sarah N November 12, 2009 |
We’ve just had him contact us too regarding our apartment in Spain. Message: Aloha, My Name is Sgt Derek Tang of the Persian Gulf,with members of the Hawaii Air National Guards 154th Security Forces Squadron.In respect of your rental,I am planning a surprise vacation gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife alone with treat while currently on an active duty,the scheduled date will be 20th Dec.- 3rd Jan.2010, (14nights)if this has already been booked.please advice on the nearest 14nights you have available, cost for the period, Security Deposit,Cleaning fees, and Tax,all been totaled plus any order major services to be rendered,for the couple alone,no pets,they don’t smoke either.l will need to conclude this booking early enough for them to avoid any inconvenience during there stay Thanks for the info, my husband said it was a scam but I wasn’t so sure, I thought perhaps someone foreign who had run their mail through a translator like Babelfish. Thank goodness for reading this! |
| Knoxx November 5, 2009 |
I received the same shit from “Dr. David” …the check was sent from our ( company associate Headoffice in Ireland ) and here is our company associate details below aswell : Company Name : Lansdowne Oil and Gas plc Here is my personal information details below : David Francis Josef-Wilhelm take the pounds check to your bank as soon as you received it and make sure you send me the rental booking confirmation , looking forward to hear from you asap. ——————————————————————————– Von: David Francis [mailto:dr_david1144@rocketmail.com] O.K Looking forward to hear from you as soon as you have received the check and don’t forget to get back to me with rental contract for booking so that i can fill the rental contract and send it back to you before arrive date,Don’t forget that our traveling ticket fee has been include with the payment , am waiting to hear from you asap. |
| Jenna Morin November 4, 2009 |
Have the caught her?? |
| simply bulgaria November 4, 2009 |
same for us … why they think anyone would do what they suggest is a mystery. ******copy of mail******* Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding ,Well i am very happy to read from you back as regard the property would be available from 5 jan til june 30 2009,I would like to let you know that i am okay with the asking price dollars. Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement.I would have love to pay the Traveling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave America by Friday at most. As soon as you get the Euros Check ,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight expenses,BTA (Basic Travelers Allowance) and some other necessary paperwork’s. The balance should be sent to our traveling agent whose information i would give to you as soon as you receive payment. Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. Full Name on Euros Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest. |
| Zoe November 1, 2009 |
Yes, this person posted the home on the ReseveMyHome website. 4 people wanted to booked it but after some R and D we removed the listing. Amazing what people will do to hurt others especially going after a family on a vacation!! |
| Sean O’Nion October 30, 2009 |
Hi. Got this email too about the properties I have in Cyprus. Emailed back to asked for only a bank transfer. Always best to do! Below is the latest response I have had:
Thanks for the mail.To make it faster,l will pay you directly with my credit card but before I do so, I will outline my payment plan for your confirmation. There is a local agent that I have contacted to make arrangements for air tickets and taxi that will be used on arrival. I have already concluded arrangements with the agent pending the receipt of his funds in the amount of $4,000 and I am not in office for now to make a direct transfer to him because of my field assignment I am currently handling outside base. Please confirm this arrangement and get back to me with your contact details as stated above. The guests informations are: Regards, |
| Kicking Myself October 26, 2009 |
I so wish I would have read this site before wiring $1000 to Therrion Wallace a few weeks ago for a 5BR/5BA apartment in New York that does not exist. It sounds like he is using Western Union. I reported this as wire fraud to my bank, Region Bank and the internet fraud complaint center. Of course, I’ll never see the money again. How can we stop this man? |
| Kuge Günter October 26, 2009 |
Hallo, wenn ich das jetzt richtig verstanden habe ist der Dr. David Francis. ein Fake. Ich habe auch diese Anfrage bekommen, da ich neu bin in der Ferienwohnung vermietung wäre ich nie auf die Idee gekommen, das sich da jemand ein spass macht. könnte mir vielleicht jemand da weiter helfen, und mir sagen was er gemacht hat. habe alle emals gespeicht, aber das schein eh egal zu sein. über eine antwort würde ich mich sehr freuen danke im voraus. |
| Matt October 23, 2009 |
I just received an inquiry from Anna Daniels. She’s becoming famous:
Dear Sir/Madam, Please do let us know if you avialabilty in your home at our requested period,We would like to rent the property in the time frame mentioned here. we are looking forward to hearing from you.. Yours sincerely, Anna Daniels I called the number +41762523995 twice before I knew she was a scam. VM only, not a surprise. Her e-mail is litesate@yahoo.com now. Watch out. |
| dan October 22, 2009 |
He is also going under Richard Mergan. My family and I were looking to rent a Disney Beach Club Villa and I stumbled across this jerk. I have attached the email below that I received from him, including name, a/c#, routing#, etc. Hopefully this helps someone else out.
— On Wed, 10/21/09, Richard Mergan wrote: From: Richard Mergan Hello Daniel, Please do proceed with your payment via Wire Transfer to the bank account information below, do make sure you scan or fax ( 206-338-2944 ) and send to me via e-mail your bank confirmation payment slip so as to confirm your payment here. Payment can be made in 2 installation, 70% deposit before moving in then the remaining upon your arrival. After payment has been confirmed a rental receipt and signed agreement of your payment will be mail to you immediately ACCOUNT NAME: THERRION WALLACE Please do proceed with your payment so the days which you’ve asked for i.e ( 02/13/10 to 02/20/10 ) can be booked and secured for you. Please don’t forget to scan and send to me your bank confirmation payment slip so a rental receipt and signed agreement can be mailed to you. Thanks so much for your time and i do hope to read from you soon and it would be a great pleasure to have you stay at Disney’s Beach Club Villa. Bye and have a wonderful day. Regards, Richard.. |
| Poul October 21, 2009 |
Obviously Frank and David Fracis or more corretly the gay using the names are the same. He/she should be stopped from this game with holiday rental fraud. How can this be done? I have just received a mail from him wtht the same wording as to Ronald Barron. This time the name is Dr. David Francis 121 Madie Lane Santa Rosa Beach FL 32459. |
| Fiona Bibby October 21, 2009 |
Another request from a Dr David who says he is in Florida but yet has a californian email address. Why come to -10 in Bulgaria when you can have the sunshine of Floriday I ask myself ???? |
| Bjarke Pedersen October 20, 2009 |
Samme scammer again. Western union transfer. New name again Michael Leslie. I have attached the email.
Hello |
| Steven October 19, 2009 |
Question 2: has anyone ever recieved a valid cheque from someone who wants to rent and is a fraud? If they send a cheque, does it actually go through? Thanks, Steven |
| Steven October 19, 2009 |
Has anyone heard of Mrs. Anna Daniels who supposedly works for Euroagents/Consultants in Zurich? She wants to rent our home for her “clients” and her request looks, gramitically and construction wise, like a fradulent request. Does anyone know about her or does she really work for this company?? Thanks, Steven |
| roger October 15, 2009 |
Here was ours Hello , Many thanks for your cordial response, and I am glad to hear you have availability covering the period of our stay. payment will be made by McNicholas Construction Company Ltd in US Funds let me have your info below. {+44-70457-53152 } {+44 70457 55022} N”B The method of payment is only by usa Certified Cheque or moneyorder FULL NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: ZIPCODE: STATE: COUNTRY: DURATION: TOTAL AMOUNT: EMAIL: TEL PHONE: PHYSICAL ADDRESSS(NOT PO BOX)…. PHONE NUMBER(BOTH LAND AND MOBILE)… Best regards, |
| hugues mike October 15, 2009 |
thank you for listing this about therrion wallace, we just saved ourselves from getting robbed by this guy “Hello I went to the Bank yesterday and today the payment has not reflected , i would want you to go to your Bank and confirm if still not send , you would have to send it through Western union ASAP so we can put hold on the date as we have proposal who want to hold date affecting yours as explained , i would be looking forward to hear from you so we can conclude with your reservation. Thanks Wallace Therrion ” Hello, We would accept you to deduct the sending charges from the deposit. my number is 6468071824 do call now as am in the office. Thanks |
| Helmut October 13, 2009 |
Dear Helmut,
Thanks for your responces ,We have just finished having a meeting with my clients this moment concerning renting your apartment and the price as you have tabled are ok by us, This clients are REAL ESTATE workers with PANALPINA GROUPS,My clients have agreed to go ahead with occupying the place for the period ,since they are group of 3 Adults and are being sponsored by there company they have decided to send you a Cheque of 1,467Euros been the full payment for the whole period according to them to be sure that they have finalized there booking since its there company who are taking sponsor of there trip an this is there method of payment to all there stafss travelling abroad this season,please kindly confirm your 1.FULL NAME to enable them send to you a Cheque for there payment while i will Now here name is Anna Daniels!! |
| Gabriella Dandoy October 12, 2009 |
—————————- Original Message —————————- Subject: Booking and rental contract From: “Frank Francis” Date: Mon, October 12, 2009 5:44 pm To: info@apartdeco.hu ————————————————————————– Thanks a lot for your mail and your understanding ,Well i am very happy to read from you back as regard the property would be available from 5 jan 2010 till 30th April 2010,I would like to let you know that i am okay with the asking price â?Z4.415,00 . Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement.I would have love to pay the Traveling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave America by Friday at most. As soon as you get the Euros Check ,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight expenses,BTA (Basic Travelers Allowance) and some other necessary paperwork’s. The balance should be sent to our traveling agent whose information i would give to you as soon as you receive payment. Frank Francis Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. if you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. Full Name on Euros Check or America Check : I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest. REPONSE A VOTRE ANNONCE AMIVAC/ ANSWER TO YOUR AD : |
| Ann Taylor October 4, 2009 |
I figured this was a scam and when I googled Therrion Wallace it let me to your site. Thanks! I also got almost the same email for a reference as the one from Redford.
Hello Thanks |
| Ruppen Olivier October 2, 2009 |
Thank you so much for this blog. David Francis tried the same with us but in vain.. |
| Case October 1, 2009 |
Thank you for listing this – we just saved ourselves from getting scammed by Therrion K. Wallace! What an unbelievable world we live in?! |
| Ronald Barron September 28, 2009 |
We received an inquiry via a German website (Ferienhausmarkt.com)for renting our house in France for 3 month from: dr_david0147@yahoo.com We know that it is a fraud and reporting this to you herewith. It exist a person with the name Dr. David Francis MD They obviously using this persons identity. Could you go in contact with Dr. D. Francis to warn him, please. Here the original text of the email we received on the 27.09.2009 from dr_david0147@yahoo.ca Concerning the payment arrangement,i am also assuring you that won’t be a problem as one of our company associate in state would be paying the one on my behalf and i had already spoke with him about this and he said that won’t be any problem that we should let him know when everything is set so that he can issue you out the payment Asap. The payment that you would be receiving will be in excess which you are to deduct the week rent and our flight arrangement. I would have love to pay the Travelling Agent but our company associate that would issue out the payment will leave Ireland by Friday at most. As soon as you get the Euros Check,you will get it deposited in your bank for clearance and after the money has been cleared into your account,you would deduct the upfront payment and send the remaining balance,which would be for our flight traveling agent whose information i would give to you as soon as you receive payment. Pls i want you to do this for me in good faith. If you comply,do not hesitate to provide me with these information. I would be very glad if you can be of a helping hand and hope to read back from you soonest.” |
| Nicolas V September 24, 2009 |
After the original inquiry, the guy sent this email:
Thanks for your mail…..Kindly get back to me with your payment information to send the payment to you Via Euro Bank draft,See details below fill it and get back to me the UPS Courier will deliver it to your physical address payment will be process and deliver to you tomorrow once i receive your details below. FULL NAME: Many thanks for your cordial response We replied to his email last week with all the details he asked…. und just understood today it was a scam… we haven’t heard back from him yet… |
| Nicolas V September 24, 2009 |
Hi there,
I am glad I found that blog too…. We received a rental inquiry for our property listed on VRBO.com The guy calls himself John Pottee and gives the same adress in Scotland again…… Here is his original inquiry: Inquiry Summary |
| Grateful September 21, 2009 |
Thanks to this site I have saved myself and my friends from this scam. This is the reply from the fictional Mr.Redford. I really do hope they catch this person one day! |
| Anja Jensen September 20, 2009 |
Thank God that I googled the rredford – mail address. We – a couple from Denmark almost got scammed too. He is now Mr Raymond Anderson and works under the email Grandluxuryapt@aol.com I will report him to Craigslist immidiately. Anybody got any housing in NYC in October ? |
| Milan September 20, 2009 |
Ok, here is how the story goes on: I have searched for a bank “Region Bank” but couldn’t find any. I replied to him that I tried to make the bank transfer but without success, and the reply came asap: I have to send the deposit with Western Union, maybe you will laugh when you read his funny explanation why my bank transfer failed – he “have put the account on hold for the Bank to clarify” a bad check sender: dreamplace3@aol.com “Hello |
| Milan September 19, 2009 |
I got similar reply, but what is interesting is that he wants the money with bank transfer, not western union. The name used is other: Therreion Wallace, dreamplace3@aol.com I’m pritty sure it’s the same guy “Hello |
| Barbara September 17, 2009 |
This email is targeting holiday villas in Florida via my website. A Southport telephone number at a Bristol address?
Sender’s Email Address: collins.black101@gmail.com Message content: Hello, I am, Collins Black i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates Decmeber 1th to Decmeber 5th 2009, for just me and my wife Susan Black, please send me details cost per week or per night. Lluestowen, Bristol Road, Frenchay Thank you for using Self Catering Holidays. |
| another victim of scam September 15, 2009 |
from: jim austin Name: jim austin E-Mail: jim_austin001@hotmail.com street: london Fon incl. intern. code: +447024096557 Hello, Am interested in renting your house for 1week starting 8-15th January 2010,kindly get back to me with your final asking price for the week. |
| John Gibbins September 14, 2009 |
Hi, we received this enquiry regrding our property in France as advertised on the www.holidaylettings.co.uk website.
The address given is the Swiss Tourist Board offices! Dear Nina & John, Thanks for your responces ,the names of this clients are Mr.Vassilis Grekas,Mr.Yogo Hadianis and Mrs Eleni Papas,my office address is below this email,We have just finished having a meeting with my clients this moment concerning renting your apartment and the price as you have tabled are ok by us, This clients are REAL ESTATE workers with PANALPINA GROUPS,My clients have agreed to go ahead with occupying the place for the period ,since they are group of 3 Adults and are being sponsored by there company they have decided to send you a Cheque of 897GBP been the full payment for the whole period according to them to be sure that they have finalized there booking since its there company who are taking sponsor of there trip an this is there method of payment to all there stafss travelling abroad this season,please kindly confirm your 1.FULL NAME to enable them send to you a Cheque for there payment while i will |
| Craig Mullins September 14, 2009 |
It’s getting very hard to catch them. |
| Ron Ruppe September 13, 2009 |
Here is what I received. Can’t wait to get the check! I guess I will be going to the Gendarmes with this.
Dear Ron, The payment cheque has been sent this moment to your designated address as you will be recieving it before the end of nextweek,please do let us know as soon as it gets to your destination to proceed. Thanks for your understanding and for making this reservation possible. — On Thu, 9/10/09, Claudine Ruppe wrote: From: Claudine Ruppe Dear Mrs. Jane Slovak: This sounds great. Once you have sent the check, it has been authenticated by our bank and the funds have been delivered by your bank to ours, we can take the next step. Look forward to finalizing this transaction with you. Regards, Ron Ruppe De : booking Dear Ruppe, Thanks for your mail,we appreciate your efforts,we confirm receipt of your full info for the payment,We are responding late because we really had to finalise things with this clients before coming back to you,our office address is below this Email though we advise you send us the contract via Email attachment as its fast and very simple as we can print as original an sign,This moment we have just finished with this clients /sponsor company regarding the payment preparation,I am glad to tell you that we have concluded payment arrangements with them hence the booking of the apartment should be confirmed,Moreover, because of the distance we were able to make an arrangement with a pre-paid car hiring agent who will supply the guests with vehicles and other logistics that will be used by the guests and fro your place.. Meanwhile as the payment Cheque has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there, however you will be recieving a cheque of 9,980Euros that will cover the cost of their accomodation which is 6,000Euros , while with your good office you send the balance of 3,980Euros to transport logistic agent for them to arrange Car hiring/ flight ticket to your property and other logistics arrangment, it is our duty to do this but because me and my husband will be out on holidays for 3weeks from Wenesday 16th Sept,we/they have decided to trust it on you to help us disburse the excess to the logistics so as to enable them continue with there’s, — On Wed, 9/9/09, Claudine Ruppe wrote: From: Claudine Ruppe Dear Mrs. Douglas: Thank you for your positive response. Please send me your mailing address so that I can forward a contract to you. If you wish to pay in full, that is not a problem. Please make the check out to: Jacqueline Ribo If you wish more information, please do not hesitate to call me: Ron Ruppe 33… De : booking Dear Ron, Thanks for your responce,we have waited to hear from you for sometime now ,We have just finished having a meeting with my clients this moment concerning renting your apartment and the price as you have tabled are ok by us, This clients are REAL ESTATE workers with PANALPINA GROUPS,My clients have agreed to go ahead with occupying the place for the period ,since they are group of 3 Adults and are being sponsored by there company ,they have decided to send you a Cheque of 6000Euros been the full payment for the whole period according to them to be sure that they have finalized there booking since its there company who are taking sponsor of there trip and this is there method of payment to all there staffs travelling abroad this season,while the security deposit will be paid cash on there arrival to your place,please kindly confirm your 1.FULL NAME to enable them send to you a Cheque for there payment while i will — On Sun, 9/6/09, Claudine Ruppe wrote: From: Claudine Ruppe Thank you for your interest in renting Chateau de ma Mere. It is available for the period that you requested. The weekly fee for the period is 2000 Euros. That would make the rental 6000 Euros for the period. If you are interested, we would need a deposit of 1800 Euros in advance and the remaining 4200 Euros would be paid at the time of your arrival plus a security deposit of 800 Euros. If you wish to rent the Chateau, we can forward you a rental agreement by mail and then you can return it with the deposit. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to email me. Regards, Ron Ruppe |
| Bill Henriques September 9, 2009 |
I knew this was too good (and suspicious) to be true…
Good day William, I am delighted to know you renting the place to me.Now,I can begin preparation for my departure to States asap. On the contrary to decorators,happy to inform you was able to finalise talks with a nice decorator from here (England) .They offered to furnish the place and also move our luggages too.But they do request,I send to them the room dimensions for them to work on. Please,once you got the check of $7,000,you have decorators portion of $5,400 sent to them via Western Union Money Transfer in England whist you allocate $1,600 to yourself ,as they have offer to furnish the place for me and also bring my luggage from here to US.Will send you their info once you confirm receipt of the check to me next week. Few Questions : Could you please send directions from the airport to the house ? Could you let us know the Elementary schools around ? How close is the house to Cinemas,Malls,Grocies and recreation centres ? Please fend off other interested renters and tell them this is ”RENTED” To call me dial as presented 011 27 71 733 8363 Expecting your swift response ! Gary On Mon, 07 Sep 2009 23:43:09 +0530 wrote I urgently need the place and want you reserve it for me asap. Gary Megson is my name ,38 yrs old,married with a daughter.I represent Qasex Company which deals in the manufacture of bulbs,starters,Hallogen lamps and other housing bulbs not leaving out studio too.We wanting to introduce our goods and services to the US market in few months time,and hope to compete with the standard products in market .My length of stay is for 24 months and wish to know if you could reserve the place for me for move-in on Sept 15th or Oct 1st ? The accountant has been instructed to issue out an initial US cashiers check payment of $7,000 as my relocation grant.Which is payment for move-in deposit and Decorations.The check will be made out to you,you allocate First month rent plus Deposit (for reservation till my arrival ) $1,600 while excess remitted to an Home Decorator via Western Union Money Transfer.The remains of $5,400 is meant for the purchase of appliances,House wares and other house hold items needed in the home allowance .I will appreciate your mutual understanding in regards to this arrangements so while you have the check,you shall have Decorators funds sent to them so as to get the Order placed with them shipped out on time before my arrival to States .I do not know of any decorator from US but I had a good one in England and they affirm they are able to handle the furnishings for me. To Issue out the check for deposit,kindly provide : You may send me lease for review ahead of time and I will love to sign all documents on ARRIVAL,as appending signatories are best done physically. Getting the info will enhance getting the certified check to you on time and have payment sorted out before my arrival. FOR RENTAL REFERENCE,YOU MAY CONTACT MY CURRENT LANDLORD ON : I would quickly send you the company’s website once available though ,it’s under construction due to recent development.It should be available very soon for viewing.By then,I should be able to send you the website link for viewing and verification. Looking Forward to meeting you ! Gary Megson On Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:45:59 +0530 wrote Because of its location,you can walk or bicycle to the store, shops, pubs,etc. 2nd Street and Ave A is the heart of downtown, but the house is in a quiet residential area. It is on the historic registry. Utilities are all-inclusive and will run you 100-250 depending on your lifestyle. There are ceiling fans throughout and all the windows are screened and open easily. Let me know what else you are interested about. Thanks! Bill |
| Cristina September 5, 2009 |
What about Anthony McKeeman? The property is Apt3c, 3nd floor, 341 West 47th Street> ,Cross st: Eighth & Ninth Avenues> YORK NY 10020> Midtown West He tells that I’ve to make a Money Transfer with Western Union… Really I don’t know where can I found trusted rentals by owner… I’ll continue looking for them… |
| thierry September 2, 2009 |
hello, now the name is changed again they operate under the name Elisabeth Douglas and they want to rent for eleni papas, yogo hadianis and vassilis grekas from the panalphina group … same story same thing with the cheque … I smelled it was not ok so I send them email I don not accept cheques and wanted scans of the renters passports … no I did not hear them anymore !!! |
| Ken Sladen September 1, 2009 |
September 1st
Still at it under in Craigs List Manhattan in the name of Raymond Lawrence at vacationlxryapt1@aol.com offering the exact same proposition as Penn. Beware of 115 Central Park West it is a sham and a scam. Fortunately I was suspicious enough to suggest a viewing – even fictitious – prior to deposit. This was rejected of course. I have reported this |
| Christine Zolman August 28, 2009 |
This fraud just happened to my family, except it was a house listed on craigs list in Topsail, NC. One of the worst parts of all of this, is when craigs list was contacted, they said they wouldn’t pull the fraudulent ad without a warrant…how many more people will be robbed thanks to their unwillingness to help? How sad. Craigs list is losing more and more credibility. Buyer BEWARE! |
| Rainbow G. August 27, 2009 |
I was an unfortunate one that sent her money…she didnt have me wire the money…she gave me an actual Bank of America account number. The name on the Account was Rosalba Cedillo….she may be also going my that name as well. |
| Hedwig & Agusti Janés August 18, 2009 |
Happy to discover your blog! On August 18, 2009, the following message reached us here in France through our ad on www.abritel.fr (Groupe HomeAway) Nom : Mrs L Dougls Numéro de téléphone : 44 +41762523995 E-mail : ertserve@rocketmail.com Date de séjour souhaitée : 11/10/2009 Durée du séjour : 3 semaines Nombre de personnes : 3 Message du vacancier : Dear Sir/Madam, Please do let us know if you have avialability in your place at our estimated time as we have clients who needs the place for this period. Thanks for your understanding. Mrs Lizzy Despite some doubts we confirmed availability but the reply corroborates the suspicion that they are doing their foul work from Zurich, Switzerland, too: Dear Hedwig and Agusti Janés Thanks for your responce,please do let us know the Total Cost of the home for the whole number of nights we have marked including all,this is to enable us be sure before proceeding with the reservation. Thanks for your understanding. Mrs Elizabeth Douglas(EUROAGENTS/CONSULTANTS) +417625233995,Tödistrasse 7, 8027 Zürich , Switzerland What authorities shall we inform about these activities? Thanks for your help. |
| Ara August 11, 2009 |
we nearly be scammed by Phil E. Luciano in may, the emails were the same you wrote before. I already sent the money via western union, I went home and fortunatelly (I dont know how) a friend found an article that said it was a fraud: www.pjstar.com/…/Luciano-You-ve-got-the-wrong-Luciano I ran to the post office and could cancel the tranfer. if i had lasted 15 minutes more, i would have lost 1500 euros. But it could be worse… 7 spanish students with not much idea in english at 10pm with no place to sleep in… horror!! Finally we could cancel it, we reserved all week in a hostel and or trip was fabulous. The hostel wasnt the luxury apartment but… it was nice. Furious, I have seen the link http://2025545.tenant.com/, the same photos lovely luciano sent us. I hope no more people will be scammed by this “CABRON”!! Sorry about my english! Ara_Sevilla_España! |
| CST August 7, 2009 |
This email address is still being used. Received a spam inquiry this week.
He is using this address: |
| dedel August 6, 2009 |
I received a similar offer and e-mails they still wait for my confirmation what can I do to help police Dear d… ,Thanks ,for your mail ,the rental agreement will be signed and send together with the payment ,we appreciate your efforts,we confirm receipt of your full info for the payment,We are responding late because we really had to finalise things with this clients before coming back to you….This moment we have just finished with this clients /sponsor company regarding the payment preparation,I am glad to tell you that we have concluded payment arrangements with them hence the booking of the apartment should be confirmed,Moreover because of the distance there is a new development as we were able to make an arrangement with a pre-paid car hiring agent who will supply the guests with vehicles and other logistics that will be used by the guests and fro your place.. Meanwhile as the payment Draft has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there,however you will be recieving a Draft of 4,500Euros that will cover the cost of their accomodation which is $3000USD,while with your good office you send the balance of $3,850 to transport logistic agent for them to arrange Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address of the logistic agent ASAP:Please remember that the integrity of our agency is involved, so this business requires prompt response. I also hope that my clients stay will dear sir ALPHA BANK STOURNARI STREET BRANCH,ATHENS GREECE. but i would prefer you send the funds to me via Western/Union on my name or my wifes name JANET EDWARDS,Destination ATHENS GREECE, i have suggested this |
| Andy August 5, 2009 |
I received a similar offer and e-mails with the same language as Cathy did from an ‘Elisabeth Douglas’ with the same coordinates in Zurich. The e-mail follows:
Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2009 05:28:43 -0700 (PDT) Dear Andrew, Thanks for your mail ,we appreciate your efforts,we confirm receipt of your full info for the payment,the booking form will be filled and returned with the payment cheque, the security deposit cheque will be handed over to Virginie on there arrival there,We are responding late because we really had to finalise things with this clients before coming back to you….This moment we have just finished with this clients /sponsor company regarding the payment preparation,I am glad to tell you that we have concluded payment arrangements with them hence the booking of the apartment should be confirmed,Moreover, there is a new development as because of the distance we were able to make an arrangement with a pre-paid car hiring agent who will supply the guests with vehicles and other logistics that will be used by the guests and fro your place.. Meanwhile as the payment Cheque has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there, however you will be recieving a cheque of 4,200Euros that will cover the cost of their accomodation which is 1,175Euros , while with your good office you send the balance of 3,025Euros to transport logistic agent for them to arrange Car hiring/ flight ticket to your property and other logistics arrangment, it is our duty to do this but because for now we have not finalized with the Logistics yet, and coupled with the fact that me and my husband will be out on holidays for 3weeks from Wenesday 12th of Aug,we/they have decided to trust it on you to help us disburse the excess to the logistics so as to enable them continue with there’s, Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address of the logistic agent ASAP:Please remember that the integrity of our agency is involved, so this business requires prompt response. I also hope that my clients stay will be comfortable in your apartment? I wait for your confirmation and have a wonderful day. |
| FURIOUS July 23, 2009 |
The listing is back on Craigslist. I have just reported it to their legal department by sending them this email…
Dear Craigslist, Please be advised that the following link is part of a scam racket: http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1284388876.html We very nearly lost $1800 this week to these people and only just realised in time that the apartment wasn’t for real, thanks to this blog that I found. http://blog.rentalseal.com/fraud-listings/2008/08/fraud-vacation-rental-listing-in-new-york-from-joe-harrison/ You can read all about the previous scams here too, and my comments are the ones at the bottom under the name “FURIOUS”. Since cancelling the money order, ‘Richard Penn’ is now constantly calling all our phone numbers (unfortunately submitted with our initial booking form) and also sending multiple emails harrassing us and wanting to know where the money is. Please could you remove this listing ASAP and any other listings by the group? I would hate to think someone else was being scammed in the same way we nearly were! Many thanks, and a response would be appreciated. |
| STILL FURIOUS July 23, 2009 |
He’s now calling both our mobiles (unfortunately sent to him with our initial booking form). Wish we knew where he was so we could have him arrested for harrassment!! |
| STILL FURIOUS July 22, 2009 |
Further to my notes above, we are now being harrassed by mail AND phone by ‘Richard’ because he can’t get the money. He’s called my cell, my partners cell, and our home phone line. Oh well, I guess the silver lining is that instead of him stealing our money, it’s now probably costing a fortune to call us as we live in another country |
| FURIOUS July 21, 2009 |
And this from the House Rentals site:
“We have removed this member and his listing from houserentals.us. Thank you very much for informing us. Kind regards The HouseRentals.us Team” http://www.HouseRentals.us |
| FURIOUS July 21, 2009 |
Just got this response from the ‘Ravant’ website person:
Thanks so much for giving us a heads up and protecting others from |
| FURIOUS July 21, 2009 |
These too!
http://www.houserentals.us/detail.php?fatherID=42&TypeID=48&ListingID=79 http://www.viscape.com/properties/14762/new_york_city_enchanting_4b5b_luxury_apartment |
| FURIOUS July 21, 2009 |
Just emailed these people too: http://2025545.tenant.com/ |
| FURIOUS July 21, 2009 |
Oh, and he also listed the ‘Redford Family’ as a reference contact too.
Here is the email I just sent to the Ravant website re: the other listing mentioned above… Good morning, please be aware that this listing is a scam: http://www.ravant.com/viewProperty.html;jsessionid=CE196D494525DCFB02F0B2BCF15EC279?id=17614 The owner ‘Richard Penn’ doesn’t exist, and we very nearly lost $1800! If you need to see evidence of others being scammed by this person/company, check out: http://blog.rentalseal.com/fraud-listings/2008/08/fraud-vacation-rental-listing-in-new-york-from-joe-harrison/#comment-326 And also: http://winstonsalem.craigslist.org/apa/1279255254.html – looks like he’s doing it outside of NYC too. Do you know if it possible to report this to the police? We actually confirmed a booking and he sent us his address, although I don’t know if it’s legit or not. In case you can take any action, he is using the email address and listed his address as: Richard Penn Thanks for your time and I’d be interested to receive a response if possible. Thanks. |
| FURIOUS July 21, 2009 |
OMG we are so naive!
For the last few days we’ve been talking to ‘Richard Penn’ and just confirmed a booking for next year when we go to NYC for our wedding! The b*stard sent us lovely emails and we actually wired the money via Western Union this morning – but then this evening I had a funny feeling and Googled his name, only to come across this site (and a number of other sites too) talking about the same thing. Luckily, we just called Western Union and they managed to cancel the transaction as it hadn’t been received by ‘Richard’ yet – and thank god, it was the last of our savings for our wedding!! He’s removed the ad from Craigslist today, but it can still be viewed on this site: http://www.ravant.com/viewProperty.html;jsessionid=CE196D494525DCFB02F0B2BCF15EC279?id=17614 I’m going to email them now and report the fraud. Really hope no-one else has been scammed! |
| Y.F.H. July 15, 2009 |
My friends and I have found that beautiful luxury apartment (4 bedrooms / 5 bathrooms / upper west side / 26th floor / 3000sf) at new york craig list. The name of the owner is Richard Penn. I have contact him and got the same mail like the others above. We wanted to pay him the deposit by western union tomorrow. thank god, that a friend showed me that blog! We would have lost 1500dollar. |
| MJ July 13, 2009 |
We just received a request from this same “couple”, only their names were dan and susan molar. Thank goodness for this blog!?! Beware! |
| John July 10, 2009 |
dave dennis dave.dennis05@gmail.com + 1 +447045755022 |
| Justine July 7, 2009 |
Just got an inquiry today from Dave Dennis (and wife Janet) from McNicholas for dates in October. |
| cathy Hillman July 6, 2009 |
his is the email I received:probably the same team: this is based in Zurich & want to come to France. Check this out & don’t be deceived Dear Cathy, Thanks for your mail ,we appreciate your efforts,we confirm receipt of your full info for the payment,We are responding late because we really had to finalise things with this clients before coming back to you…..This moment we have just finished with this clients /sponsor company regarding the payment preparation,I am glad to tell you that we have concluded payment arrangements with them hence the booking of the apartment should be confirmed,Moreover we have a new development considering the distance we were able to make an arrangement with a pre-paid car hiring agent who will supply the guests with vehicles and other logistics that will be used by the guests and fro your place.. Meanwhile as the payment Cheque has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there, however you will be recieving a cheque of 5,900Euros that will cover the cost of their accomodation which is 2,000Euros , while with your good office you send the balance of 3,900 to transport logistic agent for them to arrange Car hiring/ flight ticket to your property and other logistics arrangment, it is our duty to do this but because me and my husband will be out on holidays for 3weeks from Wenesday 15th july,we/they have decided to trust it on you to help us disburse the excess to the logistics so as to enable them continue with there’s,. Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address of the logistic agent ASAP:Please remember that the integrity of our agency is involved, so this business requires prompt response. I also hope that my clients stay will be comfortable in your apartment? I wait for your confirmation and have a wonderful day. |
| Esther July 3, 2009 |
So I get an email from a “Robert Clayman” about a driving job, which I had asked about. Then I start reading the email, which is written by a “Jimmy Greer” from McNicholas Construction Company Ltd (which by the way, is a legitimate company in the UK) and I decided it was a scam. Just a tip to everyone: NEVER TAKE A CASHIER’S CHECK FROM AN EMAIL! Most of the time, these fraudulent checks won’t even clear, but if they do, you’re asking for trouble if you take the money.
Anyway, here’s the email: ————- Hello, Hope this message finds you well,My Name is Jimmy Greer,Thanks for your response concerning the DRIVING JOB position..I am the present Manager of McNicholas Construction Company Ltd,We are specialized in taking exhibitions,holding lectures and special events for both adult and youth education activities in architectural development.I would be coming over to the United State for a private research on educational architectural and construction design and would be working with The United State Architecture Foundation (USAF) and i am glad to read from you as regards the driving job.I have good preparation concerning my pick up and for other purposes which i might need you for,which everything is okay with me.I will be arriving on July 20 TH 2009.I will prefer you have your car IF NOT i can make arrangements to get you a car ASAP. I am offering you $650 weekly and you will make yourself available 3 times a week to my schedule and this is going to last for quite a While..You will be working on Monday,Thursday and Friday.You will be picking me up in the morning by 10:00 AM and dropping me off at my Destination then picking me up again by 5:00 PM and driving me back to my Hotel.You will be picking me up from the airport to the hotel on my first arrival and i will be arriving in the morning around 9:00AM to 10:00AM.I will Instruct my Secretary in the State to send you a cashier’s check that will cover your first week payment which is $650 and $200 for gas,so you will deduct a total of $850 and my travelling expenses will be included in the payment you will receive.All details regarding my travelling will be provided to you as soon as you receive the payment.Get back to me as soon as possible with the following details to prepare the payment by my Secretary so that the payment can be mailed out to you ASAP. NEEDED INFORMATION FULL NAME ALL YOUR INFORMATION SHOULD BE SENT TO: jimmygrr421@gmail.com Once you get back with the requested information,the payment will be prepared and sent to you as soon as possible I await the details soonest for payment,so i can start my travelling plans ASAP. Best Regards, ———– Again: IF THEY’RE PROMISING YOU THAT THEIR SECRETARY/AGENT/DRIVER/ETC. WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO SEND YOU A CASHIER’S CHECK, IT’S A SCAM! |
| reunion condo June 30, 2009 |
apparantly he has another name: Kingshan Berry, but he’s still working for McNicholas Construction Company. his new wife is Rosemary. i tried to call him when he sent me the e-mail below saying he was going to pay by check.
the inquiry came through “homeaway” BY the Way…has anyone thought about getting his check, and then just depositing it and seeing what happened. never send anything back just keep the check? this was his original inquiry: Inquiry Summary> Alright, kindly make a booking for myself and my wife only for the FULL NAME: |
| jdbower June 23, 2009 |
We just emailed Richard Penn asking for references. We were ready to send him $900.00 tomorrow but just had this funny feeling….. where are the most effective places to report this fraud |
| J C June 18, 2009 |
He is now using the name Richard Penn Same exact verbage as the posts above! |
| LP June 6, 2009 |
Our prospectively well-travelled couple are now hoping for a vacation in New Mexico, under the names Henry and Flora Barrack! So glad I googled the McNicholas Construction company and found this site before proceeding, as something didn’t ring quite true… I’d love to pass this on to the FBI, but have no idea how to, so I’ll add my warning to everyone else’s. Thanks so much for saving me at least embarassment, at worst money (though I would have oped out at that point). |
| Stew June 3, 2009 |
He has changed his name again…
kenneth babcock + 44 +447045787461 |
| DeAnn June 1, 2009 |
Thanks for the warning – I am glad that I investigated further when it sounded too good to be true. I am very sorry for those whom were victimized by this criminal. |
| Anita Jones May 29, 2009 |
I was looking at another rental in London. Completely different from these but I was suspicious b/c he wanted payment via bank transfer instead of credit card. Isn’t bank transfer just as unsafe for me (not him) as any other wire transfer (like Western Union)? |
| TC May 25, 2009 |
Back in April, he was Jerry Williams, and married to Mary ( I wonder if she knows about Janet, Sara, Jane, Rosekate…) He was still working for the same construction company in Aberdeen. He was dreaming of two weeks in our flat in the South of France. Not sure how he would have coped with the french language given his tenuous grasp of the english. It’s probably for the best that he won’t be coming. Not sure what is the thrill or the threat in this scam. |
| chris shepherd May 20, 2009 |
mail to me today from 62.173.35.6 nigeria |
| chris shepherd May 20, 2009 |
not sure about this dont know if i am being scamed lady wants to meet me been in contact for most of this year the ip changes a lot not bad content but ip comes up for scams the thing is i trust her if its a her |
| Guillaume Normand May 19, 2009 |
This building does not even exist!! |
| admin May 16, 2009 |
Yes – definitely be wary! This building can not be rented less than 3K per week. If you can not get in touch with the owner on the phone – run! |
| yves sebagh May 13, 2009 |
he his now kenneth kim looking for renting in st marteen for 1-17 august 2009 thank you for your info he will ear about me |
| Mushka May 12, 2009 |
I have been checking out another place at that same address. Would it be a scam as well? If they ask for a bank to bank transfer, should I be wary? |
| Lina May 11, 2009 |
Almost got scammed by Wash DC rental – same text as Danya. My brother found his site through Craig’s List, who we’re letting know about this. Thanks for making this guy known… |
| brent May 11, 2009 |
thank you for this, seems like he is runningthis scam in washington dc craigslist as well, tried warning them but to no avail, got an email today:
Thanks for your interest in our property, they is no additional charges to use the pool and health club facility. your dates happens to fall within our special discount period and comes available at a total rates of $300 per night , deposit is needed to hold dates though . We do have proposals coming for dates affecting yours so you would have to respond ASAP. The apartment is located at 402 8th Street, NW (at E Street) Washington DC 20004 . You are fully self sufficient here and the apartment comes with a full kitchen, daily cleaning services. we offer free parking {garage}, airport shuttle, though this is subject to confirmation on your arrival dates from us, your travel details has to be filled on the forms for us to log you in. let us know via email if you are ready to hold those dates as the deposit has to be paid before Saturday April 4th {24hrs to arrival date} so we can have the booking forms sent to you. Thanks |
| parisepinettes May 10, 2009 |
Dimanche 10 Mai 2009 19h26mn 49s
This is a message about the Ad you have listed on Easier.com. Your Ad Reference 215251 Message from Name Paul Email dr_paul099@live.com Telephone +447024037047 Message O.K To remove this Ad please send an email to removead@easiermedia.com stating the Ad Reference and we will delete it from our web site. Message O.K Courrier électronique: Frank.0147 @ rocketmail.com Téléphone: +447024037047 IP: 62.173.35.6, Nigeria – en utilisant également 217.14.91.148 Renseignements: Assurez-vous de revenir à moi avec le prix, mais si la propriété n’est pas disponible à partir de mai, Assurez-vous de revenir à moi avec la date disponible dans le temps. |
| Pat May 9, 2009 |
He is a/k/a Kenneth Kim looking for accommodations in Kauai for August 1-17, 2009. |
| holly May 9, 2009 |
he is now kenneth kim. |
| holly May 9, 2009 |
we just got it from kenneth kim and his wife maria. same gig. i got suspicious and googled the home address and this came up. we did give up our home address. what can happen? |
| Jackie B May 7, 2009 |
He now goes by the name Kenneth Kim. I too googled the constructiob company. This is the 2nd fraudelent email I have received recently through Homeaway. Beware! Here is the email I received: Kenneth Kim Email: kenneth_kim01@yahoo.com Phone #: + 1 +447045753152 Arrival date: Aug 1 2009 Departure date: Aug 17 2009 Total # in party: 2 (including children) No of children: 0 Further info: Hello, I am,Kenneth Kim i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates August 1th to August 17th 2009, for just me and my wife Maria Kim, please send me details cost per week or per night. Lluestowen, Bristol Road, Frenchay Bristol BS16 1LQ U.K.. |
| Jennifer May 5, 2009 |
My husband and I own a towing service and he just called today asking if we could store two Escalades for him for one week. I am so glad I searched the web. I had a bad feeling about him! |
| Jackie May 5, 2009 |
I just came across this ad on craigslist, and got a reply from llxryfurnishapt1@aol.com, signed by J. Waters.
BEWARE! |
| Jeff B May 4, 2009 |
I posted a comment on 5/3 and it showed up immediately. Today it has disappeared. Anybody know whats up with that? |
| Jeff B May 3, 2009 |
I have received the same email from ‘daves obodo’ who works for the same construction company in Aberdeen. Have also received similar emails from a “rosalinda Florence’ received a check as well which was accepted by my bank as a bank check. Same MO, overpayment, send surplus to transportation company.
My daughter is a lawyer in the New Hampshire Attorney General’s office and has seen this scam dozens of times in slightly different formats. Once you have wired the overpayment to the third party the initial check is voided and you are out the amount wired. If someone has filed a complaint with the FBI or a police dept. would you please let me know so I can share the evidence. |
| Lynn Ting April 30, 2009 |
I wrote the above message about the email that I had received from Gary Nice,I did spell Mc Nicholas constuction company the wrong way but it is obviously the same scam,foolishly I did fill in the form,does anyone know if he can use my details for anything dodgy? Also had an email from Kate,I see she is mentioned as one of his wives her email is lokakat12@yahoo.com phone number 7319872578 i googled the number and it is in Tenessee.I sent an email to her apparently there is no such email account with yahoo. |
| Lynn Ting April 30, 2009 |
Also had one from Kate, email lokakat12@yahoo.com asking to book my apartment and when I replied it came back to me that she has no account with yahoo. |
| Lynn Ting April 30, 2009 |
I had a booking from Gary Nice to rent my apartment from 1st to 17th June and was told that I would be paid in US dollars by his construction company McNicholls obviously the same person sending the other fraudulant emails.what a waste of my time!! |
| Lynn Ting April 30, 2009 |
Hi,I also receied a booking enquiry from a so called Gary Nice who wanted to book my apartment from 1st June to 17th June,he sent me a form with MC nichols details and asked me to foreward my name address etc.to him and told me I would be paid by his company in US dollars. What do they get out of this!! |
| kathy April 30, 2009 |
Do they really think people are stupid!! Also using the name Jersey Lee – this telephone # 206-339-8019, email: leejersey9@gmail.com |
| Sir April 28, 2009 |
I think “Cindy Harry” might be a scam… “she” wrote back to every mail, until we said we wanted a friend of us to visit the apartment… We haven´t heard from “her” since then… |
| William M April 25, 2009 |
The scam still goes on. This time, on 4/22/09: Name: billy mongan Email: billy_mongan@yahoo.com Phone #: + 1 +447045753152 Arrival date: Aug 1 2009 Departure date: Aug 17 2009 Total # in party: 2 (including children) No of children: 0 Further info: Hello, I am,Billy Mongan i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates August 1th to August 17th 2009, for just me and my wife Janet, please send me details cost per week or per night. Lluestowen, Bristol Road, Frenchay Bristol BS16 1LQ U.K.. |
| john carr April 22, 2009 |
Gary’s brother is Bill Watson. Here you go…
From: Bill Douglas [mailto:billdouglas53@gmail.com] Hello , Best regards |
| BetsyB April 17, 2009 |
Quite the traveler. He also pulled the same story under the name “Gary Nice” in trying to rent our property in DE in June. What I can’t figure out is what he’s actually getting out of all this. Are folks really naive enough to send him back money from the check his company mistakenly included his travel money in? What else is in it for this guy?? We also had a “Brent Watson” just a few days before posing an an oil rig operator in CA. Same grammar and circumstances! |
| Allison Slater April 17, 2009 |
We almost got scammed by John Waters, who also proposed that we email the family currently renting the place at rredford1964@gmail.com.
DO NOT FALL FOR THIS SCAM! |
| DT April 15, 2009 |
another version.
Hello , Best regards |
| Lucy Ess April 15, 2009 |
He is also using the following email address : llxryfurnishapt1@aol.com and acting as John Waters. He will give you the Redford Family to contact as a reference at this email….rredford1964@gmail.com |
| Bob de marque April 15, 2009 |
Pour les français, il est toujours actif. Grace à ce message, nous avons éviter de perdre 1000 $ ! Alors que nous recherchions un appart’ pour le mois de mai 2009
Voici le mel que nous avons reçu : The deposit to be paid now is $1000 which is inclusive of the rates and the balance $750 paid at check in date. I have attached the booking forms. You would have to fill them out and pay the deposit via paypal or money gram money transfer,do visit their web site www.moneygram.com or http://www.moneygram.com/eFindUs/findUs.do?countryCode=US&languageCode=en to locate the closest agent location to you. You would have to return to me along with the scanned attached receipt given to you at money gram as confirmation of deposit paid and the booking forms via EMAIL. Payment is to be made to my accountant Name: Fredia Quick This is fast and insures quick hold on the dates. Cancellation policy is on the forms and check out time also. We offer free pick up service, if interested in this, you would have to fill out the space in the forms, this involves picking you up and also taking you back to the airport.. Check in is done at the front desk upon presentation of the original receipt of payments. And keys given then. we do have a tour guide to help you not only with your shopping, sight seeing but major broad way shows also, do get back to me ASAP. Do let us know when to expect the deposit, as we do have another party interested in holding dates affecting yours soon. And also if you do have any questions, am presently working NOT from the office so you would have to send me an email ok. |
| Tim R April 8, 2009 |
We got exactly the same email regarding a rental in France from “Sgt. Pony Jack” – Googled the phone number (oddly, with Idaho area code) and found this blog. Damn, thought we had a bite on a rental.
My Name is Sgt pony jack of the Persian Gulf,with members of the Hawai’i Air National Guard’s 154th Security Forces Squadron.In respect of your rental,I am planning a surprise vacation gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife alone with treat while currently on an active duty,the scheduled date will be 1st – 15th may.2009, (15nights)if this has already been booked.please advice on the nearest 14nights you have available, cost for the period, Security Deposit,Cleaning fees, and Tax,all been totaled plus any order major services to be rendered,for the couple alone,no pets,they don’t smoke either.l will need to conclude this booking early enough for them to avoid any inconvenience during there stay. |
| samuel April 6, 2009 |
cole vc ta ai |
| Steve Kullen April 4, 2009 |
Same phone number: below is the rental request from “Ashley Phillips – ashleyphillip1001@gmail.com
Hello, we are a retired couple looking for a place to stay for october 2009, kindly send me the quote of your home, we will book it. we have read all the detailed info. We are also flexible in our date. Checking In: july 25th,2009 Checking Out:august 1st, 2009 Note: Only me and my wife, No kids and pet. |
| Mark April 3, 2009 |
I just received the following email. I googled the “construction company” which is how I stumbled across this blog. What do people such as this hope to gain by these fake rental inquiries? What damage can they do to us? Here is his email:
Inquiry Summary |
| Danya April 2, 2009 |
he has this same scam in Washington DC: Hello Please note we do have limited dates available so you would have to respond soon. Totals rates for 2 nights is $700. The deposit to be paid now is $900 which is inclusive of the rates and the balance $200 refunded at check out date, You are entitled to a full refund upon cancellation though. for reference you can write to the Gilford Family presently renting at garygilford@gmail.com . I have attached the booking forms.You would have to fill them out and pay the deposit via moneygram money transfer, do visit their web site www.moneygram.com to locate the closest agent location to you. You would have to return to me along with the scanned attached receipt given to you at money gram as confirmation of deposit paid and the booking forms via EMAIL or FAX. 206-202-5606. Information to pay the deposit to are Greg Luciano 402 8th Street, NW (at E Street) Washington DC DC 20004 For the free pick up service, if interested in this, you would have to fill out the space in the forms {when you are sure of your travel details}, this involves picking you up and also taking you back to the airport, since your party is arriving separately, you should fill out the different travel times and the number of party in each ok. check in is done at the front desk upon presentation of the original receipt of payments. and keys given then. Please state were we would have to send your receipt from us to ok. do let us know when to expect the deposit , as the deposit has to be paid ASAP since we do have someone looking to hold dates affecting yours . am not working from the office so you would have to send me an email ok. Thanks |
| Ryan April 1, 2009 |
Scamming Washington DC rentals. Greg E. Luciano llxryfurnishapt1@aol.com Same basic email text as referenced above. Because of the AOL email address I was curious and asked him for references and the building manager. No reply so I found this site. |
| host March 31, 2009 |
beware – same rental:
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1086847132.html |
| Maggie Hutchinson March 31, 2009 |
I can confirm that this loser is still active – I have just received this email an hour ago and thank goodness I found this site before handing over my hard earned money!!!!!
Thanks for your interest in our property, your dates happens to fall within our special discount period and comes available at a daily rates of $8000 per month which does include all utilities and tax,deposit is needed to hold dates though . We do have proposals coming for dates affecting yours so you would have to respond ASAP. The apartment is located at 148 w 57 th street manhattan NY 10019, This is a doorman building which has got an elevator, and the building is wheelchair accessible. The apartment is located on the 26 th floor with a great view of central park from the living room and all four bedrooms which can sleep a maximum of ten. You are fully self sufficient here and the apartment comes with a full kitchen, daily cleaning services. we offer free parking {garage}, airport shuttle, though this is subject to confirmation on your arrival dates from us, your travel details has to be filled on the forms for us to log you in. let us know via email if you are ready to hold those dates so we can have the booking forms sent to you Find the attached pictures Thanks |
| Ron M March 29, 2009 |
For all you renters out there I do hope you that have contacted your local police as well as the FBI. The FBI has a special unit to investigate these things and should rightly do so. Realize that for everyone of you that blogged or reported this, 10 others were likely taken and never reported this. As a vacationer that has benefitted from great properties and wonderful prices over the year, not to mention the flexibility of checking in early, staying late, etc. I sincerely appreciate what you do to make our vacations a lifetime experience and hope these jerk-off scammers don’t taint the open, honest way you do business. We vacationers truly appreciate you!!! |
| B Moore March 29, 2009 |
Hi, We have also received the scam from Gary Mice and wife Rosemary wanting to stay in Bulgaria. We sent our postal details but suspected things were not right when he emailed advising that his company had overpaid and sent too much money to our account. Thanks to this site, we have limited our embarrasment and reduced our wasted time! Was the scam an expectation for us to send him money before cashing his dud cheque? Thanks again. |
| JB March 29, 2009 |
From Gary (Not so) Nice:
Hello , |
| Joy Chaplin March 29, 2009 |
He is still out there – calling himself Gary Nice in my enquiry! |
| Barbara March 29, 2009 |
He is using the name “Gary Nice” – but the body of the letter is the same. |
| sabine March 28, 2009 |
I got the same mail in Berlin, he wanted to rent our house in france and googled the company But I don’t understand, why he is doing it and what is his aim “Hello, I am Jerry Williams, i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM, i will be coming to France for vacation, i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 7th of July 2009 to the 21st of July 2009, for just me and my wife Mary,please send me details cost per week or per night. Besides my date is flexible in case if it’s not available just let me know when it’s going to be available. jerrywilliams1966@yahoo.com Jerry. later: Best regards, |
| gary nice March 27, 2009 |
Hello, I am,Gary Nice i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 1st of June on to the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife Rosemary, please send me details cost per week or per night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| s reed March 23, 2009 |
Hello, I am, Gary Mice i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM, i will be coming to bulgaria for vacation, i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 1st of June on to the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife Rosemary, please send me details cost per week or per night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| Maria March 23, 2009 |
I too received an email from this guy using the name ‘Gary Mice’ asking for rental for himself and his wife ‘rosmary’ in june 2009. Right from the start he seemed very shady to me – just by the way he worded his emails – very abrupt, rude and with very bad English and grammar. I replied and told him the dates were not available and then he asked me for alternative dates – I then rang the telephone that he supplied (same as above) and he replied – with a very aggressive sounding voice – he just kept saying ‘alo’ alo alo – It appeared like he hardly spoke English.
In his emails he said that he worked for McNicholas Construction Co Ltd in Abrerdeen, Scotland, UK – just everything about his mails is dodgy and it was obvious to me from the start that he not a genuine renter – but just to make sure I also googled his company etc… and found this site – I intend to always google everyone who doesn’t seem quite ‘normal’ in future. |
| Aimee March 23, 2009 |
Grrrr! I HATE these people! They waste so much of my time! Hotel industry, please be aware also: johncole_07@yahoo.co.uk = SCAM!!! |
| Meredith White March 22, 2009 |
Did anyone find out about “Cindy Harry” Is “she” a scam or not? |
| Dubai March 22, 2009 |
Still scamming.. just received this today.
Thanks for your interest in our property, your dates happens to fall within our special discount period and comes available at a daily rates of $8000 per month which does include all utilities and tax,deposit is needed to hold dates though . We do have proposals coming for dates affecting yours so you would have to respond ASAP. The apartment is located at 148 w 57 th street manhattan NY 10019, This is a doorman building which has got an elevator, and the building is wheelchair accessible. The apartment is located on the 26 th floor with a great view of central park from the living room and all four bedrooms which can sleep a maximum of ten. You are fully self sufficient here and the apartment comes with a full kitchen, daily cleaning services. we offer free parking {garage}, airport shuttle, though this is subject to confirmation on your arrival dates from us, your travel details has to be filled on the forms for us to log you in. let us know via email if you are ready to hold those dates so we can have the booking forms sent to you Find the attached pictures Thanks llxryfurnishapt1@aol.com |
| Denise Tozer March 21, 2009 |
Like all you other folk we too have had communication from our friend who now calls himself Gary Mice who wants to book our accommodation from 1st June 2009 for 16 nights for himself and his wife. I had my suspicions as I couldn’t understand why only two people would want to rent a large property. His wife is now called Rosemary !! He is still using McNicholas Construction Aberdeen as his address. |
| Judy S March 17, 2009 |
Ditto. The same exact set of letters but this person claimed he was Sgt Anthony Bolante (or, actually, he switched the names and said he was Bolante Anthony). |
| Michael Breen March 11, 2009 |
Guess he is still looking for that puppy. I heard from him yesterday. Being in network security operations I looked this guy up and found this site – I love the internet. Here is the letter to purchase a Coton de Tulear puppy (still for sale).
Hi.. (1) Full Name Best Regards |
| Lucinda Coffey March 9, 2009 |
Our friend is at it again–here’s his new name (kinda lame)
On Mon, Mar 9, 2009 at 9:36 AM, Morris Ben wrote: Hello ,do get me booked for the June 1st-14th it is ok by me, please provide me the cost and the payment details below, and I am glad to hear you have availability. Full payment will be made in us funds let me have your info below. Best regards |
| Nanette Teodoro March 9, 2009 |
The contradiction within the paragraph alerted me: he has a definite time frame yet his stay is flexible. It smelled scammy. Here it is:
Inquiry Summary |
| PGlatt March 8, 2009 |
More of the same. Suspected it immediately due to the poor English grammar from a Scot…NOT! Hello, I am,dave nicolas i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 1st of June on to the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife mary, please send me details cost per week or per night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. ========== |
| Victoria S March 8, 2009 |
he’s still on craigslist as of today – i almost rented this place!! |
| Victoria Smith March 8, 2009 |
So – are you saying he’s a con artist? Because he has this rental property on craigslist and my friend I were going to rent it. Sounds like he’s a fraud. Please confirm I am understanding this correctly. Thanks! |
| almost caught March 5, 2009 |
Hi there, Just received one from “Thompson Rice”. Apparently he did not appreciate when I told him that I could only accept money orders a certain way. Did anyone else give out their home address? |
| Kyrre Nessa March 3, 2009 |
> Name: gary desmond > E-mail: gary_desmond175@yahoo.com > Tel: + 1 +447045753152 > Arrival date: Monday, 01 June 2009 > Departure date: Friday, 17 July 2009 > Total no in party: 2 (including children) > No of children: 0 > Further info: > Hello, > I am, Gary Desmond i work with McNicholas > Construction Company Ltd here in the > ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM, i will be coming > to hungary for vacation, i will like to know if you > have availability for this dates 1st of June on to > the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife > Rosemary, please send me details cost per week or per > night. > 104a Greenbank Crescent > East Tullos, Aberdeen > AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| Ken Jones March 2, 2009 |
we’ve received exactly the same emails as well from Gary Desmond. we had a hunch things weren’t right after he asked for all our personal info. We never accept cheques only bank transfers or pay pal. Although this sometimes puts people off, we’d prefer to lose a booking than get caught out by people like this |
| Michael G March 1, 2009 |
I’m shocked. Looked for a vacation rental in London.
I sent requests to three: http://london.craigslist.co.uk/vac/1052500902.html the funny thing is that I just mailed this guy (posing as a jeff holms) http://london.craigslist.co.uk/vac/1053466982.html By the ways, all apartments are well located, great looking, cheap price and available … and my father thought me some 30 years ago that there is no free lunch |
| sandy February 28, 2009 |
Hello, I received exactly same mail from Sgt Derek Tang, 1110 N 193rd st., Seattle WA 98133. Inquiring my rental in Germany. Story about Godson, Honeymoon, Hawaii.. Please find attached.. Thanks for the mail.To make it faster,l will pay you directly with my fellow comrade credit card but before I do so, I will outline my payment plan for your confirmation. There is a local agent that I have contacted to make arrangements for air tickets and taxi that will be used on arrival. I have already concluded arrangements with the agent pending the receipt of his funds in the amount of 4,000Euro and I am not in office for now to make a direct transfer to him because of my field assignment I am currently handling outside base. On this note, I have resolved that you use your facilities to charge my fellow comrade credit card for a total amount of 4,839Euro ,which I intended to use of in another arrangement for them on a trip to Hawaii but for less number of days,to offset other logistics arrangements for the couples like flight tickets, car hire, sightseeing in the area, brief set up tours around, meals/chef and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a pre-determined amount, this is desired to make their honeymoon most memorable. On completion, deduct and keep your funds of 839Euro and proceed to send the amount of 4,000Euro to the agent via bank transfer. I will provide you with the agent’s bank details. Kindly confirm this arrangement and get back to me with your details for my office records. Please confirm your NAME, ADDRESS and PHONE NUMBER. Please confirm this arrangement and get back to me with your contact details as stated above. The guests informations are: Regards, — On Tue, 1/27/09, > Name: Derek Tang |
| Lou Bellardo February 26, 2009 |
yet another name and “story” (it’s good they include the phone number since it alerts us to the scam):
Many thanks for the e-mail, I am glad to hear that you have availability covering the period of our stay (7th to 21st August 2009). My business associate in the states will make a business check out to you in full to reserve the property. I have made arrangement for a special car on request of my wife to be shipped into the city for our two weeks period. All transportation arrangements are being handled by my travel agent from the airport down to the location of the property and all other modalities will be arranged on our arrival. |
| Dora February 26, 2009 |
Alquile en diciembre y no tuve departamento y se quedo con mi plata. |
| Arthur Godwin February 25, 2009 |
This guy is still at it with a different name: Jeff. D. Holms
Reply-To: doughelms@googlemail.com Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment is situated in Knightsbridge, on 27 Montpelier Street, LONDON, SW71, GB and its definitely available for your desired dates 20/03/2009 to 29/03/2009. 9nights and the rent for your stay is £900 (@ £100 per night).. You ll need to secure your dates cos someone else is asking for a close date, and to secure the apartment 50% of the rental fee will be required(£450) plus a fixed refundable security deposit of £400, so all you need pay to secure the Apartment is £850.. On your departure date, Your Security deposit of £400, will be fully refunded to you personally by me and the remainder 50% of your fee will be paid on your arrival…. I’d also like to know where exactly you’ll be coming from? and how soon will you like to book down the Apartment? I have also attached more pictures of the apartment with this message, let me know about your interest on time. Apartment is approximately 1800 sq. ft and has 2 great Bedrooms (all with own TV) and 2 superb modern bathrooms (two en suite, two with power shower, toilet, tub, Bidet) also a Guest Cloakroom.. Bedding arrangements are : 2 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 6 people, Bedroom 1 – a King size bed, Bedroom 2 – 1 Queen size bed, Bedrooms are quiet and away from street noise, with good reading lamps, Plasma TV s and telephones. Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, hi-fi system, VCR, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satellite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarm clock, hair dryer, mosquito nets, fully air-conditioned, central heating, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more… Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available. Let me know about your interest so I can send you a booking/payment form so you can fill and send it back to me in order to book down the Apartment.. NOTE: Kindly email me back either you are interested or not… For those needing a place to work, the office area is located in an area in the Living room providing you with a breathtaking City and Water view. You will find the desk supplied with all the necessities needed to conduct business, as if you were in your own office. Amenities include Broadband Internet service, Telephone, All-In-One Copier, Fax, Scanner, and Printer. If there is something you cannot find, it is just a phone call away. Covered Parking, Outside Hot & cold Shower, chairs & towels, Umbrella, Paddle tennis, volleyball, Racquetball & Tennis Rackets, Blow Drier, Curlers & Curling Iron, Home Facial, Iron, Ironing Board, and DVD Rental Library delivered within minutes of request and much more! I hope to hear back from you again… Thanks JEFF.. |
| Concerned February 25, 2009 |
This time he is Thompson Rice. Copy of email received on 2/24/09 below:
Many thanks for the e-mail, I am glad to hear that you have availability covering the period of our stay (7th to 21st August 2009). My business associate in the states will make a business check out to you in full to reserve the property. I have made arrangement for a special car to be shipped into the city for our two weeks period of stay so as to grant my wife’s request. |
| Keith Patterson February 24, 2009 |
This guy called me directly using the same phone number. I have opened an investigation with the Canadian Police |
| Cyril February 23, 2009 |
I confirm that “Robert Hoffman” is a scammer, i had paid for this apartment and he asks me to pay all the rental fee now. I had said no and now he doesn’t want refund me. I am french and his url on craiglist is: http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1044833877.html |
| Noreen February 18, 2009 |
I got the same thing from a Derek Tang in Seattle regarding my cottage in Ireland. |
| Elaine Holden February 18, 2009 |
Here is one he sent to us looking for a holiday, details below Name: gary desmond E-mail: gary_desmond175@yahoo.com Tel: + 1 +447045753152 Unit: Maison du Bucheron Arrival date: Monday, 01 June 2009 Departure date: Wednesday, 17 June 2009 Total no in party: 2 (including children) No of children: 0 Further info: Hello, I am, Gary Desmond i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM, i will be coming to france for vacation, i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 1st of June on to the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife Rosemary, please send me details cost per week or per night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| Janis Liddell February 16, 2009 |
MONDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2009
Hi All JOHN TERRY AND HIS WIFE ROSEMARY TERRY GET AROUND. THEY LIKE TO BE EMPLOYEES OF CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES WORLDWIDE AND SEEM TO WANT RENTAL DATES IN JUNE 2009. HIS CELL PHONE 7045753152 CURRENTLY REGISTERED TODAY MONDAY 16TH FEBRUARY WITH STREET AROUND DAVIDSON STREET, CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA HOPE VICTIMS OF SCAM BASED WITHIN USA can catch this nasty unchristian human being lets get them |
| ecb February 13, 2009 |
Still ongoing. Just received an inquiry from “gary White” of Mcnicholas Construction in Aberdeen, Scotland. His wife’s name (as above) is now Lucy. thank goodness for google! |
| T Rasch February 7, 2009 |
Hello, please be very careful. He tried this scheme again with us. I will never ever rent anything to him. Or to Mr Tang from Seattle or whatever………… Thanks for the mail.To make it faster,l will pay you directly with my credit card but before I do so, I will outline my payment plan for your confirmation. There is a local agent that I have contacted to make arrangements for air tickets and taxi that will be used on arrival. I have already concluded arrangements with the agent pending the receipt of his funds in the amount of 4,000Euro and I am not in office for now to make a direct transfer to him because of my field assignment I am currently handling outside base. Please confirm this arrangement and get back to me with your contact details as stated above. The guests informations are: Regards, |
| Lisa February 7, 2009 |
I just received a simular email but this time he is Gary White & the wife is Lucy. He does still work at McNicholas Construction. I now google every enquiry that sounds strangs before replying! |
| Josh W February 6, 2009 |
Thank god I looked this guys email up and found this blog here is the post that I almost got suckered into http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1023419222.html Make sure you never send a money gram to the requester and use a money order instead as that can be tracked and funds canceled. |
| from California February 5, 2009 |
I was about to be scammed too by this “Daniel Luciano” but a friend forwarded me this link and thank goodness..we were wary about the Western Union transfer and def…too good to be true. Has anyone called him out on this? I want to forward him this article!! Thanks for the heads up!! |
| simona Pareschi February 4, 2009 |
Su Craiglist i found this message: $140 / 1br – One Bedroom Unit On Mulberry (SoHo). (http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1012221086.html). From Cindy Harry. She uses the same description of Jeff Holms. I suppose it is a fraud, what do you think? |
| westvillager February 2, 2009 |
I found those from other site. Who should I notify about fraud or scam attempts? * FTC toll free hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357) http://www.vacationrentaldirect.com/fraudreport.asp |
| westvillager February 2, 2009 |
I thank you so much for this site!
Almost I was going to be tricked by this guy, now use “Daniel E. Luciano” He replied very similar to j waite. I think I am going to trick him somehow…. I will let you know how if I did. |
| Noreen February 2, 2009 |
Hi, I’m still waiting for Barry’s check! His partner Raymond Husman uses the exact same wording in his e-mails – amazing – not too smart! |
| CW January 30, 2009 |
We received also such enquiry: Now name has changed to Derek Tang.
Aloha, My Name is Sgt Derek Tang of the Persian Gulf,with members of the Hawai’i Air National Guard’s 154th Security Forces Squadron.In respect of your rental,I am planning a surprise vacation gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife alone with treat while currently on an active duty,the scheduled date will be 1st – 15th March.2009, (15nights)if this has already been booked.please advice on the nearest 14nights you have available, cost for the period, Security Deposit,Cleaning fees, and Tax,all been totaled plus any order major services to be rendered,for the couple alone,no pets,they don’t smoke either.l will need to conclude this booking early enough for them to avoid any inconvenience during there stay.k Tang. After we been in contact with the Sender he send us following reply: From: Derek Tang Thanks for the mail.To make it faster,l will pay you directly with my credit card but before I do so, I will outline my payment plan for your confirmation. There is a local agent that I have contacted to make arrangements for air tickets and taxi that will be used on arrival. I have already concluded arrangements with the agent pending the receipt of his funds in the amount of $6,000 and I am not in office for now to make a direct transfer to him because of my field assignment I am currently handling outside base. On this note, I have resolved that you use your facilities to charge my credit card for a total amount of $6,630 ,which I intended to use of in another arrangement for them on a trip to Hawaii but for less number of days,to offset other logistics arrangements for the couples like flight tickets, car hire, sightseeing in the area, brief set up tours around, meals/chef and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a pre-determined amount, this is desired to make their honeymoon most memorable. On completion, deduct and keep your funds of $630 and proceed to send the amount of $6,000 to the agent via bank transfer. I will provide you with Please confirm this arrangement and get back to me with your contact details as stated above. The guests informations are: Regards, |
| j waite January 30, 2009 |
I hve been looking for an apartment for May 09. I have emailed on CraigsList and on VRBO. Suddenly i received the following email. I didnt recognize this person so I googled his email and found this site. He is a FRAUD!!!I just now received this email from the SCAMMER: Flag this messageRe: $300 / 4br – inquiryFriday, January 30, 2009 8:46 AM From: “tyoungluxuryhome@aol.com” Add sender to Contacts To:(my email) Thanks for your interest in our property, your dates happens to fall within our special discount period and comes available at a daily rates of $300 per night which does include all utilities and tax. The total rates for 6 nights would be $1800, deposit is needed to hold dates though . We do have proposals coming for dates affecting yours so you would have to respond ASAP. The apartment is located at 148 w 57 th street manhattan NY 10019, This is a doorman building which has got an elevator, and the building is wheelchair accessible. The apartment is located on the 16 th floor with a great view of central park from the living room and all four bedrooms which can sleep a maximum of ten. You are fully self sufficient here and the apartment comes with a full kitchen, daily cleaning services. we offer free parking {garage}, airport shuttle, though this is subject to confirmation on your arrival dates from us, your travel details has to be filled on the forms for us to log you in. let us know via email if you are ready to hold those dates so we can have the booking forms sent to you Thanks |
| Grace January 27, 2009 |
I also recieved an email from Kenet James regarding our puppies for sale. His messege reads as follows: Hi.. Thanks very much for your response. I would be buying puppy you have for sale so kindly reserve it for me. You have to bear with me that I called with relay service, its because am hearing impaired. I am sending you this email to make final reconfirmation of the teacup Maltese puppy which am willing to buy for my son as his birthday present and I also want to let you know that payment will be by certified Check or Money Order. However, I want to alert you on the fact that you will be receiving the Check or Money Order this week or next week and payment will cover your cost and as well as the shipping cost to be paid to the person that will take care of the pickup in your house. So please as soon as you receive the payment, get it cashed immediately, deduct the money that accrues to you and send the remaining balance to the Head Office of the company that handles the shipment via Western union. More so, I will pay you an extra $100 if you can reserve this for me. So in view of the above, Here are some of the details I will need for final issuance of the Check or Money Order to you. (1) Full Name Best Regards I would have never known that this was a fraud if out of random suspicion I searched his name on google and found this web-site. Thank you! |
| Unknown January 27, 2009 |
As well as I have had Mr. John Terry. From the start I thought something to be odd, but hoped for better. I did actually receive the cashiers check, to find it is fake and my bank would not accept it. I then took it to the police and they advised me to send the check back to the address from the FedEx package delievered. Then, I began researching and boy do I feel like a fool. Wow! Good thing we ‘renters’ are smarter than them! |
| Tourné Yves January 27, 2009 |
Unfortunately I am a new victim of Daniel E Luciano (1200 dollars by Western Union) after “booking” 1 week for august 2009. How and who to contact at FBI? What are your informations M. Juergens? Help me if you can. |
| Wiebke Peters January 27, 2009 |
I received the same e-mail yesterday here in Germany, he named himself Sgt. Larry Nel with exactly the same story as before…Godson and wife… Thank you for the informations, so I can keep my money!! |
| Min January 26, 2009 |
Here’s another one (Lori) for your site: Thanks for your mail,we confirm reciept of your full info. This moment we have just finished with this clients sponsor company regarding the payment preparation,I am glad to tell you that we have concluded payment arrangements with them hence the booking of the apartment should be confirmed,Moreover, because of the distance we were able to make an arrangement with a pre-paid car hiring agent who will supply the guests with vehicles and other logistics that will be used by the guests and fro your place. This moment as the payment Cheque has been prepared together to cover both there logistics expenses over their stay there, however you will be recieving a cheque of 3,800uros that will cover the full cost of their accomodation which is 769.95Euros, while with your good office you send the balance of 3,030 to transport logistic agent for them to arrange flight ticket for this clients to your property and other logistics arrangment,it is our duty to do this but because me and my husband will be out on holidays for 2weeks from Saturday 31st Jan, we/they have decided to trust it on you to help us disburse the excess to the logistics so as to enable them continue with there’s. Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address |
| Scampond January 25, 2009 |
If you get victimized by a scam, report incident to www.scampond.com |
| Ale January 22, 2009 |
Here you have the new contact details of this ‘person’. Daniel E. Luciano tyoungluxuryhome@aol.com We’ve received his quotation also….Thanks for this blog. |
| Jenny January 21, 2009 |
Hi and Dennis Beckham apparently!
Name: Dennis Beckham …I am a Mechanical Engineer for Classical Automobiles ,I’m glad to have come accross your property on here. Kindly let me know the cost of the rent in the timeframe choosen (April 25th to 9th May 2009) and email me more detailed description of the property. It’s me and my partner coming to stay. Though the date is flexible. Get back to me to know if this is okay with your rental policy. |
| A. Barger January 20, 2009 |
The apartment that I found was listed as being in Knightsbridge in London. Same pictures as the Manhattan listing. |
| A. Barger January 20, 2009 |
I just saw this ad on Craigslist and contacted him. He is using the name Jeff Holms. I was a little suspicious and just did some digging and found this site. I’m glad that I didn’t do anything!!! |
| Jonathan Tait January 19, 2009 |
He is now called Gary White
Name: gary whiteE-mail: gunnerwhite@yahoo.comTel: + 44 +447045733003Arrival date: Saturday, 11 April 2009Departure date: Saturday, 25 April 2009Total no in party: 2 (including children)No of children: 0Further info: I am a Mechanical Engineer for Classical Automobiles ,I’m glad to have come accross your property on here. Kindly let me know the cost of the rent in the timeframe choosen (April 11th to 26th 2009)I am a Mechanical Engineer for Classical Automobiles ,I’m glad to have come accross your property on here. Kindly let me know the cost of the rent in the timeframe choosen (April 11th to 26th 2009) and email me more detailed description of the property. It’s me and my partner coming to stay. Though the date is flexible.Get back to me to know if this is okay with your rental policy. Best regards |
| Jeri January 16, 2009 |
He is now John Terry married to Rosemary and they all live together in an industrial park! Hope all those wives can get along! |
| Lori Rome January 16, 2009 |
From: Christopher Gibson (xtophergibson@yahoo.com) Sent: Thu 1/15/09 9:09 AM Good day, |
| Lori Rome January 16, 2009 |
I should have known when she wrote to the wrong name.
From: eurologistics@ymail.com Dear Sharron Thanks for your prompt responce, the price is ok by us,As discussed with the sponsor company of this clients PANATHINAKOS GROUPS this moment,please let us know what percentage is needed to be paid out of $5,400 as deposit for securing the house,this is for them to know how to proceed with the payment. Thanks for your understanding. Thanks for your mail,we confirm receipt of your full info for the payment, Kindly confirm this while i will be sending you the full info and address |
| Lori Rome January 16, 2009 |
john terry Email: rock_man175@yahoo.com Phone #: + 1 +447045753152 Arrival date: Jun 1 2009 Departure date: Jun 17 2009 Total # in party: 2 (including children) No of children: 0 Further info: Hello, I am,John Terry i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 1st of June on to the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife Rosemary, please send me details cost per week or per night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| Golden View January 16, 2009 |
We too have received a vacation rental enquiry from this gentleman. He now uses the name John Terry and his wife Rosemary. His email address is rock_man175@yahoo.com
Beware! |
| John January 16, 2009 |
ANOTHER SCAM!in NY craigslist!!!!
Posts: hous-991825204@craigslist.org Dr Robert Hoffman(rhoffman48@gmail.com)use the same phone number 44 702 406 9145, for a fake contact Mr Jeff Holms dougholms@googlemail.com and another contact Britney Martins cutey_brity22@yahoo.com. Here are the ads: $250 / 3br – Enamoring Vacation Apartment in the Heart of Manhattan (Midtown) (map) and $250 / 3br – Pleasurable Holiday Apartment in Manhattan, Sleep 1-8.. (Midtown) (map) Beware!!this scam use Moneygram for payment. |
| Nick January 15, 2009 |
He tried to get at me too see the e-mail above his name is John and his wife name is Rosemary.Nigerian no doubt! |
| Nick January 15, 2009 |
Name: john terry E-mail: rock_man175@yahoo.com Tel: + 1 +447045753152 Unit: Mango House Arrival date: Monday, 01 June 2009 Departure date: Wednesday, 17 June 2009 Total no in party: 2 (including children) No of children: 0 Further info: Hello, I am,John Terry i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 1st of June on to the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife Rosemary, please send me details cost per week or per night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| JON January 14, 2009 |
I recieved a message from this kenet james, in regards to buying a puppy, wanting me to await a check or money order, for over the price, and send the remainder somewhere else. used the email: jkenet@yahoo.com |
| grace January 14, 2009 |
They are also using “David Graham” with the same message (except he is on a US Navy ship, but curiously uses British spelling) |
| Jeff W January 11, 2009 |
Hi all, we got a Barry Simpson as well, funny guy! Name: Barry Simpson Email: Phone #: Arrival date: Departure date: Total # in party: No of children: Further info: |
| Geraldine Milani January 11, 2009 |
Mr. Williams sent exactly the same rental request to us, only for August 2009 in Rome. Steer clear. |
| Mark January 10, 2009 |
Beware, another scam… NKC REALTY, LLC Cell: | Office: 718-512-5235 E-Mail: supportnygorentals@gmail.com 9322 3rd Avenue Don’t send money with paypal. http://www.managementrentnow.com Don’t send money.. don’t pay for access. |
| Dave Dugdale January 10, 2009 |
I just had him on my site too and deleted his ad. |
| Peggy January 6, 2009 |
I received two inquiries for two of my vacation rental properties that seemed authentic. Elisah was requesting a 1 week stay for two people – unlike the obvious scams whereby 10 people want to come for two or three weeks to my area! I responded with price quotes and received an email asking me for information to allow Elisah to pay me with a check issued by a US bank. I decided to “google” the name Elisah Cole before sending back requested information. I became suspicious when I saw that he wished to pay in full from a USA bank for a vacation in July. |
| Daphne January 6, 2009 |
Here he is again under a different name, with the same phone number.
Inquiry Summary |
| Faller December 25, 2008 |
Hello, we have got the e-mail from Don Kyle, and we got a check. It was all the same, that I had readed on this page. But I had not give it up in the bank, the letter with the check from the Bank of Ireland it is very similar, so I had make nothing with the cheque. I had told it all people that I know. I am very angry about so people, but I was happy that I had found this homepage that other people had the same contact. Thanks a lot |
| Klaus Reinhardt December 23, 2008 |
Her tried the same on me, with exactly the same messages, but under the name of Capt. Don Kyle. He booked my holiday appartment in Germany and sent me a cheque exceeding by far what he was due. Then he wanted me to send the rest via Western Union “to pay for flight bookings and other things like that” (which of course I didn’t do). Now I am waiting for the cheque to bounce. I have informed the German police, but if this people are based in Nigeria there will be little chance to get them. Thanks for the information, it would have saved me a lot of time had I known it before. |
| Steve De’ath December 22, 2008 |
I had the same e-mails from ‘Don Kyle’ wanting to rent our villa in Greece. He actually sent me a bank draft which I have handed over to the police. Whilst the bank draft looked genuine enough the envelope and acompanying letter were obviously not from a real bank. |
| Sonya December 17, 2008 |
We have received this email enquiry….we must be really naive! He sent a reply which we thought looked really odd, so I telephoned him, I asked who he was and was the booking for him or his ‘client’. He said for him and he’ll send the cheque. So I forwarded our address, but still felt something wasn’t right, so I googled the phone number, and it brought me to this site!!! I feel stupid, Hopwe this helps someone else!..He is now called John Burrows. See both emails below – Hi,i’m John Burrows, i’m a stock brocker here in GLASGOW,SCOTLAND. I will be coming over to England for holidays from 18th April to 25th of April 2009 with my wife and kid. Could you please send me a more detailed description of the accommodation and the cost of the rent per week or per night? I look forward to hearing from you asap. My dates is flexible though. John Burrows Many thanks for the e-mail and sorry for the late response, I am glad to hear you have availability covering the period of (18th to 25th April 2009). I will take any available property for the timeframe. My client will pay you in full to reservethe property so we can be assured of the acommodation. All transportation arrangements are being handled by my travel agent from the airport down to the location of the property and all other modalities will be arranged on our arrival. My client will make payment by a cheque drawn on GBP in full to cover the cost of rent of the property and all other holiday expenses. So kindly email me the information below in order to make payment out to you asap :full Name,address, telephone numbers and the total cost for the Accommodation including all Taxes payable. We have been looking forward to this trip for a long while and thank God we have the time to plan it now. You can reach us on {+44-7045733003 } N.B…The method of payment is only by a cheque drawn on GBP,so get back to me with the info as below. FULL NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: ZIPCODE: STATE: COUNTRY: DURATION: TOTAL AMOUNT IN GBP: EMAIL: TEL PHONE: PHYSICAL ADDRESSS(NOT PO BOX)…. PHONE NUMBER(BOTH LAND AND MOBILE)… Best regards, John Burrows.. |
| Mariana Costa December 15, 2008 |
He also sent me an e-mail as Patrick Paulo… same ip adress… trying to rent the same villa in Greece |
| Mariana Costa December 15, 2008 |
Just got this e-mail from him:
Hello, However,I assured you that the payment will be delivered on or before Thursday. Thanks for understanding and notify me upon receipt of the payment. |
| Javier December 15, 2008 |
Teniamos un contrato para diciembre y desaparecio con mi plata tenga cuidado con laempresa que hace los tratos |
| Tom December 12, 2008 |
It would seem poor James Lynn Continues to get mixed up with his travel arrangements. He promised to send me a rental check ASAP. I am sure I will get it. He sent me the same email as you all got but in mine his wife’s name was Jane. Seems he either has many wives or he can’t remember the name of the one he has.
HomeAway Property in Bethany Beach Dear Tom james lynn has sent the following inquiry about property number 132163 in Bethany Beach. http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental To reply to this inquiry, simply call the phone number contained in the inquiry or reply to this e-mail. |
| Gustavo December 10, 2008 |
This department is a fraud |
| Carlo December 10, 2008 |
This was of yesterday http://london.craigslist.co.uk/vac/950856658.html |
| Patricia December 8, 2008 |
Again, “Hello, I am David Ritz i work with McNicholas Construction company LTD here in Aberdeen, Scotland, UK. I will like to know if you have availability for the dates of lst of June to 17th of June for me and my wife Rosekate, Please send me details cost per week or night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland.” |
| judy December 6, 2008 |
…only the names have changed to protect the guilty: james lynn Email: Phone #: Arrival date: Departure date: Total # in party: No of children: Further info: |
| Barry December 5, 2008 |
Further info on the above-mentioned James Lynn: Name: james lynn Email: j.lynn61@yahoo.com Phone #: + 44 +447045787461 Arrival date: Dec 26 2008 Departure date: Jan 9 2009 Total # in party: 2 (including children) No of children: 0 |
| Barry December 5, 2008 |
Yet another variant, same address, different name, different dates:
Hello,I am James Lynn i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND here in UNITED KINGDOM. I will be coming over to US on holiday from the 26th of DECEMBER on to the 9th of Jan 2009 for Vacation with my wife Jane.Could you please send me a more detailed description of your accommodation and What’s the cost of rental per week or per night.104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos,Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. thanks James. |
| Lori December 3, 2008 |
Got the same message from Mr. Ritz as well…. |
| Hakan Aygun December 3, 2008 |
I am selling my car and got the below email from Kennedy Walker. I don’t know who this guy is but I am sure he isn’t doing nice things!
Hakan Aygun ————————————– From: Kennedy Walker Hello, Secondly my INVESTOR in canada will be makeing the payment out to you, he will be sending you payment over the cost of the CAR buying from you, which is meant for the shipping. I will want you to get back to me with the following information which will be used to make the payment out to you. 1, CONTACT NAME With this infromation i will be able to have the cheque sent to you and also i can be reached via my cell phone number here in the UK +447023071975 . |
| Debs December 2, 2008 |
He now goes by the name Philip Luciano and uses tyoungluxuryhome@aol.com as his email. He pretends he’ll rent you a Central Park view apartment with 4BR and 4 baths for $300/night! Dont be fooled! |
| diane November 28, 2008 |
Yes, be careful he is posted as #933342468 on craigslist. He has the same phone number as others who have said they lost money 44 702 406 9145. He says he doesn’t want money just for you to wire money to your friends in London and send him proof of the wire transer. He is currently emailing me soliciting my rental business. |
| Nic Stuart November 28, 2008 |
Mr Williams also likes to try and rent properties….
Holiday-Rentals Dear Nic Stuart, You have a booking enquiry about property number 95952 in Calabria. Web Address: http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/p95952 To respond to this enquiry, simply call the phone number contained in the enquiry or reply to this e-mail. Don’t forget – a quick reply will help to secure this booking! Name: Williams Tony Koo |
| NY Habitat November 26, 2008 |
Always use a trusted company, pay with credit card and don’t think that something is too good to be true |
| Steve Kullen November 26, 2008 |
New name: same address!! Different dates. See his posting below:
Name: david ritz |
| Kim C November 25, 2008 |
Glad I found this blog! I received message below from “David Ritz” asking about a June stay.
Inquiry Summary |
| pat November 25, 2008 |
He contacted me too. See below.
Inquiry Summary |
| Ed Walker November 25, 2008 |
Yes, Gary/June has also changed name of wife from Janet to Gladys. She/he is currently apparently sending me a cheque for the rental of a (large, expensive) property, and requesting a payment back due to an ‘error adding in travelling expenses’. Use of language has deteriorated somewhat as well. Another Ugandan prince no doubt. |
| Robert November 25, 2008 |
This happen to me too, on Nov 12, 2008. I foolishly wired $900. and never heard from him again. I have also seen other postings on Craigs list that are suspiciouslt similar. he even uses the same telephone number 44-7024069145 |
| NY Habitat November 24, 2008 |
At it again
http://london.craigslist.co.uk/vac/932537857.html |
| Daniel Beauvois November 24, 2008 |
He tried with us as well. The trick is old and well known: he sends a cheque for more than the required rental and asks for a transfer of the additional money to a bank account. Then the cheque bounces and you have lost money. There is one protection against these crooks= to accept only and exclusively bank transfers as payment for your property. |
| Mariana Costa November 23, 2008 |
The same happened w/ me. He tryied to rent my villa in santorine. |
| Jutta November 23, 2008 |
A so-called Capt Kyle inquired about my holiday rental in France today (in response to my ad on the German web site FEWO-Direkt, a member of the HomeAway network). Interestingly enough, the time frame (2-16 May 09) he wanted for the rental for his “godson” was the same as for another fraudulent inquiry my mother had received for her holiday rental in California. The text of his inquiry matches some of the ones in the above e-mail string. Anfrage / Buchungswunsch: Internet-Adresse: http://www.fewo-direkt.de/Frankreich/Cote-dAzur-Provence/urlaub Aloha, ******************************************** Absenderinformationen: Name: Don Kyle Comment: There appears to be strong evidence that these fraudulent inquiries are not limited to Hawaii. |
| Sylvie November 23, 2008 |
Beware of this new post on Craigslist by Alex Kingsman. 95 West Broadway. Thanks for your warnings! I would most certainly have added my name on the list of abused persons without them. |
| Anne Filtenborg November 23, 2008 |
Don Kyle has tried to rent our house in Sweden May 2 – 16, 2009. He has tried in several countries, also under name of Andrew Mitte. |
| Henry November 21, 2008 |
i received the 21th november the same mail for a home rental in France. Thank you for your post information. I will send a warning mail to the admin’s website french, english and deutch which are all in the Homeaway company: http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/, www.abritel.fr and http://www.fewo-direkt.de/ ********************************** Email dkyle_234@yahoo.com Téléphone: +1 206-338-2503 Début du séjour: 02/05/2009 Message du vacancier: Aloha, My Name is Capt. Don Kyle of the 322 Civil Affairs BDE, Fort Shafter Flats. In respect of your rental,I am planning a surprise vacation gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife alone with treat while currently on an active duty,the scheduled date will be 2nd – 16th May 2009, (14nights)if this has already been booked please advice on the nearest 14nights you have available, cost for the period, Security Deposit,Cleaning fees, and Tax,all been totaled plus any order major services to be rendered,for the couple alone,no pets,they don’t smoke either.l will need to conclude this booking early enough for them to avoid any inconvenience during there stay. Mahalo |
| Zoe November 21, 2008 |
A friend of mine, who rents her property in France, received 2 mails & rental inquiry (same text as above!) from “Capt. Don Kyle” – I’m glad I found this blog and could warn my friend. |
| Nils November 21, 2008 |
Have anyone got anyway with Joe Harrison? |
| Cindy November 20, 2008 |
I got one for my rental home in the Azores. Same e-mail, new name. Almost got me. But something told me something was wrong…
Aloha, My Name is Capt. Don Kyle of the 322 Civil Affairs |
| Rita November 20, 2008 |
I get the same email today. Be carefull I think he will fishing dates.
Aloha, |
| RL November 19, 2008 |
We also got this number from a this NY Craigslist post! We were just about to pay before doing a google search: http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/924816437.html |
| Aris Larisa November 19, 2008 |
You people should stop saying what you dont know.l received a cheque payment from Jay Trinidad cleared it turnover the balance to the agent and rent my framhouse.He is a trusted person and was an agent himself to his friend so continued any business with him and rent your apartment.l live in Spain.
COMMENT FROM ADMIN: THIS CAME FROM IP: 82.128.33.162 – NIGERIA, NOT SPAIN! |
| Joyce O’Donnell November 16, 2008 |
It appears Gary has changed his name to June Long The must live together! Read below!!
Hello, I am,June long i work with McNicholas Construction Company Ltd here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND UNITED KINGDOM. i will like to know if you have availability for this dates 1st of June on to the 17th of June 2009, for just me and my wife Janet, please send me details cost per week or per night. 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| Joyce O’Donnell November 16, 2008 |
I think that Gary Megson has changed his name to June Long. Email info has the very same address and is very close. Is yahoo even Scotland?? |
| admin November 13, 2008 |
I am pretty sure he is not using his OWN NAME! Just be careful. |
| kelly November 12, 2008 |
i received the same email for our property in France
Aloha, am kind of assured they will enjoy their stay. Due to orders placed on individual calls we have limited use of telephones for now, l would have preferred a direct call conversation with you. My home # 206-338-2503 though currently disconnected to an answering machine being that am not at home. Due to my present location am unable facilitate the bank transfer rather than check payment, but let me explain to you how things work here,the check payment depends on the currency am required to pay with regarding the transaction,once I sign the confirmation from base, the base commander finance team will issue the check payment through a fellow comrade banking in Europe or possibly in same country but must be a serving officer and credit him through my account on confirmation you have being paid. The check payment is for the total of which the bill may came up to and more money, which I intended to use of in another arrangement for them on a trip to Hawaii but for less number of days, but since they are off their jobs they can spend more time together in your place. Upon receipt of the check payment deduct your total rental cost and turn over the balance to an agent who was recommended by a fellow comrade, to offset other logistics arrangements for the couples like flight tickets, car hire, sightseeing in the area, brief set up tours around, meals/chef and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a pre-determined amount though the negotiation with the agent is not yet concluded, this is desired to make their honeymoon most memorable. As I write this,the agent is supposed to contact me through e-mail to assert his ability to take me up on the offer of logistics for the couple ,if not I have you contact a local agent to do so for them that is if you don t provide such services. Just said I should let you know so it s an euro check,Send the name whom the check payment will be issued,address where it s to be delivered and your phone number so as to sign the issuing confirmation cos we are running out of time. Below is the guest information to prepare your rental agreement if need be and forwarded to me through attachment which l will sign AFTER i have secured all my financial commitments.The guests informations are: |
| maria teresa November 12, 2008 |
I have found Andre Mitte in same website because he is Andrew M Hartsock´s baby son. There a picture as well as some words beside about his staying in Irak in 2004 and says.. “Posted on: November 22, 2004 Spc. Andrew G. Mitte is in Iraq with the 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry out of Schofield. |
| maria teresa November 12, 2008 |
I have checked through internet and I have seen his picture in website http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/dispatches/alohatroops. I do not know if someone is using his name or if he is himself the one who writes this emails. These are the words written beside the picture. Expect if this is a something fraud, and they are really doing so, will be punished. Otherwise, someone should tell them someone is using his names. “Maj. Jay Trinidad, left, meets with a local sheik and his staff in Iraq. Trinidad is with the 322nd Civil Affairs Brigade from Fort Shafter. Maj. Jay Trinidad Greetings from Iraq! I’m Maj. Jay Trinidad from Mililani, and I’m with the 322nd Civil Affairs Brigade out of Fort Shafter Flats. First, I want to tell my wife, “Jen, I love and miss you lots!” In this photo I am at a meeting with one of the local sheiks and his staff on a problem in his nahia (neighborhood). Mahalos and maraming maraming Salamat!” |
| maria teresa November 12, 2008 |
I have received 2 emails exacly the same but name of renter is Jay Trinidad, same telephone number, same people to surprise Godson Edward and Kimberly Moore and email trinidadjay@gmail.com. My house is in France and get in contact through website vacationvillas.net I have send him my address to send me bank check but afterwards I have read this information. Some of you have had any problem? What do they pretend with this? Thanks for your reply. De: “system@vacationvillas.net” Para: lucca12004-casa@yahoo.es Enviado: viernes, 7 de noviembre, 2008 15:07:15 Asunto: Vacation Villas International – Inquiry for Hänsel und Gretel, property no.: 26643 The following booking inquiry was sent on 07. Nov. 2008 through Please send your answer to trinidadjay@gmail.com Inquiry / booking request: Vacation property: Hänsel und Gretel ******************************************** Sender’s information: Name: Jay Trinidad Aloha, Due to my present location am unable facilitate the bank transfer rather than check payment, but let me explain to you how things work here,the check payment depends on the currency am required to pay with regarding the transaction,once I sign the confirmation from base, the base commander finance team will issue the check payment through a fellow comrade banking in Europe or possibly in same country but must be a serving officer and credit him through my account on confirmation you have being paid. The check payment is for the total of which the bill may came up to and more money, which I intended to use of in another arrangement for them on a trip to Hawaii but for less number of days, but since they are off their jobs they can spend more time together in your place. Upon receipt of the check payment deduct your total rental cost and turn over the balance to an agent who was recommended by a fellow comrade, to offset other logistics arrangements for the couples like flight tickets, car hire, sightseeing in the area, brief set up tours around, meals/chef and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a pre-determined amount though the negotiation with the agent is not yet concluded, this is desired to make their honeymoon most memorable. As I write this,the agent is supposed to contact me through e-mail to assert his ability to take me up on the offer of logistics for the couple ,if not I have you contact a local agent to do so for them that is if you don t provide such services. Just said I should let you know so it s an euro check,Send the name whom the check payment will be issued,address where it s to be delivered and your phone number so as to sign the issuing confirmation cos we are running out of time. Below is the guest information to prepare your rental agreement if need be and forwarded to me through attachment which l will sign AFTER i have secured all my financial commitments.The guests informations are: Kind Regards. |
| Kevin November 12, 2008 |
Name: Don Kyle E-mail: dkyle232@gmail.com Tel: + 1 206-338-2503 Unit: Villa (sleeps 4/6) with pool & 320 deg, panoramic Arrival date: 3 Jan 2009 Departure date: 17 Jan 2009 Total no in party: 1 (including children) No of children: 0 Further info: Aloha, My Name is Capt. Don Kyle of the 322 Civil Affairs BDE, Fort Shafter Flats. In respect of your rental,I am planning a surprise vacation gift package for my Godson and her newly wedded wife alone with treat while currently on an active duty,the scheduled date will be 3rd – 17th Jan. 2009, (14nights)if this has already been booked please advice on the nearest 14nights you have available, cost for the period, Security Deposit,Cleaning fees, and Tax,all been totaled plus any order major servi |
| SG November 10, 2008 |
this phone number appears as a contact number for a reference of a NY apartment on craigslist, I reported the scam to craigslist. i was about to make the transaction when I noticed it was a scam. |
| Duarte November 6, 2008 |
Got same e-mail in Portugal followed by this one: Aloha, Thanks for the update. l appreciate the home and do wish to reserve the specified date and kind of assured they will enjoy their stay. Due to orders placed on individual calls we have limited use of telephones for now over here, l would have preferred a direct call conversation with you. My home # 206-338-2503 though currently disconnected to an answering machine being that am not at home. Due to my present location am unable facilitate the bank transfer as you requested rather than check payment,I left instructions on a check for the total of which the bill may come up to and more money, which I intended to use of in another arrangement for them on a trip to Hawaii but for less number of days, but since they are off their jobs they can spend more time together in your place. Upon receipt of the check payment deduct your total rental cost and turn over the balance to an agent who was recommended by a fellow comrade, to offset other logistics arrangements for the couples like flight tickets, car hire, sightseeing in the area, brief set up tours around, meals/chef and basket with wine/champagne/liquor for a pre-determined amount though the negotiation with the agent is not yet concluded, this is desired to make their honeymoon most memorable. Confirm this and send the Name whom the check payment should be made to, delivery address,phone Below is the guest information to prepare your rental agreement if need be and forwarded to me through attachment which l will sign AFTER i have secured all my financial commitments.The guests informations are: Regards, |
| Pedro November 4, 2008 |
One more….
Aloha, Due to my present location am unable facilitate the bank transfer as you requested rather Below is the guest information to prepare your rental agreement if need be and forwarded to me through attachment which l will sign AFTER i have secured all my financial Regards, |
| Anna November 4, 2008 |
I recieved the same mail Oct. 29th with a follow-up today regarding my rental in Portugal. This kind of fraud attempt seems to be on the rise. Who knows of a way to stop this? Anna |
| Fernando October 29, 2008 |
More one…
Aloha, |
| Dries October 29, 2008 |
We had the same mail today |
| despina October 28, 2008 |
Yup, he is now hitting my villa in Greece as well.. |
| Kastanie October 28, 2008 |
Just got the same email and was a bit surprised about the writing style of this person. I googled his name and got exactly the same email that you posted here. What is the deal with this person? |
| Martin Stadter October 28, 2008 |
He contacted me regarding a holiday apartment in Lisbon. Internet-Adresse: http://www.vacationvillas.net/index.cfm/email/mail/holidayrental/513334?uni_id=158144 Anreise: Abreise: Anzahl Personen (inkl. Kinder): 1 Anzahl Kinder: 0 Haustiere: Nachricht: Aloha, ******************************************** Absenderinformationen: Name: Andrew Mitte |
| Slinger October 20, 2008 |
He is persistently bussy: From: andrew mitte Date: 10/20/2008 2:08 AM Aloha, |
| Brad October 19, 2008 |
THIS SAME GUY HAS A POSTING AS OF 10/18/08 ON VACATIONREALTY.COM #4310 lONDO 2 BEDROOM 2 BATH RENTAL |
| M. Juergens October 15, 2008 |
Joe Harrison gets his money now in Germany. We have lost § 1500. I know not if we should turn in Germany. Help, I have yet another phone number. And a bank because we do not initially pay with Western Union wanted. I admit my information gladly. M. Juergens |
| rob norman October 14, 2008 |
I too heard from Bill Curtis. The next step is he tells you his client is meeting all his travel expenses and that he is sending you a chq. Then he tells you his client has made a mistake and is sending you too much and you have to wire the difference when the chq clears. Here is the scam!! |
| Graham October 12, 2008 |
Hi yes i got the same except my customer is a Mr Bill Curtis and his wife Susan! I called the number given and did get a reply but they hung up immediatly….glad i checked this site first…. |
| Ian Farmer October 11, 2008 |
I received exactly the same message but from Bill Curtis, giving the same home address. |
| Dean October 9, 2008 |
Yup! I got the same one. |
| Caro October 8, 2008 |
Wish I had seen this earlier… Fore sure we won’t get our money back – still hoping that these persons will be caught someday! |
| Jason October 7, 2008 |
I just got ripped off by Patricia Clinton (patriciaclintonhomes@gmail.com) $750. Same story as above. 52 W 58th St. Beware. |
| Jo October 3, 2008 |
I just lost 1200USD on this and had to cancel my vacation. The apartment was offered through Greta Howard Homes (gretahowardhomes@aol.com which also traces back to Nigeria). |
| sjef September 30, 2008 |
i received the same Hi,i’m Gary Megson, i’m a legal practitioner here in the ABERDEEN,SCOTLAND. I will be coming over to the US on holiday from the 13th of may on to the 23rd of may 2009 for Vacaion with my wife Gladys. Could you please send me a more detailed description of your accommodation and What’s the cost of rental per week or per night? Payment would be made in advance for our visit so that we can be assured of accommodation during our stay. Though my client in the states will be taking care of all our vacation expenses. An early reply will be appreciated. Please acknowledge me by email f you can offer this accommodation service so we can conclude on all other arrangements. Regards, Gary Megson. Glad Gary chamber 104a Greenbank Crescent East Tullos, Aberdeen AB12 3BG, Scotland. |
| TERESA September 25, 2008 |
HEMOS RESERVADO EL APRTAMENTO Y NO TENEMOS NOTICIAS DE EL, TIENE NUESTRO DIENRO |
| Carolina Villavicencio September 25, 2008 |
I have just been robbed by this person the amount of $12000. That place doesn’t exist. The NY police has to do something with this person. He ask for money transfer through western union or moneytransfer. We are tourists coming to NY and being scam from people like this. This Joe Harrison uses different names, different emails accounts. The phone numbers he is using are: 646-8739656/206-4266604. That’s anybody know how can I recover my money? |
| Al September 24, 2008 |
the FBI has an internet fraud unit, report it there, also at the location where you sent the money. This is especially important if it’s not nyc as each state/locality has it’s own police. BTW if this apt was real it would rent for well over $10,000 (yes ten thousand) a month, so no one is going to furnish it an have the hassel of transient tennants for less. |
| James September 24, 2008 |
My family (because of our own stupidity) got taken for 1500. He is still on several sites and i have complained but i have a felling they are bogus sites as well. Anyway if anybody gets any where please let me know.
thanks |
| vmb September 24, 2008 |
We fell for it too, but found out in time. What’s too good to be true usually is. Thanks to vigilant folks who provide a place to report fraud. Beware tel # 206-666-4480 |
| Dianna September 22, 2008 |
Brilliant introduction to NYC. My 3 Australian girlfriends & I have also been scammed – we were stupid enough to transfer $2000. Luckily, thanks to your site, we found out before arriving. Not going to let this loser affect our holiday. What goes around, comes around |
| admin September 17, 2008 |
Nils, Susan and Enrique, I am so sorry this happened to you. All you can do at the moment is to report about him to local (NY) and your home police. If you paid via Western Union, do notify them. I will post more information later on how others dealt with it. If you already did police report, get back to me, I will provide police with more information from other renters who was scammed. |
| Nils September 16, 2008 |
I have been robbed for 1900 for this person. Is it anything we can do? |
| admin September 15, 2008 |
It is probably different Mr. Walker then, the one who is spammed multiple sites are not nice. He, like you are, Paul Adams, is in Nigeria. And on his fraudulent emails he writes he is in England. |
| paul adams September 15, 2008 |
Mr Walker is not what you think..he is nice man ..i have worked with him for 10years nw and it;s a shook to see such comments about him on the internet. |
| admin September 13, 2008 |
Find another place as soon is possible as this one is definitely is not there when you come. Contact police and Western Union. |
| lintot September 13, 2008 |
we haved booked for november and we have paid what can we do?? |
| Enrique September 11, 2008 |
We just got robbed 1200 by this person. Luckily we caught on the night before and rented a room at the park central hotel (which has a great location) but we went by the building which is a couple blocks away and the door man said a couple of people have actually showed up and it is all a scam. the building is investigating the case as well. |
| susan Dyer September 10, 2008 |
I have booled this place for Christmas are you telling me I have just lost the money Thank you Susan |
| tom September 2, 2008 |
also be aware of names Patricia Clinton, Alex Kingsman, listed on Craig’s list and http://www.gobesthome.com/real/PropertyView.aspx?id=10721 |
| tom September 2, 2008 |
these are same photos as 52 West 58th, Bob Webb and patricia clinton are used for this one, too. |
| Julie August 5, 2008 |
Wow! You know that I just was in contact with him, trying to rent a place for October!! See below – he is sure great! ** Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment is situated in Knightsbridge, on 27 Montpelier Street, LONDON, SW7, GB and its definitely available for your desired dates 10/08/2008 to 10/09/2008. The rent for your stay is £3300 (@ £100 per night) but to secure the place 50% of the rent will be required plus a refundable security deposit of £250, so all you need pay to secure the place is £1900. I’d also like to know where exactly you’ll be coming from? and how Apartment is fully furnished with full bath and kitchen , the closest Let me know about your interest so i can send you a booking/ payment form so I hope to hear back from you again.. Jeff…. |