In Rolla, Mo, a man identified as Dr. Gibert Kenny wanted to rent a property advertised by Floyd and Caroleen Ferrell of Realty Executives/Ferrell Associates. Dr. Kenny was out of country and wanted to pay the whole years rent upfront. They received the check for the entire years rent; however, the good Doctor wanted them to wire some of the money from the check via Western Union to pay for some furniture expenses in Tennessee.
Lets analyze this because we have all the key ingredients for the normal rental scam: fake check for upfront rent; wants money to be paid for furniture via Western Union; and the Doctor is out of country (probably somewhere in the UK).
If you have ever been a landlord, has a tenant EVER offered to pay the entire years rent upfront?
Like clockwork, on Monday, Jan. 12, the Ferrells receive an e-mail from Kenny, confirming receipt of a $9,200 payment to the Ferrells. It requests the Ferrells to wire money, via Western Union, to Debbie Ellis of 800 Madison Ave. in Harriman, Tenn., 37748.
The e-transmission requests FURNITURE FEE IS NEEDED TODAY . . .
This e-mail, and the others, do not sign off with a signature or name.At this point, the Ferrells are contacting their bank, and the account on which the check is written is “on hold,” their banker tells them.
“It’s not a closed account. It’s on hold,” Caroleen Ferrell said.
The check came via FedEx from Peoria, Ariz., from Global Collect BV of 311 S. Water Drive in Chicago. The bank is La Salle Bank NA of 135 S. LaSalle, Chicago. (Even on the check there are variations of the spelling of La Salle — with and without the space.)“There are all kinds of signs, if you look for them,” Floyd Ferrell said.
“The check came from Arizona. And it’s signed by Richard,” he said. “Who just signs a check as Richard?”
“If this were a legitimate customer, why wouldn’t they seek a local furniture store around here. We’ve got furniture stores here.
“It was pretty apparent it was a scam. They knew just how long a check would float,” Floyd Ferrell said.
Source: Couple warns of other scams
Thanks for posting this!!!! We just received an email from the lovely “Prof” and I didn’t trust it.
Comment by T — January 22, 2009 @ 3:19 pm
May daughter recently received an e-mail from the so-call prof. and fwd it to me. I googled his name and the rest is history… Thanks for keeping us informed - she’s already been burned once trying to sublet her apt.
Comment by Ange — January 26, 2009 @ 4:41 pm
Looks like Dr. Gilbert Kenny is making his rounds. Do you have any example emails that he sent?
Comment by admin — January 26, 2009 @ 4:51 pm
I just got an email from the fake Dr Kenny … it seemed pretty convincing but very fishy and unrealistic. Geez, we need to weed out such scam artists.
Comment by Theresa — February 6, 2009 @ 9:14 pm
THIS WAS THE EMAIL
Subject: $1050 / 2br - Queenbury Townhouse for Lease (Queensbury NY) Reply to:
Hello,
I saw your advert for the vacant apartment. i am interested in renting the apartment.I will be signing a one year lease for it and i will like to know your mode of payment and the modalities for the rental and would love to know if the unit is still available for lease very soon. I will also like to know if the apartment would be conducive for a family cos we would be coming in from United kingdom, and please do give me details of the environment with move in cost and the neighborhood where the apartment is located to know if it would fit in for me and my family cos I would love to know what the neighborhood looks like.I will appreciate it if i hear from you in time. I will await for a quick response to my enquiry via email or through my cell phone +447031906858..Give me the details of this fee…….
1- Security deposit fee ?
2- Monthly rent fees ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Crime rate of the area where the apt is located ?
6- Park lots if any ?
7- If the unit is Furnished or Unfurnished ?
8- Total Move in fees ?
Thank you and God bless.
Prof Clifford Kenny
Comment by Eric J Johnson — February 12, 2009 @ 10:37 am
Ahh, the fine Professor, certainly not of the English language! Here is the note from him:
Hello,
I’ m Prof Gibert Kenny.I was searching for apartment to rent,i saw your apartment in the craigslist.com i have an interest, i will like to asked u if still avaliable or not tell me, i am waiting to hear from you and I would like to make an inquiry of the duration in which you want to lease the unit.
Preferably 12months If you require any specific information, pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented forinternational calls . +447024017688
Give me the detail of the fees.
1- Security deposit fee ?
2- Monthly rent fees ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Crime rate of the area where the apt is located ?
6- Park lots if any ?
7- If the unit is Furnished or Unfurnished ?
8- Total Move in fees ?
Thank you.
Prof Gibert Kenny
The first thing to really cue me was he is a professor with horid grammar and English. Next, every question asked was answered in the ad. However, my wife just thought it was someone wasting our time to entertain themselves. But, the job postings ads are where people do that. We never could have gotten scammed on this one anyway, since we have no money and are unemployed, so we would have had to wait for the check to clear so that we could get the $ in question.
Comment by Scott — February 15, 2009 @ 11:05 am
Scott and Eric: Thank you for posting the emails from the good professor. He sure is making his rounds trying to scam people. You can see that his cell phone number is changing:
Eric’s email: cell phone +447031906858
Scott’s email: +447024017688
And yes, the professor could use a grammar lesson!
Comment by admin — February 15, 2009 @ 4:48 pm
I posted a condo for rent and received an e-mail from this scam artist. My son was suspicious and did some checking sure enough we found out about this poor excuse for humanity. Every thing he said in his e-mails are exactly what is posted on this website. I will never deal with anyone out of the country. It’s really a sad state of affairs when people stoop this low.
Comment by Rose Marie — February 25, 2009 @ 10:34 am
I believe this is another scam.
From: “Andre Cole”
To: rose7-17@comcast.net
Sent: Sunday, February 22, 2009 10:27:21 AM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: update
Hello,
Thanks for the quick response. I am so glad to inform you that my organizer agreed to pay the requested amount payment for the 1st month rent and deposit starting on the 30 of this Month. I am coming from United Kingdom England. I am working with (Global Link) and the web link. globalink.org. there number is (1144) 793-028-4772. And fax number (1144) 207-691-7368.Will are coming to open a new branch in your area that is why my organizer find your home of me and I wish to sign the lease agreement and application in person with you when I arrive in the state and all necessary lease form application will be signed before I moved into the house, I will like to sign one year lease as soon as I get to the State. Kindly get back to me with the under listed information so that payment can be issued out to you asp.
(1) FULL NAME AS IT WILL BE ON CHECK,
(2) MAILING ADDRESS,
(3) CELL NUMBER AND ALTERNATIVE NUMBER.
I will be glad if you could furnish me with the required details so that we can proceed on payment.
MY INFORMATION / EMPLOYMENT
(1) Position Manager (2) Monthly income 3500 pounds (3) Other source of income 1500 pounds. Here is my Passport number 326948242 and my National Issuance number jx895644b.My phone number (1144)793-028-4429. And pals do get back to me with more details about the house. Finally, I would like to know how peaceful is the neighborhood and how close is the property from the bus/train station as well I will be leaving London. Await your response, Cheers
Comment by Roz — February 25, 2009 @ 6:07 pm
gibertkenny2000@yahoo.com
From an email regarding my rental in Texas.
Hello,
Many thanks to your prompt response and brief details on this unit. I am indeed a potential tenant and serious about renting this unit. As a British Fossils hunter, Having discovered lots of Dinasaurs fossil such as Dinosaurs Megalosaurus ,Oviparous, Pinacosaurus, Saurornithoides, Velociraptor,plesiosaur, Ichthyosaurus etc. Am coming to state to Trade those fossils with some US Museums.
In view of my work schedule, i would want us to finalize basic arrangements. I’m and i am currently working with British Fossil hunters team on late 1880’s Imperial Dinosaur Fossil Research in Manchester City. London UK . I will be in the states for the next one year with my wife and five year old daughter and during my stay i will be Trading dinosaur fossils with Some USA Museums and Research with some America Paleontologist on fossils hunting and field work. Am willing to offer you 1month rent + the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to my arrival to state, and on my arrival, i’ll pay for the 11months fees in Cash. My Trustee in the states will be the one to handle the Move in fee, and we will instruct him to send you the check for this as soon as you give us the go ahead to make payment to you. Due to the limited time that we have before our arrival, we are making arrangements with a furniture company
there in state to supply the home with some befitting furniture.
We can start the lease at your earliest convenient time and we will be effecting a one year lease although, we will be arriving on 16th March 2009. You can prepare the lease in me and my wife name “Prof Gibert Kenny/ Mrs Julianna Kenny.
Once again, thank for the measurements that you sent to me, it will indeed be of great help to determine the Size of Furniture which my furniture company will supply to the unit… As regards my furniture, am planning on having them delivered to the house before our arrival so that we can settle in comfortably, you can understand that transporting furniture across Atlantic is not easy, so we are making arrangement with the furniture company there in State to deliver the furniture before our arrival after the rent and security deposit has been fully paid to you by my Trustee. I want to seek your indulgence and favor. Can we rely on you to take delivery of those furniture for us when they are delivered? We will instruct the furniture company to contact you to schedule a delivery date and time that will be convenient for you to receive those furniture for us. As you will be handling the delivery of those furniture for us,we may ask ourTrustee
to include the costs of our furniture with the rent and deposit to be sent to you so that you can help us to make the payment when it is delivered. We will really appreciate if you can do this for us and promise to compensate you adequately for your time and efforts on our arrival in your place.Please let me know if this will be okay with you so that i can instruct our Trustee to go ahead with the payment.
Let us know how to move ahead as we intend to complete this deal before we move in by 16th March 2009, we will let you know the exact date as soon as we get a booking on a flight to the states. I want a less risk, fair,transparent and a hitch free transaction so i attached the pictures of my family so that you can have an ideal of who you are dealing with.
If you require any specific information, pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented for international calls .. +447031970550 }
P.S: Forward the lease agreement/application form to Review it ahead of time. I would eventually have it signed physically when i arrive. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. Please, send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms only if that will not take time to do. This is an international situation and am not sure how you can run my employment and Credit check background, there’s no way we can go about this until i arrive to state, hope you understand my concern.
With this arrangement, my Trustee in the states,will be effecting your payment deposit to you. I believe we can work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding.
For Payment, Get back with the below details
1- Name to be written on the certified American check
2- Mailing address , No p.o.box
3- Phone Number
4- City
5- Zip Code
6- State
Thank you for your understanding and co-operation.
Comment by jody — March 6, 2009 @ 4:30 pm
Hello Everyone, as you i was a little skeptical of renting to a person from another country, as with all my tenants i do background checks, and i also decided to do an internet search on Professor Zhang Yang, and this is how i came accross your comments he is using the same Fossil company name and tactics, thank you soooooo much for taking the time to post these scammers information.
Comment by dora nava — April 15, 2009 @ 1:18 pm
I am very happy to hear back from you asap and i appreciate your
wanting to help us in our situation. In view of my work schedule, i would
want us to finalise basic arrangements. I’m and i am currently working
with British hunters Imperial Dinosaur Fossil Research in Middlesex.
London UK . I will be in the states for the next one year with my wife
and five year old daughter and during my stay i will be Trading dinosaur fossils
with Some USA Museums and Research with some America Paleontologist on
fossils hunting and field work. Am willing to offer you 1month rent +
the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to
my arrival to state, and on my arrival, i’ll pay for the 11months fees
in Cash. My Trustee in the states will be the one to handle the Move
in fee, and we will instruct him to send you the check for this as
soon as you give us the go ahead to make payment to you. Due to the
limited time that we have before our arrival, we are making
arrangements with a furniture company there in state to supply the
home with some befitting furniture. Due to the limited time that we
have before our arrival,we are making arrangements with a furniture
company to supply the home with furniture,so we will need you to
provide us with the measurements of the living room and bedroom so
that we can send it to the furniture company so that they can supply
the unit with furniture that will fit in well. As regards the
lease agreement,i want you to send it to me for my review,i will
eventually have it filled and signed on my arrival in your place as i
am of the opinion that such documents are best filled and signed
physically.We can start the lease by 17th of april and we will be doing
a one year lease although we will not be arriving until 30th of april
,You can prepare the lease in my my name Prof Zhang Yang and my
wife’s name Mrs Linda Yang and you can as well contact my on
+447031914059 because am always busy in office , Let us know how to
move ahead as we intend to complete this deal before we move in by the
end of the month,we will let you know the exact date as soon as we get
a booking on a flight to the states.
Thanks and God Bless
Comment by dora nava — April 15, 2009 @ 1:21 pm
We got the same crap from this person
Comment by Wendy — May 27, 2009 @ 6:15 pm
Essentially got same messages as above June 20 & 21st. Was suspicious when E-mail name was very different from name given in e-mail text. professor Brian Ford and Kate Ford a supposed surgeon coming for research purposes for one year. When I tried to discern where he might be working, & attached application form, his new response used the Gilbert name & dinosaur bones story. That’s when I Googled him. Thanks for all the postings. Obviously “Gilbert” is still active, using same ploy and bad grammar. Thanks again for the heads-up.
Comment by Ron — June 21, 2009 @ 9:32 pm
Well the good professor has surfaced again, along with a protege, Professor Don Hunback. Both wanted to rent my place with the same stamped out email that is posted several times here. Thanks for the heads up and for saving me from a big headache.
Comment by Kenny — June 26, 2009 @ 12:37 pm
Thank you to everyone who posted. I greatly appreciate it. I receive this e-mail one day after posting the ad for my apartment on craiglist.com. At first I was glad to have heard back so fast from someone. And then I started to answer the questions and as I was doing so I was weirder out that he would sign off Prof Gilbert Kenny. And being a recent graduate I went online to see what school he taught at. Sure enough I came across this website and it save me a headache.
Thank you so much!
Hello,
I was searching for apartment to rent,i saw your apartment in the craiglist.com i have an interest, i will like to asked u if still avaliable or not tell me, i am waiting to hear from you and I would like to make an inquiry of the duration in which you want to lease the unit.
Preferably 12months If you require any specific information, pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please dial as presented for international calls . +447031991881.
Give me the detail of the fees.
1- Security deposit fee ?
2- Monthly rent fees ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Crime rate of the area where the apt is located ?
6- Park lots if any ?
7- If the unit is Furnished or Unfurnished ?
8- Total Move in fees ?
Thank you.
Prof Gibert Kenny
Comment by Melissa — June 29, 2009 @ 5:14 pm
Ugh! Soooo annoying to have to google every prospective renter to see if they are legit. What a waste of time! Email I received from Prof Zhang Yang copied below:
“Hello,
I am responding to the advert that you placed on
craigslist.com,after going through the advert i am interested in it
and i want to rent it for the period that it is available for.I am
willing to sign a one yearlease for the unit ,if it is still
available i will really appreciate it if you can forward me more
details about the unit and also let me know your final price for the
rent and deposit.,Am a family Orientated man, No Pet {s}
information,pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone,
please dial as presented for international calls . { +44 7031914059} i
will also like to know if the unit is Furnished or Unfurnished
Unfurnished
I will appreciate a quick response to my email enquiry.
Thank you.
Name:Prof Zhang Yang
Email:zhangngy@gmail.com
Phone:+44 7031914059″
Comment by Taylor — July 20, 2009 @ 5:23 pm
Thanks for your posts. I just recieved a similar email form a Prof Cooley Wright. Add him to the list.
Hello,
I was searching for apartment to rent.. i saw your apartment in
the craiglist.com i have an interest,i will like to asked u if still
available or not tell me, i am waiting to hear from you and I would
like to make an inquiry of the duration in which you want to lease the
unit.any specific information..
please let me know or you can call me on my cell phone, please
dial as presented for international calls . +447031991881.
Give me the detail of the fees.
1- Security deposit fee ?
2- Monthly rent fees ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit
5- Crime rate of the area where the apt is located ?
6- Park lots if any ?
7- If the unit is Furnished or Unfurnished ?
8- Total Move in fees ?
Thanks
Prof Cooley Wright
Comment by Chasem — August 3, 2009 @ 12:10 am
Thank you for posting this warning. I also just received the same e-mail requesting specific info on my duplex
available for rent. Someone said to check google for the location of the phone# listed. I found this site
and warning! What a surprise! Thanks for the blog.
Comment by Casey — August 9, 2009 @ 10:32 pm
It is uncanny how similiar my email that I received is to the posted ones on this site. I appreciate everyone who has posted here and hope others that may have been contacted are not harmed (financially).
Thanks to all for myself and my client that I represent.
Comment by Mimi Kim Realtor — August 16, 2009 @ 4:37 pm
Here’s the first fishy email I got… Thought it sounded too good to be true so I (stupidly) wrote back saying all the details were in the post. Then I got the second one, and reading through it realized I had to google this guy because nothing in his email made sense. I’m angry that I feel like a sucker… I guess I should have realized after looking for jobs on craigslist and getting 100 spam replies for every one real job that craigslist is no longer what it used to be and scammers have taken over. Ugh!
Hello …..
Am interested in your Unit for rent
that you posted on
Craigslist.com, With the little descriptions you gave
there-in, am
satisfied and it redeemed my stress of searching
around for an
apartment to rent. I would like to make an inquiry if
the apartment is
still available for rent and the duration in which you
want to lease
the unit. Preferably 12months. Am a family Orientated
man, No Pet {s}
i don’t smoke either.
Get back to me with the following requirements :
1- Monthly rent fees ?
2- Security deposit fee ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Parking space if any ?
6- who own the apartment?
7- when will it be ready to move in ?
8- i have my own furniture can i move them in?
I wait to read from you asap
Thank you
Prof Gibert Kenny
Fossil Hunter, {Paleontologist}.
Middlesex London UK
Hello,
Many thanks to your prompt response and brief details on this unit. i would want us to finalize basic arrangements.I will be in the states for the next one year with my wife and five year old daughter and during my stay.Am willing to offer you 1month rent + the security deposit and utilities if any to secure this unit prior to my arrival to state, and on my arrival, I’ll pay for the 11months fees in Cash.I believe we can work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. In view of my work schedule, i would want us to finalize basic arrangements. I will arrive in state next week with my lovely family.
Due to the limited time that we have before our arrival, we are making arrangements with a furniture company there in state to supply the home with some befitting furniture.We can start the lease at your earliest convenient time and we will be effecting a one year lease although, we will be arriving on 28th Aug 2009. You can prepare the lease in me and my wife name “Prof Gibert Kenny / Mrs Jannie Kenny.
Once again, thank for the measurements that you sent to me, it will indeed be of great help to determine the Size of Furniture which my furniture company will supply to the unit. As regards my furniture, am planning on having them delivered to the house before our arrival so that we can settle in comfortably, you can understand that transporting furniture across Atlantic is not easy, so we are making arrangement with the furniture company there in State to deliver the furniture before our arrival after the rent.
Can we rely on you to take delivery of those furniture for us when they are delivered? We will instruct the furniture company to contact you to schedule a delivery date and time that will be convenient for you to receive those furniture for us.
P.S: Forward the lease agreement/application form to Review it ahead of time. I would eventually have it signed physically when i arrive. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. Please, send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms only if that will not take time to do.
This is an international situation and am not sure how you can run my employment and Credit check background, there’s no way we can go about this until i arrive to state, hope you understand my concern.As regards the rent and deposit required to be paid by me in order to secure this rental prior to our arrival, i will need you to provide
me.
1-your full name
2-your full contact address
3-state
4-Zip code
5-phone number.
Please i need you to also reconfirm the total move in costs, that is the rent and deposit to be paid. here are the info i need from you to proceed with the payment.
I will look forward to your e mail with the required information.
Due regards from me and my family,we are looking forward to meeting you soon.
My due regards
Prof Gibert Kenny.
WHAT A LOAD OF CRAP!
Comment by Audrey — August 16, 2009 @ 8:36 pm
Thank you all for your comments:
We have the same story - thanks to your comments we have cut off the contact with the “good” prof and informed premium furniture company we will no longer be interested in helping him and his family.We live in the greater Seattle, WA area and the furniture company phone number is a local one. I include the name only as a possible point of reference for those who may have been scamed.
I have also contacted the FBI - there is an internet fraud division “IC3.gov” - but since we had no money loss we can report no crime. I have also contacted my local TV news people in hopes that this whole story can go national and serve as a warning to other landlords.
I have also traced down - what I believe is the real prof Yang working at the Hon Kong Baptist University, and asked him to read this blog and it’s many comments.
I have also saved ALL the e-mail traffic and IF any of you wish copies I will be glad to forward via e-mail our contacts.
Thanks you for your comments - Hope this will help stop this kind of scam and maybe keep some good man from having his name mis-used.
Thanks khanman9
Comment by Young — August 23, 2009 @ 12:45 am
Same thing here from his alias Prof Don Hunback Fossil Hunter, {Paleontologist}, Middlesex London UK. Has anyone attempted to play his game to get back at him, if that is possible? Or track him down and turn him into the authorities?
Comment by Bill — August 23, 2009 @ 11:56 am
I have advertised a patio suite in Edmonton Canada. I have got very similar e-mails which is below. Similar story a DR. from UK wants to rent my place for a year.. I did a google search on his name and the cell phone number he give. I found this and couple other web sites with very similar stories. What a scam!! Thank to everyone of you sharing these information which saved me and my partner to become a victim of another scam story. I hope mine is going to help someone too..
First e-mail:
Please let me know if this unit is still available for rent.
Provide me adequate information on your rent
procedures and the current situation of
this unit. Is this house furnished? I would prefer it
unfurnished as i intend placing order for my own kind
of furniture that will sooth my taste. Can you
send me a few pictures of the house?.
Treat as urgent pls.
Cordial
Dr. Abramovich .M Victor
Second e-mail:
Thanks for your mail and the informations provided on this unit. I sincerely apologise for the delayed response to your mail. I will be living in this unit with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 11 years old next month. We do not smoke and we do not have pets. I can assure you that I will take very good care of this unit if we take up the tenancy to this unit. I will be offering the first 3 months rent and the security deposit as a measure of securing the unit prior to my arrival. The balance 9 months rent will be paid immediately upon my arrival.Please let me know know if I can sign more than a year lease. I will also like to know if you are the direct owner of this unit or the property manager.
Please let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. You can send me the lease application , to enable be review it ahead of time.I will eventually have it signed physically when i arrive or sign them prior to my arrival. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically.Please , send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms.
Upon completion of the paper work, Arrangement will be made to effect the rent and deposit by my representative in Canada. We should be able to work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. I will provide you with more personal informations and references in my next correspondence
Considering my present tight schedule, i would want us to discuss on phone and finalise basic arrangements. Call me on my cell.+44 70457 46089 .Please let me know when to call you. Dial as presented for international calls. I will arrive Canada on or before the 18th of September , with my family.
If you require any further information, pls let me know . I hope we can talk soon.
My due regards,
Dr Victor Abramovich
Comment by Mel — August 24, 2009 @ 2:02 am
I too have received the same two emails from Dr Victor Abramovich complete with the identical punctuation errors.
This was in response to an Craigs List ad regarding a rental townhouse that I listed.
Thanks to this site we were able to confirm that it was a scam.
Comment by Murray — September 30, 2009 @ 7:20 pm
Ah yes! I thought if I googled the good doctor Abramovich I might find something! This is the e-mail we recieved:
Thanks for your mail and the informations provided on this unit. I sincerely apologise for the delayed response to your mail. I will be living in this unit with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 11 years old next month. We do not smoke and we do not have pets. I can assure you that I will take very good care of this unit if we take up the tenancy to this unit. I will be offering the first 3 months rent and the security deposit as a measure of securing the unit prior to my arrival. The balance 9 months rent will be paid immediately upon my arrival.Please let me know know if I can sign more than a year lease. I will also like to know if you are the direct owner of this unit or the property manager.
Please let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. You can send me the lease application , to enable be review it ahead of time.I will eventually have it signed physically when i arrive or sign them prior to my arrival. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically.Please , send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms.
Upon completion of the paper work, Arrangement will be made to effect the rent and deposit by my representative in Canada. We should be able to work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. I will provide you with more personal informations and references in my next correspondence
Considering my present tight schedule, i would want us to discuss on phone and finalise basic arrangements. Call me on my cell.+44 70457 46089 .Provide me with your phone numbers and please let me know when to call you. Dial as presented for international calls. I will arrive Canada on or before the 18th of October , with my family.
If you require any further information, pls let me know . I hope we can talk soon.
My due regards,
Dr Victor Abramovich
Thanks for the warning everyone!
Ian
Comment by Ian — September 30, 2009 @ 10:11 pm
Hi,
We got the same axact email from Dr. Victor Abramovich,we posted a basemetn apartment in Toronto.
Comment by luxmi, — October 3, 2009 @ 8:55 am
I got the same email from Dr. Victor Abramovick, with the same content for a posted house in Toronto. Such a scammmmmm!!
Thanks for warning everyone.
Comment by Nancy — October 3, 2009 @ 11:58 am
Thanks for your mail. Though i understand that utilities cost depends on usage, let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. Please let me know if you have the floor plan or the measurement of the living room and the bedrooms. Please let know if there are private schools close to this unit. We are relocating to Canada because of the recent tax policies here in the U.K. I have practiced medicine for 26years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England.My representative in Canada will be effecting the payments prior to my arrival. Mr Brandon Edmond. Phone:905-598-6648
Please be rest assured that we only decided to rent a unit for 24months to enable us get fully settled. We may decide to buy a home after the first twelve months or renew the the lease. Please provide me with a copy of the lease agreement so that i can review them ahead of time. Please send them through email or fax. Here is my fax numbers +44-709-289-4939. Please let me know if the 4months and security deposit will be okay, If you want the first twelve months rents paid at once, do not hesitate to let me know.Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit.
Please let me know if you have a floor plan or the measurements ofthe living room and the bedroom. Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit. Beside my medical proffession I inherited a company from my parents in Russia. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , I am a citizen of Russia(USSR). I have decided to provide you with some basic personal informations as it may entail in the application.
Names of Occupants.
Dr. Abramovich.M Victor
Mrs Elizabeth Abramovich
Miss Natasha Abramovich.
Home address Kantemirovskaya 20/1, 115409 Moscow, Russia
Present address. 2,Whitechapel Road, London, UK, E1 1BB
Fax+44-709-289-4939
Account Names: Dr. Abramovich.M Victor
Account Number: 40820978219001000009
Bank Name: Vneshtorg Bank VTB 24
Bank Address: 35 Myasnitskaya Street, Moscow
Personal Reference
Dr. David Arons MD
206-337-0727
davidaronsclinic@yahoo.com
Dr Ince Davidson
Phone +44 70457 46081
Reference Dr Benard Cole. +44 709-288-6534.
For Emergency. Call Prof.James Abramovich
+353-876-123-953
No Pets/
We do not smoke
As a measure of securing this unit, arrangements will be made to effect the rents and deposit this week. Rents and deposit will be overnight to you this week. Provide me with your full names and a mailing address upon receipt of this mail. Please find attached copies of my pitures/family, my wife(No7) and grand parents. I will strongly advice that you remove this unit from any further advert placement. I will be calling you tomorrow morning due to my tight schedule today, please confirm your cell phone numbers due our time difference. We look forward to meet you soon.
My regards,
Dr. Victor M. Abramovich
Comment by Bill — October 5, 2009 @ 4:17 pm
I got the same scam. Same names, same numbers. The funny thing is, that his representative Brandon Edmond (unusual name for a russian guy) answers the phone in Ontario. 905-598-6648. This is a Fido cell phone number registered in Brampton, close to Toronto.
The Dr. itself also called in person, but the number he called from was hidden. But then he made a mistake. He called again 2 min later and wanted to talk to a friend. I guess he pressed accidently on redial the last number. This is his real number: +7090174386
Comment by Andreas — October 8, 2009 @ 3:21 pm
I received very similar, if not identical to some of these emails, here in CANADA in response to a house for rent ad I placed on craigslist, but the name is now DR. IVAN ASHAVIN. The scam is WIDE SPREAD!!
Thanks for your mail and the informations provided on this unit. I sincerely apologise for the delayed response to your mail. I will be living in this unit with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 11 years old next month. We do not smoke and we do not have pets. I can assure you that I will take very good care of this unit if we take up the tenancy to this unit. I will be offering the first 3 months rent and the security deposit as a measure of securing the unit prior to my arrival. The balance 9 months rent will be paid immediately upon my arrival.Please let me know know if I can sign more than a year lease. I will also like to know if you are the direct owner of this unit or the property manager.
Please let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. You can send me the lease application , to enable be review it ahead of time.I will eventually have it signed physically when i arrive or sign them prior to my arrival. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. I had a clear view of the pictures and they were satisfactory.
Upon completion of the paper work, Arrangement will be made to effect the rent and deposit by my representative in Canada. We should be able to work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. I will provide you with more personal informations and references in my next correspondence
Considering my present tight schedule, i would want us to discuss on phone and finalise basic arrangements. Call me on my cell.+44 70457 46089 .Provide me with your phone numbers and please let me know when to call you. Dial as presented for international calls. I will arrive Canada on or before the 28th of October , with my family.
If you require any further information, pls let me know . I hope we can talk soon.
My due regards,
Dr Ivan Ashavin
Comment by Alana — October 10, 2009 @ 10:41 am
Thanks for the tip, we almost fell for it - but due to this posting we found out BEFORE we received the scam cheque. MUCH APPRECIATED!!!!!
Thanks for your mail. Though i understand that utilities cost depends on usage, l sincerely appreciate the informations provided on the average utilities cost. Please let me know if you have the floor plan or the measurement of the living room and the bedrooms. Please let know if there are private schools close to this unit. We are relocating to Canada because of the recent tax policies here in the U.K. I have practiced medicine for 26years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England.My representative in Canada will be effecting the payments prior to my arrival. Mr Randy George. Phone:416-878-6459
Please be rest assured that we only decided to rent a unit for 24months to enable us get fully settled. We may decide to buy a home after the first twelve months or renew the the lease. Please provide me with a copy of the lease agreement so that i can review them ahead of time. I was unable to download the attachement because its not in compliance with Window Vista. Please send them through fax. Here is my fax numbers +44-709-289-4939. Please let me know if the 4months and security deposit will be okay, If you want the first twelve months rents paid at once, do not hesitate to let me know.Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit.
Please let me know if you have a floor plan or the measurements ofthe living room and the bedroom. Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit. Beside my medical proffession I inherited a company from my parents in Russia. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , I am a citizen of Russia(USSR). I have decided to provide you with some basic personal informations as it may entail in the application.
Names of Occupants.
Dr. Bradner Baranowski
Mrs Elizabeth Baranowski
Miss Natasha Baranowski.
Home address Kantemirovskaya 20/1, 115409 Moscow, Russia
Present address. 2,Whitechapel Road, London, UK, E1 1BB
Fax+44-709-289-4939
Account Names: Dr. Bradner Baranowski
Account Number: 40820978219001000009
Bank Name: Vneshtorg Bank VTB 24
Bank Address: 35 Myasnitskaya Street, Moscow
Personal Reference
Dr. David Arons MD
206-337-0727
davidaronsclinic@yahoo.com
Dr Ince Davidson
Phone +44 70457 46089
Reference Dr Benard Cole. +44 709-288-6534.
For Emergency. Call Prof.Jose Baranowski
+353-876-123-953
No Pets/
We do not smoke
As a measure of securing this unit, arrangements will be made to effect the rents and deposit this week. Rents and deposit will be overnight to you this week. Provide me with your full names and a mailing address upon receipt of this mail. Please find attached copies of my pitures/family, my wife(No7) and grand parents. I will strongly advice that you remove this unit from any further advert placement. I will be calling you tomorrow morning due to my tight schedule today, please confirm your cell phone numbers due our time difference. We look forward to meet you soon. You can call me directly +44 70457 46081.
My regards,
Dr. Bradner Baranowski
Comment by Nat — November 12, 2009 @ 2:39 am
Thanks to this site, we found out who really Dr. Bradner is. uughh ( see the mails below)
What do we do with the checks when they arrive?
Dear Eelco,
I have been on call. I sincerely apologise for the communication gap. I will go for #35. Mr George has just informed me that there was a delay with Ups pick up flight due to technical problems. You will be receiving the rent and deposit on Saturday evening or Monday morning your time. I will provide you with tracking details in my next correspondence. A copy of my flight schedule will be provided for you next week.
I will creat time to call you this weekend. We look forward to meet you soon.
My regards,
Dr.Bradner
On 11/12/09, Eelco and kitty deBoer wrote:
Dear Bradner,
—– Original Message —–
From: Bradner Baranowski
To: Eelco and kitty deBoer
Sent: Thursday, November 12, 2009 1:11 AM
Subject: Re: $1350 / 4br - Garrison Crossing Townhouse (The Quarters)
Dear Eelco & Kitty DeBoer,
Thanks for the detailed mail. I have instructed my representative to overnight the rent and deposit. I am also making arrangement for my furniture, the floor plan will assist me in placing order.
I am on call at the moment. I will discuss with you on phone this weekend.
My regards,
Dr.Bradner
—– Original Message —–
From: Bradner Baranowski
To: Eelco and kitty deBoer
Sent: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 6:53 AM
Subject: Re: $1350 / 4br - Garrison Crossing Townhouse (The Quarters)
Dear Eelco,
Thanks for your mail. Though i understand that utilities cost depends on usage, l sincerely appreciate the informations provided on the average utilities cost. Please let me know if you have the floor plan or the measurement of the living room and the bedrooms. Please let know if there are private schools close to this unit. We are relocating to Canada because of the recent tax policies here in the U.K. I have practiced medicine for 26years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England.My representative in Canada will be effecting the payments prior to my arrival. Mr Randy George. Phone:416-878-6459
Please be rest assured that we only decided to rent a unit for 24months to enable us get fully settled. We may decide to buy a home after the first twelve months or renew the the lease. Please provide me with a copy of the lease agreement so that i can review them ahead of time. Please send them through email or fax. Here is my fax numbers +44-709-289-4939. Please let me know if the 4months and security deposit will be okay, If you want the first twelve months rents paid at once, do not hesitate to let me know.Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit.
Please let me know if you have a floor plan or the measurements ofthe living room and the bedroom. Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit. Beside my medical proffession I inherited a company from my parents in Russia. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , I am a citizen of Russia(USSR). I have decided to provide you with some basic personal informations as it may entail in the application.
Names of Occupants.
Dr. Bradner Baranowski
Mrs Elizabeth Baranowski
Miss Natasha Baranowski.
Home address Kantemirovskaya 20/1, 115409 Moscow, Russia
Present address. 2,Whitechapel Road, London, UK, E1 1BB
Fax+44-709-289-4939
Account Names: Dr. Bradner Baranowski
Account Number: 40820978219001000009
Bank Name: Vneshtorg Bank VTB 24
Bank Address: 35 Myasnitskaya Street, Moscow
Personal Reference
Dr. David Arons MD
206-337-0727
davidaronsclinic@yahoo.com
Dr Ince Davidson
Phone +44 70457 46089
Reference Dr Benard Cole. +44 709-288-6534.
For Emergency. Call Prof.Jose Baranowski
+353-876-123-953
No Pets/
We do not smoke
As a measure of securing this unit, arrangements will be made to effect the rents and deposit this week. Rents and deposit will be overnight to you this week. Provide me with your full names and a mailing address upon receipt of this mail. Please find attached copies of my pitures/family, my wife(No7) and grand parents. I will strongly advice that you remove this unit from any further advert placement. I will be calling you tomorrow morning due to my tight schedule today, please confirm your cell phone numbers due our time difference. We look forward to meet you soon. You can call me directly +44 70457 46081. Based on the fact that this unit will be available in January, I may have to reschedule our arrival dates.
My regards,
Dr. Bradner Baranowski
—– Original Message —–
From: Bradner Baranowski
To: Eelco and kitty deBoer
Sent: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 4:44 AM
Subject: Re: $1350 / 4br - Garrison Crossing Townhouse (The Quarters)
Dear Eelco,
Thanks for your message. My schedule has been so tight, Sorry for the delayed response to your mail. Please let me know if this unit is furnished or unfurnished. I will prefer an unfurnished unit.
I willactaully be living in this unit with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 12 years old before 15th(December). We will not have any pets in this unit, We also do not smoke. I can assure you that I will take very good care of this unit if we take up the tenancy to this unit. I will be offering the first 3 months rent and the security deposit as a measure of securing the unit prior to my arrival. The balance 9 months rent will be paid immediately upon my arrival.Please let me know know if I can sign more than a year lease. I will also like to know if you are the direct owner of this unit or the property manager.
Please let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. You can send me the lease application , to enable be review it ahead of time.I will eventually have it signed physically when i arrive or sign them prior to my arrival. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically. I had a clear view of the pictures and they were satisfactory.
Upon completion of the paper work, Arrangement will be made to effect the rent and deposit by my representative in Canada. We should be able to work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. I will provide you with more personal informations and references in my next correspondence
Considering my present tight schedule, i would want us to discuss on phone and finalise basic arrangements. Provide me with your phone numbers and please let me know when to call you. I will be arriving Canada with my family on or before the 30th of this month.
If you require any further information, pls let me know . I hope we can talk soon.
My due regards,
Dr.Bradner A. Baranowski
Comment by Eelco — November 13, 2009 @ 2:01 pm
This guy Bradner Baranowski is a real scammer. He has sent the same E-mail to me. He also has a Canadian representive called Randy George who lives in Toronto area working with him. Be aware !!!
Comment by Louise — November 14, 2009 @ 1:07 am
I suspect all these scammers belong to one organization since they use the same tactic : all are Dr. with family, all from U K , all have a Canadian or US representives. Lucky I didn’t fall into their trap. Thank you for sharing your experiences. We have to watch out for each other.
Comment by Kenny — November 14, 2009 @ 1:27 am
Nov. 16/09, I too have received this email. Looks like this guy is currently targeting the Chilliwack area.
copy of his second email is attached. Isn’t it great to be able to just Google someone? I love it. He won’t pull his scam on me!
Dear Diane,
Thanks for your message. My schedule has been so tight, Sorry for the delayed response to your mail. Please let me know if this unit is furnished or unfurnished. I will prefer an unfurnished unit.
I willactaully be living in this unit with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 12 years old before 15th(December). We will not have any pets in this unit, We also do not smoke. I can assure you that I will take very good care of this unit if we take up the tenancy to this unit. I will be offering the first 3 months rent and the security deposit as a measure of securing the unit prior to my arrival. The balance 9 months rent will be paid immediately upon my arrival.Please let me know know if I can sign more than a year lease. I will also like to know if you are the direct owner of this unit or the property manager.
Please let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. You can send me the lease application , to enable be review it ahead of time.I will eventually have it signed physically when i arrive or sign them prior to my arrival. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically.Please , send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms.
Upon completion of the paper work, Arrangement will be made to effect the rent and deposit by my representative in Canada. We should be able to work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. I will provide you with more personal informations and references in my next correspondence
Considering my present tight schedule, i would want us to discuss on phone and finalise basic arrangements. Provide me with your phone numbers and please let me know when to call you. I will be arriving Canada with my family on or before the 6th of December.
If you require any further information, pls let me know . I hope we can talk soon.
My due regards,
Dr.Bradner A. Baranowski
Comment by Diane — November 16, 2009 @ 9:21 pm
Hello Tim and Maria McDonald,
Thanks for your message. My schedule has been so tight, Sorry for the delayed response to your mail. Please let me know if this unit is furnished or unfurnished. I will prefer an unfurnished unit.
I willactaully be living in this unit with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 12 years old before 15th(December). We will not have any pets in this unit, We also do not smoke. I can assure you that I will take very good care of this unit if we take up the tenancy to this unit. I will be offering the first 3 months rent and the security deposit as a measure of securing the unit prior to my arrival. The balance 9 months rent will be paid immediately upon my arrival.Please let me know know if I can sign more than a year lease. I will also like to know if you are the direct owner of this unit or the property manager.
Please let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. You can send me the lease application , to enable me review it ahead of time.I will eventually have it signed physically when i arrive or sign them prior to my arrival. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically.Please , send me a picture view of the living room and bed rooms.
Upon completion of the paper work, Arrangement will be made to effect the rent and deposit by my representative in Canada. We should be able to work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. I will provide you with more personal informations and references in my next correspondence
Considering my present tight schedule, i would want us to discuss on phone and finalise basic arrangements. Provide me with your phone numbers and please let me know when to call you. I will be arriving Canada with my family on or before the 27th of this month.
If you require any further information, pls let me know . I hope we can talk soon.
My due regards,
Dr.Bradner A. Baranowski
Comment by Maria — November 16, 2009 @ 11:57 pm
I’ve got the same E-mails from Dr. Bradner Baranowski. Be aware !! He’s a real crook working with other people in diff. part of the world.
Would somebody tell me how to report this crime ??
I would like to see all of them get caught so no other person will get hurt.
Comment by Louise — November 19, 2009 @ 7:26 pm
My e-mails are supposedly from:
Dr.Kelevi Reima
11 Lambeth Palace Road London SE1 7EH
Phone +44 70457 46089
Fax+44-709-289-4939
He is moving into full condo purchases with, of course, a representative from Canada.
Beware.
Comment by Bob — November 27, 2009 @ 5:54 pm
My e-mails are from:
Thanks for your mail. The contents were clearly understood.I sincerely aplogise for my late response to your mail.I have been on a health mission in a remote part of Guatemala and could not have access to computer.Here are my contact details:
Dr.Kelevi Reima
11 Lambeth Palace Road London SE1 7EH
Phone +44 70457 46089
Fax+44-709-289-4939
Please provide me with a copy of the floor plan.I will also require a copy of the Purchase document for my review.
I am buying this unit for my family, Based on our present schedule, My family will be in United State of America before the 30th of December. I have an investment in Canada.I have already instructed that my investment should be liquidated to enable me effect payment for this property.I want you to provide me a copy of the Sale/Purchase agreement. Upon receipt of this documents,I will review the terms and condition before i sign the document.I am paying in full for this unit, However i want you to make some form of reduction on your final asking price. I will advice you recommend a lawyer for me in canada.
I intend to pay $510,000,Provide me with more pictures of the kitchen and the living room. Do you have any link for more details of this property? My representative in Canada will take care of the Payment of this unit upon my approval Please send me your full names and your mailing address because i will be forwarding the mailing address to my representative as payment will be overnight to that address upon completion of the paper work. For any further enquiries. You can contact the company representative directly.
Mr Randy George
Phone:4168786459
Email:georgeyrandey@yahoo.ca
Following my busy schedule this period. You can call me between 7pm- 10:48pm my time.
Please acknowledge receipt of this mail
Talk to you soon
Kelevi
BEWARE
Comment by Dorota — November 30, 2009 @ 6:49 pm
We have the same Kelevi person sending us an email wanting a purchase agreement and stuff, has to be a scam!
Comment by Anonymous — December 3, 2009 @ 9:27 pm
Just got an email from gibertkenny2000@yahoo.com responding to an ad that I posted on petfinder about a dog that I have up for adoption…… Is this the same guy? The e-mail seemed very strange to me so I looked up his e-mail address and I found this website. I don’t know if it’s the same guy, but definitely not allowing him to adopt the dog.
Comment by Kelly — December 7, 2009 @ 9:24 am
WOW Just about fell for it!!! My first que was that the pevious email and this one were clearly writen by diferent people as the first sounded like it was writen by a more educated person. Here is a copy of the second email he sent. Thank god for this site!!! Thanks alot guys.
Thanks for your detailed message, Knowing fully well that utilities cost depends on usage, Please let me know the average utilities cost on this unit per month. Please let me know if you have the floor plan or the measurement of the living room and the bedrooms. Please let me know if there are private schools close to this unit. We are relocating to Canada because of the recent tax policies here in the U.K. I have practiced medicine for 26years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England.My representative in Canada will be effecting the payments prior to my arrival. Mr Randy Elvis George. Phone:416-878-6459
Please be rest assured that we only decided to rent a unit for 24months to enable us get fully settled. We may decide to buy a home after the first twelve months or renew the the lease. Please provide me with a copy of the lease agreement so that i can review them ahead of time. Please send them through email or fax. Here is my fax numbers +44-709-289-4939. Please let me know if the 4months and security deposit will be okay, If you want the first twelve months rents paid at once, do not hesitate to let me know. Thanks for the lovely pictures. Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit.
Please let me know if you have a floor plan or the measurements ofthe living room and the bedroom. Let me know if there will be any need to re-paint this unit. Beside my medical proffession I inherited a company from my parents in Russia. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , I am a citizen of Russia(USSR). I have decided to provide you with some basic personal informations as it may entail in the application.
Names of Occupants.
Dr. Brian Vich Petrov
Mrs Christina Petrov
Miss Natasha Petrov.
Home address Kantemirovskaya 20/1, 115409 Moscow, Russia
Present address. 2,Whitechapel Road, London, UK, E1 1BB
Fax+44-709-289-4939
Account Names: Dr. Brian Vich Petrov
Account Number: 40820978219001000009
Bank Name: Vneshtorg Bank VTB 24
Bank Address: 35 Myasnitskaya Street, Moscow
Personal Reference
Dr. David Arons MD
206-337-0727
davidaronsclinic@yahoo.com
Dr Ince Davidson
Phone +44 70457 46089
Reference Dr Prof. +44 709-288-6534.
For Emergency. Call Prof.Edward Petrov
+353-876-123-953
No Pets/
We do not smoke
As a measure of securing this unit, arrangements will be made to effect the rents and deposit this week. Rents and deposit will be overnight to you this week. Provide me with your full names and a mailing address upon receipt of this mail. Please find attached copies of my pitures/family, my wife(No7) and grand parents. I will strongly advice that you remove this unit from any further advert placement. I will be calling you tomorrow morning due to my tight schedule today, please confirm your cell phone numbers due our time difference. We look forward to meet you soon. You can call me directly +44 70457 46081.
My regards,
Dr. Petrov
Comment by John Q Public — December 7, 2009 @ 8:22 pm
Contacted via craigslist. Same scam, different names but most of the phone numbers match. DO NOT RENT TO DR. PETROV Scam
Comment by L Rimpel — December 8, 2009 @ 9:19 pm
Dr. Brian Petrov trying to rent is a total SCAM BEWARE. Basically got the exact same letter as above. Same name and phone numbers. Contacted via Craigslist.
Comment by L Rimpel — December 8, 2009 @ 10:04 pm
I just received the exact email as example #40 except the name was Mallos Ismo (his contact in Canada was Randy George). Damn crooks! Please be careful!
Comment by F — December 10, 2009 @ 2:34 pm
I just received the mail want to purchase the porperty under Mallos Ismo and his contact in Canada was Randy George.
I think it’s totally scam. Everybody out there be careful!
Comment by L C K — December 10, 2009 @ 5:51 pm
I placed an ad on petfinder.com for a cat that I am looking for a loving home for. This Gibert Kenny contacted me via email with a lame story about how he lives in Oklahoma and he wants my personal information so that he can send me a cashiers check for the shipping and he will have a pet transport company come to my door to pick the cat up. This sent so many red flags up to me that I googled him and found loads of people who he tried to scam. Then I found another person who had placed a pet for adoption who got the same identical email as I did, word for word! This criminal belongs in prison!
Comment by Ann — December 15, 2009 @ 1:47 pm
Received one such email from a Brian Vich Petrov
Thanks for your message. I got your mail this morning my time, i apologise for the delayed response. I am very interested in this unit and i will be living in this unit with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 14years old on the 24th of December. Please provide me with the interior pictures of this unit, particularly the living room and the bathrooms.? What is the proximity to school?
We do not like pets and we do not smoke as well. I can assure you that i will take absolute care of this unit. Do you have any idea on the average utilities cost on this unit per month. Are you the direct owner of this unit or the property mangager. Please provide me with the Lease application so that i can review them ahead of time. Following my tight schedule this period,I will have the lease signed upon my arrival, moreover appending signatories of this nature are better done and at best physically. However if you want the lease signed, i do not think this will be an issue, Its just my personal opinion. I will be arriving Canada with my wife and daughter on the 1st of January,2010.
After a carefull study of the terms and conditions as entailed in the Lease agreement, arrangement will be made to effect the rent and deposit by my representative in Canada. We should be able to work together and ensure every arrangements that we shall both execute in line with my taking up the tenancy should be done accordingly to ensure we have a proper understanding. Detailed personal informations and References will be provided in my next correspondence. I will also provide you with contact details of my representative in Canada in my next message.
In view of securing this unit before my arrival (1-01-2010), I will be glad to effect payment for the first 3months rent and a security deposit as a measure of securing this unit prior to my arrival. I will provide you with 9months post dated Check or cash pending on the agreement reached upon my arrival. I am interested in signing more than 1year lease. Please let me know if you will approve more than a year lease.
I will like to rent this unit unfurnished, please let me know if this will be okay by you. Following the stressfull task in our transition to Canada, My schedule is so tight this period. It will save us time if we can creat time to discuss on phone. I am aware that England is 7hrs ahead. You can contact me directly. Here is my contact phone number:001-44-702-409-2550.Please dial as presented. I hope we can discuss on phone so that we can conclude basic arrangement.
If you require any additional information,please do not hisitate to let me know. Talk to you soon. Please provide me with your contact phone numbers and let me know when to call you. Please respond on receipt of this mail.
Yours Truly,
Dr.Brian Petrov
Comment by Anonymous — December 19, 2009 @ 1:38 am
This man’s name keeps changing, I got a similar one from William Cooley… New it was fake when he asked about an apartment when I have a house… Here is the email:
Hello …..
Am Prof. William Cooley from Netherlands, Am interested in your Unit for rent that you posted on Craigslist.com, With the little descriptions you gave there-in, am satisfied and it redeemed my stress of searching around for a house to rent. I would like to make an inquiry if the apartment is still available for rent and the duration in which you want to lease the unit. Preferably 12months. Am a family Orientated man, No Pet {s} i don’t smoke either.
Get back to me with the following requirements :
1- Monthly rent fees ?
2- Security deposit fee ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Parking space if any ?
6- who own the apartment?
7- when will it be ready to move in ?
8- i have my own furniture can i move them in?
9-can i see more pics of the Unit?
I wait to read from you asap
Thank you
Prof. William Cooley
Research methodologist
P.O. Box 1935 3000 BX
Rotterdam
Netherlands
Comment by toto — December 20, 2009 @ 4:41 pm
Hello, I just discovered this morning that the cheque that arrived from Dr. Mallos Ismo from London, UK and his financial advisor Randy George from Ontario, Canada IS A SCAM! He requested information on my 4-plex I have posted for sale by owner on craigslist.com. He quickly decided after one email communication that the building looked satisfactory without even asking for the operating statement or any documents. He urged me on numerous emails for my name and address to send the cheque. I told him he must sign a Purchase and Sale Agreement and speak with a lawyer before any money changes hands. He was sent the P & S Agreement and never sent it back but when I arrived home last night from Christmas vacation there was a cheque at my home, sent by UPS courier, in an amount much larger than the agreed upon purchase price. He mentioned furniture requirements so I suspect he would ask for the excess money wired back. I did some internet research and IT IS A SCAM! I SENT AN EMAIL WARNING HIM AND HIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR THAT THE OFFICIALS ARE COMING!
Comment by Been had — January 1, 2010 @ 12:43 pm
Rimpel and John are the ones aiding rental scams in Canada
Comment by Avant Davies — January 4, 2010 @ 1:11 pm
Hello …..
Am Prof. William Cooley from Netherlands, Am interested in your Unit for rent that you posted on Craigslist.com, With the little descriptions you gave there-in, am satisfied and it redeemed my stress of searching around for a house to rent. I would like to make an inquiry if the apartment is still available for rent and the duration in which you want to lease the unit. Preferably 12months. Am a family Orientated man, No Pet {s} i don’t smoke either.
Get back to me with the following requirements :
1- Monthly rent fees ?
2- Security deposit fee ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Parking space if any ?
6- who own the apartment?
7- when will it be ready to move in ?
8- i have my own furniture can i move them in?
9-can i see more pics of the Unit?
I wait to read from you asap
Thank you
Prof. William Cooley
Research methodologist
P.O. Box 1935 3000 BX
Rotterdam
Netherlands
William Cooley
Comment by katie — January 21, 2010 @ 1:47 am
They are certainly burning up the Yahoo.com email accounts.
Prof cooley Wright, Prof William Cooley, Prof Zhang Yang, davidaronsclinic, what a buch of B S.
Thanks!! so much for posting all these! God Bless.
Comment by katie — January 21, 2010 @ 2:01 am
Just got an email from Prof. Don Hunback with the exact bogus inquiry in response to my Craigslist posting. It’s always best to stick with real people who want to actually view the property.
Hello
I really appreciate your efforts to answer those questions as regard the house…… My Research project commence in February 5th of 2010 therefor i’ll be in states on or before the above date. It’s an individual research to improve my knowledge and understanding on Crime, Delinquency, Male & Female Criminology. I want to compare and contrast Crime in the United states to crime in Italy and in Netherlands respectively. plus the rest of the world in general. I’ll not be working with any Organization or group of people in the states except for my Respondents.
I am a family oriented man with a very Good record and reputation.. I want to sign an agreement of 1 year with you and i am ready to offer you the first month rent fee + the first month security deposit fee to secure the house prior to my arrival to the states by American Certified Check, and on my arrival, i’ll pay for the remaining 11months by cash… Forward the lease agreement/application form for my Review. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically when i get to the states and also the back ground check would be done in person when i arrive if need be. But i can assure you that i have a very good employment record.. Forward your name, address and phone number for onward check payment.
I understand that the house is Unfurnished, I’ll be making arrangement with a furniture company over there in United states to supply some exclusive furniture into the house, because transporting furniture across-board will not be easy and it’ll be too expensive.. I want you to send the measurement/dimension of each section of the house to determine the size and amount of Furniture that’ll be supply into the house. My Furniture company will fix a delivery date and time that will be convenient and you’ll be at the property on the delivery day to monitor the delivery and set-up of my furniture. For my flight booking, email me the nearest Airport close to your house or close to the property. I’ll be responsible for all Utilities, i’ll be glad you can be able to pick both myself, my wife and my five year old daughter at the airport to the house… i would love to send you pics of my family if you require, so that you may be able to identify us at the airport.
here are the info i needed from you to proceed with the payment. and i want you to commit to rent your house to me as am committed to rent as well..
Your full name
Your full address
State
City
Zip Code.
you phone number for communication
Prof. Don Hunback
Research methodology
P.O. Box 1935 3000 BX
Rotterdam
Netherlands
Comment by Robert — January 25, 2010 @ 8:50 pm
God bless you all… You saved us from a major trouble!
Comment by Sam — January 25, 2010 @ 9:43 pm
From: Mariam Jack
Goodday, My name is Mariam and my husband Jack. A british female, and will be relocating for a short period of two years on a programme to state, Am particularly interested in your property I would also like to know the exact fees to be paid monthly and the security deposit .. Thanks for your assistance.. Cheers
Mariam
Comment by katie — January 26, 2010 @ 6:46 am
Thanks for the tips. Looks like a dodged a bullet!! -Regina
Comment by Regina Knowlton — January 27, 2010 @ 4:04 pm
I just recieved the same exact email from the professor as the Jan 25th letter from Robert above. Thanks so much for this info. I was very suspicious and now it’s confirmed.
Comment by Diane — January 28, 2010 @ 5:45 pm
Got this in the copule of days on my add of rent:
1st email:
Dear ,
Firstly, i sincerely apologise for the delayed follow up to your mail. I am very much interested in this unit. I will be occupying this unit with my family(A wife and a daughter only.
We are non smokers and we do not habour pets. Can you please provide me with the pictures of this unit, preferably the interior pictures(Living room & bathrooms).
I have a few questions for you:
1)What is the average utilities cost on this unit per month.
2)Are you the direct owner of this unit, agent or the property manager
3)What is the proximity to School because i have an 11years daughter.
4)Do you have copies of the lease agreement?
5) Do you have the measurement or floor plan for this unit?
6) Can i provide my own furniture or you will have it furnished?(I will prefer to furnish this unit to meet my taste)
7)Can i sign more than a year lease?
8)Following my schedule, we will be moving into this unit on or before the 21st of February.
Due process will be observed in view of the paperwork. I will be offering 3months rents and a damage deposit to secure this unit. I will have to review the lease agreement just to make sure the terms and conditions as may be entailed in the lease conforms with my requirements.
I will provide you detailed personal informations upon receipt of your mail. We should be able to discuss on phone this weekend.
Sincerely,
Dr.Michael David
2nd Email:
Dear ,
I got your mail on time. The informations provided on the average utilities cost is highly appreciated. I am glad to hear that the schools are close to this unit. Following the present Economic melt down, The newly introduced tax system in the England is not favourable to private practice. I have practiced medicine for 24years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England.My representative in Canada Mr Robert Bryan:416-837-9248 will discuss with you and effect payment.
I am interested in signing a two years lease. I am thinking of buying a home after the first two years. Please provide me with a copy of the lease agreement so that i can review them ahead of time. Please send them through email or fax. I was just thinking if 3months rent and deposit will be enough to secure this unit. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you want me to make payment for the first 12months rent. (1year)
I am presently making arrangements with a furniture dealer in Canada in view of my furniture. A floor plan or measurement of the living room will assist me placing order for furniture. Beside my medical proffession i inherited a company from my parents in Isreal. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , i am a citizen of Isreal. Due to my tight schedule this period, I am providing you with some basic personal informations.
Full names of Occupants.
Dr. Michael David
Mrs Elizabeth David
Miss Success David
Home address in Isreal. 2,Shmaryahu Levin St., Kiryat Hayovel, Jerusalem 91090 Israel
Here is my present home in England. 334 Brixton Road, London, SW9 7AA
PERSONAL REFERENCES
Dr. Vince Anderson
Hospitals (Hospitals & Medical Establishments) based in the Bloomsbury Way area of London
Address: Bupa House, 15-19 Bloomsbury Way, London, , WC1A
drvinceanderson@hotmail.com
Dr.Owen Leonard
Chingford Health Centre
Address: 4,Larkshall Road, London, E4 6NT
drowenleonard@ymail.com
Dr.Elvis Walsh
Enfield Community Care NHS Trust
Central Clinic, District Nurses Office,
London, N9 0BU
elviswalsh38@yahoo.com
I have already informed my references of my transition to Canada. You can email my references and they will provide you with their phone numbers and let you know when to call as they are very busy persons.
To enable me secure this unit, i have instructed Mr Robert to discuss with you and overnight the rents and deposit. Please provide me with your full names and mailing address upon receipt of this mail. I will provide you with pictures of myself and my family within the week.
We shall discuss more details on phone. Talk to you soon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael David
I am going to call this Mr Robert Bryan:416-837-9248 to see who he is
Comment by Aleksey — February 4, 2010 @ 11:11 am
Beware of Dr. Brian Petrov wanting to rent your apartment through his Canadian representative, Randy George. Total scam
Comment by p. hamilton — February 4, 2010 @ 2:22 pm
We listed on Craigslist Vancouver, Exactly same as #60…
Dear XXX,
Thanks for your message, i had a clear view of the pictures. The informations provided on the average utilities cost is highly appreciated. Following the present Economic melt down, The newly introduced tax system in the England is not favourable to private practice. I have practiced medicine for 24years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England. My representatives in Canada Mr Todd Cuvera and Mr Bryan Robert:416-837-9248 will discuss with you and effect payment and also schedule inspection date with you.
I am interested in signing a two years lease. I am thinking of buying a home after the first two years.
After a carefull study of the lease agreement, i can assure you that i am completely satisfied with the terms and conditions as entailed i the document.. I was just thinking, if 3months rent and deposit will be enough to secure this unit. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you want me to make payment for the first 12months rent. (1year)
I am presently making arrangements with a furniture dealer in Canada in view of my furniture, the measurement provided will be of help in this regard. Beside my medical proffession i inherited a company from my parents in Isreal. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , I am a citizen of Isreal. Due to my tight schedule this period, I am providing you with some basic personal informations.
Full names of Occupants.
Dr. Michael David
Mrs Elizabeth David
Miss Success David
Home address in Isreal. 2,Shmaryahu Levin St., Kiryat Hayovel, Jerusalem 91090 Israel
Here is my present home in England. 334 Brixton Road, London, SW9 7AA
PERSONAL REFERENCES
Dr. Vince Anderson
Hospitals (Hospitals & Medical Establishments) based in the Bloomsbury Way area of London
Address: Bupa House, 15-19 Bloomsbury Way, London, , WC1A
drvinceanderson@hotmail.com
Dr. Owen Leonard
Chingford Health Centre
Address: 4,Larkshall Road, London, E4 6NT
drowenleonard@ymail.com
Dr. Elvis Walsh
Enfield Community Care NHS Trust
Central Clinic, District Nurses Office,
London, N9 0BU
elviswalsh38@yahoo.com
I have already informed my references of my transition to Canada. You can email my references and they will provide you with their phone numbers and let you know when to call as they are very busy persons. I hope you will not keep them on phone for a long period (Just a joke!)
To enable me secure this unit, i have instructed Mr Robert to discuss with you and overnight the rents and deposit. Please provide me with your full names and mailing address upon receipt of this mail. I will provide you with pictures of myself and my family within the week.
We shall discuss more details on phone 01-44-702-408-4602. Talk to you soon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael David
Comment by Allan — February 16, 2010 @ 5:36 pm
Got the exact same message as above from “Dr Michael David”. We advertised in Craigslist Ottawa. Am so glad I googled him!!!
Comment by Paula — February 16, 2010 @ 10:21 pm
Wow so glad i found this link. I just received the same scam email today from Dr. Michael David, exactly like Diane’s posting. I started googling his references and this website came up. What a scam.
Here’s the email - I truly hope this website pops up for more people who might get scammed.
Thanks for your message and the lovely pictures provided. The informations provided on the average utilities cost is highly appreciated. Following the present Economic melt down, The newly introduced tax system in the England is not favourable to private practice. I have practiced medicine for 24years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England. My representatives in Canada Mr Todd Cuvera and Mr Bryan Robert:416-837-9248 will discuss with you and effect payment and also schedule inspection date with you.
I am interested in signing a two years lease. I am thinking of buying a home after the first two years.
Please provide me with a copy of the lease agreement so that i can review them ahead of time. Please send them through email or fax. I was just thinking if 3months rent and deposit will be enough to secure this unit. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you want me to make payment for the first 12months rent. (1year)
I am presently making arrangements with a furniture dealer in Canada in view of my furniture, the measurement received will assist me in placing order for my furniture. Beside my medical proffession i inherited a company from my parents in Isreal. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , I am a citizen of Isreal. Due to my tight schedule this period, I am providing you with some basic personal informations.
Full names of Occupants.
Dr. Michael David
Mrs Elizabeth David
Miss Success David
Home address in Isreal. 2,Shmaryahu Levin St., Kiryat Hayovel, Jerusalem 91090 Israel
Here is my present home in England. 334 Brixton Road, London, SW9 7AA
PERSONAL REFERENCES
Dr. Vince Anderson
Hospitals (Hospitals & Medical Establishments) based in the Bloomsbury Way area of London
Address: Bupa House, 15-19 Bloomsbury Way, London, , WC1A
drvinceanderson@hotmail.com
Dr. Owen Leonard
Chingford Health Centre
Address: 4,Larkshall Road, London, E4 6NT
drowenleonard@ymail.com
Dr. Elvis Walsh
Enfield Community Care NHS Trust
Central Clinic, District Nurses Office,
London, N9 0BU
elviswalsh38@yahoo.com
I have already informed my references of my transition to Canada. You can email my references and they will provide you with their phone numbers and let you know when to call as they are very busy persons. I hope you will not keep them on phone for a long period (Just a joke!)
To enable me secure this unit, i have instructed Mr Robert to discuss with you and overnight the rents and deposit. Please provide me with your full names and mailing address upon receipt of this mail. I will provide you with pictures of myself and my family within the week.
We shall discuss more details on phone 01-44-702-408-4602. Talk to you soon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael David
Comment by Anonymous — February 17, 2010 @ 2:59 pm
Thanks to everyone for posting here. Just saved me a lot of hassle dealing with these people before they managed to get they’re scam in motion. They contacted me regarding a house in West Vancouver listed at $5000 per month. Word for word the exact same e-mail. Here are some hot-tags that will hopefully show up on anyone else’s google search before they get too involved.
Dr. Michael David and his gynecologist wife Mrs Elizabeth David and their daughter Success David with representatives in Canada Mr Todd Cuvera and Mr Bryan Robert:416-837-9248 Other references given were Dr. Vince Anderson based in Bupa House 15-19 Bloomsbury Way, London , Dr. Owen Leonard of Chingford Health Centre 4,Larkshall Road, London and also Dr. Elvis Walsh Enfield Community Care NHS Trust Central Clinic, District Nurses Office
Hope this helps.
Comment by John — February 19, 2010 @ 12:59 am
This is the e-mail received from this fraud. Also my response to him.
Mr. Cooley,
Like you, I expanded my knowledge of Crime in the US, Canada & Netherlands. My studies are complete. It didn’t take long to realize that with poor grammar and writing skills, you don’t pose the qualifications of a professor. Can’t identify your true Identity. Is it Dr. Gibert Kenny or Professor Clifford Kenny. Whoever you are, you responded to the wrong ad.
Since I have worked hard to maintain my property, I did some checking of my own.
As an employee of the Department of Homeland Security, I swear to protect against frauds like you.
——————————————————————————–
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 2010 11:03:05 -0800
From: pwilliamcool@yahoo.com
Subject: Am indeed interested…
To: bmjohnson3257@hotmail.com
Hello
I really appreciate your efforts to answer those questions as regard the house…… My Research project commence in March 5th of 2010 therefor i’ll be in states on or before the above date. It’s an individual research to improve my knowledge and understanding on Crime, Delinquency, Male & Female Criminology. I want to compare and contrast Crime in the United states to crime in Italy and inNetherlands respectively. plus the rest of the world in general. I’ll not be working with any Organization or group of people in the states except for my Respondents. I am a family oriented man with a very Good record and reputation.. I want to sign an agreement of 1 year with you and i am ready to offer you the first month rent fee + the first month security deposit fee to secure the house prior to my arrival to the states by American Certified Check, and on my arrival, i’ll pay for the remaining 11months by cash. Forward the lease agreement/application form for my Review. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically when i get to the states and also the back ground check would be done in person when i arrive if need be. But i can assure you that i have a very good employment record.. Forward your name, address and phone number for onward check payment.
I understand that the house is Unfurnished, I’ll be making arrangement with a furniture company over there in United states to supply some exclusive furniture into the house, because transporting furniture across-board will not be easy and it’ll be too expensive.. I want you to send the measurement/dimension of each section of the house to determine the size and amount of Furniture that’ll be supply into the house. My Furniture company will fix a delivery date and time that will be convenient and you’ll be at the property on the delivery day to monitor the delivery and set-up of my furniture. For my flight booking, email me the nearest Airport close to your house or close to the property. I’ll be responsible for all Utilities, i’ll be glad you can be able to pick both myself, my wife and my five year old daughter at the airport to the house.. i would love to send you pics of my family if you require, so that you may be able to identify us at the airport. here are the info i needed from you to proceed with the payment. and i want you to commit to rent your house to me as am committed to rent as well.
Your full name to be on the check
Your full address
State
City
Zip Code.
you phone number for communication, i’ll be waiting to read back from you
Prof. William Cooley
Research methodology
P.O. Box 1935 3000 BX
Rotterdam
Netherlands
Tell- +447024075593
— On Tue, 2/23/10, Barbara Johnson wrote:
From: Barbara Johnson
Subject: RE: $1000 / 4br - New Single Family w/2baths/fireplace/family room (Greenville/Belvior) Date: 2010-02-22, 7:01PM EST Reply to:
To: pwilliamcool@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, February 23, 2010, 6:17 PM
Thanks for your inquiry. I don’t have any pictures at the time. My elderly mother now occupies the dwelling and for security reason, I prefer not to include pictures and addresses.
However, I am having an Open House 3/27/10.
1- Monthly rent fees ? $1000.00
2- Security deposit fee ? 1000.00
3- Utilities if applicable ? Electric
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ? N/A
5- Parking space if any ? Off Street Parking/Driveway
6- who own the apartment? I am owner
7- when will it be ready to move in ? 4/15/10
8- i have my own furniture can i move them in? Yes
9-can i see more pics of the Unit: See above
——————————————————————————–
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 2010 01:36:39 -0800
From: pwilliamcool@yahoo.com
Subject: $1000 / 4br - New Single Family w/2baths/fireplace/family room (Greenville/Belvior) Date: 2010-02-22, 7:01PM EST Reply to:
To: bmjohnson3257@hotmail.com
Hello …..
Am Prof. William Cooley from Netherlands, Am interested in your Unit for rent that you posted on Craigslist.com, With the little descriptions you gave there-in, am satisfied and it redeemed my stress of searching around for a house to rent. I would like to make an inquiry if the apartment is still available for rent and the duration in which you want to lease the unit. Preferably 12months. Am a family Orientated man, No Pet {s} i don’t smoke either.
Get back to me with the following requirements :
1- Monthly rent fees ?
2- Security deposit fee ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Parking space if any ?
6- who own the apartment?
7- when will it be ready to move in ?
8- i have my own furniture can i move them in?
9-can i see more pics of the Unit?
I wait to read from you asap
Thank you
Prof. William Cooley
Research methodology
P.O. Box 1935 3000 BX
Rotterdam
Netherlands
.
Comment by Bea M. Johnson — February 23, 2010 @ 4:29 pm
Mr. Cooley,
Like you, I expanded my knowledge of Crime in the US, Canada & Netherlands. My studies are complete. It didn’t take long to realize that with poor grammar and writing skills, you don’t pose the qualifications of a professor. Can’t identify your true Identity. Is it Dr. Gibert Kenny or Professor Clifford Kenny. Whoever you are, you responded to the wrong ad.
Since I have worked hard to maintain my property, I did some checking of my own.
As an employee of the Department of Homeland Security, I swear to protect against frauds like you.
——————————————————————————–
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 2010 11:03:05 -0800
From: pwilliamcool@yahoo.com
Subject: Am indeed interested…
To: bmjohnson3257@hotmail.com
Hello
I really appreciate your efforts to answer those questions as regard the house…… My Research project commence in March 5th of 2010 therefor i’ll be in states on or before the above date. It’s an individual research to improve my knowledge and understanding on Crime, Delinquency, Male & Female Criminology. I want to compare and contrast Crime in the United states to crime in Italy and inNetherlands respectively. plus the rest of the world in general. I’ll not be working with any Organization or group of people in the states except for my Respondents. I am a family oriented man with a very Good record and reputation.. I want to sign an agreement of 1 year with you and i am ready to offer you the first month rent fee + the first month security deposit fee to secure the house prior to my arrival to the states by American Certified Check, and on my arrival, i’ll pay for the remaining 11months by cash. Forward the lease agreement/application form for my Review. In my opinion, appending signatories should be done properly and at best physically when i get to the states and also the back ground check would be done in person when i arrive if need be. But i can assure you that i have a very good employment record.. Forward your name, address and phone number for onward check payment.
I understand that the house is Unfurnished, I’ll be making arrangement with a furniture company over there in United states to supply some exclusive furniture into the house, because transporting furniture across-board will not be easy and it’ll be too expensive.. I want you to send the measurement/dimension of each section of the house to determine the size and amount of Furniture that’ll be supply into the house. My Furniture company will fix a delivery date and time that will be convenient and you’ll be at the property on the delivery day to monitor the delivery and set-up of my furniture. For my flight booking, email me the nearest Airport close to your house or close to the property. I’ll be responsible for all Utilities, i’ll be glad you can be able to pick both myself, my wife and my five year old daughter at the airport to the house.. i would love to send you pics of my family if you require, so that you may be able to identify us at the airport. here are the info i needed from you to proceed with the payment. and i want you to commit to rent your house to me as am committed to rent as well.
Your full name to be on the check
Your full address
State
City
Zip Code.
you phone number for communication, i’ll be waiting to read back from you
Prof. William Cooley
Research methodology
P.O. Box 1935 3000 BX
Rotterdam
Netherlands
Tell- +447024075593
— On Tue, 2/23/10, Barbara Johnson wrote:
From: Barbara Johnson
Subject: RE: $1000 / 4br - New Single Family w/2baths/fireplace/family room (Greenville/Belvior) Date: 2010-02-22, 7:01PM EST Reply to:
To: pwilliamcool@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, February 23, 2010, 6:17 PM
Thanks for your inquiry. I don’t have any pictures at the time. My elderly mother now occupies the dwelling and for security reason, I prefer not to include pictures and addresses.
However, I am having an Open House 3/27/10.
1- Monthly rent fees ? $1000.00
2- Security deposit fee ? 1000.00
3- Utilities if applicable ? Electric
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ? N/A
5- Parking space if any ? Off Street Parking/Driveway
6- who own the apartment? I am owner
7- when will it be ready to move in ? 4/15/10
8- i have my own furniture can i move them in? Yes
9-can i see more pics of the Unit: See above
——————————————————————————–
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 2010 01:36:39 -0800
From: pwilliamcool@yahoo.com
Subject: $1000 / 4br - New Single Family w/2baths/fireplace/family room (Greenville/Belvior) Date: 2010-02-22, 7:01PM EST Reply to:
To: bmjohnson3257@hotmail.com
Hello …..
Am Prof. William Cooley from Netherlands, Am interested in your Unit for rent that you posted on Craigslist.com, With the little descriptions you gave there-in, am satisfied and it redeemed my stress of searching around for a house to rent. I would like to make an inquiry if the apartment is still available for rent and the duration in which you want to lease the unit. Preferably 12months. Am a family Orientated man, No Pet {s} i don’t smoke either.
Get back to me with the following requirements :
1- Monthly rent fees ?
2- Security deposit fee ?
3- Utilities if applicable ?
4- Dimension/measurement of the unit {s} ?
5- Parking space if any ?
6- who own the apartment?
7- when will it be ready to move in ?
8- i have my own furniture can i move them in?
9-can i see more pics of the Unit?
I wait to read from you asap
Thank you
Prof. William Cooley
Research methodology
P.O. Box 1935 3000 BX
Rotterdam
Netherlands
Comment by Bea M. Johnson — February 23, 2010 @ 4:32 pm
I just got the same scam artist (Professor William Cooley, Rotterdam) after advertising a house in Roanoke, VA.
DON’T TRUST ANYTHING THAT IS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!!
Comment by Cindy — February 24, 2010 @ 9:39 pm
I also got an inquiry for rent of my condo in Florida from the lovely Professor Don Hunback. Thanks to googlw I found out in 5 seconds that all these idiots who can’t spell are doctors and researchers. They need to research basic second grade spelling. I hope this site keeps everyone on the alert.
Comment by Max Lewin — February 25, 2010 @ 12:08 pm
Thanks for posting this Web site. I thought the email sounded a little fishy, and so i googled the phone number he left and came across this site. It was almost identical to the emails that others have left. He, however, this time did not use a name but the e-mail address was for Brian Ford.
good luck
Comment by lindsey — February 25, 2010 @ 2:26 pm
Same MO…just using a different name and email…”Andrey Vasil” …be careful out there…
___________________________________________________________________________
Your response to my mail is higly appreciated.Please i will want to know if you are the owner of this property or the property manager.I will also want to know the the purchase procedures in Canada.I hope there are no furnitures as i will like the property unfurnished,beacuse i intend placing order for tasteful furnitures and fittings.Kindly provide me the interior and exterior pictures of this property.
I will be glad if you can send me the purchase agreement documents for my review.
Waiting to hear from you.
Thanks
____________________________________________________________________
Thank you for your response and i sincerely apologise for my late response.I am offering $XXX,XXX for this property,I am buying this unit for my family, Based on our present schedule, My family will be in in Canada to live in the house as soon as we conclude this transaction.The paying of this property will not be a problem as i will be paying in full.
I have an investment in Canada and arrangement is in progress for my investment to be liquidated to enable me effect payment of this property. My representative in Canada will take care of the payment of this property upon my approval.I will send you my representative contact details in my next email to you.
Please forward me the details of your lawyer as follows
Full Names of your Lawyer
Mailing Address
Telephone numbers
Fax number
Email Address
I will require all this information be sent to me in your next mail to me so we can proceed.Following my busy schedule this period,please provide me with your phone numbers and let me know when to call you.
Please acknowledge receipt of this mail,talk with you soon.
Respectfully
Andrey Vasil
54 Hills Road Cambridge.
CB2 0QQ, London,
United Kindom.
+44-702-407-3719.
_______________________________________
Thank you very much for your mail.I want to bring to your notice that i am fine with your price. Please send me your full names and your mailing address,if you are to receive the payment.On the other hand,if its your lawyer that will receive the payment send me his/her data including his/her email address so that i can forward the informations for payment to my representative to effect and issue the payment on the information given to me by you.Below is the contact details of my representative in Canada
Name Todd Cuvera
Phone 4160379248
I will want you to send me the floor plan of this property as it will enable to place order for furnitures.I will also need you to have the purchase and sales agree sent to me for my review.
I will wait for your response as soon as possible.
Talk with you later,
Regards,
Andrey
Comment by ME — February 25, 2010 @ 11:02 pm
Thanks to a friend of mine, the scammer you speak of is Raymond Williams also known as Victor Abramovich from Nigeria. Read the following story:
A 52-year-old woman from Lakewood, Colorado has been arrested for involvement in an Olympic rental scam that cost a Surrey homeowner $8,900.
Police in Lakewood, a municipality of 144,000 people near Denver, made the arrest earlier this month after learning the money was picked up at Moneygram offices at Wal-Mart stores in Denver and Lakewood.
When detectives paid Melissa Dawson a visit, they found hundreds of counterfeit cheques, fake lottery winning notifications and dozens of receipts for wire transfers.
There were three computers in her bedroom.
Dawson told the police she was doing a favour for a boyfriend, a lawyer from London England named Raymond Williams.
Investigators believe Williams is also Victor Abramovich, the man who answered an online Craiglist ad from a Surrey woman looking to make some money during the 2010 Olympics by renting out her house.
She was offering her five bedroom executive house in south Whalley.
When Abramovich responded to the ads, he claimed he was a doctor from the United Kingdom.
The homeowner was pleased to learn the doctor and his family were planning to stay beyond the Olympics.
They wanted the house for two years and were prepared to pay a year’s rent in advance, $28,800.
But when the cheque arrived, it was for $39,800.
The doctor said it was a mistake and he needed some of that money to help pay to have his furniture moved and to arrange surgery for one of his children.
The woman checked with her financial institution twice to make sure the cheque had not bounced, then she wired the money.
She sent three payments by wire totalling $8,900 before her bank withdrew the $39,800 and advised her that the cheque was a fraud.
She thought the money was going to the UK but when she learned it had actually been picked up in Colorado, she contacted police in Lakewood.
She also learned that the phone calls from the doctor were not made from England, but from Nigeria.
The Surrey woman is not the only person to lose money to the so-called doctor.
A Delta resident lost $6,000 the very same way.
Lakewood police believe that Wlliams/Abramovich has defrauded two other Canadians as well as people in Florida, Tennessee, Washington State, and Virginia.
His victims may include the 52-year-old woman from Colorado, who maintains she is in love with the con man.
Under questioning, Melissa Dawson admitted she’d never actually met her boyfriend.
She said they began communicating by e-mail when Williams contacted her to tell her she’d inherited some money.
She never saw the inheritance, but kept exchanging e-mails with Williams and eventually, she said, they fell in love.
He was able to convince her to make and mail fake lottery winning cheques and collect payments from people who thought they were simply covering administrative costs so they could collect their winnings.
Police notes of the interrogation describe emotional conversations with Dawson, who said she knew what she was doing was illegal.
But she said she was going to continue to communicate with her online boyfriend because they were engaged to be married.
She’s been charged with theft.
Comment by ME — February 26, 2010 @ 12:29 am
I googled the telephone number that was provided by the interested renter in a condo that I have in Edmonton and I was able to find this website, below is the email that was sent to me.
Thanks for your message. The informations provided on the average utilities cost is highly appreciated. I will like to know if there are good private schools close to this unit. Following the present Economic melt down, The newly introduced tax system in the England is not favourable to private practice. I have practiced medicine for 24years. I am a Surgeon and my wife is a Gynaecologist, We will be into private practice upon our arrival in Canada. We own a private clinic here in England. My representatives in Canada Mr Todd Cuvera and Mr Bryan Robert:416-837-9248 will discuss with you and effect payment and also schedule inspection date with you.
I am interested in signing a two years lease. I am thinking of buying a home after the first two years.
Please provide me with a copy of the lease agreement so that i can review them ahead of time. Please send them through email or fax. I was just thinking if 3months rent and deposit will be enough to secure this unit. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you want me to make payment for the first 12months rent. (1year)
I am presently making arrangements with a furniture dealer in Canada in view of my furniture. Beside my medical proffession i inherited a company from my parents in Isreal. Though i am based in England with my wife and daughter , I am a citizen of Isreal. Due to my tight schedule this period, I am providing you with some basic personal informations.
Full names of Occupants.
Dr. Michael David
Mrs Elizabeth David
Miss Success David
Home address in Isreal. 2,Shmaryahu Levin St., Kiryat Hayovel, Jerusalem 91090 Israel
Here is my present home in England. 334 Brixton Road, London, SW9 7AA
PERSONAL REFERENCES
Dr. Vince Anderson
Hospitals (Hospitals & Medical Establishments) based in the Bloomsbury Way area of London
Address: Bupa House, 15-19 Bloomsbury Way, London, , WC1A
drvinceanderson@hotmail.com
Dr. Owen Leonard
Chingford Health Centre
Address: 4,Larkshall Road, London, E4 6NT
drowenleonard@ymail.com
Dr. Elvis Walsh
Enfield Community Care NHS Trust
Central Clinic, District Nurses Office,
London, N9 0BU
elviswalsh38@yahoo.com
I have already informed my references of my transition to Canada. You can email my references and they will provide you with their phone numbers and let you know when to call as they are very busy persons. I hope you will not keep them on phone for a long period (Just a joke!)
To enable me secure this unit, i have instructed Mr Robert to discuss with you and overnight the rents and deposit. Please provide me with your full names and mailing address upon receipt of this mail. I will provide you with pictures of myself and my family within the week.
We shall discuss more details on phone 01-44-702-408-4602. Talk to you soon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael David
Comment by Todd — March 1, 2010 @ 1:59 am
I’ve received a similar email today. I’m so glad I can google this prof William Phillps before we replay his email. Here is the copy of his email:
$1650 / 2br - Completely Remodeled Condo in Pleasanton for rent (dublin / pleasanton / livermore)
From: William Phillips Add to Contacts
Hello,
Good day,i am responding to your advert that you placed on
craigslist.com,after going through the advert , i am interested in it
and i want to rent it for the period that it is available for.I am
willing to sign a one year lease for the unit ,if it is still
available i will really appreciate it if you can forward me more
details about the unit and also let me know your final price for the
rent and deposit.,Am a family Orientated man, No Pet {s}
information,pls let me know or you can call me on my cell phone,
please dial as presented for international calls . { +44 7031914059} i
will also like to know if the unit is Furnished or Unfurnished
Unfurnished
I will appreciate a quick response to my email inquiry.
Thank you.
Prof,William Phillps
Phone:+447031914059
Comment by Aiping — March 5, 2010 @ 4:34 pm
Same MO, this time a dinosaur bone man from “UK” “loved” my house in Santa Barbara, name is “Don Hunback” and wife “Astro”.
Pleeeeeeeeeeeaase!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Steve — March 8, 2010 @ 3:29 pm
Amazing! Another man with my same name just posted the Profesor Don Hunback, with wife Astro and 5-year-old daughter–just 5 hours ago!
The letter we received is identical, paragraph by paragraph, to the long one above about the dinosaur fossils, but sent by Professor Don Hunback of Middlesex London, UK, instead of Dr. Gibert Kenny of Middlesex London, UK, (commented above by Audrey on Aug 16, 2009).
Thanks for keeping us all posted.
But how can we help get this guy arrested?
Comment by Steve — March 9, 2010 @ 12:26 am
I HAVE TO THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH FOR ALL THE INFORMATION THAT I HAVE FOUND ON THIS SITE. I WAS ALL OVER THE INTERNET SEARCHING ABOUT INFORMATION ON THIS GUY HE WAS USING THE SAME PHONE NUMBERS BUT LOOKS LIKE HIS ALIAS HAS CHANGED AND IS DR. HAI PHAM. FUNNY THING IS HE SENT ME PICTURES OF HIM AND HIS WIFE AND THE 8 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER THAT WANTED TO MOVE INTO MY BASEMENT SUITE. (THE PICTURES WERE A VERY VERY VERY HAPPY “WHITE” FAMILY) SEARCH THE INTERNET TRY AND FIND ONE WHITE GUY NAME HAI PHAM? THATS WHEN I STARTED TO GET A LITTLE WEIRY. AND THEN CAME ACROSS THIS SITE. THANK YOU ALL AND I HOPE SCUM LIKE THIS ROT IN HELL AND I FEEL SO SORRY FOR THE PEOPLE THAT DON’T DO THERE RESEARCH AND ACTUALLY FALL FOR THESE SCAMS.
ENCLOSED PLEASE FIND TWO SAMPLE LETTERS FROM THE LOOSER
THANKS AGAIN GUYS SPREAD THE WORD!!!
Dear Travis,
Thanks for your email message. I am out of town unitil the 28th. Please do you have pictures of this particular unit? Provide me with a copy of the lease agreement for my review. I will be signing a year lease.Proper arrangement will be made in view of securing this unit prior to my arrival.
Three persons will be living in this unit. I will provide you with more detailed informations and references in in my next correspondence.
I hope we can discuss basic arrangement on phone.
Best regards,
Dr. Hai Pham
LETTER #2
Dear Travis,
Thanks for your email message. I was on call and had no time to
respond to your mail in a timely fashion. I am transiting to Canada
with my wife and daughter. My daughter will be 8years old on the by
April. I am a Surgeon and my wife is also a medical practioner. We
will be into private practice and research for 2 years in Canada. I
was able to view the pictures.
Following due process of renting units here in England, i have decided
to follow up with similar procedure. I have instructed my local
representative in Canada to make arrangement for inspection when it is
convenient.
Following my busy schedule this period, I will review the terms and
conditions on the lease agreement and have it signed within the week.
I will be living in this unit with my wife and daughter only. (Dr.
Elizabeth Pham and Miss Eileen Pham)
Please contact my local representative directly. Mr Adam Tomken.
Phone:905-598-6181, Email:adamtomken@yahoo.ca. As a measure of
securing this unit, i have instructed Mr Tomken to make payment for
this unit as a measure of securing this unit. Rents and deposit will
be overnight to you as soon as we able to conclude basic arrangement.
In view of References, You can contact Dr. Martin Harris,Temple
Fortune Health Centre,23 Temple Fortune Lane,NW11 7TE,
Phone:44-702-408-4602. For a second Reference, you can contact Dr Mak
Duggan,Isidore Crown Medical Centre, 60 Chadwick Road, London,
SE154PU. Phone:44792-457-7401.
This is my present home address in England.5 Newington Causeway,
London, SE16ED. Phone:44-702-406-9822.
Your assistance and co-operation in view of our transition to Canada
will be highly appreciated. Please provide me with your full names and
mailing address upon receipt of this mail.
We shall discuss more details on phone. We look forward to meet you
soon.I have attached my family pictures.
My due regards,
Dr. Hai Pham.
Comment by travis — March 9, 2010 @ 11:53 pm