[the_tidy_kiwi]

Be extremely wary of requests by landlords for you to create a Western Union or Moneygram payment to your own friend or relative "to prove that you have sufficient funds". In our experience this is a scam. They will ask you to send through the tracking information "as proof" and using fake IDs they will collect the money.

Below is an example email of what they might say:

Hello
Thanks so much for your patroinising of my flat but i will want us to do its in this way and if you think you have`nt seen what you want to pay for i think if i send you the pics and i know you will see what it looks like and i want you to know that this is the best way for me to do it, i want you to know that it will be Ok for both of us,anyother things apart from this is fowl and if you want it in this way,dont hesitate to get back to me asap.

I will pay you immediately the money you used for the transfer called ,TRANSFER CHARGES,its just for me to show my lawyer the details that you paid for the deposit and Rent, so i can fixed an appointment with you to come and see your flat and for you to be sure you can secure the payment of the deposit via western union as follows you can go to western union to pay with your name as receivers and your boyfriends name as senders just e-mail me the details as follow to show my lawyer that you really paid or send me the scanned copy of the payment,to show to him ,

NAME OF SENDER......
YOUR RELATIVES NAME NAME OF RECEIVER.....
YOUR NAME MTCN 10 DIGIT CONTROL NUMBER...
AMOUNT SENT....
ADDRESS OF SENDER....

And it will be you only that can pick it up and when i get the details will call western union for confirmation if you really pay and will ringed you up also to fixed an appointment for 2morrow after which we both go together to western union and pick it up when you're thru viewing and you pay me and i will handed over to you your key and the receipt which would have been prepared by my lawyer after i shown him the details and i call western union if you really pay and you'll be able to move in anytime.
Hope this get to you in good condition.
Await your reply back

1)when you just get to western union, send the money by your friends name.
2)your name must be the reciever coz we will go to nearest western union to get the money when its time for viewing.
3)you will now send me the information so that i can comfirm that you really want to rent my flat.
4)when will get there and you did not like the flat,you will get you money back coz i`m only doing this coz there are some people that are just wasting people`s time and i dont have time to waste.
5)And the viewing will be schedule immediately


If you receive an email like this, or notice an ad on the site that suggests this means of payment then report it to us immediately.

You can do this by clicking the 'report this posting for review by Gumtree admin' link, which appears at the bottom of each ad.

Or via the 'Stay Safe' section below.

There are also links on the emails that you receive through the Gumtree system that you can report these via.

[Batoul]

There is a spam about a flat in Marylbone ,email address anistongrant14@yahoo.com it is 100 pound per week , and it's a 1 bedroom flat newely furnished , i hope that gumtree one day can make some more effort and take action against those frauders , because there are a lot of people who can get conned by these stupid spamers .
Regards

[littleem]

[the_tidy_kiwi]

Thanks for reporting these to us. I will remove this ad from the site.

Unfortunately these scams are all over the internet. We try to warn people as best we can, and we do a lot of work behind the scenes to try and keep these ads off the site.

We are also looking at updating our messaging in certain categories, especially our accommodation ones.

Other than that just follow common sense really. If it seems too good to be true then it probably is.

[colonelc81]

Hi
I have also been contacted by no less than 3 of these conmen. They found me through a wanted add on the newcastle accomodation list. They all end up asking for WESTERN UNION TRANSFERS. There emails are in incredibly bad emails and the flats they offer are generally to good to be true.

[human123]

Hi, unfortunately i have just been conned by this exact scam. Me and a friend replied to an ad for a flat for rent in london, and after a lot of emails back and forth (very similar to the one quoted above) the conman persuaded us to transfer £1000 from me to my friend, and show the receipt. We are usually sensible intelligent people but at the time we were so desperate for somewhere to live we reluctantly agreed. We were wary of this transaction so my friend went to collect the transfer the next day, only to be told it had already been collected. I don't know if the conperson made a fake id with my friend's name or simply persuaded the place to release the money without id, but somehow they got my money. Having spoken to western union directly on the phone, i was told i could write to head office in the hopes they would help me chase up where the money was released, but the person on the phone had to tell me that realistically they probably wouldn't be able to help. Because i had shown a third party the receipt, this goes against the terms and conditions of making the transfer according to western union and it is unlikely they will help. I will also be reporting this to the police, but i don't hold much hope of anything being done. Surely gumtree should have some kind of warning on the flats for rent page, there seem to be a lot of these scams about?

[kamillax]

I got this emails: ALL SCAM!!!!!!

Email from GARRY MILLER, garry445@gmail.com

Hello .

It is a pleasure reading from you again, viewing the property is not
well executed on here i need a serious commitment before i can come
for the viewing because am now in Liverpool for some civil job now.All
you need to do is to transfer the security deposit and a month fees
to any of your friend,family partner,relative or anybody in U.k even
to yourself or anybody you trust through any western union agent
around you and scan the receipt you are given from the agents to me to
check if the money is available and immediately i see and confirm the
details,i will arrange for the view and after the view you will go and
collect your money and pay me cash in the presence of my lawyer to
prepare a rental receipts or anytime since i am 100% assured that you
are capable This is done this way for the safety and security of the
both of us because i don't want to tell you to pay me before the view
and i need to be sure you are serious and for the charges it will be
deducted from the first month payment.if you can do this now i will
come for the viewing as possible . i wait to read from you soon.so
that we can arrange for the viewing. i will be waiting for the details,so
i can confirm and see if the money is available,so we can arrange for
the viewing and sign the contract agreement and receipts in the
present of my lawyer.

Cheers

******

Another email from Claudia Riedel, claudia_londonroom@yahoo.com

Hello flatmate
Thanks for the mail and interest in my flat?Its good for you to come but before you can have access to view the apartment you have to complete the security fees of 400 GBP this is from the authority concern i will implore you to make the payment of the security and get the confirmation to view the said apartment without this security fees you have no acess to come and visit the apartment.i will be very happy to be sincere and honest with you due to my bad experience last week by a flatmate like you who wanna come over and view the flat but not knowing his a bugler.
I will want to let you know that if you really interested in my flat you will been to act fast and also pay security deposit and contact because a lot of people were really interested to be my flatmate both home and abroad and you need to pay secuity deposit for me to keep the flat for you and also let me know if you agreed to security deposit to keep the flat for you.Let me know if agree if so you should get back to me with your full name with contact address to prepare agreement for you to sign.
Hope to read from you again with the transfer details for viewing tomorrow so that after confirming the transfer details which my lawyer will issue a receipt you will bring along with you for viewing,
Cheers,
Claudia.

*****

Another email from Grace Williams, grace_willy00@yahoo.com

Hi

Really appreciate your mails,really am i looking for someone urgently to occupy the room, cus i have been with my uncle here for so long not until he got a job in west africa, as a director of one big firm, and he could not help but go, so he has gone and i dont want to stay alone in the home, so he asked me to look for a roomate. the place is located in 3 Blenheim Terrace, St John's Wood, London, NW8 0EH .

so if really you are intersted in the room, he his giving it out for 400pounds but you will have to secure the room by paying a deposit of about 200pounds.

The room has internet and it also has a desk and a chair for reading and writing, there is a private bathroom and toilet in it. its really nice.

once you are ready to make payment for the security deposit for the room, i will advice you to contact him, all discussion is with me but the payment goes to him cus he his in charge.
i will only entertain good questions, i only make him know when i do find someone that is serious and willing to get the room cus its urgent, like i told you that i wont want to stay alone in the house cus it will be boring to me, so i am going to israel tommorrow to meet my parent and i am not coming back until Saturday(already with my ticket, leaving first thing tommorrow morning), as soon as you have got the place secured, then the receipt you will get will be presented to me cus i will be home as soon as you made it.

little thing about myself, i am alittle quiet, fair in complexion, i dont party except on friday evening, i can sit for coffee maybe on saturdays, i am jovial, but sometimes serious. hope to meet you soon.

Do you have a picture of your self, if you do i will like to see it, hope you have seen mine.
hope to read from you soonest.
here is my Uncle email address: figdela200@yahoo.com.

His name is Mr. figo Mandella

His number is +2348036259521

Grace

[Reags]

Just got my hopes put up too! These people are lower than shark feces!!!


Sandra Romano <sandra_romano@live.com> wrote:

I have attached the photos of my flat below. My flat is very close University and also the nearest tube station is Marylebone and Regent Park tube station is just about 5 mins walking.
General information
Address: Regent Street,
Neighborhood: Westminster,London,W1B 6UW
City: Central London
Rent: £300 per Month(s) for each room
Deposit::£700 (The security deposit with one month rent will be pay first thruWESTERN UNION,the security deposit is refundable after stay one week in my flat so if you agreed you may getback to me with full name with contact address.
Available: 10 MARCH 2008
Minimum Stay: 1 Month(s)

Flatmate description
Gender: Female Orientation: Straight
Smoker: Non Smoker Occupation: Professional
Age: 27 yrs old Pet: No

Preferred flatmate description
Gender: Doesn't Matter Orientation: Doesn't Matter
Smoker: Doesn't Matter Occupation: Doesn't Matter
Age Range: from 16 to 99 yrs. old Couple: Doesn't Matter

Room and flat description
Dwelling type: Flat Floor #:
No# of bedrooms: 3 # of BR available: 3
No# of bathrooms: 3 Parking: Yes
Pet: Not Disclosed Flat Sq ft.: 0 Sq. Ft.

Room amenities: Furnished, Private bath, Hardwood floor, TV, Air conditioning, Closet, Private entrance
Home amenities: Washer/Dryer, Internet, Dishwasher, Yard, Pool
Comments:
Access to Health Club at no cost superbly located in the heart of the interesting and vibrant area of CENTRAL LONDON, yet with easy and convenient access into the City Center. is a recently developed area around large water basins and walkways with lots of entertainment and places to eat and drink.Let me know if is suitable with you if so you should be able to get back to me with Full name including your Contact address to make the agreement form for you to sign.
Sincerely

[Batoul]

[kamillax]

I reported that to the police:

frauddesk@city-of-london.pnn.police.uk

[cherrytea]

Hey my sister is looking for housing in London and naturally, we're coming across a lot of scams. Thanks to this forum and doing research, we've been able to avoid these frauds...

1. Claudia Riedel
claudia_londonroom@yahoo.com
claudia_londonroom@hotmail.com (even chatted on msn!)

Hey Flatmate,
> > > I went through your profil just now that you are looking for a flat in
> > > london which i am also looking for a flatmate right now to
> > > occurpied the two rooms i have presently for rent.
> > > Discription About my Flat...
> > > easy access to clubs,bars,resturant,banks,post office,tube
> > > station,bus stop,shopping mall,gallaria etc.
> > > Get back to me to my mail box
> > .claudia_londonroom@yahoo.com or you can also add me to your msn list so as to have a quick chat and discuss about the flat(claudia_londonroom@hotmail.com.
> > > Hope to read from you soon in my mail box so as to send you details about my room plus the pictures of the rooms i have for rent..
> > >
> > > Cheers,
> > > Claudia.
> > >

Hi
> Flatmate,
> > Thanks for the mail and interest in my flat?below are the details of
> > my flat with the picture of the house and the rooms for rent,The
> > flat was constructed in 2006 as an extension. It has its own
> > entrance and reserved car parking area and is only a few minutes
> > walk from the shops, post office, garage, bank and other
> > amenities.The flat comprises three bedroom with fitted wardrobe
> > and chest of drawers,and an adjacent tiled bathroom with shower.
> > The large sitting room has a double bed settee with sprung
> > mattress, wood burning stove, library of books, internet
> > connection,TV/video, radio/CD,warching marchine occasional
> > tables and additional seating.The Sky Free sat satellite TV
> > system has been installed to provide you with a comprehensive
> > range of television channels.The tiled kitchen is extremely well
> > equipped with a
> fridge/freezer,electric oven, microwave, washer,
> > tumble dryer and dishwasher.There is a dining table and chairs,
> > and a full complement of
> > crockery,cutlery and kitchen utensils.The flat is centrally-
> > heated, and there is no additional charge for electricity, bed-
> > linen or towels. The accommodation is spacious for two people
> > and more than adequate for a family of four. The location is
> > very peaceful,also quite accessible,allow pets in the flat.There
> > are several restaurants, craft shops, and visitor attractions
> > around Belgravia.
> > The flat tariff is £300 per month, £70 per week with all bills
> > including?£400 security deposit pay first before moving in to
> > the flat and will be refund back?
> > #Name:Claudia Riedel
> > #Age:28years
> > #Profession:Nursing
> > #Available 25/03/2008
> > #Address:26 Little Chester
> > Street
> > Belgravia,London SW1X 7AP.
> > #Area:Central London
> #Nearest tube station:
> > #Victoria station(7 minute walk)
Hope you like it and also get back to me with your full name and contact address so as to prepare the tenancy agreement form for you,read from you soon





2. Also: Abby Smith godisgood_01@yahoo.co.uk... this email sounds A ALOT like "Sandra Romano"

>Sorry to bother you but i saw your AD that you need an apartment. I have a lovely apartment for rent. I have attached the pictures of my lovely flat. It is a well furnished suitable flat. My flat is located at the center of London and the Nearest Tube Station is King's Cross Tube which is just 5 minutes away from my house. And it is just some minutes from Heathrow Airport.
> Address: 5,Seaford street, Regent Square, London,WC1H 8HC, ENGLAND
> Area: 02- Central London
> Rent: 110Per Week ( 450.00 Per Month) Deposit:450.00 Pounds (The security deposit will be paid first, the security deposit is refundable after the stay of one week in my flat so if you agreed you may get back to me with full name with contact address.
>
> Utilities include: Electricity, gas, cable, phone.
> Available: 08/02/2008
> Minimum stay: 1 month

> Flat mate Description:
> Personal info: ABBY,29 yrs. old , Female , Straight , Professional.
> Household info: Non Smoker , There are no pet(s)
>
> Preferred flat mate description:
Age: from 18 to 99 yrs. old
> Gender: Doesn't matter
> Smoker: Doesn't matter
> Orientation: Doesn't matter
> Pet: Doesn't matter
>
> Room and apartment description:
> Features: kitchen, reception Bedrooms, Bathrooms
> Home amenities: Alarm system, Cable reply, Washer/Dryer, Dishwasher,
> Microwave. Kitchen access, Storage, Gym.
> House amenities: Furnished, Air conditioning, Private entrance, Private
> bath, Phone jack, TV, Cable jack, Closet. Internet access
> A wonderful collection of individual style apartments which have
> recently been refurbished to a very high standard, offering very spacious accommodations. well equipped full kitchen, including a washer - dryer. -Conveniently Located
> -Daily Cleaning
> -Business Facilities
> -Satellite TV
> -Superb Kitchen with washer / dryer
> -Parking FREE
> -DVD/CD Players
>
> Access to Health Club at no cost superbly located in the heart of the interesting and vibrant area of CENTRAL LONDON, yet with easy and convenient access into the City Center. is a recently developed area around large water basins and walkways with lots of entertainment and places to eat and drink. Let me know if is suitable with you if so you should be able to get back to me with Full name including your Contact address to make the agreement form for you to sign. Whatever your reason for visiting London, it is a city that has something to offer everyone. London has successfully fused its grand heritage with modern living and attracts a wide range of visitors every year. Whether, it's sightseeing in Trafalgar Square, shopping on Oxford Street or entertainment in the West End, you will be spoil for choice. London also has a huge choice of restaurants, bars and hotels to suit any budget.
> While the areas to the north of the Thames are renowned for housing many of London's traditional attractions, e.g. Buckingham Palace, to the south of the river there is still much to see with many of the newer and more contemporary attractions, e.g. The Tate Modern. If you are on a budget there are also many free attractions throughout the city. London is Europe's largest city and it is easy to get overwhelmed and not make the most of your visit, so it's worth planning your trip and familiarizing yourself with its districts before you travel.
> The quality and choice of dining in London has developed dramatically in recent years, and many of the world's top chefs have chosen London as the place to house their prestigious restaurants. You will also find a fantastic range of affordable options to suit any budget. With flavors from all over the world, you will be spoil for choice.
>
> These are place where you get good meal:
>
> The Rock Garden
> 6/7 The Piazza, Covent Garden, London, WC2E, +44 (0)207 257 8613
>
> Belgo Central
> 29b Shelton Street, London, WC2H 9LJ, +44 (0)207 813 2233
>
> Palm Court Brasserie
> 39 King Street, London, WC2E 8JS, +44 (0)20 7240 2939......ETC...
>
> There are also bars and pubs if you care for some.....I mean after a long day at work. I'm looking for a responsible tenant that's clean pay the bills on time and that has great positive energy. There are plenty of negative people out there the last thing I want is to come home to a negative filled house and vice versa. Email me with any other questions you might have and I will gladly answer them. I'm looking to rent out to nice and cool person i really understand your plight and i want you to know that the apartment is fully available. Its your place and you can receive visits as much as it wouldn't inconvenient you....I would like to know how long you will be staying and when you will love to move in......LOL
> I would be expecting to read from you about your own interest.
>
> Note: Please send a reference and possibly an ID {Passport or Driver's License} or any form of ID.

> Sincerely,
> Abby.



Good luck everyone! Also this forum was very helpful: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g186338-i17-k1014578-Dos_and_Don_ts_for_short_term_flat_rental_in_London-London_England.html

[vanessa_cela]

I just received below e-mail from 'eileen bruce'

Hello,
Sorry for the late reply.I really appreciate your words in
assuring to pay me if you like the Flat.I understand you quite
okay.However,i do not want to stand on people's promise of paying me
cash or cheque when we meet again because i have met with time
wasters.
All i'm requesting for is just a proof that you have the money to pay
at hand. So for now i need your suggestion as i won't like to come
over there in vain.
Get back to me asap so that i can know what next.

Regards

On 3/10/08, Vanessa Cela wrote:
>
> Hi Eileen,
>
> I suggest that I see the flat before we can discuss money and payments.
>
> Best Regards
>
> Vanessa
>
> ----------------------------------------
> > Date: Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:20:14 +0000
> > From: eileen8493@googlemail.com
> > To: vanessa_cela@hotmail.com
> > Subject: Re: 21159540 add on gumtree
> >
> > Hello
> >
> > Thanks so much for the reply and interest in my flat.Just want to tell
> > you that its a large 1 Double Bedroom Flat and off street parking.
> > The rent is £750 including all bills and tax,a refundable deposit of
> > £500 is required.
> > However,i will be willing to meet you,get to know you and show you
> > round the flat so that you can see what you are renting.But the issue
> > is that i have had problems with time wasters with regards to making
> > the payment for the Flat and this is really time wasting which have
> > suffered my job so much despite the fact that i do come down from
> > Manchester for viewing because i am on research course,but have my
> > Laptop here to reply to emails as i am not
> > here with mobile phone as i could not be able to pick calls.
> > However,how am i going to be sure that i will not be disappointed
> > around when i come to show you the flat/room?Please understand that i
> > am NOT asking you to pay for what you have not seen.People have told
> > me that they will pay upon us meeting if they are satisfied but mostly
> > they don't have the cash at hand to pay me,everyone of them is looking
> > for a free or cheaper Flat to rent despite the fact that i have made
> > the rent Cheap.
> >
> > However,i am also discussing with my Colleague here as regards idea on
> > what i can do.I will get back to you or you suggest on what to do so
> > that we can arrange a meeting and the viewing of the flat.Thanks while
> > i will be waiting
> > read from you.
> >
> > The neighborhood is safe and i guess you have heard much about this
> > area before,so its safe, clean area.
> > 1)Let me know your suggestion..........I guess you will be willing to
> > pay me if you like the Flat.
> >
> > 2)-Are you the only to occupy the Flat?Your rent begins on your move in
> date.
> >
> > 3)As i have previously said,Viewing is never a problem.
> >
> > 4)There is no minimum stay which means that you can rent for long or short
> term
> >
> >
> > regards
> >

[jordada]

I recieved the following which sounds just like the rest of the Western Union scams mentions here:

Hello Dave, You can stay in My property for as Long as you want and you dont haveto pay any Bills because all Bills is inclusive.we have to reach anagreement before you can be able to view the Property.I am giving thisflat away just because no one is making use of the house at themoment. and i hate to see it dirty every time. Its better for me tolet it out to someone who will make it clean and tidy. I hope youunderstand this. Well, Viewing the house is not a problem. But i willlike you to do a thing. I guess you will understand this. It's in thepolicy my Lawyer has told me and i wish to abide by it. I won't getany money from you now. So you will do a thing to make me believe youreally need the Apartment.I have been fooled several times and I hadto travel a long journey with my Lawyer to meet people who wants toview my property and at the end of the day they tell me they want tostay in the apartment for a month before they would pay me. I don'twant this to happen to me again so My Lawyer has advised me that Ihave to be sure that who so ever is renting my property should becapable of paying the cost of the rent. You will go to the nearest WESTERN UNION MONEY TRANSFER aroundyou,Send to your Friend send the sum 1100pounds in western union. Themoney is still within you. I am not ready to get money from you as ihave said. All I need to see is the western union money transfer copyof receipt giving to you. Scan the western union receipt and send itas an attachment to my email just for me to view it and be sure youare ready to get the Flat. after viewing the house, and you reallylike it, You can go together to the western union location agent orbank around here to get the 1100 pounds back and we can reach anagreement on how you will move into the Flat. I will pay back to youthe charges you will be using in sending the money in western union.If you don't understand, Here is an examples of how to do it....

SENDERS NAME....................
YOUR NAME RECEIVER' NAME...................
YOUR FRIEND NAME. AMOUNT SENT.....................1100POUNDS.

Hello Dave,

I have an apartment on 97 Edgware Rd, London, W2 1ED, United Kingdom,Its an apartment with 2 Bed Room and a Living Room, Kitchen and Bathrooms Included.All bills is included.
I am presently in Bristol taking care of somethings here and I am willing to rent out my Property.
The cost of my Property is:
Security Deposit which would be refunded to you if nothing is damaged in my Property until you would be leaving which is 600 Pounds and the House Rent is 500 pounds/Month and all bills is included.
I have attached pictures of the Room and Living room for you.
I hope you would get back to be asap so that we can finalize this.

Best Regards,
Bruce.

and scan the copy of receipt to me in an email just for me to view it. and then i can pick you up and show you the Flat. Best Regards.Bruce.

This all started from a "wanted" ad I posted on gumtree. Luckily i thought it was too good to be true and had read the other posts in this forum.

[pbanh]

I thought this flat was too good to be true - 1br in St Johns Wood 200pounds/week all bills inclusive. Well it is too good to be true!

This is the email from Bob Phillips - bphillips1224@yahoo.co.uk
who is apparently in Newcastle and is a 'busy' man, doesn't want to travel down to London to show people his flat unless they can prove they can pay the rent.

His last email to me below:

I was speaking with a friend of mine and he told me if you could use Money Gram money transfer...since you would be viewing the flat and i need to confirm funds are available before i come...its best you put the money in your friends name or your name at their nearest location to your place so i can be sure you made the transaction.....and when i come and you've viewed the flat..you can pick the money up for me at a nearby office to the apartment in London I have no doubts you would definitely want the flat...its just as you've seen in pictures. You can deduct the money for their charges from the total...i would take that as my own expenses...i only need to confirm funds are available before i come...
Pls dont misunderstand my intentions...am not doubting your capabilities of being able to pay me this money...am only trying to be more sure am not coming to London for nothing as i have to fix somethings out of my busy schedule to come.....and also when we meet in London you would have to show me reference from your previous landlord to make me sure of subsequent payments since i would be away in France for sometime. I could also come along with the Tenancy Agreement which should be someday next week...you just let me know when would be convenient for you.
Hope this is okay by you and you can see reasons with me...

[maaikekamman]

Well, this is what I received this morning... Sent by kclackson@yahoo.com

Hello Maaike,

I really appreciate your mail and your interest in the room. The address of the apartment is 13 Harrington Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 3ES . 07031891861

Monthly Rent: £500
Security Deposit: £250

All bills are included in the rent, the room is fully furnished and it has a fast internet connection, you only need to bring your clothes. The house you will be staying belongs to Mr. Craig Miles the Landlord who went to West Africa last month working in Julius Berger a construction company.

The room is available now, he's looking for someone for short term or long term with private bathroom, but you will have to share the kitchen with me. hope that is not a problem? I would have love to show you around right now, but i cant due to the fact that i have to run to visit friend in Wales that just gave birth and i will not be coming back till Wednesday, i hope you understand that we can only be talking on Via email because i did not take my phone along.

It will be best for you to secure the room now by making payment for the security deposit now, because i cannot gurantee you that the place will still be available till when i will be back from my trip. A receipt will be sent to you and you will also receive the Tenancy agreement document from the landlord that you will print and bring along when you are coming.

You will have to deal with him, because he will be the one in charge of payment and all necessary documents. he is very kind, he will attend to you very well.

His email. m.miles001@yahoo.com

His name is Mr. Craig Miles

His Tel. +2347030538078

kindly indicate that i directed you to him

Hope to read from you soonest.

Katherine

The add was shown yesterday on Gumtree, in the North London section. The title was: £500 looking 4 a home? charming room with view (£500 pcm).

So people, WATCH OUT!

I already read a similar add in this topic, and I also found a similar one on a Spanish forum... Every time it's a similar kind of story, only other names, addresses and places are used...

Good luck with house hunting!

[emily_fang_713]

Hi,

I'm looking for a one bedroom flat in Dundee and I posted a wanted ad on gumtree. Then I got this email from a person called Stanfield Zelick, with the email stanfieldzelick@googlemail.com

The content of his email is very similar to what is posted here already, saying he has a place fitting the description of my requests for 400GBP a month, all bills included. He even emailed me tiny pictures of the flat, which looked great! He even gave me a phone number and I called him once. He spoke very poor english and his emails are horrible grammatically as well. And when I called him he gave me a similiar story, saying that he is not in Dundee at the moment, that he is in Liverpool right now because his wife is very ill. I actually felt so sorry for him!

There are other details that fit the posts on this board. Because I will need a place for September, I was surprised when he said he could reserve the place for me for 6 months! I should've been suspicious! I also asked him if I can make a modification to his plan and write a cheque or use money order through my bank, and he completely ignored it and insists on using moneygram.

Anyway, here's what his emails read. I hope no one falls for this one again!



From: stanfield zelick [mailto:stanfieldzelick@googlemail.com]

Sent: Mon 2008/3/10 PM 11:49

Subject: Re: One Bedroom Flat

hello,
thanks for getting back to me on behave of your reqiured needs.am seriously in need of a serious and capable tenant to take a proper care of my property.the property has a fully furnished kitchen,clean and well tidy sitting rooms,laundry room,and fully furnished with home utilities like:-electric shower,Lounge,Vacuum Cleaner,Toaster,Oven and microwave,dryer,iron,washingmachine,gascooker,refridgetor,dishwahser,powershower,heater,cable ready,tv set and dvd player,easy access to internet,equiped kitchen and so on.
That flat is located on 26 Union St, Dundee, Angus, DD1 4BE, UK. the monthly rental fee is ￡400 (including bill,taxes,tv liecence,gas)and the security deposite is ￡300 which is refundable provided there is no damage occurance in my property while the pictures of the property is attached to these mail so that you we know what you are renting. all i want is a good security for my properties.
i await your mail to know is you ar satisfy with the details of my flat give
to you aswell to know and arrrange for the viewing of the flat and arrange
for the neccesary thing that is aslo needed.
thanks
Stanfield



From: stanfield zelick [mailto:stanfieldzelick@googlemail.com]

Sent: Thu 2008/3/13 PM 08:07

Subject: Re: One Bedroom Flat

hello i really appriciate your reply concerning your need. i would have love to see this as a proof but i have been fooled severally so hence my lawyer said for anybody to rent my property,The person must show commmitment bysimply sending the first month payment to anybody either relatives or friend in the UK(not me) by making yourself the payer and the person the reciever through moneygram or western union money transfer and scan the reciept to my mail,and after thisis done will confirm if truly you have money for pick up with them as soon as these is confirmed i will give you a call or mail you back so as the reciever can go pick it up back.With these he said he will be convienced enough that you are capable of taking care and renting my property.and that i am making a reservation for a serious tenant.
I really wish i can accept the letter as a proof but this is not going to convience him as he has the keys to the flat and dont waant to do anything behind him cos the last i did almost lead me to regrets.
Thanks
feel free to contact me on 07031964499 for any question you've got



Re: One Bedroom Flatstanfield zelick [stanfieldzelick@googlemail.com]

I only receive money after viewing and that is only you have the keys and sign the agreement and i am ready to come down for i want you to see what you are paying for.I just need proof that the agreed rent and deposit is available and i will meet up with you anytime ypu like viewing it.these is my suggestion for the safety and interest of the both of us because i don't want regret coming down and i can't tell you to pay for a property you've not viewed.You send the security deposit and a month rent to your friends,family,partner or anybody's details (NOT ME) in uk t money gram around you and scan the receipts for me on here to send to my lawyer .Immediately he confirms these i will happy come down and arrange for the view any time you want to view it because with these,i am convinced that you are capable of meeting my demands for i know you will like the property....After the view the receiver or you will go and collect the money from the money gram agent,sign the rental agreement form if possible or later and get the keys to the property before paying me in cash in the presence of my lawyer or pay me anytime since i am 100%assured that you are capable.
I believe you understand why it is done this way which is for the safety and security of the both of us..The transfer charges will be refund back to you on the spot of view or deducted from the first month rent you are paying me
in cash because i know and i can bet you will like the property.
Thanks and i really do appriciate you calling me personally on my cell phone.And my lawyers name is martin george and here is his mail if you will want to contact him martin1853@gmail.com

PLS DO NOT MAKE PAYMENT TO ME FOR I ONLY NEED THIS AS PROOF

[Ness10]

Hi all,

ab.smith1@yahoo.com is another person trying to scam us. I heard from him yesterday after posting an ad advising I was looking for a room, and in what area. He replied, and got my hopes up, however I stumbled across this forum, and luckily enough didn't get sucked in!

Exactly the same thing.. asking for the deposit thru some transfer in a friend's name etc. He even asked for my mobile number!! Thankfully I had enough common sense not to give it to him. I knew it was too good to be true because the rent was so low for the area I was looking in!

[polygonslayer]

Hi

I recently thought I might had an apartment sorted in Cambridge. Now the guy wanted originally to arrange a viewing, but agreed for me to do the deposit. I did it over Western Union which I now see could be a bad thing :s
I also did get a lease sent to me to read over. Is this normal for scams as well ?
I just sent an email to Western Union asking to cancel the transfer if possible. It has been 14 hours since i sent the money.
Reading some of the emails here and they are somewhat similar in places to the ones he sent.

Damn! I hate this...

[Dirty Mom]

[taddy]

This guy tried to scam me today even though I told him that I give accommodation advice to students by profession!! Bells were ringing because the house was below market rent and included bills. He wanted £500 deposit for a house in Luton and a month rent up front.. I am contacting BBC Watchdog as I feel many desperate people will fall for this especially young people and students. How on earth do they sleep at night!!! Basically...if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is.

[Ines]

Hi,

i am searching since 3 weeks a flat in London. I am currently living in germany and have no time for viewings...
i get nearly 30 mails with criminal offers "please make prepayment via western union" The flats are often looking like photos from a magazin or Hotel... and most times it is a emailadress from yahoo, and always when i asked them if i could make a viewing you get the answer that this is not possible, only possible after my prepayment...
the funny thing was, that i get from different people the same pictures for different flats in different streets!

They always tell you that you get a contract from a lawyer...

Please be aware!!!!!

some adresses:
beckywaltz@yahoo.com
susanbarley01@yahoo.co.uk
jean_boutier@yahoo.com
jim.wright4u@yahoo.com
omarm20010@yahoo.com
victoriawilly@yahoo.com

greetings, ines

[jack 100]

A one bed flat for £800pcm with bills all in on Cursitor Street in Holborn? I don't think so!

Hi Jack,

Good to read again from you and for expressing your genuine interest in renting my flat. You seem to be a good personality and I am sure you'll be a great tenant.

I'd have actually loved to keep it vacant but a friend advised i get some one who can take good care of it.I hope i can take your word to take good care of my apartment like your own.

However as i said before viewing will not be a problem, Anytime during the week in the evening would be a good date for our meeting. but i need a proof you have the funds on you before i can commit to viewing as i have been dissapointed several times after scheduling viewings in the past few days. My job had suffered and i have also wasted my funds coming over to london before thats why im a little skeptical.

As it is not a wise decision to send your bank statements via the internet that would have been a better option. So may be you want to suggest how else you can prove to me you have the funds on you right now so we can go on to meet for viewing if that is okay by you.

Meanwhile, Below are the lease terms:
* An advance payment of the first month and the Refundable security deposit shall be paid.
* The Rent shall be paid on Monthly basis thereafter.
* You shall only be allowed to default in payment of rent for not more than 3 months after which the eviction process shall be initiated.
* The minimum lease term is six (6) months, violation of this shall lead to the forfeiture of the security deposits.
* If you will need to vacate the house, notice shall be given a month prior to intended day of moving.
* The security deposit shall be refunded on or before the 15th day of vacating the apartment.

Feel free to ask any questions.

Thanks and Best Regards
Stacey

[cherrytea]

Here's another one that emailed my sister...


From: tony frank <skereny03@rediffmail.com>
To:
Date: Fri, 14 Mar 2008 10:42:25 +0000
Subject: 2 BEDROOM FLAT

Hello,
Thanks for your interest in my flat,i have a 2bedrooms flat and it's a whole flat not a share in king street, London, hammersmith, W6OQU.and the nearest tube station is Barons Court Station which is 6 mins to the flat when would you love to view the property? I'm available tomorrow if you don't mind.below are the details

Area: 01- Central London
Rent: Rent: £145.00 Per Week ( £600.00 Per Month} SECURITY
DEPOSIT:£700.00 refundable to you after 5 days in my flat
Utilities include: electricity, gas, cable, phone.
FEATURES::Central Heating,Double Glazed,Laminate Flooring,Available
Now Furnishing: Furnished apartment situated in the Heart of CENTRAL
LONDON bills included. its fully furnished, DG, GCH, bath/wc, its
laminated flooring, 24 hrs Security and Porter Service available and entry phone.

# Fully-equipped kitchen
# Vaulted ceilings
# Washer/dryer in unit
# Broadband internet connection in each room
# Air conditioning
# Fireplace/select units
# modern English furniture

it is well maintained and clean in a very special clean and secure
environment in central London.,when are you available for the viewing ASAP..
ANDREW.

Hello ,
Sure i'll would love to invite you for the viewing and the time is okay by me,but due to some recent inconveniences caused by those who want to view my flat, my lawyer and the landlord and landladies association of hammersmith has stated to me that, i should know the capability of people who want to rent my flat first before even inviting him /her for a viewing,so i'll implore you to try and show me that you are capable by paying the deposit and the rent due,with your name as sender and your same name as receiver or if you wanna use your relatives name as receiver,suit your self all i wanted from you is the payment details or the scanned transfer copy receipt given to you after the transfer ,so that i can show it to the association or my lawyer instead,that you have paid the deposit and a month rent through western union or money gram which ever one is more nearer to you... and i'll ring you up immediately for the viewing,and tell you to meet me up at the hammersmith, W6OQU.and the nearest tube station is Barons Court Station which is about 6mins walk from the flat,then after viewing we can go pick up your money and give it to me in cash by hand but before then i would be responsible for the transfer charges western union/money gram will be charging you for the transfer,so you can always be honest to state to me in your mail when sending me the transfer payment details the exact amount you used for the transfer so i'll give you that immediately you come into the flat for the viewing.then after viewing you can go pick up the transferred money for me in cash,i really wanted you to be on the most safer side ,so that no one can have the access to your money ,that was why i don't want you to use my information to make the transfer ,because you will still be the one to pick up your money after viewing,well i'll love to tell you this and understand this ,the association also tell me to be responsible for the transfer charges ,which is gonna be required for the transferring of deposit and a month rent by wanna be tenant,and which i have accepted, and i'll always give that to you immediately i invited you for the viewing,so after viewing you can go pick up the transferred money,but before that i'll give you what ever amount you used for the transfer,i mean the western union/money gram transfer charges, hope to hear from you soon, well i know you will love the flat as well 'cuz it's exactly as it is in the pictures and if you can make the payment tommorow and scanned the receipt to me to show my lawyer that you're capable and have cash at hand and not a time waster will ringed you up to come tommorow for the viewing,i mean this evening
NAME OF SENDER:YOUR FRIENDS NAME
NAME OF RECEIVER:YOUR NAME
ANDREW.

[Mhairi.Maclachlan]

Hi,
Thanks for the reply and for the interest you have my flat,but i can come over to show you the flat once i see the proof that you have the money to pay me. Moreover, i never ask you to pay me for the flat you have not seen. All am after is a proof that you have the money pay at hand cos a lot of people has wasted my time and i don't want such thing to happen again. Western union stand as a intermediary between you and me, is a thing that could make me to know the truth that you have the money at hand or not.
However,western union only serve as intermediary between us because you can also track if money is available for pick up on there website (www.westernunion).com as that is what i want to do to confirm if the money is available before making my way down to meet you for proper viewing. so you have to understand that i am not asking you to pay any money to any account or to me,what i need is the proof of the money available for you to cash for me after viewing as i can't afford a waste of time.looking forward to read from you.
- Hide quoted text -


regards lima

Mhairi Maclachlan <mhairimaclachlan@googlemail.com> wrote:
Hi,

I think our communication has got a bit confused! I haven't said that I will rent out the flat, and have not even mentioned money at all!

I would like to see the flat but cannot guarantee you that I will rent it at all. And I'm afraid that under no circumstances would I transfer any money before I had viewed the flat.

Unfortunately, it seems that you will have to come down to London to allow people to see the flat. If you decide that this is what you'll do, I'd be happy to arrange a viewing with you, just drop me an email and let me know when you're available.

Thanks again



On 3/19/08, Mhairi Maclachlan <mhairimaclachlan@googlemail.com> wrote:
Hi,

I think our communication has got a bit confused! I haven't said that I will rent out the flat, and have not mentioned money at all!

I would like to see the flat, but cannot guarantee you that I will rent it at all.


On 3/19/08, Lima Benson <lima.benson@yahoo.com> wrote:
Hi,
Really appreciate your words in assuring to pay me if you like the Flat.I understand you quite okay.However,i do not want to stand on people's promise of paying me cash or cheque when we meet again because i have met with time wasters.I was discussing with my colleague about the idea on how i will be so sure that i will not be coming down to London on a futile exercise and she advised that we can work out something via Western Union Transfer.

She made me to understand that she has used it a couple of times for renting out her room if she is not around. She said that western union can actually hold the money as an evidence and surety that her tenant will pay her at least for the first month and deposit.She explained that you can visit any Western union outlet and transfer the money IN YOUR FRIEND NAME as the SENDER and RECEIVER will be in YOUR NAME.-You will use his/her name as the SENDER and AFTER viewing and you are okay with the flat,we both can go back to withdraw your money from western union close to my flat as she said she has done transactions this way before.

I do not want you to have the feeling that i am asking for money BEFORE you see what you are renting because i know that payment is meant to be done AFTER you have seen the Flat and okay with it.-The reason why you have to be receiver is basically to give you the confidence that your money is still in your name and to make sure that your money is still safe since it is still in you name as the receiver as you are the only one who can collect it with a valid ID,maybe with a passport or drivers license.

So in order for me to also be on a good side,you can go ahead and make the transfer since you have the money ready,let me know immediately you do the transfer so that i can know how to squeeze out time to come and meet you.But i will have to rely on your honesty and truth that you have actually make the payment before i leave here to come down to London to see you.What evidence will you give me so that I can be sure that you have made the payment? I was made to understand that you can Send me the (Sender name, Receiver name and MTCN) to confirm here online on www.westernunion.com if its there before making my way.
I was also made to understand that western union takes some charges for the transfer and i am telling you that i will return back to you the full transfer charges whether you decide to rent the flat or not when we meet,ok?After doing the transfer,then i will have to leave here and be with you in London to meet you immediately.
Please,understand that i am NOT asking you to pay me BEFORE you view the flat as payment is to be done AFTER viewing.
I only want to be sure that i am not going to waste my time this time around and i think that with this condition,both of us can be sure we are not wasting our times.Let me know if you are okay with this so that we can proceed.Thanks so much while i will be waiting to read from you and i am looking forward to meet you and be great friends eventually.
I will get the contract ready for you to sign if you like to take the Flat after viewing and the keys will be handed over to you immediately after contract.
Receipt of payment will be issued to you after which you have sign the lease agreement form.

PS:I am sorry for the lengthy mail.I only want to explain myself better


Regards lima


Mhairi Maclachlan <mhairimaclachlan@googlemail.com> wrote:
Hi Lima,

Sorry for the late reply. I'm looking to move out of my place in the next few weeks and am hoping for somewhere for 6-12 months.

I'm female, single, 24 and currently studying, very clean and tidy and just want a nice flat to live in, in a nice area. I am flat hunting this weekend but am generally available during the week, at weekends, during the day!

If you tell me when you are able to come down and then we could arrange a viewing that's convienient for both of us.

Thanks




On 3/16/08, Lima Benson <lima.benson@yahoo.com> wrote:
Hi,

Sorry for the late in reply,im some kind of busy person....the flat is still available...i will be glad to meet you soon.....The flat is safely located at Clapham Junction,Battersea Park Rd,London,SW11 4ND ..., and close to shopping center and the train station battersea,bars,etc and there is a garage which you can park a car,the flat is fully furnished..Quietly and conveniently located within easy reach,multiple shopping and transport facilities.
Refurbished to high standard and tastefully decorated throughout.
Professionally rewired,New plumbing,Sound and heat insulated,Professionally plastered walls and ceilings,Restored wooden floors,doors throughout,Gas centrally heated -newly fitted high quality radiators in keeping with period style.
High ceilings, large windows and pleasant outlook.
The rent per month include bills in 500pounds and a refundable deposit of 400pounds.
I will like a contract of least 6month...more so when will you be needing this flat? because i will be traveling to France after my seminar in Manchester....i will be willing to meet you,get to know you and show you round the flat so that you can see what you are renting.

Meanwhile, the issue is that i have been having problems with time wasters in regards of keeping to time and appointment to sort out things...after all there promises to meet up for me to show them around and sort out things,they will not show up...and this is really time wasting because i am presently in Manchester on a seminar,which am unable to go along with my phone because i'm busy,but have my Laptop here to reply to emails.

However,i will discuss it with my Colleague here as regards idea on what i can do about coming down to sort things out with you and not get me disappointed or you suggest on what to do so that we can arrange a meeting and the viewing of the flat.Thanks while i will be waiting read from you.
The neighborhood is safe and i guess you have heard much about this area before,so its safe, clean area.

How many of you will be in the flat?hope to read back from you soon.

Regards,lima


Mhairi Maclachlan <mhairimaclachlan@googlemail.com> wrote:
Hi there,

Is this flat still available?

[deputy2404]

I placed a wanted ad and received a reply offering me a lovely house in the area I wanted. After exchanging a few emails, I looked at the forums and read about this scam, now I feel I may have had my hopes built up for nothing!
Am I just boing paranoid?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 19 Mar 2008 19:02:21 +0100
From: danielgreen23@gmail.com
To: tracy.dudley@ntlworld.com
Subject: Concerning your ad on gumtree

Hello,
I am Daniel Green.I read your ad concerning your need of an apartment...I have got an apartment to let go in your area of choice.Let me know your budget and self introduction and also you can contact me via danielgreen23@gmail.com or call 07024011932
I wait to hear from you again,and send my regards to your loved ones.
Daniel

Hello Daniel

I am looking for a 2bedroom property in Watford & the surrounding areas - Bushey, Oxhey, Abbots etc. and my budget is around £1000 pcm. I am ready to move immediately and as stated in my advert, I would prefer a long term let on a rolling contract (a buy-to-let or investment property etc.). I would like somewhere suitable for familes, preferably with a garden and off street parking (although these are not deal-breakers). I am in employment and can provide references upon request. Please email me with further informatio on any suitable properties, with pictures if possible.
Regards
-
Hello

Thanks for showing interest in my property.The price is ok with me if its not including bills and if bills lis included it will be 1300 though its still negotiable.I dont know if you want it furnished or not.I got the pics if you wanna see?I can let it out for a long term based on how long you want it.Its situated at St. Albans Road,Watford,Hertfordshire.

I wait to hear from you soon

Regards
-
Hi Daniel

I would like to see photo's if you have them? I don't mind furnished or unfurnished. Where abouts on St Albans Road is it? How many bedrooms has it got and is it a flat or a house? Sorry for so many questions. I look forward to hearing from you.

Regards
-
This are the few pics I got available.Its furnished and if you dont like the furniture you can change it.Its 2 bedroom but i got pics for only one bedroom available.Its a house.I hope you like it,I am still online so let me hear from you.

Daniel
-
Hi Daniel

The place looks lovely from the pictures, thank you for getting back to me so quickly.
I would definitely be interested, could you tell me where abouts on St Albans Road it is? Is there of street parking? Does it have a garden? The furniture looks fine.

Thanks
-
It does have a garden.well i dont know how to explain to you on how it is on alban road it is.you see i would have love to come and show you but before I can come i will need a proof that ytou can afford the apartment

Daniel
-
Daniel

I am definitely interested in the house, depending on the location, parking etc. If it is suitable, we could arrange to meet and I could bring you my references and we could discuss deposits and contracts etc. Let me know how this seems to you.
I look forward to hearing from you


Since sending this email, I've heard nothing back! Have I had a lucky escape?