Scam: Gumtree payment schemes or invoices

twiggy · Last edited by twiggy on Thu May 29, 2008 4:58 pm; edited 1 time in total

Hello everyone

We have been alerted by some of our users about an email being sent round to some of our users claiming to be from Gumtree and talking about a Gumtree service for payment for goods/ flats to rent.

This is fake. Gumtree don’t offer any financial protection services such as a payment program or get involved in invoicing at all so please be aware that these emails are a scam and definitely not from us.

What should I do?
Anyone who receives this email should report it to us using the Stay Safe page under Gumtree Help, and under no circumstances send the person any money or follow the instructions.

Just a reminder that any genuine emails you receive from us at Gumtree will always be sent from an ‘@gumtree.com’ email address (although please note that even this can be faked); we will never ask you for money or bank details; and we don't use Western Union or any other financial program.

Our Stay Safe page under Gumtree Help (look for the 'help' button on the left hand-side of your Gumtree homepage) has lots more tips on what to watch out for.

Unfortunately the sender of this email is trying to prey on the good, honest nature of Gumtree users and they feel that by posing as Gumtree they hope to instil a sense of trust and be more successful with this scam.

Thanks very much to those that alerted us to this.

The Gumtree Team

the_tidy_kiwi · Gumtree Moderator Joined: 26 Feb 2007 Posts: 610

Hi all,

Just an update on this scam. These jokers are now copying and pasting information from our 'Stay Safe' pages, but then adding their own bullet points! The email address below is also a complete fake.

See below:

From: help@gumtreestaysafe.com
Subject: Gumtree ad: <>
Date: <>
To: <>

TO: <>

Welcome to Gumtree Help!

Accommodation – top tips for staying safe

o View properties in person if possible.Gumtree is a local community site and we encourage face-to-face, local, trading. People willing to rent a property without seeing it , even if they claim that it is because they are currently overseas, are unlikely to be legitimate.For personal ease and safety, always ensure you take someone with you, or if you are inviting someone into your home ask to see personal identification first.

o It is illegal for agencies in the UK to charge fees for viewing properties/ property listings. Please report to us any agencies advertising on Gumtree that ask for fees upfront.

o Never send or wire money to landlords without contacting us first at this email address.

o Gumtree doesn’t offer any sort of buyer protection/ payment programs.
Any emails that talk about such systems are scams, even if they may have the Gumtree logo. If you receive any emails promoting these services,please report it to us by writing us an email to this email address .

o Report to us by writing us an email to this email address any attempted fraud or suspicious emails, ads, or other activity by community members.In case of fraud, we also recommend that you report it to the Police.

o Landlord: Daniel Luis is currently in Spain and he is unable to show his property.He requests a credit check using Western Union - Money Transfer before his arrival in (London) because of his past problems with renting his apartment over the Internet.

The landlord: Daniel Luis is A Verified Member in good standing,Identity and/or Contact Information - Verified.

Referral Transaction Summary:

Monthly rent:550

Deposit:550

Amount Due:1100

Tenant name:<>

Property of:Daniel Luis

Description:FURNISHED 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT on the 5th floor of the building. Floor to ceiling windows in the lounge give long-range views east, south and - just for good measure - west ! The property comprises entrance hallway, bathroom, furnished double bedroom and master bedroom with en-suite facilities. The lounge includes two mega comfortable cloth settees, coffee table & tv. Vertical blinds. Fully-integrated kitchen area includes washer/dryer, full length fridge-freezer, oven & hob, dishwasher and integrated microwave. Wrap-around balcony ensures you get the most out of the summer months. Highly economical property. Fabulous views over the river and the weir. On-site security. SECURE UNDERCROFT PARKING SPACE.

Just deposit the "Amount Due" via Western Union to any name (relative or friend name) London,United Kingdom.If you accept the landlord terms than proceed with the deal.

Transfer must be issued within 24-48 hours.

How to complete payment?

1. Locate the nearest Western Union Office 2. E-mail us the following details from the payment receipt:
- MTCN - 10 digits number from the payment receipt
- Sender Name and Address
- Receiver Name
- Amount

Note: Western Union Money Transfer is designed mainly for sending cash to friends and family in need, so telling them you are sending the money to a designed business will prevent your money transfer to go through and you will be unable to complete this transaction.

o Gumtree doesn’t offer any sort of buyer protection/ payment programs,we will hold the payment details until the landlord will be able to show you the property in person.

Important Notice!

The payment details are confidential and will not be released under any circumstances.Our constant priority is the safety of our people and our customers.Gumtree always tries to fulfill its customers' needs.

If you encounter any problems with this transaction, please contact using this email address.

Samantha Drew

Thank you for using Gumtree!

Princess Court
1 Horace Road
Kingston Upon Thames
Surrey KT1 2SL

The Information in red is all false information. Funnily enough, these guys included the very information that warns people about using Western Union and Gumtree not offering payment schemes!

If you receive any emails similar to this IGNORE the instructions and report them to us!

the_tidy_kiwi · Gumtree Moderator Joined: 26 Feb 2007 Posts: 610

Here is the first email that you receive. Typical 'Gumtree will send you an email' 'pay by Western Union' 'I had a bad experience' - all classic scam signals.

Dear <>,

Follow the instructions received from Gumtree to proceed with the deal.If you accept my terms than the apartment is yours!

I had a horrible experience last time I wanted to rent my apartment over the internet and now I`m being careful with my selections.

There will be two possibilities we could conduct our deal. The first one is to send the total amount to move in (GBP 1400) through western union to my name.

The second one is to make a proof of money. Just deposit the total amount of (GBP 1400) via Western Union,you can deposit them in any name (relative or friend name), Let`s say John Hanks or any other , London United Kingdom.

As soon as you made the deposit you will have to forward the transaction details to Gumtree and they will hold the payment details.If everything will be ok i will be coming to complete the deal,sign the lease and pass you the keys along with a copy of the "Lease Contract".

After Gumtree will notify me that you had made the transfer,i will book a flight for London for your move in date,when exactly do you wanna move in?

This is fair enough for me,i hope you feel the same thing because this is just a credit check.

You can leave the money at Western Union until the move in date.I will refund the transfer fees when we will meet in person.

After you will move in,you will have to change receivers details with my details to be able to pick up the funds.

For further information do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,

the_tidy_kiwi · Gumtree Moderator Joined: 26 Feb 2007 Posts: 610

Hi Guys,

A scam that we saw a year ago has resurfaced. We are working hard to keep these ads off our site, but be wary that Gumtree does not offer any payment services. Click the 'Report this Ad' button to let us know if you receive a reply like the one below:

For Your Rent & Deposit Payments, Think Gumtree Safety

3 Easy Steps to complete a transaction:

1. The home owner and the prospective tenant both agree to use Gumtree Safety, a transaction is established and a date of arrival is set.

2. The prospective tenant remits the transaction amount to Gumtree ( Rent plus Deposit) and the Apartment owner is notified that the money is at Gumtree.

3. After the expected date of arrival has elapsed, the prospective tenant is granted a 7-day inspection period, after acceptance of service (the apartment actually exists) by the prospective tenant, the home owner is paid... Or the prospective tenant gets his money back.

We highly recommend our users to use this method of payment to secure the first transaction with your future landlord.

Our member Tom Leya has opted to conduct this transaction through Gumtree Safety having you the person who is renting his house/flat:

Property ID
Monthly Rent
Deposit
Amont Due

22343456
£550
£550
£1100

Referral Transaction Summary

Tenant name and address:
<>

Reported Lease terms:
Starting from 7th June

Property of:
Tom Leya, Broad Street Bristol,Bristol

Description:

Stunning first floor FURNISHED apartment forming part of a Georgian townhouse situated in the heart of the City overlooking the refurbished \'Guildhall\' and boasting 2 double bedrooms (master with full en suite bathroom), separate shower room, stunning living room with period fireplace and high ceilings, refitted kitchen with integrated appliances, gas central heating and weeknight parking available nearby.

The Following were indicated by Tom Leya:

The total rent/month:£550

Deposit:£550

Amount Due:£1100

After receiving the amount of £1100 the landlord will be instructed to show you the house/flat. The landlord selected Gumtree Safety for this transaction. Premium service transactions are protected up to GBP 20,000.00 in order to speed up the process. Gumtree and our registered member agreed that you send payment via Western Union- Money Transfer.

If you are not familiarized with Western Union- Money Transfer service, please visit Western Union site. You have to pay with cash at any Western Union office. If you want to locate the nearest Western Union office in your area, please click here. You have to pay with cash at any Western Union office.

How to send payment?

1. Locate the nearest Western Union office;

2. Make the payment with cash using our agent`s details below;

3. E-mail us by clicking here the following details from the payment receipt:
- MTCN - 10 digits number from the payment receipt
- Sender Name and Address
- Amount

Note: Western Union Money Transfer is designed mainly for sending cash to friends and family in need, so telling them you are sending the money to a designed business will prevent your money transfer to go through and you will be unable to complete this transaction. We suggest to go to your nearest Western Union office and let them know that you are sending the money to your friend/relative.

Transfer to our agent must be issued within 24-48 hours.

Send funds to our agent:

Agent details (send Western Union money transfer to):
First name: Mark

Last name: Heller

Address: Princess Court
1 Horace Road
Kingston Upon Thames
Surrey KT1 2SL
London

Once Gumtree receives the payment confirmation, Tom Leya will be instructed to show you the property. Gumtree holds the payment until you confirm that you are satisfied with the house/flat and signed the lease contract.

After you have signed the lease contract you need to send us your confirmation to release the payment to Tom Leya.

During the inspection period, you have the option to accept or reject the house/flat.

If you, as the tenant, accept the terms and conditions indicated by Landlord, proceed with the first step of the transaction.

Once you have made the Western Union money transfer to our agent you will have to confirm the transfer.

E-mail us here the payment details from the payment receipt:
- MTCN - 10 digits number from the payment receipt
- Sender Name and Address
- Amount

Thank you for using Gumtree Safety.

How Gumtree Safety works?

Tenant and landlord agree to terms:

Both parties agree to terms of the transaction, which includes a description of the house/flat, rent price/month.

Tenant pays to Gumtree:

The tenant submit the payment, using Western Union to our agent. Gumtree verifies the payment. Processing time takes about 1-2 working days.

Landlord shows the house/flat:

Upon payment verification, the landlord is authorized to show the property and finalize the contract.

Tenant accepts the house/flat:

The tenant has the option to accept or reject the house/flat.

Gumtree pays the landlord:

Gumtree Safety pays the landlord by cashier`s check, Western Union or wire transfer. Transaction is complete.

Gumtree Safety is free of charge. Most of our listings are posted directly by the landlords. Usually our landlords moved to another country or are unable to show their property, that`s why Gumtree Safety exists.

Top tips for staying safe
o View properties in person if possible. Gumtree is a local community site and we encourage face-to-face, local, trading.We also encourage the use of Gumtree Safety for landlords who claim that they are currently overseas or they are unable to show their property. If you are inviting someone into your home ask to see personal identification first.

o It is illegal for agencies in the UK to charge fees for viewing properties/ property listings. Please report to us any agencies advertising on Gumtree that ask for fees upfront.

o Never send or wire money directly to landlords. This includes never mailing a cheque or using payment services like Bidpay, Western Union or Money Gram to pay for items found on Gumtree.

o Never provide your personal or banking information (e.g. credit card number) to others over the Internet.

o Make yourself aware of common scams and fraud . Do not believe the promise of large sums of money for your help in any task.

o Report to us any attempted fraud or suspicious emails, ads, or other activity by community members. In case of fraud, we also recommend that you report it to the Police.

Granny Thacker · Joined: 10 May 2008 Posts: 130

You should make this thread a "Sticky" you know.

Kiwi Guy · Joined: 23 Jul 2008 Posts: 9

GUMTREE don't do anywhere enough to combat Scams...in fact it seems they take the side of Scammers on many an occasion.

I have tried to post an Ad warning of Scammers and within 5 mins it was taken down by Gumtree...probably after the Scammers complained.
Are Gumtree stupid or Crafty scammers themselves...you decide.

My advice is go somewhere else...Gumtree is a haven for Rip off merchants. Its got to the point where you just can't trust this site!!

urinefacewash · Joined: 20 Sep 2007 Posts: 25947 Location: In between

indigodragon · Joined: 08 Dec 2008 Posts: 1

I have been getting a whole host of emails, which genuinely start off sounding very reassuring. They send pictures of the property and everything, then when I ask to have a viewing they ask for the Western Union transfer, saying they have been conned in the past! (ironically)

I replied to most of them saying that we dont deal with Western Union and that Gumtree has asked us to report the email addresses of ppl who engage in such dealings.

So here are the email addresses of the ones that contacted me:

Joyce Meyer <jmeyer61@ymail.com>

Henry hscof122@gmail.com

cat-blythe · Joined: 27 Dec 2008 Posts: 1

By the way people don't put names of companies and people up on the forum because unless you can prove they intended to scam you, the fraudsters may be able to sue you for defamation. Inform gumtree, talk to your friends and generally be wary, but don't publicly declare that these people are fraudsters because that puts you in danger!

I put an ad on gumtree because I wanted a room. Someone with very bad english contacted me. I emailed back asking for details/photos etc. He emailed me with the information, but the rent was too high for me to afford and the area was not where I wanted to be. I sent him a polite email back to tell him that, and wished him a merry xmas. He completely ignored the email and sent me this email back:

birvum · Joined: 19 Jan 2009 Posts: 1

please have a look this email
regarding rent a property in camden town, london.
lolz

Re: Gumtree Posting Ref: 33387479
From: Daniel Hans (daniel0grun@gmail.com)
Sent: 19 January 2009 02:53:37
To: Alimul Ferdous (birvum@msn.com)

If we decide to proceed with this transaction, I will have to contact the agents and provide them all the necessary information, so they can start the process right away. I will need your full name and address for that. You will receive a notification from Gumtree shortly after that, together with all the instructions to follow and the invoice as well. The bills are included. The deposit is 4 weeks.

Regarding the payment, you will be instructed to deposit the money to a Gumtree Agent from United Kingdom. They will hold and insure your money until you check the apartment and decide if you want take it or not. That is how their buyer protection policy works. As far as my concerns, I will be glad to know that Gumtree has the possession of the money during the delivery period. That is my insurance.

As soon as the funds have been deposited into their account, they will immediately start the shipping process.

The keys and rental contract will be delivered at your address in no more than 24h. You will be given a 3 days inspection period from the day you receive the keys and contract at home. If you decide to hold the apartment, then you will have to authorize Gumtree to release the funds to me, and the transaction will be completed. If you will not be satisfied with the apartment, you will be able to send the keys and contract back through the same service and ask Gumtree to return the funds to you.

Though I am sure you will love the apartment, it is good to know that you do have this second option available. If you wish to proceed with renting the apartment, please provide me your full name and address so I can initiate the deal through Gumtree right away.

Regards, and provide them all the necessary information, so they can start the process right away. I will need your full name and address for that. You will receive a notification from Gumtree shortly after that, together with all the instructions to follow and the invoice as well.

On Sun, Jan 18, 2009 at 11:01 PM, Alimul Ferdous <birvum@msn.com> wrote:

Dear Daniel,

It's really nice to hear from you. Actually we are 4 people. We are all students. Studying in university of Greenwich, middle sex university and queen marry university. We would like to move in Camden area. If its possible kindly send some more information about your property which includes Rent, Bills & accessories(with their costs).

thank you

Alimul
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Sun, 18 Jan 2009 17:17:11 +0200
From: daniel0grun@gmail.com
To: birvum@msn.com
Subject: Re: Gumtree Posting Ref: 33387479

The apartment is available .I can rent you the apt for max. 5 years.I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it and I was hoping if you can send me some personal informations about yourself. The monthly rent including bills. The pets are ok. The only problem is that I had to move with my job to Irland where I am now and I left the keys and contract already signed by me at the Gumtree agents, and they will handle the payment and delivery for us. If you want to know more about how this deal can work please get back to me ASAP and i will send you the details step by step.

Thank you and hope to hear back from you!

On Sun, Jan 18, 2009 at 7:48 AM, Alimul Ferdous <birvum@msn.com> wrote:

hey thomas,

I saw the post at gumtree. i'm interested about renting your property. but i like to see your property 1st. can i see it sunday 18 january any time please.

Thank you
Alimul

Hedilein · Joined: 24 Jan 2009 Posts: 1

Re: FW: Your Gumtree.com ad #33390160: Bennett Park SE3 Two Bedroom Flat Furnished 400pcm‏
Von: Daniel Grun (daniel1hans@gmail.com)
Gesendet: Samstag, 24. Januar 2009 20:31:39
An: me

hello again ,

If we decide to proceed with this transaction, I will have to contact the Gumtree and provide them all the necessary information, so they can start the process right away. You will receive a notification from Gumtree shortly after that, together with all the instructions to follow and the invoice as well. The bills are included. The deposit is for 1 month and also the rent for your first month.
Regarding the payment, you will be instructed to deposit the money to a Gumtree Trust Agent from United Kingdom. They will hold and insure your money until you check the apartment and decide if you want take it or not. That is how their buyer protection policy works. As far as my concerns, I will be glad to know that Gumtree Rental Properties Services has the possession of the money during the delivery period. That is my insurance.
As soon as the funds have been deposited into their account, they will immediately start the shipping process.
The keys and rental contract will be delivered at your address in no more than 24h. You will be given a 3 days inspection period from the day you receive the keys and contract at home. If you decide to hold the apartment, then you will have to authorize Gumtree Team to release the funds to me, and the transaction will be completed. If you will not be satisfied with the apartment, you will be able to send the keys and contract back through the same service and ask Gumtree Team to return the funds to you.
Though I am sure you will love the apartment, it is good to know that you do have this second option available. If you wish to proceed with the renting, please provide me your full name and address so I can initiate the deal through Gumtree Rental Services right away.If you want to talk with me you can call me at : 00447031827921

Regards,

Date: Sat, 24 Jan 2009 21:27:33 +0200
Subject: Re: Your Gumtree.com ad #33390160: Bennett Park SE3 Two Bedroom Flat Furnished 400pcm
From: daniel1hans@gmail.com
To: me

hello !

My name is Daniel Grun ,I am 48 years old and i am computer engineer.
The property is available .I can rent it for max 5 years,and the minimum period is 3 months.I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it and I was hoping if you can send me some personal informations about yourself. In the monthly rent all the bills are included.The only problem is that I had to move with my job to Ireland where I am now and I left the keys and contract already signed by me at the Gumtree Rental Properties Services, and they will handle the payment and delivery for us. If you want to know more about how this deal can work please get back to me ASAP and i will send you the details step by step.

Thank you and hope to hear back from you!

This email has been sent to you through the Gumtree system because you have selected to
hide your email address in your ad:

http://www.gumtree.com/london/60/33390160.html

Is this email spam? Let us know here: http://www.gumtree.com/cgi-bin/help.pl?f=1&s=19
Is this email dodgy? Let us know here: http://www.gumtree.com/cgi-bin/help.pl?f=1&s=2

Sarixurimangi · Joined: 01 Feb 2009 Posts: 1

Hey everyone,

I have already seen someone posting the same emails...
i just wanted to let you know be aware about dat guy Daniel Hans

ello !

My name is Daniel Grun ,I am 48 years old and i am computer engineer.
The proprety is available .I can rent it for max 5 years,and the minimum period is 3 months.I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it and I was hoping if you can send me some personal informations about yourself. In the monthly rent all the bills are included.The only problem is that I had to move with my job to Ireland where I am now and I left the keys and contract already signed by me at the Gumtree Rental Properties Services, and they will handle the payment and delivery for us. If you want to know more about how this deal can work please get back to me ASAP and i will send you the details step by step.

Thank you and hope to hear back from you!

#34002633: A stylish double studio in Edgware Road to let! 100pw

hello again ,

If we decide to proceed with this transaction, I will have to contact the Gumtree and provide them all the necessary information, so they can start the process right away. You will receive a notification from Gumtree shortly after that, together with all the instructions to follow and the invoice as well. The bills are included. The deposit is for 1 month and also the rent for your first month.
Regarding the payment, you will be instructed to deposit the money to a Gumtree Trust Agent from United Kingdom. They will hold and insure your money until you check the apartment and decide if you want take it or not. That is how their buyer protection policy works. As far as my concerns, I will be glad to know that Gumtree Rental Properties Services has the possession of the money during the delivery period. That is my insurance.
As soon as the funds have been deposited into their account, they will immediately start the shipping process.
The keys and rental contract will be delivered at your address in no more than 24h. You will be given a 3 days inspection period from the day you receive the keys and contract at home. If you decide to hold the apartment, then you will have to authorize Gumtree Team to release the funds to me, and the transaction will be completed. If you will not be satisfied with the apartment, you will be able to send the keys and contract back through the same service and ask Gumtree Team to return the funds to you.
Though I am sure you will love the apartment, it is good to know that you do have this second option available. If you wish to proceed with the renting, please provide me your full name and address so I can initiate the deal through Gumtree Rental Services right away.If you want to talk with me you can call me at : 00447031827921
The tube is at 2 minutes walk from the flat

Regards,

louisea · Joined: 08 Feb 2009 Posts: 1

Hi guys,

I've just received exactly the same reply, from exactly the same e-mail address. Why has no action been taken by Gumtree to ban this guy from the site?!

"hello again ,

If we decide to proceed with this transaction, I will have to contact the Gumtree and provide them all the necessary information, so they can start the process right away. You will receive a notification from Gumtree shortly after that, together with all the instructions to follow and the invoice as well. The bills are included. The deposit is for 1 month and also the rent for your first month.
Regarding the payment, you will be instructed to deposit the money to a Gumtree Trust Agent from United Kingdom. They will hold and insure your money until you check the apartment and decide if you want take it or not. That is how their buyer protection policy works. As far as my concerns, I will be glad to know that Gumtree Rental Properties Services has the possession of the money during the delivery period. That is my insurance.
As soon as the funds have been deposited into their account, they will immediately start the shipping process.
The keys and rental contract will be delivered at your address in no more than 24h. You will be given a 3 days inspection period from the day you receive the keys and contract at home. If you decide to hold the apartment, then you will have to authorize Gumtree Team to release the funds to me, and the transaction will be completed. If you will not be satisfied with the apartment, you will be able to send the keys and contract back through the same service and ask Gumtree Team to return the funds to you.
Though I am sure you will love the apartment, it is good to know that you do have this second option available. If you wish to proceed with the renting, please provide me your full name and address so I can initiate the deal through Gumtree Rental Services right away. Click Here to read about them.

Regards,"

This is my first experience with trying to rent through Gumtree, and I've encountered a scammer. Back to the conventional estate agent method I think!

Louise

schizophernicangel · Joined: 12 Feb 2009 Posts: 2 Location: Birmingham

Hello ,

Thanks for the email and also Yes,I Mr.Rev Nelson Guedes owned the home and also it is situated at (Upper Marshall Street) and also want you to know that it was due to my transfer that makes me and my family to leave the our home and also want to give it out for rent and looking for a resposible person that can take very good care of it as we are not after the money for the rent but want it to be clean at the time and the person that will rent it to take it as if it were its own.So for now we are situated in Miami FL,we are here in our new home with my wife and daughter and also with the keys of the apt which you are interested in renting,we try to look for an agent that we can give the document of the home and keys before we left but could not see and we as well dont want our place to be used any how in our absence that is why we took it along with us.So at present now i am in west africa for a mission of God crusade which i believe is a great work and my wife and daughter are in Miami FL in our current home.So i hope you will promise us to take very good care of our apt.So get back to me on how you could take care of our place or perhaps experience you have in renting home.Hope you are okay with the price of 110 Pounds per week with hydro,heat laundry facilities,air condition and so on.I look forward to hearing from you ASAP so that i can forward you an application to fill out and discuss on how to get the place for rent,also are you ready to rent it now or when?.and how long do you want to stay in the apt? Await your reply,below is the address.

Upper Marshall Street, Birmingham, B1

Thanks and Regards.

Rev.Nelson Guedes
*********************************************************

Aimee ,

Thanks for your swift response and i appreciate your interest once more in our home,i understand you as a professional and more than willing to rent out our home to you.You can only view the property from outside for now as i am not around pending the arrival of the keys,so you can check up the building,location and neighbourhood to make your final decision.Want you to know that the cost of rent 110 per week is the total 440permonth and includes utilities and bills with council tax.It is a 1 bedroom apt and has internet and cable as well.Our home location is in the centre and close to shopping mall,supermarkets, and transport.It is close to bus station and train.I will implore you to let me know if you are ready to start renting our home now so that we can proceed on the necessary arrangements.Here is the full address.53, Upper Marshall Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B1 1LA.

Below is the application and want you to fill in the answers so as for me to have it in file.So get back to me with the answers....

RENT APPLICATION FORM
Also,Pls let me get this answer.
1)Your Full Name
2)Your Full Address & Phone Number
3)Are you married?
4)How many people will be living in the house?
5)Do you have a pet?
6)Do you have a car?
7)Occupation?
8)What is your religion?
9)Pictures of people that will be occupying the apt?
10)Number of male & Age?
11)Number of female& Age?
12)Number of Children & Age?

Thanks and Regards.
Rev.Nelson Guedes

dinning.jpg
kitchen.jpg
livingroom.jpg
masterbedroom.jpg
masterensuite.jpg
***************************************************************
Aimee ,

Great to hear from you and hope you are ok with everything as i have built enough trust in you that you will be taking a very good care of our home and am very glad that you will update me with photographs.I spoke to my wife about you and she's okay with you both.So proceed to payment so that the next step can be proceeded in other for us to work things out as planned.Below is my secretary's information which you will proceed to payment with cause she will be the one to confirm that at the bank here..

Receiver's Name:SONIA SMITH

Receiver's Address:122 DUSTIN AVE

City:PALM AVENUE

State:LAGOS

Zipcode:23401

Country:NIGERIA

Text Question:GOOD GOD

Text Answer:GUIDES US

As soon as you are done with the payment you would get back to me with the following details.

Full Sender's Name:

Full Address:

Mtcn#:

Regards and Remain Blessed.
Rev.Nelson Guedes
********************************************************

rhadamnathus · Joined: 18 Feb 2009 Posts: 3

Hi,

I think the guys at Gumtree should place all these different varieties of frauds under a sticky post. Heres one .. almost got sucked in by this one. ... the ad disappeared the next day... came from 'a coruna' spain.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>..
GumtreeCommunity classifieds for London

Dear someone,

Our customer, Christopher Chambers initiated a new transaction with us. The details of this case were verified and we concluded that they are accurate. The transaction is approved. Please follow our instructions to complete the transaction safely.

We require 30% of the Insured Value Amount upon booking for order to be processed using a secured transfer service. The remaining balance shall be paid after signing the Tenancy Agreement.

We will keep your money in a trust fund until you inspect the property and decide to hold it. We will send you the keys along with the tenancy agreement after the payment is confirmed to us, not to the owner, therefore the risk of losing money is eliminated.

This transaction is covered by Tenancy Deposit Scheme. Find out more here.

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Delivery Information

First Name: Sandeep
Last Name: Singh
Address: 64 Clarendon Rd, Salmon Ltd.
City: Watford
Zip Code: WD17 1DA
Country: United Kingdom

Tenancy Agreement signed by both Landlord and Gumtree.

- Transaction ID: 34765972

Brand New Two Bedroom Flat River View (£1,000 pcm)

- Insured Value Amount:

£500 (two weeks deposit)

£1,000 (First month)

________________________

£1,500 (Total cost)

- Tenancy Deposit to be sent: £540

Payment Instruction

Visit any Money Gram Agent locations and fill out the appropriate Money Gram form to send your payment in cash. You can locate the nearest Money Gram office in your area by clicking here.

Your payment is typically sent within minutes usually faster than other methods.

Sending the payment by choosing other method will void this transaction and your right to refund!

Gumtree Agent Details

First Name: George
Last Name: Clarke
Address: 8 Patricia Drive
City: Hornchurch
Zip Code: RM11 3RU
Country: United Kingdom

How to Arrange Payment?

Locate the nearest Money Gram office

Make the payment with cash using the above Gumtree agent details

When the payment is complete, email us the following information:

8 Digit Reference Number

Full Sender's Name as on file with Money Gram

City and Country where the money were sent from

Total Amount Sent

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The Gumtree Rental Service Team

Copyright © 2000-2009 Gumtree.com. All rights reserved

graoutso · Joined: 22 Feb 2009 Posts: 1

Just got this email when I sent an email for this ad.

Looks def like the usual scum since he is referring to the non existing Gumtree Rental Properties Services.

Here's the ad

http://www.gumtree.com/london/70/35025170.html

and below the email

hello !

My name is Edward Ellis ,I am 48 years old and i am computer engineer.
The property is available .I can rent it for max 5 years,and the minimum period is 3 months.I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it and I was hoping if you can send me some personal informations about yourself. In the monthly rent all the bills are included.The only problem is that I had to move with my job to Ireland where I am now and I left the keys and contract already signed by me at the Gumtree Rental Properties Services, and they will handle the payment and delivery for us. If you want to know more about how this deal can work please get back to me soon and i will send you the details step by step.

Thank you and hope to hear back from you!

WolfQ · Joined: 23 Feb 2009 Posts: 1 Location: GREENFORD

Ad
http://www.gumtree.com/london/73/32451973.html

from e-mail: edward2ellis@googlemail.com

hello !

My name is Edward Ellis ,I am 48 years old and i am computer engineer.
The property is available .I can rent it for max 5 years,and the minimum period is 3 months.I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it and I was hoping if you can send me some personal informations about yourself. In the monthly rent all the bills are included.The only problem is that I had to move with my job to Ireland where I am now and I left the keys and contract already signed by me at the Gumtree Rental Properties Services, and they will handle the payment and delivery for us. If you want to know more about how this deal can work please get back to me soon and i will send you the details step by step.

Thank you and hope to hear back from you!

hasb · Joined: 23 Feb 2009 Posts: 1

We had another email from Edward Ellis as above, but this one gave a website for a Gumtree Rental Property Services (http://gnstree.freehost10.com). This website does look a lot like Gumtree's, so could fool people. Also gave a mobile number...

From: "Edward Ellis" <edward2ellis@googlemail.com>Re: Your Gumtree.com ad #31796106: 2 Bedroom Flat in Notting Hill - FLX13 150 pw
hello again ,

If we decide to proceed with this transaction, I will have to contact the Gumtree and provide them all the necessary information, so they can start the process right away. You will receive a notification from Gumtree shortly after that, together with all the instructions to follow and the invoice as well. The bills are included. The deposit is for 1 month and also the rent for your first month.
Regarding the payment, you will be instructed to deposit the money to a Gumtree Trust Agent from United Kingdom. They will hold and insure your money until you check the apartment and decide if you want take it or not. That is how their buyer protection policy works. As far as my concerns, I will be glad to know that Gumtree Rental Properties Services has the possession of the money during the delivery period. That is my insurance.
As soon as the funds have been deposited into their account, they will immediately start the shipping process.
The keys and rental contract will be delivered at your address in no more than 24h. You will be given a 3 days inspection period from the day you receive the keys and contract at home. If you decide to hold the apartment, then you will have to authorize Gumtree Team to release the funds to me, and the transaction will be completed. If you will not be satisfied with the apartment, you will be able to send the keys and contract back through the same service and ask Gumtree Team to return the funds to you.
Though I am sure you will love the apartment, it is good to know that you do have this second option available. Click here. to read about Gumtree policy . If you wish to proceed with the renting, please provide me your full name,telephone number and address so I can initiate the deal through Gumtree Rental Services right away.If you want to talk with me you can call me at : 00447789222062
Regards,

AnnaCross · Joined: 04 Mar 2009 Posts: 2

Hi,
You should know I do not use a real estate agency to rent the apartment.
I work in a hospital and is very hard for me to come in UK. I can't take the risk to leave my new job for days and when I arrive in UK to see that I come for nothing. I want to be 100% sure that when I will meet you, we do the rent papers then i can come back in Dubai.
So i can be sure of that look how we can do:
You make the payment from your name and address to your best friend name and address or viceversa in UK using Western Union for 2 months rent that means 1280£ and send me the scanned receipt. As soon as I see the scanned receipt that you have made the payment, I will come in UK and you will see the flat and rent it. After that, we will go together at the Western Union office and you will take the money back and pay me.So all you have to do is to find a Western Union office and wire 1280 £ from your name to your friend name or viceversa and send the scanned receipt.I am asking you this to be sure that I do not come in UK for nothing. I hope you understand.
P.S : As I told you,I have a lot of customers interested to rent the apartment As soon as I have the confirmation from Western Union that the money are available on his name I stop the transactions with all the other customers!
The money will stay in the Western Union system till we will sign the rent papers and both we will go to a Western Union office and you will pick up the money and pay me and i will give you back cash the westernunion transfer fees.
I wait the answer (Yes or Not ) if you rent the flat or i find another customers.

Respectfully!

AnnaCross · Joined: 04 Mar 2009 Posts: 2

The seller went by the name of:

tina mehta

and her original message stated:

Hi,
My name is Tina and I have the flat for rent. The rent is 640£ per month including all bills and the concil tax. I moved in Dubai because I got a new job. I work in a hospital. You can rent the flat as long as you need to stay even for 2 or 3 years. The first payment will be for 2 months(1280£).In case you want it, let me know so we can arrange the transaction. For me is very hard to come in UK and if I will come i must be 100% sure that I will not come for nothing.
As you can see in the photos everything it's new in the flat and the flat is fully furnished, newly refurbished and also benefits from wood flooring. You have internet connection, phone, washing machine with dryer, cable TV and most important parking place.Please let me know what your intentions are....when you intend to move in?how long you want the contract to last for?how many people would be living in it and some other things you feel i should know.
Get back to me

msalam · Joined: 14 Mar 2009 Posts: 1

Hi Admins i need ur help.I have recived this email.
I don't know this is fake or not.~~~~~~~

hello again ,

If we decide to proceed with this transaction, I will have to contact the Gumtree and provide them all the necessary information, so they can start the process right away. You will receive from Gumtree an invoice and the contract . All the bills are included. After you recive the details you have to send the deposit wich is for 1 month and also the rent for your first month to the Gumtree Trust Agent from United Kingdom via money transfer because this is the moust fast and easy way of payment.
You will have 48 hours to send the payment if not the contract will be forward to another tenant.
The keys and rental contract will be delivered at your address in no more than 3 hours after the payment is done. You will be given a 3 days inspection period from the day you receive the keys and contract at home. If you decide to hold the apartment, then you will have to authorize Gumtree Team to release the funds to me, and the transaction will be completed. If you will not be satisfied with the apartment, you will be able to send the keys and contract back through the same service and ask Gumtree Team to return the funds to you,but I am sure you will love the apartment and you will keep it .
Click here to read about Gumtree policy .If you AGREE with this and If you wish to proceed with the renting, please provide me your full name,telephone number and address so I can initiate the deal through Gumtree Rental Services right away.If you want to talk with me you can call me at : 07544673904

Regards,

llz3 · Joined: 16 Mar 2009 Posts: 1

in been scammed so why sitll this is happing here??????? who will refund my money?

Hi,
My name is Marina and I have the flat for rent. The rent is 635£ per month including all bills and the concil tax. I moved in Dubai because I got a new job. I work in a hospital. You can rent the flat as long as you need to stay even for 2 or 3 years. The first payment will be for 2 months(1270£).In case you want it, let me know so we can arrange the transaction. For me is very hard to come in UK and if I will come i must be 100% sure that I will not come for nothing.
As you can see in the photos everything it's new in the flat and the flat is fully furnished, newly refurbished and also benefits from wood flooring. You have internet connection, phone, washing machine with dryer, cable TV and most important parking place.Please let me know what your intentions are....when you intend to move in?how long you want the contract to last for?how many people would be living in it and some other things you feel i should know.
Get back to me

gemay · Joined: 29 Mar 2009 Posts: 1

I saw lots of properties last night (some of which have now been removed) all claimed to be offered by LudlowThompson.com.

The contact email on all of the properties was a simon.koren999 googlemail.com - whom i contacted regarding 2 of the flats, the email i received was the same as some other people above:

[quote]
hello !
My name is Edward Ellis ,I am 48 years old and i am engineer.
The proprety is available .I can rent it for max 5 years,and the minimum period is 3 months.I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it and I was hoping if you can send me some personal informations about yourself. In the monthly rent all the bills are included.The only problem is that I had to move with my job to Ireland where I am now and I left the keys and contract already signed by me at the Gumtree Rental Properties Services, and they will handle the payment and delivery for us. If you want to know more about how this deal can work please get back to me ASAP and i will send you the details step by step.

Thank you and hope to hear back from you!

(NB: this came from a different email address to the one i emailed - alexander.bloos@googlemail.com)

In this he refers to the non-existant Gumtree Rental Properties Services....

Be aware - this is a scam!!

I wonder if Ludlow Thompson are aware that their name is being used for this scam. The properties themselves may have been taken directly from ludlowthompson.com website and this other person is now trying to claim the property as their own - to get the rent. ludlowthompson.com seems to be a very reputable, genuine company.

Unfortunately the ads are now no longer on gumtree so i can forward one to Ludlow to warn them, but if anyone does find one it would be worth forwarding a copy to the company so that they can be made aware of this issue!!

alicat_1987 · Joined: 06 Apr 2009 Posts: 1

Hi,

I think two people tried to scam me today. I put an ad up looking for a flat, listed several locations and the type of flat we wanted, and got this reply from one:

I have a property on 67 Great George Street, Leeds, LS1 3AJ, United Kingdom,Its 2 Bed Room and a Living Room, Kitchen and Bathrooms Included.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 Like the Utilities bills,water Bills,electricity Bills council tax bills E.t.c.I have attached pictures of the Room and Living room for you.I hope you would get back to me asap so that we can finalize this.

Best Regards,
Larry.

The other reply was less obvious, but when i asked him where the flat was, i got this email in reply:

my property is located where you wanted it to be on gumtree get back to me

Needless to say I didnt go with either of them, they were both offering deals that were too good to be true, utility bills included on a posh city centre flat with 2 rooms for 500 quid! What's scary is that they both had pictures of these made up flats!

ruelamin · Joined: 06 May 2009 Posts: 3

THIS IS THE FIRST E-MAIL HE SENT ME..................................................

Hello,
Thanks for your reply and am sorry for the late in reply, Actually I lived in the house with my family; my wife and My only daughter Before and now have packed because of the Relocation of my church and i'm now located in France, and now my Flat is still Available.
But can still come around if we both agree on a perfect date and time to meet. Now that I am here in France For missionary work.
But ,what i am requesting for is the assurance that you are going to pay me and an evidence that you have the money to pay at hand when i come around, because i have heard on several times whereby some people said they are interested and after viewing and like the flat and love to occupy.later they will also tell me to reduce the amount for them or will pay me later once they get a good job.in For now i need your suggestion,because i cant afford to waste my time.
TYPE:
2 bedroom apartment
INTERNET:
Yes, BroadBand Access 20M unlimited ADSL, wire and wireless THE APARTMENT COST: ( £220 GBP Per Month) Deposit of 100 GBP.
Utilities include: electricity, gas, cable, phone, internet wiffi,air condition,wardrobe and so on and i will like you to get back to me with the information below:
Maximum stay:
Flatmate Description
Personal info:
Household info:
Age:
Smoker:
Pet:
Room and apartment description
Features: Flat, Floor #, Parking available,
No parking cost, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms
Neighbourhood: N/A Home amenities: Alarm system, Cable
ready,Washer/Dryer,Dishwasher,
Microwave, Kitchen access,
Storage. House amenities: Furnished, Air conditioning, Private
entrance, Private bath, Phone jack, TV, Cable jack, Closet..
Hope you like it?Get back to me with your full name and full contact detail to prepare the RENT APPLICATION FORM......

Regards......
Thanks.

THEN THIS...........................................................................................

Hello,

Thanks for your interest to secure my flat,The rent per month 220 pounds include bills and a refundable deposit of 100 pounds. And the flat is on the second floor.

Address: 55 Walter Road, Swansea, SA1 5NF, England.United Kingdom

I will like a contract of least 5months ....more so when will you be needing this flat? because Now that I am here in Lyon, France For missionary work... 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 Lyon, France on a missionary work,
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.
God Bless You..............
Regards,
Robert.

AND FINALLY THIS UNTIL I TOLD HIM TO F*** OFF..................................

Greetings,

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 England on a futile exercise and she advised that we can work out something via Money Gram 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 Money Gram can actually hold the money as an evidence and surely that her tenant will pay her at least for the first month and deposit,She explained that you can visit any Money Gram outlet and transfer the money IN YOUR FRIEND NAME or from your parent name as the SENDER and RECEIVER will be in YOUR NAME in England,.-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 Money Gram 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 reply on your honesty and trust that you have actually made the payment before i leave here to come down to England 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 Money Grams Reference Number) to confirm here if the money is real there before making my way.
THIS WHAT TO DO BELOW...
Sender name: YOUR NAME
Senders address: Your complete address
Exact Amount deposited:?
Receiver's Name: Your family or Fiancy's name
Receiver's address:
I was also made to understand that Money Gram 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 flator not when we meet,ok?After doing the transfer,then i will have to leave here and be with you in England 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

HIS EMAIL ADDRESS IS RDIEHL49@YAHO.COM

SO BEWARE GUYS