New York Scam: A Serious Warning For All Travellers

Be warned - read this, take note and learn the easy way - we've learnt this lesson the hard way.

As people who read this stuff on some form of a regular basis might be aware we're off to New York in just over a month. Three weeks in New York, one week in San Fransisco. The key, for us anyway, is booking some decent accommodation, so we decided that, as we're going to be in New York for three weeks solid, that we'd go for a serviced apartment over a hotel room. So we started looking on the proper web-sites for places until we found one. Great location, it does exist, great photos - the lot. Perfect for our needs. The other half made contact with the 'owner' via the web-site and made arrangements to pay. We were asked to pay via MoneyGram, no biggie and no alarm bells started to ring - we've not done this before and all seemed normal. We made the first payment and got an email back from the 'owner' saying he'd gotten the payment and could we fix the rest up asap. What seemed curious was that each email was a virtual copy of the previous ones, complete with broken English. Still we promptly paid and that was it.

Nothing.

Not a word. We'd fire emails back and eventually we figured out that we'd been ripped off so I phoned a number we'd been provided and got an answering machine, I left a message. Nothing. Then we got another email asking for further payment, we replied that nope, and further to that we want our money back - by this time we figure we're out nearly AUST$4,000 that we can't afford - or we'll go to the cops. No reply after that.

What we've learnt is that it's becoming a fairly common scam, but we got in on the ground floor, so to speak. The scam works like this:

A person registers an apartment on a reputable web-site offering holiday accommodation world-wide. Most people who register places on such sites actually have them - these people don't. They download photos from other sites and hope that people don't do a cross check and find that the scans appear for more than address. However the addresses they give all exist, they're all buildings in the cities in question, only the person doesn't have any property in them.

A holiday maker contacts them, thinking that, as they're going through a proper site they're protected. You ain't protected by any stretch of the imagination. Most owners of such sites know about the scam but do very little to protect people from it. So they make contact and pay the money via MoneyGram. Now MoneyGram, a service I'll refuse to use from now on and I urge everyone to not use it, will do nothing to help. Won't lift a finger. Even though people have provide valid ID to pick the cash up, they will not refund or assist in going after anyone. They won't even tell you the details of the person who picks the cash up or where they picked it up from - all they'll say is that it was picked up. And why should they? They get a nice little service fee out of helping people get ripped off, so don't call them and waste time, effort and further money hoping you'll get someone who'll help - they simply don't care. That's where your involvement ends. The money is picked up, you get no further emails and you're out whatever money you've paid.

Simple scam? Absolutely. Very effective too. It got us.

Now the guys name who ripped us off was 'Gary Wilson'. As I've said, I've phoned and left messages. You can too - here's his 'phone number' (it's an answering machine): 206-339-7377 Go ahead, call it and harass whoever answers. Now 'Gary Wilson' is still out there, scamming people. We've been advised from one web-site that he was listing around 15 fake properties a day through them - using a variety of email addresses and phone numbers. Hey - here's some of them:
Phone numbers he used:
2125423647 (fake)
781-583-1681 (answering machine)
212-542-3647 (fake)
681 583-1681 (fake)
2124607234 (no answer)

Emails:
brianluxuryhomes@aol.com
jessica_rob02@yahoo.com
u2cmi77@yahoo.com
londonluxuryhome@gmail.com
vacationrental001.goodhome@gmail.com
lauren-trevor@inmail24.com
c2rent@yahoo.com

Call 'em and email 'em and see who answers. You won't get anywhere. The web-site in question has now told us that they've now changed their site so, "that no listing can be activated without our consent." They also went on to share this with us; "This guy just loaded up another listing 20 minutes ago. He’s added around 10 listings to our site and other person’s site. I keep removing them. I’ve had reports from a handful of users about each listing, the guy is using the same money gram form and fax number for all the people he scams - 206-339-7277. It’s difficult for me to stop him, because he is creating free email accounts using aol, gmail, yahoo and new accounts all the time.

"We recorded this information when the person joined our site:

"lauren-trevor@inmail24.com
Datetime: 2007-07-12 03:19:51
Ip address: 41.205.180.9

"This person used all the fake street addresses in New York as his address when signing up. The only thing to connect you with him are the free email accounts and phone numbers he used and the ip address"

That leads to, you got it, Africa. It may very well be a new Nigerian scam. Great! That's cost us $4,000 that we don't have and has meant that we'll be scrambling to find cash, and a place to stay - it's cash we just don't have, so we're now looking for stuff to sell via the usual outlets such as eBay. Terrific. We've got the cops involved, but I don't expect any serious outcome as it's all too hard, and frankly, for a lot of people, $4,000 isn't that much. To us it's a lot to lose.

But by now you're probably asking, "Well how do I protect myself?" I think I have the answer. Last night we fired off an email about another apartment. Alarms bells rang slightly when we got the reply back - what you're looking for is any reply with bad English or poor literacy skills. If it reads bad then it probably is bad - and this is true no matter where you find the place, on an official site or otherwise. There is no safe place to book, if you're booking on-line. The reply we got back had poor English - very bad spelling. We were told that the apartment we wanted was available for the time we'd be there, all we needed to do was fill out the form giving our details, names, addresses, credit card numbers(!!!), the usual identity scamming tricks. We replied as such; "May we have the actual street address and arrange for someone to have a look at it? We have just lost $4000 to a New York scam regarding accommodation and are naturally wary." Guess what the reply was, not less than a half hour later? "Sorry the Flat it is taken" (sic). Funny that eh? Someone else 'booked' the place in under thirty minutes and paid for it, in full.

I think not.

I'd say go through reputable sites, but seriously, there are none right now. Most of the sites attempt to do the right thing, however the scammers are still getting through, so you can't count on the site vetting everyone. The best protection is to not pay, but to say, "Look, we've got friends in New York and we're going to have them come over to the place and get them to check it out. Can we set up a time?" If the person replies, sure, then find someone in New York who'll pop out and check it out for you (here's an idea for someone - start a business or site whereby you offer to check out places for a small fee and expose the scammers - you'll make money hand over fist). You'll soon find out if it's legit. If they don't reply, well move on and take note of the wording of the email, because the next scammer will be doing the same thing and might well be the same person.

Be warned.

The alarm bells are as follows:
Bad English
Poor spelling
Fax numbers instead of phone numbers - take a second and call the number. If it's a fax or answering machine, go elsewhere
MoneyGram or credit cards as the only form of payment
No apartment number (that one got by me dammit!)
Deals too good to be true (the truism here is real - if it's too good to be true then it's fake)

Best way to find out if it's a scam:
Say to the person via email, "Look, we've got friends in New York and we're going to have them come over to the place and get them to check it out. Can we set up a time?" You'll soon find out if it's real or not.

Remember, booking through a web-site doesn't automatically mean it's real - you'll be offered no protection by the bulk of the sites out there, nor will paying via MoneyGram or the like help you - none of the on-line payment methods will offer you any protection (and hey, MoneyGram people, if you're pissed off with me saying this then get back to me and help me get my money back) and indeed will say, "Sorry guy, you got ripped off, nothing to do with us," despite the fact that they're acting as the go between in the scam. Don't say I didn't warn you. If anyone else is going after this 'Gary Wilson' then let me know and we'll class action the bastard.

Next time I'll post the positives about the upcoming trip.

Comments

shishyboo said…
sorry to hear of your bad experience.

hope this doesn't ruin your trip
Anonymous said…
I was scammed by the same Brian, I lost my money but found out Rose Associates at 200 Madison Ave was the management company, Sent a copy of all my materials thinking they might want to stop a scam in the building they own, Never heard back , I figure they are in on the scam.
Anonymous said…
what interest do they have in getting tagled up in your mess? thats why they didnt call you back. you're talking tons of paperwork and time, people dont have that today. its fully the rsponcability of the person inquiring into the ad to make sure that everything is real before they send the money (its a sad thing to have to blame the victim for anything) but if you step off the curb without looking, and got hit, its really your own fault. I dont say this without reprieve; I too got taken on the internet, it sucks - yes it does. but you learn and grow from your experiences, my lesson took me $850 to learn, there will be more Im sure... Its great you're getting the word out, so every prospective renter should Know to use caution when setting up a private rental, cause sacms do exist. sites like www.rentals.us.com , www.jerseyshorerentals.com , www.rentingflorida.com , www.vacationatdisney.com - all do there best to create an atmosphere of honest dealings, Im sure of that, but it always toakes two to tango...
Anonymous said…
I almost paid USD 1200 to this guy. Thanks for publishing this info. You save me a lot of money and a headache.
Anonymous said…
I've just seen this, but too late.

Lucas, where did you find the ad?
Daniel Best said…
If you find this maggots new details then let me know and I'll splash it all over the place again.

And if anyone tracks this bastard down then also let me know - time for a class action. I want to see this prick in jail.
Lucas Curti said…
Hi Guys,

I found him on this site:
http://www.a1vacationproperties.com/7160.htm

Today I wrote to the contact mail of the site, letting them know about this but they didn't reply, yet.

This thief is using the email u2cmi77@yahoo.com on this site and the Phone number 781-583-1681. I was contact by Lawrence (seems this is his new fake name)

The thing is that now I feel that I can't trust any of this sites and I really need to rent an apartment in NY for a week. Anybody knows a good agency?

Danny, any idea if the police opened an investigation on this?

Sorry for my English. I'm from Argentina.
Daniel Best said…
Great information Lucas - I'll get it out there.

We did file a police report but the police here said that they police in the USA would have to go after the guy. However if he does surface then we've got the report numbers and the like to back our claims.

We're still thinking of heading to NY but right now we're considering reputable hotels or getting friends over there to check stuff out physically - w're not going with on-line bookings of apartments as we're not going to be ripped off once more.

Good luck Lucas - let us know how you go.
Anonymous said…
Hello,

We were taken for a ride by this Lawrence character as well. Conned us out of $1450 USD.
We also found the property on A1Vactionproperties.. learned a lesson the hard way.

The one catch here that I am hoping will catch this guy is that rather than pay by money order, we paid into a bank account in Brooklyn. I have contacted the Brooklyn police who have said they can trace the account and arrest the person, but they need a report from London (where we are currently living) first.

I also lodged a complaint on www.IC3.gov – although haven’t’ heard anything about this yet.
I suggest that everyone lodge a complaint on this website and contact the police in New York, there may be other cases out there.. and if we sit back and do nothing, nothing will happen.

I for one am not letting this go.

We have since decided only to book hotels and hostels through reputable sites and more often than not, go directly to the hotel!

Check http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g60763-New_York_City_New_York-Hotels.html for recommendations based on best reviews. They also list guest houses and the like.

Ems
Anonymous said…
Thanks Danny. I thought something was suspicious about the luxurious apartment at 132 west 34th street going so cheap. turned out it was opposite Macy's and above a store that didn't know of any apartments. Couldn't find anything on google until I put in the 206 339 7377 number and got your blog. Ta, By the way, he calls himself Wayne Morgan or Morgan Wayne as well (can't make up his mind.

Thanks again.
Andrew
Daniel Best said…
Glad to have been of assistance Andrew. The less money this scammer makes the better, although it amazes me that the authorities in the USA seem very reluctant to actually do anything about this guy. Spread the word.
Anonymous said…
Hi,
we paid US$ 1300 to Morgan Wayne for the apartment in New York,132 W 34th. He confirmed payment so I thought all was okay but he didn't reply to a later mail and I got wary. I asked my brother to inquire and guess what - he was told the apartment was free on our dates. I cancelled and asked for my money back but nothing of course. We have filed a report with the polic here in Germany. I think there are lots of scams like this going on. Be wary of the names Donald Kaplan, James Love and James Smith - equally suspicious characters with "fantastic" flats in New York.
We learned the hard way.
Anonymous said…
Hello,
This guy doesn't stop?!...
We find the apartment in www.iha.com, and we paid US$1470 via Western Union...
There's no need to tell you what's happened next...
Paula (Portugal)
Daniel Best said…
Not only doesn't he stop, but the US authorities seem to be apathetic when it comes to doing something about it.

Keep spreading the word. Sure, we've all learnt the hard way, let's help some other learn before this low life maggot snares anyone else. Feel free to post phone numbers, names, addresses, email addresses - anything. You can email them to me and I'll run them in a post as an update.
Lian said…
big thanks for putting up this post - just saved me 2000$.
he (brianluxuryhomes@aol.com) has this ad up in fusedworld:
http://www.fusedworld.com/?17727
i've emailed them to let them know, so hopefully the listing will be removed.
huge thanks again.
Lian said…
ps: here's the text of the email we got from him:
The total rates is $4000 for 2 weeks and the deposit to be paid is $2000 which does include the rates and the balance
$2000 paid on arrival date. I have attached the the booking forms, You would have
to fill them out and pay the deposit via money gram money transfer, or western
union money transfer, do visit their web site www.moneygram.com or www.westernunion.com to
locate the closest agent location to you. You would have to return to me along
with the scanned attached receipt given to you at money gram as confirmation of
deposit paid and the booking forms via EMAIL, or FAX to 206-338-6068.
Information to pay the deposit to
are
accountant
Lucas Franklin
120 W 58th
New York NY 10019
This is fast
and insure quick hold on the dates. Cancellation policy is on the forms and
check out time also. we offer free pick up service, if interested in this, you
would have to fill out the space in the forms, this involves picking you up and
also taking you back to the airport, we can make arrangement for a second pick
up service at a token fee. check in is done at the front desk upon presentation
of the original receipt of payments. and keys given then.We do have a tour guide
to help you not only with your shopping, sight seeing but major broad way shows
also, do get back to me ASAP. as we have someone ready to hold dates soon which
would be affecting yours, do let us know when to expect the deposit ,and also if
you do have any questions, am presently working NOT from the office so you would
have to send me an email ok.

Thanks
Brian Smith.



hey they do shopping assistants too! hmmmmm.
Anonymous said…
Hi Daniel,

For kicks I googled some of the email addresses you listed from when you were scammed. One came up on another site with different name and phone number associated with it:
http://www.seasonalrentals.com/detail.asp?PropertyID=692
There is also a mention of brianluxuryhomes as a scam here:
http://www.askanewyorker.com/phorum/read.php?34,68642,68649

Another email address turned up this:
http://www.apartmentcorner.com/asp/Public/Search/more_details.asp?uid=27318475

Also someone by the name "Lauren Trevor" has an NYC apt for rent on this site, and has a different phone number:
http://www.yourlatitude.com/property/3872/default.aspx?tabid=tabContact

Interesting thread here:
http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g60763-i5-k1426832-Internet_holiday_villas_com-New_York_City_New_York.html

Fight the fight!

jeff
Daniel Best said…
Lian - if we can stop this bastard from ripping off other people then I'm a happier boy. We got done, the general idea is that others won't. Let's keep on this prick - Jeff has sent his information to me via email so I've posted it and as he says, let's fight the fight! Let's get this gutless bastard in jail where he belongs.

Spread the word via your blog. The more that know the better.
Anonymous said…
Ladie and Gentlemen, Willie from Ireland here, I thought I had found the ideal!! spot for our upcoming holiday in New York at http://www.apartmentsdirect.ie/details_rentals.php?prop_id=11865&loc=2383&category=rentals&sub_category=. I thought it was very good even too good so for interest just before making arrangements to pay I googled the phone number provided 206 -338 - 6068 and came across your site. The whole family is dissapointed but I'm glad I saved $1800 thanks to you all. Before viewing your site I got three e-mails and apologies for taking up space but it was the Brian Smith's e-mail 11th April 2008 that confirmed my suspicions....First e-mail from Brown
Thanks for you interest in our property, The rates per night for the entire apartment is $250,{ SPECIAL DISCOUNT RATE} which does include all utilities and tax. Total rates for 8 nights would be $2000. Deposit needed to hold dates.and let us know if you are interested in holding those dates, since we have inquiries on dates covering those also, you would to respond fast. your dates happens to fall within our special discount period that's why the rates comes cheap The apartment is 2300 sq.ft and comes with four bedroom all ensuite, the bedrooms all comes with double beds. the building has a swimming pool which is shared though and a private entrance to the terrace. we would be looking to hear from you so we can have the booking forms sent to you. do let us know if you have any questions also.
Thanks
Brown Jeffery.

I sent him aquery and his
Second e-mail is
The apartment is located at 52 w 58th street manhattan NY 10019 and the apartment comes with three bedrooms and three full bathroom . the apartment sleeps 8. the total rates for 9 nights would be $2250 which does include all utilities and tax. deposit is needed to hold dates. we would be looking to hear from you.
Thanks
Brown.
Another query from me confirming the web address and pictures and his Third e-mail is
Hello
Yes those are the pictures, The total rates for 9 nights is $2250 and the deposit to be paid $1800 which does include the rates and balance paid on your arrival. I have attached the booking forms. You would have to fill them and pay the deposit via western union money transfer do check site www.westernunion.com to see the nearest agent location to you. scanned attached receipt confirmation of deposit paid and the booking forms via EMAIL,. Information to pay the deposit to at
Brown Douglas Jeff
52 west 58 street
New York NY 10019
This is direct and insure quick hold on the dates.we offer free Airport shuttle , check in is done at the front desk upon presentation of the original receipt of payments. and keys handed over then. and we do have a tour guide to help you with your shopping, sight seeing and major broad way shows also, you would have to respond FAST. as we have inquiry ready to hold dates soon which would be affecting yours, let us know when to expect the deposit ..
Thanks
Brown

I note the name and address seem to have changed but in relation to the e-mail content Do you notice any similarities??

SPREAD THE WORD
Anonymous said…
Hi everyone!
Thank you very much for publishing this info. We almost paid USD 1450 to "Morgan Wayne" (morganapartment@aol.com).

He advartised the New York apartment on 132w 34th street (AGAIN!) via www.rent-holiday-homes.com. The response was in broken English.

Thanks again!
Anonymous said…
Same for us, found the add here

http://www.seevacationrentals.com/2425
(from FRance)
Anonymous said…
Same here:
http://www.seevacationrentals.com/2425
Anonymous said…
New York Apartment Rental Scam

Hey Everyone!

I own several vacation rental websites and these guys are relentless! They never let up. They post almost every day.

I do not list any property without first contacting the owner to verify that they own the unit and that they did in fact list it.

If other sites would take the time to do this, then there would not be any problems! Send the sites and email and tell them to get with the program! I am a site owner and these other sites will not even listen to me!

If they list these people list on their sites, they are using a stolen credit cards and they get charged back from the credit card company anyway, so why let them list properties??!! It doesn't make sense.

Below are some more names, email addresses and phone numbers that have been used on my sites just since the first of the year.

Beware of the New York Apartment Scam!

Jeffery Curtis
alex kingsman
Luther Edward
Mattlow
Greta Howard
mcdonald nelly
rick freeman
Elliott lawrence
clem Giggs
Morgan Wayne

alexkingsman5@aol.com
jcurtisrentals@aol.com
luther-rental@gmail.com
morganapartment@aol.com
mattlow101@aol.com
j_curtis101@yahoo.com
GretaHowardhomes@aol.com
nellymacdonald@aol.com
nyawayfromhome@aol.com
elliott473@gmail.com
clemgiggs001@yahoo.com


6464754231
2063386068
2063397377
2068886955
2063382944
6468739656
2066661968
2125423647
2062005703
Anonymous said…
Thanks for the most recent post!! We were just about to book this apartment apparently owned by Jeffery Curtis (206 3382944) (j_curtis101@yahoo.com) when I thought I would just google this guy to check whether I could find anything about him.

Thank the lord for Google because this site came up thanks to the last post and we swiftly changed our minds! This "Jeffery Curtis" guy must be a pro, his e-mail was very smooth in good English, also offered to arrange a limo service to pick us up from the airport for $100.

I did notice though that the description of the apartment's location on the website did not match with the address he gave me in his e-mail which I thought was a bit strange.

http://listings.nytimes.com/VacationRentalsAndInns/Popups/print_listing.asp?Lid=80-WTS803191&CategoryId=NYTWTS

http://www.holidayhomes.org/usa-east-coast/new_york_city/luxury_manhattan_vacation_apartment-5772.html

Thanks again for saving us all a HUGE amount of money. These guys need to be stopped.
Anonymous said…
I am part of a family of 6 that are visiting New York for Christmas and unfotunately we booked the so called "apartment" in January and most comments relating to the related scam weren't posted until April so unfortunately we have become another victim of the sca. We are just grateful that we realised way before headiung out for our New York break. The details of the scam are below.

The guy who scammed us with our apartment calls himself Timothy Smith with the email address btimothysmith@gmail.com. He advertises the apartment on various websites including

www.rent-holiday-homes.com

We paid $1800 to this guy over Moneygram. He kept replying to emails after payment so at first we did not suspect anything. It was only recently when he obviously gave up replying and we became suspicious that I set up a fake email address and was told very similar things in the email, however, the apartment address he gave was different. The two adresses were
512 W 51st St, Manhattan, NY 10019 and
110 central park south manhattan NY 10019

The address for the money gram payments differ too, the ones we were given were
Nicholas Anderson
120 W 58th
New York NY 10019
and
Timothy Smith
145 W 58th
New York NY 10019

I am putting this on here so noone else falls for it like we did. We have now booked rooms in the Marriott Hotel booked directly through Marriott so we know we definitely have a room when we get there. I am in the process of reporting this scam to any relevant people/places I can find.
Rach1602 said…
we have just found out that we have been scammed by Sean White (or someone calling himself that) who advertised on http://www.better-holidays.com/
for an apartment on 347 W 58th St, New York, NY 10019


We booked this apartment in March and paid $1500. we only became suspicious when he emailed details of a different bank account where he wanted the balance to be paid into. One of our party emailed him from an address not previuosly used to contact him to enquire if the apartment was available the week we had booked. He emailed back very quickly to say it was. We then forwarded this email to him explaining our suspicions, asking for a refund and have since nothing at all from him.

We are currently trying to figure out what to do now, who to report him to etc...... though we do not hold out much hope of having the money returned we would like to warn others........
Anonymous said…
Unfortunately, we got scamed by "Jeffery Curtis" as per above. We didn't come across this posting when we booked/paid for it. I agree the only way to prevent this is to say a friend is coming over to check it out. We'll pursue this by reporting to the police, but don't expect too much will come of it either. I would say that there is no 'reputable' website (we booked through holidayhomes.org - not reputable in my judgment) since none of them will take any responsibility for their produce (although they are more than happy to take the profits). Sites like Stubhub who will refund the money you paid in case of a fraudulent ticket is reputable and there is no reason why these vacation homes site can't do the same. I would like to also note that we have rented private vacation places in New Zealand, Australia and Egypt (where money was sent by Western Union or bank wire) and didn't have any problems - unlucky in NYC, I guess ...
Anonymous said…
We almost for scammed by 'Philip Anderson, 120 W 58th, New York NY 10019' but thankfully we found this site before we transferred any money. He was using the email philandersonapt@aol.com. The apartment was supposedly at 146 w 57 th street manhattan NY 10019.
Anonymous said…
Hey there,

we are a group of 8 trying to find an apartment for early December. We almost fell for a scam, again one of those 'too good to be true' deals. I had a funny feeling when the apartment was suddenly no longer listed on the website. my friend got the following e-mail:

Hello.
That’s for the stopping by, the apartment you are asking for is available now, and the date you are asking is available now. This is a private 3bedroom apartment with 3 bathroom sleep up 10 people is fully furnished this include Air Conditioning, TV, VCR, Stereo, CD Player, Full Kitchen, Microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Cooking utensils provided, Linens provided, Washer, Garage, Laundry, crib and the same furbishes ,Phone, wireless internet, cable, electric, gas and heat included. 2 a/c units. Pool and the Jacuzzi also features a 24 hours doorman and there's also an elevator
The apartment close to restaurants, Live Theater, museums, theme parks cinemas, central park and more

The apartment located 132 West 58th Street, New York, NY 10023
(Bet 6th & 7th Avenue)

the rant is $350 daily and $2300 weekly, also note that there is also a refundable damage deposit of $500 when booking this apartment, this is fully returned to you in cash on your departing day if after inspection that every is ok in the apartment. Note that the rate includes utilities, cleaning and tax.
Reservation is only for 48hours if know payment is received it will be canceled
Mode of payment via bank transfer and money gram money transfer.
Do get back to me if interested so that I can send you the booking for
And payment information as we already have people asking for that period

They would only accept moneygram payments, which we were also not happy about. We then found another few dodgy listings, some seemed to have used the same address and wording and just exchanged the pictures..

Watch out for a Cheryl Collins (we asked her for and ID, she sent the most hilariously photoshop-ed copy of a passport - apparently her dad's)

I have made some enquiries for other properties, was just wondering if anyone had come across the following:

Mr Pate (phone 3476217069)
Nicolas (phone 9173182498)
and Lisa (phone 3473517611)

I have been trying to google their numbers and check in directory enquiries but haven't found anything. The first one is a bit suspect as his apparent company 'Brooklyn Deluxe Suites' does not come up as a business anywhere and he registered his 'plush condo' on the 5th August this year on a million websites. Not sure what to think about that one.

Any tips on how to find a legit apartment or any recommendations would be welcome!

Cheers
Anonymous said…
More names and phone numbers:

Brigth Gabriel
206-350-7985
2063507985

Joyce Landers
206-984-3823
2069843823
Anonymous said…
Patrica Clinton is another name. Same scam. 52 W. 58th St. Moneygram is the tip off. And no one will take any action.
Anonymous said…
My girlfirend was just scammed for $1900.00
Seems that they have moved to 132 WEST 58TH STREET as the new scam apartment.

One wrinkle here, she did a Wire Transfer. Later she realised that it looked odd and contacted the bank. Seems the money is still in the account and Wells Fargo have frozen the account. We have some hope of getting the money back. Anyone with any ideas?

Details
Contact: Roy Harrell signed lease
E-mail: hoildayspriv@aol.com
Bank: Wells Fargo
Account Name: Thomas Blaquelourde

I would love to know where this guy lives....
Mum said…
October 3, 2008, I wish I had seen this earlier. My scam artist's name is Thomas Blaquelourde, and he's out of Nevada. The address is 132 West 58th St. I filed a police report, FTC claim, IC claim with the FBI and am out $2,000. We are going next week and are staying in a hotel. While I am in NY I am visiting the NYPD as well. This sucks.
Anonymous said…
Hi We're a group of 4 travelling from Ireland to New York, we found this wonderful apartment at 132 west 58th street pay by moneygram name Thomas Blaquelourde manager Roy Harrell, they're operating from www.vacationspaces.com,thanks for the tip we're booking a hotel theres no safe way of getting an apartment in Ny
Jason said…
We just got ripped off by Patricia Clinton as well (patriciaclintonhomes@gmail.com).

We are out $750. Same story as all those above. Even very similar language in the emails. Should have known it was too good to be true. At least I hadn't sent the other $450.
Same address as someone else listed above 52 W 58th St, in Manhattan.

"Her" listing was on craigs list and then linked to greatamericanvacation.com.

Avoid Patricia Clinton.

I really feel stupid now.

She also used names of her "accountants" to pick up money at western union: Barbara Solyian and Ida Nieves.

Jason
Jason said…
Oh, another possible name and email to avoid:
Billy Robertson
bbillyrobertson@aol.com

Patricia Clinton game me that name as a "reference." when I started getting suspicious.
Anonymous said…
I found you too late. The infamous Greta Howard took me for a $750 deposit. I found her name and copies of some of the exact e-mails that I received on your blog
Anonymous said…
Hi everyone

I was scammed out of $2,200 by Thomas Blanquelourde. I would suggest everyone gives thier story to the police as it is the only way to get them. I have been in close contact with the Wells Fargo bank in Las Vegas wher ehe is without much success. I have accused the bank of being part of the scam as the account number my wire was applied to DOESN'T EXIST either now, or historically, at Wells Fargo.

Keep pushing them as I think they have an obligation to return funds if a bank account has been frozen.

Still going to New York at the end of October but with little cash left.

My bank, wells fargo, the telephon ecompanies and www.vacationspaces.com refuse to do anything about it.

WE ALL NEED TO REPORT THESE GUYS TO GET ACTION.

My email is info@100mphevents.com if anyone want to get in touch.

Ian
Anonymous said…
Hi,

I'm a victim of exactly the same scam, I'm out $2700, sent to Thomas Blaquelourde. Wells Fargo told me that the account doesn't exist, but my bank couldn't get the money back anyway. I filed a police report report online but still haven't heard anything back. And the worst is that this guy is still operating on other rental websites. If you want to get organized to get our money back, please contact me at fidji.simo (at) gmail.com.

Fidji.
Hi Thanks, This company posted on my site www.vacations-abroad.com; I try to verify all new listings. NYC apartments are an area that is very very suspicious. I first look for an IP. This one was not from the USA, they used a France IP with a telephone located in Nevada to advertise a Manhattan apartment. I called to verify the information and have not gotten a response. They advertise on AsiaRooms, travel-library.com, arrangeyourvacation.com and numerous others. I found your blog cause I was trying to find out if there was any type of business listing for the apartment complex. Thanks for your help. I am deleting them from my site immediately.

Linda Jenkins
Anonymous said…
faced same fraud by THOMAS BLAQUELOURDE.
Apartment offered: 132 West 58th Street, New York, NY 10023
Other elements used in fraud:
vacationrentals@me.com
Fax 6463502830
BANK OF AMERICA, ACCT#501006088758
NEW YORK VACATION RENTAL AGREEMENT
35 West 71st Street 1, New York, NY 10023
Tel: 6463502830
Anonymous said…
Hi,

Just happened to us to - the blokes name = Sean White
seanrentals@gmail.com
appartment address =
347W 58th St, New York, NY 10019
Doesn't exist, we had to find a hotel. Advert placed on holidayhomes = http://www.holidayhomes.org/usa-east-coast/new_york_city/luxury_home-5864.html

We'll have to follow it up with the bank and the police.

David
Anonymous said…
Hi there,

I just wanted to know if anybody had any updates on their police reports for Thomas Blaquelourde. I gave the police all the info, but it doesn't seem that they're doing anything... Please let me know if you have any news at fidji.simo(at)gmail.com. I really want my money back!

Thanks!
Fidji.
Anonymous said…
Hi All,

I should know better but after 10 years of renting in many countries includng USA (NYC) we got scammed as well. This guy was Jeffery Curtis and he had a Seattle answering machine.

I guess will pursue it with the bank and the police but I am not hopeful.

I ended up getting a place from a friend of a friend, but I must admit, next time its Amex or not at all !

Wiser and Poorer and Should have known better
Anonymous said…
Hi, my name is Lori & I appear to be the latest victim of this scam! We were taken for $890.

My experience is identical to some of the recent entries. The broken english, the payment by Mail Gram, the offer for airport pick up...he is upgrading though - ours came complete with a doorman for added protection!

Our trip is scheduled to begin this Friday, Dec 5th. After receiving no response to my request for confirmation, I became suspicious & googgled his name - leading me to Danny Boy's Blog. I'm not sure where we'll stay now. We're going to the city to find an apartment for my daughter who will be moving there in January. Needless to say, I'm really gun shy now!

The name used this time is, again, Roy Harrell, email: vacationrentals@me.com. The apartment address was 132 W 58th St, which has been used many times. Listed at $130 per day with a $500 damage deposit. The Busniness name on the Lease Agreement is NEW YORK VACATION RENTAL, address 35 W 71st Street 1, New York, NY 10023. Phone/Fax: 646-350-2830.

One additional piece of information I can add is that we had been responding to multiple adds on craigslist.com without an anwser. The reply to this particular add was immediate, which only added to my need to "seal the deal" quickly to secure this apartment. Our correspondence begain on Nov 18th, with the last response from him on Nov 21st. I plan to file a police report as many of you already have.

Danny, thank you so much. We do need to ban together. Count me in to nab this guy!
Lori from Ohio
Thomas Blaquelourde's address and phone number is:

895 Sierra Villa Drive #307
Las Vegas, NV 89169

702-735-0994

I suggest you turn this over to the police. Don't just flood him with calls, or he will go underground again.
Anonymous said…
Here is another one from new york. Mr. Barry Schlitz is looking to rent an apartment to you on 30 W. 86th (UWS)
I got suspicious because of the phone number, which wasn't an area code for new york. Lo and behold, after googling that number, this webiste turned up. Also, the booking form agreement had the wrong zip code, 100241 instead of 10024.

The phone number was 6464754231

steven from san diego
Anonymous said…
Hello

Does somebody know ronda brown ?
Anonymous said…
Hello my name is Melissa Garone,

This beautifully renovated condo (2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Apt with Spiral Staircase to private outdoor terrace and spacious closets, ) was my home for the last five years and is located in Atlantic Ave & 125 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11201. I've moved to United Kingdom with my job (i am a construction engineer) and decided to rent it because the rent is is very expensive here.The price is so low because I'm here and is very hard to find a tenant.I can rent you the apt for max. 5 years . I really want to find a good and responsible tenant for it, and I hope that you can send me some personal and financial information about yourself. I`m the owner and it's exactly like in the Pics.The rent of the apt for 1 month is $1100 including all utilities(water,electricity, Internet, cable,parking, garbage) and I want to receive the money monthly in my bank account.You can move in the apt in the same day when you receive the keys. The only problem is that I`m the only person who have the keys and I have no one in United States that could show you the apt.
In order to check it,see if you like it(I'm sure that you'll love it),you need to receive the keys and the contract. Obviously we need a way to complete this deal in a safe and fast way for both.The solution is provided by a company called RENT (www.rent.com) which will handle the payment and delivery of the Keys .A friend of mine moved here from California and used the company to resolve the same problem . This procedure allow you to pay the rent only after you will receive the keys,after you will see it, decide if you will stay in the apt or not( I will receive the payment after you'll check the apt).If you want to know more about how this deal can work please get back to me ASAP and I will send you the details step by step.
Let me know if you are interested because I really need to take care of this matter by the end of the next week.

Regards,

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

The scam email is : ftnuyjimeo@hotmail.com
Anonymous said…
Beware, the apartment rental scam is big in Washington, D.C. now. Luckily we googled Thomas Blaquelourde before we sent our moneygram. Exact wording as your other blogs, poor English and spelling, etc. Really caused us to loose faith in all rental sites now.
Unknown said…
As it usually happens, your page arrived late, and I was a victim the same fraud that you already have mentioned. The name used was Ida Nieves and the infamous apartment at 52W 58th., NY. You know the funny thing: the apartment doesn't exist at all, as there is no 52w (it goes from 50 to 56). Our money, sent via Western Union, is lost forever. More info at http://blog.vacations-abroad.com/2008/10/vacation-rentals-fraud-postings.html. I hope this helps people not ruining their holidays, as it did with mines...
Anonymous said…
Hi there, just wanted everybody out there to know that "BROOKLYN DELUXE SUITES" is a scam run by "Mr Pate" or Saeed Pate.

After sending back a booking form and a 50% US$1200 deposit, I asked for a refund of the deposit (which, according to the booking agreement would be paid in full if a cancellation was made 20 days or more before the date of the booking). The day after I made the payment, I asked for a refund. Even though I felt okay because I spoke to him on the phone and he had registered with the NY Department of State, he had some "reviews" (which I suspect were self-written), and because he kept reassuring me the refund would be made, we never got more than US$200 back.

First he blamed it on his Paypal account being frozen, then on the holiday season, but in any case the whole thing is a huge SCAM and do not fall for it. Do not send any money via Paypal.

"Brooklyn Deluxe Suites" = fake, fraud, scam.

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact brooklyndeluxesuitesscam@gmail.com
Anonymous said…
PS - Just also wanted to mention the email address of the SCAM that is "Brooklyn Deluxe Suites" - brooklyndsuites@aol.com is the email ad they email from, and saeedpate@gmail.com is the Paypal account they receive from.
Anonymous said…
"Brooklyn Deluxe Suites" run by "Mr Pate" or "Saeed Pate". They operate these sites:

http://brooklyndeluxesuites.blogspot.com/

http://www.myspace.com/brooklyndeluxesuites

bbrooklyndsuites@aol.com is the email ad they email from

saeedpate@gmail.com is the Paypal account they receive from.

Their contact details:
SAEED PATE,
535 Greene Avenue Ste#1,
Brooklyn, NY 11216,
TEL: 3475679392 or 3476217069, FAX: 2672224118.
Anonymous said…
Reading your story, Danny, it was like I was reading my own.

I thought I would add a few more names/numbers to the list of shame, in the hope they'd throw up flags on google if people are (hopefully) smarter than I am.

245 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA

Jim C. Lincoln
34 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
+1 206-3504484

DR. Bill Palmer
billpalmer45@gmail.com
+44 7024069145
Anonymous said…
I contacted a guy on Craigslist and got an email back from him that I found a bit strange...He used some of the same names and numbers listed here.

The Craigslist ad:
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1036574956.html

When I got an e-mail back from him I checked his IP address in the mail header and found out his location was Lagos, Nigeria (http://en.utrace.de/?query=62.173.34.38)...

After that I also googled his phonenumber to see if anyone else had problems with the same scammer, and I found this page. So I thought I leave the names and numbers he used, in case anyone else Googles the names/phonenumbers:

Address:
* 245 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA

Danny Baldwin
dbaldwin58@ymail.com


"I`m providing you a Contact info of my past Tenants from
UK, USA and FRANCE...."

1) DR. Bill Palmer and parents
St. James, Westminster.
billpalmer45@gmail.com
+447024080616

2) MR and MRS Tom Edward and kids
Paris, France
tomed48@gmail.com

3) Mr Hagman Buckle and friends stayed 2weeks
Houston, TX
hagmanbuck45@gmail.com
+1 7137807265



DECIDE AND GET BACK TO ME ASAP..

DANNY. C. BALDWIN


+1 206-3504484
Anonymous said…
GOOD THAT I WAS SUSPICIOUS AS WELL (IT'S SO EASY TO STEP UP FREE EMAIL ACCOUNTS UNDER OTHER NAMES) THANK GOD FOR THIS BLOG:

IT'S THE SAME GUY AS DESCRIBED BEFORE - CHECK OUT HIS LAST EMAIL TO ME (NOT ANSWERING ANY OF THE QUESTION - ESPECIALLY ACCORDING TO THE PAYMENT)

Thanks for getting back to me, i have attached the Booking rental agreement form with this message, you should fill and send it back to me via e-mail, you should send the funds via MoneyGram® Money Transfer deducting the transfer charges from the rent as it's already been added to the rent..
You should also scan and FAX to me the copy of receipt given to you by MoneyGram® as proof of payment, you can visit www.moneygram.com to located the outlet close to your location and make the Payment in person for an Immediate transfer. After you have sent the funds you should send me the following transfer details:

RECEIVERS NAME: DANNY. C. BALDWIN
RECEIVER'S ADDRESS: 1918 Bronxdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
SENDERS NAME:
ADDRESS:
REFERENCE NUMBER :
EXACT AMOUNT SENT :

Your Refundable Security Deposit($600) will be given back to you on your Departure date...

Kindly let me have your names so i can forward them to the doorman at the apartment building for proper recognition, because he'll be handing over to you the keys to the apartment as soon as he confirms your identity and receipt of payment which I'm going to send to you as soon as payment has been received. You can Fax me the Completed Booking form and the Payment Receipt. FAX # : 206 202 4249.

Lastly, a Complimentary Airport pick up is Available from any Airport arrival in NYC, Let me have your flight details if you are interested..

Thanks and i wish you a good stay at the apartment,

DANNY. C. BALDWIN..
+1 206-3504484
Nif said…
I've received today the mail from Danny Baldwin..Thank you for the advice!!!!!!!
Anonymous said…
Hi

I have received a smiliar email from the infamous Danny Baldwin today...

See below:

Thanks for your Interest, Apartment is Available for your dates, 05/03/09 to 12/03/09, 7-nights = $700 ($100 a night). To Book down the Apartment for your dates, 50% of the Rental fee ($350) + $600 Refundable Security deposit. All you need to pay to have the Apartment reserve for your dates = $950..


Floor Area:
* 900 sq ft
Address:
* 245 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Theme:
* family
* luxury/Vacation
* business/shopping
General:
* towels provided
* air-conditioning
* central heating
* telephone
* linens provided
* Washing Machine and Dryer
Kitchen:
* oven
* 4 ring stove
* dish washer
* freezer
* microwave
* refrigerator
* hob
* Utensils and all whats needed in a modern Kitchen. etc.
Living Room:
* sofa bed
* comfy seating for 5 people
Dining:
* dining area
* seating for 6 people
Bathrooms:
* 1 bathroom(s)
* Bathroom 1 - Toilet, Combination Tub/Shower
Bedrooms:
* 1 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 4 people
* Bedroom 1 - 1 Queen, 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon, SINGLE ROLL AWAY BED UPON REQUEST.
* THIS APARTMENT CAN SLEEP A MAXIMUM OF 4 ADULTS AND 1 CHILD UNDER 10 YEARS OLD.
Entertainment:
* stereo system
* radio
* satellite or cable
* Flat screen TV (Both in Living room and Bedroom)
* CD
* single home theater system
Internet Access:
* 24/7 internet access
* wireless broadband
Suitability:
* children welcome
* wheelchair inaccessible
* suitable for elderly or infirm
* pets not allowed

Notes: THIS FLAT IS LOCATED ON THE TENTH FLOOR. THE BUILDING HAS TWO ELEVATOR BANKS AND ONE OF THE ELEVATORS WILL DROP YOU IN FRONT OF THE FLAT...

The remaining 50% of the rent will be paid when u arrive to the Apartment and also the security deposit will be refunded in cash when leaving the apartment..
Get back to me asap if you`d love to Book.. So I can send you the Booking Agreement form, and make the Payment to secure this Wonderful Apartment for your dates before someone else does...


More Photos attached and I`m providing you a Contact info of my past Tenants from UK, USA and FRANCE....

1) DR. Bill Palmer and parents
St. James, Westminster.
billpalmer45@gmail.com
+447024080616

2) MR and MRS Tom Edward and kids
Paris, France
tomed48@gmail.com

3) Mr Hagman Buckle and friends stayed 2weeks
Houston, TX
hagmanbuck45@gmail.com
+1 7137807265


DECIDE AND GET BACK TO ME ASAP..

DANNY. C. BALDWIN
+1 206-3504484


Thank goodness I found your site, but big word of warning - if it looks to good too be true in NYC - then it is!!!!! Thanks guys for the warning with this one...

Rachel
Unknown said…
Yup, nearly got me too. Danny C Baldwin is still out there, still sending the exact same emails as last few posted for the New York apartment on E47th Street.
But really bizarre was an ad I found on an Australian site for an apartment in Manly (Sydney). Similar deal - unusually low rent, great location etc, and the contact? Guess who: Dan Baldwin.
Here's the link:
http://sydney.gumtree.com.au/c-Unit-House-Real-Estate-house-unit-apartment-rental-FULL-FURNISHED-STUDIO-FLAT-MANLY-AVAILABLE-3-MONTH-LEASE-W0QQAdIdZ98211760
Is it a coincidence, or is this guy operating in Australia now?
Anyway, thanks, thanks, thanks.
Georgina, Australia
Anonymous said…
Thanks guy for this blog!!! I received an email from Danny Baldwin regarding the New York apartment on E47th Street. The same details - 100$ per night in Manhattan - it's too good to be true!!
There are too many scams, how can we trust anyone?
I plan to go in NY and I want to rent an 1 BR apartment but now I wonder how to do it to be on a save side!
Can you recommend me any?
Anonymous said…
I got this email scam sent to me after my ad for housing in craigslist for manhattan. The pics looked far too good to be true, and when I googled their phone number, I found this website. Here is the information I was sent and I hope it helps out others.... For me, the real kicker in finding this suspicious was they described only one bathroom in their pics, but they screwed up and sent pics of a unit with 2. Also, they said it was on the tenth floor of a building with an elevator, but the pics showed a townhouse with a front door that opened onto the street. Furthermore, all the contact emails for references were all at ...@gmail.com Seeing how all the people lived in different countries, I found this suspicious and so I googled one of the phone numbers just to see what came up, and this website came up...


Thanks for your Interest, Apartment is Available for your dates, 30/07/09 to 09/08/09, 10-nights = $900 ($100 a night). To Book down the Apartment for your dates, 50% of the Rental fee ($500) + $600 Refundable Security deposit. All you need to pay to have the Apartment reserve for your dates = $1100..


Floor Area:
* 900 sq ft
Address:
* 245 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Theme:
* family
* luxury/Vacation
* business/shopping
General:
* towels provided
* air-conditioning
* central heating
* telephone
* linens provided
* Washing Machine and Dryer
Kitchen:
* oven
* 4 ring stove
* dish washer
* freezer
* microwave
* refrigerator
* hob
* Utensils and all whats needed in a modern Kitchen. etc.
Living Room:
* sofa bed
* comfy seating for 5 people
Dining:
* dining area
* seating for 6 people
Bathrooms:
* 1 bathroom(s)
* Bathroom 1 - Toilet, Combination Tub/Shower
Bedrooms:
* 1 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 4 people
* Bedroom 1 - 1 Queen, 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon, SINGLE ROLL AWAY BED UPON REQUEST.
* THIS APARTMENT CAN SLEEP A MAXIMUM OF 4 ADULTS AND 1 CHILD UNDER 10 YEARS OLD.
Entertainment:
* stereo system
* radio
* satellite or cable
* Flat screen TV (Both in Living room and Bedroom)
* CD
* single home theater system
Internet Access:
* 24/7 internet access
* wireless broadband
Suitability:
* children welcome
* wheelchair inaccessible
* suitable for elderly or infirm
* pets not allowed

Notes: THIS FLAT IS LOCATED ON THE TENTH FLOOR. THE BUILDING HAS TWO ELEVATOR BANKS AND ONE OF THE ELEVATORS WILL DROP YOU IN FRONT OF THE FLAT...

The remaining 50% of the rent will be paid when u arrive to the Apartment and also the security deposit will be refunded in cash when leaving the apartment..
Get back to me asap if you`d love to Book.. So I can send you the Booking Agreement form, and make the Payment to secure this Wonderful Apartment for your dates before someone else does...


More Photos attached and I`m providing you a Contact info of my past Tenants from UK, USA and FRANCE....

1) DR. Bill Palmer and parents
St. James, Westminster.
billpalmer45@gmail.com
+447024080616

2) MR and MRS Tom Edward and kids
Paris, France
tomed48@gmail.com

3) Mr Hagman Buckle and friends stayed 2weeks
Houston, TX
hagmanbuck45@gmail.com
+1 7137807265


DECIDE AND GET BACK TO ME ASAP..

DANNY. C. BALDWIN
+1 206-3504484
Anonymous said…
I got this email scam sent to me after my ad for housing in craigslist for manhattan. The pics looked far too good to be true, and when I googled their phone number, I found this website. Here is the information I was sent and I hope it helps out others.... For me, the real kicker in finding this suspicious was they described only one bathroom in their pics, but they screwed up and sent pics of a unit with 2. Also, they said it was on the tenth floor of a building with an elevator, but the pics showed a townhouse with a front door that opened onto the street. Furthermore, all the contact emails for references were all at ...@gmail.com Seeing how all the people lived in different countries, I found this suspicious and so I googled one of the phone numbers just to see what came up, and this website came up...


Thanks for your Interest, Apartment is Available for your dates, 30/07/09 to 09/08/09, 10-nights = $900 ($100 a night). To Book down the Apartment for your dates, 50% of the Rental fee ($500) + $600 Refundable Security deposit. All you need to pay to have the Apartment reserve for your dates = $1100..


Floor Area:
* 900 sq ft
Address:
* 245 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Theme:
* family
* luxury/Vacation
* business/shopping
General:
* towels provided
* air-conditioning
* central heating
* telephone
* linens provided
* Washing Machine and Dryer
Kitchen:
* oven
* 4 ring stove
* dish washer
* freezer
* microwave
* refrigerator
* hob
* Utensils and all whats needed in a modern Kitchen. etc.
Living Room:
* sofa bed
* comfy seating for 5 people
Dining:
* dining area
* seating for 6 people
Bathrooms:
* 1 bathroom(s)
* Bathroom 1 - Toilet, Combination Tub/Shower
Bedrooms:
* 1 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 4 people
* Bedroom 1 - 1 Queen, 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon, SINGLE ROLL AWAY BED UPON REQUEST.
* THIS APARTMENT CAN SLEEP A MAXIMUM OF 4 ADULTS AND 1 CHILD UNDER 10 YEARS OLD.
Entertainment:
* stereo system
* radio
* satellite or cable
* Flat screen TV (Both in Living room and Bedroom)
* CD
* single home theater system
Internet Access:
* 24/7 internet access
* wireless broadband
Suitability:
* children welcome
* wheelchair inaccessible
* suitable for elderly or infirm
* pets not allowed

Notes: THIS FLAT IS LOCATED ON THE TENTH FLOOR. THE BUILDING HAS TWO ELEVATOR BANKS AND ONE OF THE ELEVATORS WILL DROP YOU IN FRONT OF THE FLAT...

The remaining 50% of the rent will be paid when u arrive to the Apartment and also the security deposit will be refunded in cash when leaving the apartment..
Get back to me asap if you`d love to Book.. So I can send you the Booking Agreement form, and make the Payment to secure this Wonderful Apartment for your dates before someone else does...


More Photos attached and I`m providing you a Contact info of my past Tenants from UK, USA and FRANCE....

1) DR. Bill Palmer and parents
St. James, Westminster.
billpalmer45@gmail.com
+447024080616

2) MR and MRS Tom Edward and kids
Paris, France
tomed48@gmail.com

3) Mr Hagman Buckle and friends stayed 2weeks
Houston, TX
hagmanbuck45@gmail.com
+1 7137807265


DECIDE AND GET BACK TO ME ASAP..

DANNY. C. BALDWIN
+1 206-3504484
heykarri said…
Updated contact names/info for this scam:

Kurt Mellencamp
+1 206-3504484

Address for money wire:
1300 Viele Ave, Bronx, NY 10474

It infuriates me this person/these people have been at this so long with no consequences! In retrospect, there were so many subtle signs that something was just not quite right... I'm resigned to the lost money, but now am worried about potential identity theft :(

I hope others find this blog before it's too late!
Anonymous said…
Look out for the name Kurt Mellencamp, he was even going to pick us up from the airport! The address was 245 East 47th St, NY found on Craig's List. Seemed too good to be true, little further investigation found this website and the same email sent to us.
Anonymous said…
Thank you very much for saving my NY holiday!
I was about to book the apartment, but did a little research and and found this blog!
Anonymous said…
i was looking for an apartment and i found a great deal in craiglist, only $ 150 per night in the center of soho. it's sounds realy fake, so i google the email and i end here. Thanks god i used common sense!!! This is the email : g_denzaline@mac.com, also sign as M Hill and he send you this person for reference in uk fharisies@aol.co.uk
Anonymous said…
it;s look like Baldwin and all the a.k.a's are now M. Hill. Take a look :
Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment will be available for rent ,the apartment is situated in Manhattan,NY, 122 Crosby St, New York, NY 10013 , Two bedroom in the heart of the city. This location can't be beat! On Spring and Mulberry Streets in Soho and Nolita! Where the most interesting and fun neighborhoods all meet, Greenwich Village, Little Italy, the Lower East Side, and the East Village. Only a couple blocks from the West Village. The shops of Soho, the tree lined blocks and boutiques of Nolita and the East Village, the just opened New Museum (which has Bono and David Bowie on its board) is just blocks away, the bars of the Lower East Side, and the best restaurants in the city in the West Village! The subway is at your front door and most of the others are just a couple blocks away!This spot couldn't be easier or more centrally located! perfect for 5 people , Five floors up in an elevator building, newly renovated apartment with all new furniture and furnishings.

The rent for your desired date is $600 , but to secure the place 50% of the rent will be required plus a refundable security deposit of $400, so all you need pay to secure the place is $700, i accept payment via bank transfer and pay pal . I'd also like to know where exactly you'll be coming from? and for how long will you need the place, I have also attached more pictures of the place with this message ,hope you like them. Apartment is approximately 1100 sq. ft and Bedding arrangements are : 1 king sized bed, 2 queen-size bed(s), 1 futon 2 pers. Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, hi-fi system, vcr, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satelite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarmclock, hair dryer, fully air-conditioned, central heating, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more...Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available.

Driving directions to 122 Crosby St, New York, NY 10013, USA
10.2 mi – about 19 mins (up to 35 mins in traffic)
Laguardia Airport
United States

Head west on Terminal B toward La Guardia Rd, Slight left at La Guardia Rd, Slight right onto the ramp to Grand Central Pkwy W, Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Grand Central Pkwy W and merge onto Grand Central Pkwy W, Take exit 4 for Bklyn Qns Expy toward I-278 W/Staten Island, Merge onto E Brooklyn Queens Expy S, Slight left at Williamsburg Bridge W (signs for Williamsburg Bridge), Slight left at Delancey St, Continue on Kenmare St, Turn left at Lafayette St, Turn right at Howard St, Turn right at Crosby St - Destination will be on the left 122 Crosby St ,New York, NY 10013, USA

Apartment is fully furnished with full bath and kitchen , the place is between W Houston Street and prince street ., and its also close to the following subways on Lafayette ( B,D,F,V ) and on Price St. ( R,W), also easy access to restaurants, Live Theater, museums, theme parks and grocery stores, Sightseeing, cinemas and more. it also features a 24 hours doorman and there's also an elevator to help you up as the apartment is located on the 4th floor. It's also close to what ever New York City has got to offer, like Central park, carnergie hall, Lincoln centre and lots of attractions for tourists and visitors in general..

Thanks and i hope to hear back from you soon,

M. Hill

Note:
NOTE:
You can also contact the following person for testimonies about the unit: Fred from England - fharisies@aol.co.uk - +447024031810
Anonymous said…
Hi all,

the Baldwin's and Hill's of vacation rentals gave yet another name:
John Edward Vacation Rental from 52 Park Ave.,- which turns out to be an empty parking lot.
We were trying to book a 2 bath/2 bedroom apartment in Chelsea for our parents that was just too good to be true.
The alarm bells went off when we checked the Kentucky fax number:
1-270-738-7077 and the not sooo fishy upstate phone number with no professional answering machine:
518-632-4340.
I guess he will not pick up this phone ever again.

his so called accountant with the notorious W 58th St. addresses (it seems 58th St. is their favorite for false addresses) picked up the money order in Georgia (!) after checking with MoneyGram.
Our money is probably gone for good, but we will try to post all other phone and e-mails while we are now buzzing to halt the damage.

so long and keep your guards up if there is no professinal e-mail address to begin with!
anja
Daniel Best said…
Sadly if you paid via MoneyGram then your money is long gone. Don't bother contacting the MoneyGram people - they'll just laugh at you. They've got their cut and they don't even look at these situations or assist you. In fact the only thing they assist is wholesale fraud - which is why I always tell people - NEVER, EVER USE MONEYGRAM AS A FORM OF PAYMENT!

Good luck and keep us informed. One day someone in law enforcement will actually go after these bastards.
Anonymous said…
3/30/09
Thomass Blaquelourde
Thomas Harrell
Ward John
Phone (Home): 3473218185
Phone (Office): 3473218185
Phone 6468639624
132 West 58th Street New York, NY
Found ad on Arcadia.com, a few things didn't add up and then I found these posts - THANKS.
Anonymous said…
M Hill is also going by the name C Bowers. Interestingly, a white pages reverse search for this address - 122 Crosby St Soho/Nolita brought up an owner Llyod Bowers. This suggests scammers are using names/surnames with a corresponding address, which in effect is identity theft. We thought that this seems legit but a look at the property on Google Street view and the street frontage for the supposed apartment looked more commercial than residential. Again, a reference for Fred in England was used but a ggogle search on Fred revealed another scam alert. http://exchange.mail2web.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g186338-i17-k2674085-SCAM_ALERT_Knightsbridge_flat_on_holidayhomerental_co_uk-London_England.html Thanks to people like yourselves, with a social conscience we didn't arrive in NYC from Australia $1500 usd out of pocket and no where to stay.
Anonymous said…
almost scammed! Thanks to this site I was not.

I found interesting the fact that "my owner" in nyc (found on craigslist) replied with this email:

Thank You for contacting me,

The New York times calls this area An Oasis in the heart of MidtownThis apartment has just been completely renovated from top to bottom everything is brand new it can sleep 4 maximum. * Hardwood floors * 10 ft ceilings * Designer kitchen with cookware * Plasma television * Luxury queen size bed * Full size futon bed * Deco bathroom with oversized jet shower * Luxury bedding and towels providedStay in the Best area within seconds of Hip Bars, Fashionable Bistros/Cafes, Fancy Restaurants, Boutiques, and the Galleries.New York City does not get better than this!! You can walk to, Rockefeller Plaza, Radio City, St.Patrick’s Cathedral, Central park, Fifth Avenue Metropolitan Museum of Art, Guggenheim and other famous cultural attractions on Museum Mile. MoMa, Central Park, Lincoln Center, Theater district,Times square.

The apartment is situated in East village, Manhattan,NY, 64 St Marks Pl,New York, NY 10003, USA . The apartment will be available for your dates and the rent for your desired stay period is $800 including tax and utilities , but to secure the place 50% of the rent will be required plus a refundable security deposit of $300, so all you need pay to secure the place is $700 and the rest will be paid on arrival, i accept payment via direct bank to bank transfer . I'll like to know where exactly you'll be coming from?I have also attached more pictures of the place with this message ,hope you like them. Apartment is approximately 850 sq. ft and Bedding arrangements are : 1 Queen sized bed, 1 futon 2 pers. Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, hi-fi system, vcr, DVD player, phone,fax, computer, cable/satelite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarmclock, hair dryer, fully air-conditioned, central heating, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more...Linen, Towels and Toileteries also available.Keys to the apartment will be given to you by the Building manager as soon as payment is confirmed .

The unit is fully furnished with full bath and kitchen , the place is between 2nd and 1st Ave , Great subway access - easy to get anywhere in the City walk to 8th for R,W or 9th str for train just a half block from the building. and easy access to restaurants, Live Theater, museums, theme parks and grocery stores, Sightseeing, cinemas and more. it also features a 24 hours doorman and there's also an elevator to help you up as the apartment is located on the 3rd floor. It's also close to what ever New York City has got to offer, like Central park, carnergie hall, Lincoln centre and lots of attractions for tourists and visitors in general..

Driving directions to 64 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA
10.4 mi – about 19 mins (up to 35 mins in traffic)

Laguardia Airport
United States

Head west on Terminal B toward La Guardia Rd
Slight left at La Guardia Rd
Slight right onto the ramp to Grand Central Pkwy W
Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Grand Central Pkwy W and merge onto Grand Central Pkwy W
Take exit 4 for Bklyn Qns Expy toward I-278/Staten Island
Merge onto E Brooklyn Queens Expy
Slight left toward Delancey St (signs for Williamsburg Bridge)
Slight left at Delancey St
Turn right at Allen St
Continue on 1st Ave
Turn left at E 9th St
Turn left at 2nd Ave
Turn left at St Marks Pl
Destination will be on the right...

Kindly confirm receipt of this e-mail and let me know if you are ready to book so i can send you a booking form,

Craig Luther.

NOTE:
You can also contact the following person for testimonies about the unit: Fred from England - fharisies@aol.co.uk - +447024031810



DOES IT SOUND FAMILIAR???

I wrote to FRED HARRISON, and he wrote:

Hello,

Sorry it took time me some time to respond, Our stay in New York Last
year was fantastic, Mr Craig was such a nice man, you know at first we
were also scared of sending money to someone we have not met before, i
told him to send me his identity for security reasons before i send him
any money and he did...We stayed in the unit throughout out stay and we
booked it again for the year of 2009 and i know it is going to be more
fun, I would recommend Craig's unit for anyone who wants to go to New
York City...

You can trust him, his apartment is real and i bet you'll want to come
back whenever you want to visit the city again...

Thank You,

Fred...



FAKE FAKE FAKE
Anonymous said…
My god, THANK you everyone. Now I'm scared to death to make a booking with anyone in Manhattan.

We usually use www.vrbo.com and have only had great experiences.

What do you think about PayPal? I think I know the answer...don't trust it.

Thank you for the advice, and I'm sorry you've gone through this.
Anonymous said…
OK...I did find some form of protection under www.vrbo.com.
Check this rental guarantee...let me know what you think!
http://guarantee.homeaway.com/
Nancy said…
I just received an email from Niles S. Bonthron and two "referral" emails. Interestingly, the referral emails had the exact same broken English syntax errors, even though one "person" is from Italy and the other is from England.
They both mention the address in the same weird manner!

As follows:

"Mary Hoffman" hoffmanmary48@ymail.com
"Buongiorno,

Good Location, Good Apartment, Good man and Good Stay in Manhattan. I`ll never forget my experience.. 410 8th Ave, New York City NY 10001.... I paid via MoneyGram though at first I was very Skeptical paying with Wire Transfer but later he sent me his Driver`s licence and I believed him so I made the Payment and I received the scanned copy the receipt via FAX. I was glad everything went Fine and the Airport Pick up service was great Including a security deposit was refunded in cash when I was Leaving the Apartment... You`ll love it and make a straight deal with Mr N.S. Bonthron cos he`s very Reliable and straight too..

Piacevole vacanza a Manhattan.

Grazie tante
Mary."
---
From "Phil Douglas" phildoug@englandmail.com
"We had a delightful stay at Mr Niles Bonthron`s Apartment @ 410 8th Ave, New York City NY 10001, Center of the City. It was our first time in NYC - our stay was cut short by flight delays, and our hosts graciously adjusted the rental balance - without even being asked! The apartment was very comfortable and had every convenience we needed. The location was great - easy access to the subway and great neighborhood restaurants. We'd love to come back - thanks so much for a great experience!

The Pick-up from the Airport was great and also the refundable damage deposited($700) was given back to me in cash without any delay..

Phillip Douglas.
City of Westminster, London
United Kingdom...
+44 7024054942"
Anonymous said…
Dear victim-mates,

we also got scammed with a NYC apartment.
The name of the scamer is Andrew Julius Madison. I haven't found this name yet, so seems to be a new identity. I got the link to this site by the name of the "daughter" Chris D. Wedeles to which we send $1600 in February.
The adress of Mr. Madison is 1940 Bronxdale Ave, Bronx, 10462 USA
The apartment is located 32 W 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019.

We got suspicious when we looked up the house by googlemaps. We couldn't believe that somebody who lives in the Bronx has a apartment in NYC. Status quo is: He wanted money by Money Gram which I denied. I guess we won't hear anything again.

I'm really shocked. So many people were scammed. Is there nothing we can do?

Hoping it ends soon.

Nora, Germany
Anonymous said…
Thank so much for this blog!
I just got the same email for the "property" at 122 Crosby Street.
Sounded too good to be true and so I did a quick google search. Thank GOD!!!
You saved my 1050 bucks Danny Boy.
I stayed in a fabulous place in Paris last summer, we were very hesitant but it turned out well, so not all are scams.
Corinna B said…
Hi, my sister and her boyfriend were just scamed as well. The person must have changed his/her name again. This time the contact person was Tange.
The address of the appartment was 485 Greenwich street, Soho.
They were told to send the money to the account of Chris D Wedeles. They were given this phone number 518-618-3964.
Unfortunately they already spent $1300 to reserve the place. They had found it on Craigslist.
I have really learned from this. I can't believe that you have all this info out here on the web and still they have not been caught and keep getting money from innocent tourists.
I live in the New York area and I will do my best to catch these guys. That is my new goal from now on.....any advise helps.
Anonymous said…
I have also been dealing with Craig Luther - and had exaclty the same emails as the person above, invcluding the response from Fred.
Craigs email is m_kasie@me.com
so watch out for that, and he mentions his 'daughter DeShonna' as the account holder... we didn't book, but fear we would've been scammed had we. BEWARE!
Anonymous said…
I was nearly scammed. The reply email and forms were as published above.

The address of the so called apartment is
246 East 47th St NY 10017.

The fraudster is Andrew B Miles

The email he uses is andrewbmiles48@gmail.com

Now I just hope not to get spam mail from him and his partners in crime.

Thank heavens for Google Maps because I checked up Andrew B Miles who lives at 716 Burke Ave, Bronx, NY 10467 and the streetview shows a dry cleaning store. Very unconvincing.
Unknown said…
I just got taken for $925 for the 122 Crosby St place in soho. Name given was Campbell Bowers (csbowerss@me.com). He listed his daughter as Deshonna Wright, who was allegedly the caretaker of the apartment. The fax # given was 8665540273.

Bank transfer info:

Name of bank : Bank of America

bank address : 1680 Broadway, New York, NY 10019

Account holder: DeShonna Wright

Account Holders address: 157 LaGrange Avenue, Rochester, NY 14613

routing #: 101100045

account#: 518001841488

Swift Code: BOFAUS3N


Not a good start to my 30th birthday vacation.... :(
Anonymous said…
Hi there,

I wrote to warn people about dealing with Saeed Pate from Brooklyn Deluxe Suites. I would like to ammend my comments on him and this business.

I cannot say that this business is necessarily a scam or fraudulent, but they were unprofessional and dishonest - we clearly had the right to a full refund of our deposit as stipulated under the booking form conditions, and yet a period of several weeks (months, in fact), the business only voluntarily gave us back US$200 of the US$1200.

We ended up lodging a transaction dispute with Visa, since our Paypal account is linked to a Visa credit card. After providing them with email communication evidence and the deposit contract, they reversed this transaction for us, thank goodness.

If you want any more info about what happened, feel free to contact me on brooklyndeluxesuitesscam@gmail.com
Anonymous said…
Now operating in DC:

Thanks for saving me a bundle!
Subject: RE: $150 / 2br - Perfect Two bedroom!!!Perfect Location (Dupont
Circle)

Thanks for getting back to me, i have attached the booking form with this
message and you should fill and send it back to me either via my fax (
8665540273 ) or via my e-mail, payment should be made via bank transfer to
the bank account details on the booking form and by the time the payment is
been made you should scan and send me the payment transfer confirmation as
proof of payment... You should also include the names of you and your crew
in the booking form, because the doorman is definitely going to check your
identity before he'll give you the key to the apartment, i will also send
you a receipt of payment as soon as payment is received so you can show to
the doorman when you arrive...

In case you are concerned, Beckie is my Daughter and she takes care of my
property rental payments.

I wish you all a good stay in my unit and i look forward to hearing back
from you soon, Best regards,

Joe
Anonymous said…
I just got scammed by these people too. It was for a rental at 277 Mulberry in Soho.

I got the same emails:

Thanks for getting back to me, sorry i cannot use my pay pal account for now i can only accept a bank to bank transfer payment and i have attached the booking form with this message and you should fill and send it back to me either via my fax ( 8665540273 ) or via my e-mail, payment should be made via bank transfer to the bank account details on the booking form and by the time the payment is been made you should scan and send me the payment transfer confirmation as proof of payment... You should also include the names of you and your crew in the booking form, because the doorman is definitely going to check your identity before he'll give you the key to the apartment, i will also send you a receipt of payment as soon as payment is received so you can show to the doorman when you arrive...

In case you are concerned, DeShonna is my Daughter and she takes care of my property rental payments.


and later after a long silence...

I'm so sorry about my late response, i got all your e-mails and will accept $1300, i'm so sorry for the delay in response, i just checked your dates and realized you'll be arriving on the 22nd of this month, i went out of Town for the burial of my Daughter DeShonna , she died some weeks ago, i dont know how to get the rest of the payment, as i have been very very busy this days, can you send the rest of the payment via Money Gram Money Transfer, and i will fax you a receipt of payment for all payments received so you can show to the doorman when you arrive, he already has the keys and your names as well...

Kindly let me know as soon as possible so i can forward to you my receiving details,

Thank You very much for your understanding,

Cindy......



I've called the District Attorney Office in NY and filed a complaint. If you want to join in the case number is 24033. Their phone number is 212-335-8900. You can also send your formal statement with documentation to

Special Prosecution Unit
Attn: complaint intake
1 hogan place 7th floor
Ny, NY 10013
Bob said…
These scams continue. Why aren't the authorities stopping these people? This week on Craigslist, there were two Manhattan vacation apartment listings that are almost certainly frauds. The M.O. is similar to others reported here. One of several red flags is the requirement to make a large upfront payment via a MoneyGram. The person responding to my inquiries about these ads called himself Daniel Deguzman. He gave his phone number as (206) 984-4076, which is an exchange near Seattle. He also gave a fax number of (206) 203-4823. He gave his address as 624 Eastern Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11213. The addresses for the two high-end apartments were 37 East 30th St and 408 Park Ave., both in Manhattan. Each of these apartments was offered at $100/night. For one, the security deposit was stated as $700. The perp provided detailed descriptions of the apartments and many photos -- all of which were probably taken from legitimate listings somewhere. The perp sent me a legalistic "Rental Booking Form." I did not pay any money. Instead, I reported the incidents to the FBI. I may also report them to the NYC district attorney, but there is no way to know if the perp actually lives in New York. The perp could even be in another country.
Daniel Best said…
I have no idea why the US authorities do nothing about these guys. I can't help but wonder if it's because it's all non-Americans being targeted. Clearly someone is on the ground in the USA because they're picking up the cash from the various wire companies.

I'm waiting for someone to do a class action - it has to happen in the USA - and then we'll join in. Such a shame that the money transfer companies do absolutely nothing to prevent fraud, BTW...

Guys - keep 'em coming. The less these bastards get the better. The way I see it we've now cost these pricks more than they stole from us, so we're doing well.
Unknown said…
Hi there,

I too was scammed $1500 for an apt. in NYC and have decided to hire a private investigator to get some information the person/people.

If anyone is interested in report, email me and I will be happy to send it to you.

I want to specify that the person has/have started using bank accounts and when I contacted the bank they said they couldn't do anything but I have sworn to myself that no matter what it takes I will track this little bastard.

The little bastard's "name" that stole from me is Thomas Kaplan and Thomas Harrell.

Regards,
thomasnigerianscammer@gmail.com
Anonymous said…
It is very frustrating I agree and I think the authorities do not care that much unfortunately.
On Craigslist I posted an ad reporting the scam and warning people about the way it operates.

Same numbers in Washington state, personal number indicated but of course does not exist, security deposit to be paid in advance by Western Union, etc....

There is obviously a pattern in these scams and as you say Bob they may be in another country, I saw a posting on another blog saying that somebody had tracked the scammer all the way to Africa....

Anyways, if one is careful these scams should be quite easy to spot now....
Bob said…
Another fraudster offering Manhattan vacation apartments calls himself Corey Dandrich. His email address is coreyrental925@yahoo.com. As of yesterday, he had 17 listings on Craigslist for Manhattan. I have verified that two of these are frauds, so the rest are also.

In my view, Craigslist needs a better process for vacation rental ads. They should require standardized contact information, building addresses, etc. They should charge a fee so that minimal verification can be done prior to posting. They should keep a database of past frauds. They could still absolve themselves of legal responsibility by disclaiming the validity of the ads and by posting general warnings about doing business with strangers.
Bob said…
There are several places to report frauds like this:

Internet Crime Complaint Center (FBI)
http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx

National Fraud Information Center
www.fraud.org

And for frauds in New York--

New York County District Attorney's Office
Special Prosecutions Bureau
Attn: Complaint Intake
One Hogan Place
New York, NY 10013
(212) 335-8900
Oddly, this bureau doesn't have a reporting process via the internet!
Bob said…
A follow-up to my earlier comment: I think the perps of these crimes can operate from other locations, though of course I haven't tested this.

The payment process required by one perp who contacted me was to use a MoneyGram and check the option to include the transfer fee in the amount. Since the transfer fees vary by location, I think this is intended to disguise the destination.

In any case, I believe that once money is sent, it can be picked up at any MoneyGram outlet simply by showing an ID and providing the reference number for the transfer -- a number that the perp will ask you to provide. MoneyGram has outlets around the world.
Unknown said…
Be very careful in thinking you are safe because they ask you to wire money to a bank account because that's how I fell for the scam. My thought was "there is no way they can use a real bank account and run the scam" but I was very wrong. The banks can only raise a red flag withing their security department but that's it.
The first bank they used (when I was scammed) was Washington Mutual and now they are using a Wachovia bank account. This being said, I wish the banks had a little more freedom to report complaints of scams to the Authorities.
I still have not received any information from the PI I engaged but I can't wait to get the information and learn a little more about these bastards.

Best Regards
Anonymous said…
OMG I have just been conned for $700!! What a nightmare...Bloody bastards!!! Trying to get my money back, along with looking for another apartment!
Campbell Bowers and His daughter Beckie(!!) conned me...details are
csbowerss@me.com for 122 Crosby St.

So annoyed! Calling the American Embassy in the UK first to get advice. Lets stop these feckers!!
Anonymous said…
You've just saved us $2500. Thank you. We nearly got sucked in by 'Campbell Bowers' with the 122 Crosby Street apartment. He claimed he couldn't use his paypal account at the moment and gave us these bank account details:
Bank Name: Bank Of America

Bank address: bank address : 1680 Broadway, New York, NY 10019

Account Name: Darlene Gipson

Account Holder address: 204 W 36th st, New York, NY 10018

Account Number : 444006814241

Routing nNumber: 540630134

Swift Code: BOFAUS3N
Daniel Best said…
I'd not waste time calling the American embassy - if they're anything like the one in Melbourne, Australia, then they'll tell you bad luck and there's nothing they can do. I'm amazed that no-one in the US seems to want to take this seriously and actually go after the crooks.
Anonymous said…
In response to my earlier post, I contacted the American Embassy and was told to speak with the Commonwealth, who then passed me onto the Police in the UK. I have filed a complaint this end which has been passed to the NYPD. I urge anyone who has been scammed to contact the NYPD to file a complaint on this fraud. It is a serious crime and I'm sure between us all we have enough info to out down these buggers! I will post with my crime reference as soon as I have it! Thanks Danny Boy...a shame it was too late for me but hopefully we will save others. I will also be sending this link round to all of my contacts!
Anonymous said…
It has happened the same to me.
I'm an italian student and I'll be in NYC for 6 weeks for a summer program.
I paid at the beginning the first 50% + deposit, then after a mail form the "Owner" i paid the second rate... he told me that without the whole payment his lawer would'nt have confimr our booking form!

actually it has been 2 days that he hadn't answer so I digited his name and address on google and I found this blog!
I CANT BELIVE IT!!!

has anyone of you spoken with police or a lawer?
DO YOU KNOW WHAT COULD I DO FOR STOP HIM? DOS US LAW DO SOMETHING TO THIS KIND OF PEOPLE?
I'M NOT INTERESTED ON HOW MUCH AM I GOING TO SPEND BUT....he must be stopped!
i'VE sent a mail to a lawer who works with the italin-us ambassad.. i hope to be able to stop him!

this time he said he was: deguzman daniel 624 Eastern Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11213

please, if can tell me something usefull, just write me!

thank you!
Anonymous said…
My friends were scammed by the same Corey Dandrich. Too bad I read this website after they sent the money. Avoid renting from:
COREY DANDRICH and/or JENNIFER TATE
Address of scam: 6 East 39th Street Flat 9. New York, NY, 10016
They normally publish on Craiglist and ask you to sent money through Wester Union so they can take the money from anywhere.
They pressure you to get the most out of you after you closed the deal by telling you that if you do not send more money for cleaning, deposit, taxes, etc, they would not assure you the appartment.
I believe in KARMA and I know this will come back to them at a certain point.
I am writing this to avoid anyone else to get scammed too.
Anonymous said…
My friends were scammed and I would like to avoid this to happen to anyone else!!! Dont rent from:
COREY DANDRICH
COREY DAN
JENNIFER TATE
for addreess: 6 East 39th Street Flat 9. New York, NY, 10016.
email: coreyrental925@yahoo.com
He requested the money to be sent by Wester Union so you can not track him.
My friends rented throug Craiglist, which is sad because I have used Craiglist in the past and never had this problem but it seems that there are a lot of scmas there too so... BE CAREFUL with who you are giving your information to.
I believe in karma and I know that the people that are doing this will receive bad karma back sooner or later.
Anonymous said…
Well, I was feeling terrible about being scammed by this same group--on the DC apartment. After doing my research too late, I am feeling more foolish than anything else. All these fellow victims from around the globe--all providing exactly the information that would have saved me $1400 and I simply didn't stop to look or pause to pay attention to any of the utterly obvious warning signs. At this point, I have to be philosophical about it--I can't afford to be anything else. This seems such an organized, relentless scam, it seems hard to imagine that it is the work of a single individual or that whoever is doing this is either in NYC or DC.
Anonymous said…
And one more!
Me and my friends were scammed by the too famous here Campbell Bowers and his so sweet daughter DeShonna Wright...
We're from France, and found the appartment on craigslist.
When he said in a mail that it would be his daughter who would "take care" of his property (of our money you mean), it appeared quite strange to us...so we searched "deshonna wright" on the net, but unfortunately, we didn't find anything at this moment...but writing "deshonna wright scam" later, I found this page...but too late!
We go in NY in august and will tell the NY police about this and will file a complaint on this fraud...
Anonymous said…
I'm glad I found this post! (by googling a phrase in an ad that sounded a bit too good to be true by someone calling themselves Gary.) I'm still planning to rent an apartment for a few days in NY this fall, but I will now google every detail several times over before paying a cent in advance.
eclectichead said…
Oh my God, thank you!!! Same deal for me. I was looking for an apartment in Manhattan for a week and found an apartment, too good to be true. An amazing apartment, beautiful loft! BEWARE!!!

Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment will be available for rent ,the apartment is situated in Manhattan,NY, 122 Crosby St, New York, NY 10013 , Two bedroom in the heart of the city. This location can't be beat! On Spring and Mulberry Streets in Soho and Nolita! Where the most interesting and fun neighborhoods all meet, Greenwich Village, Little Italy, the Lower East Side, and the East Village. Only a couple blocks from the West Village. The shops of Soho, the tree lined blocks and boutiques of Nolita and the East Village, the just opened New Museum (which has Bono and David Bowie on its board) is just blocks away, the bars of the Lower East Side, and the best restaurants in the city in the West Village! The subway is at your front door and most of the others are just a couple blocks away!This spot couldn't be easier or more centrally located! perfect for 5 people , Five floors up in an elevator building, newly renovated apartment with all new furniture and furnishings.

The rent for your desired date is $1050 , but to secure the place 50% of the rent will be required plus a refundable security deposit of $400, so all you need pay to secure the place is $925, i accept payment via bank transfer and via liberty reserve . I'd also like to know where exactly you'll be coming from? and for how long will you need the place, I have also attached more pictures of the place with this message ,hope you like them. Apartment is approximately 1100 sq. ft and Bedding arrangements are : 1 king sized bed, 2 queen-size bed(s), 1 futon 2 pers. Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, hi-fi system, vcr, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satelite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarmclock, hair dryer, fully air-conditioned, central heating, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more...Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available.

Driving directions to 122 Crosby St, New York, NY 10013, USA
10.2 mi – about 19 mins (up to 35 mins in traffic)
Laguardia Airport
United States

Head west on Terminal B toward La Guardia Rd, Slight left at La Guardia Rd, Slight right onto the ramp to Grand Central Pkwy W, Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Grand Central Pkwy W and merge onto Grand Central Pkwy W, Take exit 4 for Bklyn Qns Expy toward I-278 W/Staten Island, Merge onto E Brooklyn Queens Expy S, Slight left at Williamsburg Bridge W (signs for Williamsburg Bridge), Slight left at Delancey St, Continue on Kenmare St, Turn left at Lafayette St, Turn right at Howard St, Turn right at Crosby St - Destination will be on the left 122 Crosby St ,New York, NY 10013, USA

Apartment is fully furnished with full bath and kitchen , the place is between W Houston Street and prince street ., and its also close to the following subways on Lafayette ( B,D,F,V ) and on Price St. ( R,W), also easy access to restaurants, Live Theater, museums, theme parks and grocery stores, Sightseeing, cinemas and more. it also features a 24 hours doorman and there's also an elevator to help you up as the apartment is located on the 4th floor. It's also close to what ever New York City has got to offer, like Central park, carnergie hall, Lincoln centre and lots of attractions for tourists and visitors in general..

Thanks and i hope to hear back from you soon,

Chris

Note:
NOTE:
You can also contact the following person for testimonies about the unit: Mandy - m_ruthosford@yahoo.ca


I almost lost an enourmous amount on money to this guy.

Thank you for your blog, thank you thank you thank you!!!
Aimster said…
I also came across a bogus listing. The name he was using is Joe Neyer - rentsny3@gmail.com.

I found the listing on Criagslist and at first it seemed real but I became suspicious when the only form of payment he would accept was wire transfer.

I pasted the email from him below.

> Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment is situated in Center of
> Manhattan area, New York City's most populous and wealthiest borough, 308
W
> 31st , New York, NY 10001 and is available from now till december, rent is
> $150/night. To secure the Apartment 50% of the rental fee will be required
> plus a fixed refundable damage deposit of $600.
>
> I`d love to know where exactly you`ll be coming from?
> Are you coming with Pets?
>
> I have attached more pictures of the place with this message, hope you
like
> them? Apartment is approximately 2000 sq. ft and 2 bedrooms, sleeps
maximum
> of 6 people.... Bedding arrangements are : Bedroom 1 - 1 king size, 1
Sleep
> Sofa /Futon, sleeps 4 persons, Bedroom 2 - 1 Queen, sleeps 2 persons..
First
> bedroom is decorated with a king sized bed Sealy posturepedic bed.
Beautiful
> linens, silks and cotton bedding. Bedroom size 10X12. Lots of light.
Second
> Bedroom has a day bed private from the first bedding with the same decors
as
> the bedroom #1. Bedroom size is 6X10.
>
> Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home
> cinema, 46" HDTV with premium satellite entertainment, hi-fi system, VCR,
> DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satellite, internet access,
> wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarm clock,
> hair dryer, mosquito nets, fully air-conditioned, central heating, Washing
> Machine and Dryer, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more... Linen, Towels
and
> Toiletries also available.
>
> Everything is Professionally Cleaned and prepared, there's a 24 hours
> doorman and there's an elevator to help you up as the apartment is on the
> 4th floor of the building... There`s a reserved Parking space for 1car..
> Apartment is located in good locality, that's a walking distance away from
> the Shops and Restaurants. Noting much to write about, Its Located in the
> Midtown of the Manhattan, New York most wealthies Borough, situated on
West
> 31th Street, New York, NY 10001; between 8th and 9th Avenues. The
Apartment
> is @ a quick walk to Madison Square Garden/Penn Station, and a 5 minute
walk
> from Times Square; and is just between the A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, N, R, Q, W,
F,
> B, V, and D subway lines.
>
> However, there`s an Airport Complimentary Pick up for you from the airport
> with my 2008 Nissan Armada SE, V8 SUV, so I`ll need your flight details,
It
> is free for my Customers.
>
> Get back to me if you are satisfied with the apartment, so I can send you
a
> Booking Agreement Form/ Payment method, you will fill the Agreement form
and
> make the Payment to get the apartment secured, and I'd advise you make
> booking on time before someone else does.
>
> Many Thanks,
> Joe Neyer

I even asked for a reference to see if he would provide one and this is what he sent back.
****
A reference from UK....
Mr Paul Foltz and his Family stayed 2weeks in my Apartment
paulfoltz@live.co.uk
+44 7024026766
****

Please avoid Joe Neyer. It is a scam. Don't let this guy steal your money.
Anonymous said…
New fraud on craiglist job posting for personal assistant. They get your address and send you a check hoping you will cash it and send it to them via western union. It supposedly pays $500 a week, but it is a fraud. Check has the name Corey Dandrich, but emails are send through Kimberly Dave, Kimberlydave2048@yahoo.com. Mail is sent to you using the name Frank Will. Be careful, I almost lost $2000.
Anonymous said…
i've also been scamed by the same person. i feel sooooo stupid! i've lost $925 and i'm travelling with my 11 year old kid.....

this time he was chris giggs:

cboweys@aol.com wrote:

Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment w ill be available for rent ,the apartment is situated in Manhattan,NY, 122 Cro sby St, New York, NY 10013 , Two bedroom in the heart of the city. This location can't be beat! On Spring and Mulberry Streets in Soho and Nolita! Where the most interesting and fun neighborhoods all meet, Greenwich Village, Little Italy, the Lower East Side, and the East Village. Only a couple blocks from the West Village. The shops of Soho, the tree lined blocks and boutiques of Nolita and the East Village, the just opened New Museum (which has Bono and David Bowie on its board) is just blocks away, the bars of the Lower East Side, and the best restaurants in the city in the West Village! The subway is at your front door and most of the others are just a couple blocks away!This spot couldn't be easier or more centrally located! perfect for 5 people , Five floors up in an elevator building, newly renovated apartment with all new furniture and furnishings.

The rent for your desired date is $1050, but to secure the place 50% of the rent will be required plus a refundable security deposit of $400, so all you need pay to secure the place is $925, i accept payment via bank transfer and via liberty reserve . I'd also like to know where exactly you'll be coming from? and for how long will you need the place, I h ave also attached more pictures of the place with this message ,hope you=2 0like them. Apartment is approximately 1100 sq. ft and Bedding arrangements are : 1 king sized bed, 2 queen-size bed(s), 1 futon 2 pers. Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, hi-fi system, vcr, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satelite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarmclock, hair dryer, fully air-conditioned, central heating, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more...Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available.

Driving directions to 122 Crosby St, New York, NY 10013, USA
10.2 mi – about 19 mins (up to 35 mins in traffic)
Laguardia Airport
United States

Head west on Terminal B toward La Guardia Rd, Slight left at La Guardia Rd, Slight right onto the ramp to Grand Central Pkwy W, Keep left at the fork, f ollow signs for Grand Central Pkwy W and merge onto Grand Central Pkwy20W, Take exit 4 for Bklyn Qns Expy toward I-278 W/Staten Island, Merge onto E Brooklyn Queens Expy S, Slight left at Williamsburg Bridge W (signs for Williamsburg Bridge), Slight left at Delancey St, Continue on Kenmare St, Turn left at Lafayette St, Turn right at Howard St, Turn right at Crosby St - Destination will be on the left 122 Crosby St ,New York, NY 10013, USA

Apartment is fully furnished with full bath and kitchen , the place is between W Houston Street and prince street ., and its also close to the following subways on Lafayette ( B,D,F,V ) and on Price St. ( R,W), also easy access to restaurants, Live Theater, museums, theme parks and grocery stores, Sightseeing, cinemas and more. it also features a 24 hours doorman and there's also an elevator to help you up as the apartment is located on the 4th floor. It's also close to what ever New York City has got to offer, like Central park, carnergie hall, Lincoln centre and lots of attractions for tourists and visitors in general..

Thanks and i hope to hear back from you soon,

Chris

Note:
NOTE:
You can also contact the following person for testimonies about the unit: Mandy - m_ruthosford@yahoo.ca



RECEIVERS NAME: Christopher Giggs Jr.
RECEIVER'S ADDRESS: 3460 E Tremont Ave, Bronx, NY 10465 USA ..
SENDERS NAME:
MTCN/CONTROL NUMBER :
EXACT AMOUNT SENT :
YOUR ADDRESS:
Anonymous said…
Thomas Blaquelourde also use e-mail:Cathy Anderson [cathyandanderson@gmail.com]

We are a family of 4 from Norway who almost was ripped off. Luckely i googled him. The rule most be to never pay in advance.

Do anyone know a serious company that rent out app?
Anonymous said…
I recently did a google search for another apartment rental company/broker who advertises on craigslist regularly. Here's what I found:
Tripadvisor warning and Complaintsboard warning

It just goes to show that it pays to investigate. It saved me a lot of headaches!
Anonymous said…
He goes by the name of Homer Paulson now. His address is 1563 Lexington Ave., NY, NY (doesn't exist) and his listing is on craigslist. The address of the rental property is 231 East 47th Street, NY, NY (doesn't exist either). It is too late for me:(
Anonymous said…
AVOID THOMAS BLAQUELOURDE AND CATHY ANDERSON...

I just got conned for $1250 USD. I'm a 22 year old Canadian meaning it cost me close to $1500 from the currency exchange and wiring fees.

It wasn't until 4 days after I sent the money I googled his name and found all of this. I also found a site from Las Vegas claiming he was last arrested on the 6th of January this year (2009) and is currently out on bail.

I have reported him to the Royal Candian Military Police (rcmp), York regional police, as well as placed a report with the Clark County Detention Center in Vegas who are forwarding the reports to their people.

What a NIGHTMARE!!!

With that said, where does one go to find a good place in Manhattan and not get conned?
Anonymous said…
i have a feeling we have just been scammed. my sister is just on her way to NY and i am due to fly out tomorrow to meet up with her. apartment was listed as "beautiful manhattan two bedroom unit" through craiglist. we just paid usd1150 this week and this was the recent email we got from him.

"Thanks for getting back to me, i have attached the Booking rental agreement form with this message, you should fill and send it back to me either via fax ( 206-203-1158 ) or e-mail ,You should send the Payment via Western union Money Transfer deducting the transfer charges by Western union from the rent as it's already been added to the rent.. You should also scan and send to me the copy of receipt given to you by Western union as proof of payment, you can visit www.Westernunion.com to located the outlet close to your location or to use your credit card . After you have sent the funds you should send me the following transfer details:

RECEIVERS NAME: Fred Carl Harrison
RECEIVER'S ADDRESS: 3460 E Tremont Ave, Bronx, NY 10465 USA ..
SENDERS NAME:
MTCN/CONTROL NUMBER :
EXACT AMOUNT SENT :
YOUR ADDRESS:

You should also send me your names so i can forward them to the doorman at the apartment building for proper recognition when you arrive at the apartment building , because he'll be handing over to you the keys to the apartment as soon as he confirms your identity and receipt of payment which i'm going to send to you as soon as payment has been received.

Thanks and i wish you a good stay at the apartment,

Fred..."

what are we going to do?
Anonymous said…
3460 E Tremont Ave is not a residence. You can view it on Google Streetview.

I got the same response when I was scammed (re: "send the doorman your guest names so he knows to let you in, etc.).

If you still have money, I would use vrbo.com. They guarantee all deposits.

Mike
Anonymous said…
I wasn't sure what was happening with my booking until I found this blog, unfortunately a little too late. I was also scammed for 2,400 USD by "Ida Nieves" for the property "located" at 52W 58th Street. I also sent money via Moneygram for the "accountants" Donna L Gallagher and Fredia Quick. I never thought this would happen since last year I booked an apartment in Rome and everything went smoothly. I'm thinking about calling the US Embassy in Mexico and going to de NYPD while staying in NYC. But I think the best we can do is post a lot about this kind of delinquency, because it was through blogs that I learned what was happening. I will do so in my blog to prevent people from being scammed by this despicable guys.
Anonymous said…
Beware also of Paula Davids she's another SCAMMER, I found her property on vacationrentals.com, asked about it and she replied to me with this mail:

Hello,
Thanks for your Interest In our Apartment rental advert;The requested dates are Available!!!Nightly rates are $350 and a refundable damage deposit of $400 which is made refundable in full on the rental condition no damages would be Incurred during the period of stay at the Apartment.The Apartment is located at Midtown Manhattan area of New York on 100w 58th street NY 10019.
Best Regards,
Paula

I was already suspicious because the place looked beautiful and cheap and the people of the website wrote to me the next day to tell me they removed that property from theri listing because it might not be legitimate. At least they realized it and did something about it!
Anonymous said…
hi all,
my partner and i havent had a holiday in the 9 years that we have been together so we have decided to go to New York.
We just got scammed , we were both really excited about the trip and it was such a hard time getting the time off work for the both of us and plus it was money in which we could used for other things.
So being from Australia it was about $1800AUS=$1400USD

His name Eric Wood
14-nights = $1400 ($100 a night). If you are really interested, you`ll need to quickly make a Down Payment to Book the Apartment for your dates....

To make the RESERVATION, 50% of the Rental fee ($700) + $700 a Refundable damage deposit is required = $1400..

-Floor Area: * 950 sq ft
-Address: * 246 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
-Theme: * family * luxury/Vacation * business/shopping...
-General: * towels provided * air-conditioning * central heating * telephone * linens provided * Washing Machine and Dryer
-Kitchen: * oven * 4 ring stove * dish washer * freezer * microwave * refrigerator * hob * Utensils and all whats needed in a modern Kitchen. Front aspect sash window, stainless steel sink and drainer unit with chrome mixer tap over, integrated four ring hob with extractor fan over, integrated oven/grill, integrated fridge/freezer, integrated dishwasher, integrated washing machine, wall mounted and low level storage units, breakfast bar, recessed low voltage halogen spotlights, tiled floor.
-Living Room: * sofa bed * comfy seating for 5 people, three front aspect sash windows, fitted wardrobes, wiring for ceiling lighting
-Dining: * dining area * seating for 4 people
-Bathrooms: (Guest Cloakroom) * WC with concealed cistern, wash hand basin with mixer tap over, recessed low voltage halogen spotlights, tiled floor.
En Suite Bathroom: *Front aspect sash window, panelled bath with mixer tap and wall mounted shower over, wash hand basin with mixer tap over and storage cupboard under, WC with concealed cistern, bidet, recessed low voltage halogen spotlights, tiled floor.
-Bedrooms:
* 1 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 4 people.. Front aspect sash window, fitted wardrobes, ceiling lighting.
* Bedroom 1 - 1 King, 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon, SINGLE ROLL AWAY BED UPON REQUEST.
* THIS APARTMENT CAN SLEEP A MAXIMUM OF 4 ADULTS AND 1 CHILD UNDER 10 YEARS OLD.
-Entertainment:
* stereo system * radio * satellite or cable * Flat screen TV (Both in Living room and Bedroom) * CD * single home theater system
-Internet Access:
* 24/7 internet access * wireless broadband
-Suitability:
* children welcome * wheelchair inaccessible * suitable for elderly or infirm * pets not allowed

Notes: THIS FLAT IS LOCATED ON THE TENTH FLOOR. THE BUILDING HAS TWO ELEVATOR BANKS AND ONE OF THE ELEVATORS WILL DROP YOU IN FRONT OF THE FLAT...

More Photos attached.. You can contact my Past Tenant from France and California before you Decide...

Mandy Groove and her Parent.. 2weeks stay in my Apartment
mgroove40@yahoo.com

Peter & Anne Carey from France. Stayed 8nights
petercarey35@gmail.com

DECIDE AND GET BACK TO ME ASAP.
Anonymous said…
I am dealing with someone named Chis Giggs right now regarding renting the 122 Crosby St apt. I told him I didn't want to deposit money in an account in NYC and Fax a contract to a Seattle area code. They probably didn't realize that I live in Seattle and would recognize the area code. I am sure it is fake.I offered to have my son give him cash when he is there in Aug.... I have yet to hear back from him. Becuase of this blog my suspicions were confirmed. Isn't there something we can do? He is advertising on craigslist right now #1308516154.
Sheri
Anonymous said…
I also would like to warn for apartmentscam in NYC.
I have been ripped of by Chris Giggs (Christopher and Anita Giggs) ALSO PAY ATTENTION TO THE NAME LAKISHA S. JESSIE ('his daughter and so called owner of the apartment', she is the account holder, address:
204 W 36th st, NEW YORK, NY 10018
Account 435019543615.
NEVER TRANSFER MONEY TO THIS ACCOUNT!!!!
He advertises on Craigslist, uploads the apartment all the time to change the reference.
He replies to your emails very professionally and sends you a booking form which you have to fax to him: 012062031158
Then you have to transfer money through the bank of america.
Anonymous said…
Dear Blogger, thanks for your comments, I was looking for apartments in New York and i was just decided when i decided to read more on the net and i found this blog!!!!! you dont know how i appreciate your comments, This Guy James Labrre was absolutely fake, and his friend (John Bradley) also,and all the descriptions you made about bad English and bad spelling and too good to be true fitted whit him!!!!

THANK YOU!!!!!! THIS BLOG REALLY HELPS PEOPLE LIKE ME REALLY TAHNK YOU ALL AND I FEEL BAD FOR ALL OF YOU WHO LOST YOUR MONEY! REALLY SORRY!
Unknown said…
Wanda Burts. Yet another alias... they're all over Craigslist and SO MANY other websites. The main key is NOT to send money via Moneygram or Western Union. Anyone can get a PayPal account and at least they can process a claim and get your money back if it doesn't pan out!

What a crappy way to start a vacation. I googled the person's name and even did a street view of the place on Google Maps (looked legit). I got a bad feeling when all communication was quick until the money was sent. $1000 I'll never see again.
Anonymous said…
Lakisha, Fred Harrison, the same scam...I've rent an apartment in 32 W 52nd street, New York,NY 10019 and it seems to be a scam!!!
I'm giving you some details:
Name Of Bank: Bank of america
Bank address: 260 Canal Street, New York, NY 10013
Acct name: Lakisha S. Jessie
Account Holder address: 204 W 36th st, New York, NY 10018
Account# 435019543615
Routing# 051000017
swift code: BOFAUS3N
Anonymous said…
i have almost got scammed by

Donnette Mathieson.

email:

donnettemathieson60@rocketmail.com

this is what she tried to rent to me:

$50 / 1br - 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, Sleeps 2 (Brooklyn NY)

so be careful.

if it´s too good to be true it is probably a scam.

plus

craigslist says: if they want you to use moneygram or western union it´s a scam.
Danny said…
I've been pushing that line all along:
DO NOT PAY ANYONE VIA WESTERN UNION OR MONEYGRAM. THEY REFUSE TO ASSIST YOU IF YOU GET RIPPED OFF. THEY ARE THERE TO ASSIST THE SCAMMERS AND NOT THE VICTIMS.

Be very wary.
Anonymous said…
Oh my God! I was about to book an apartment offered by Wanda Burts in New York! I'm so thankful I found your blog!! Thank you very much for posting this information and I'm really sorry some of you lost your money!
from montreal said…
I was considering renting an apartment in NYC when I found this blog. The present date is Sept/09.

www.rentalspacenetwork.com
Contact: Ida Nieves

Accountant to send payment:
Donna Gallagher
Address: 52 W 58th Street
Manhattan NY 10019

The price is too good to be true. They want payment by moneygram, and push for payment to be done quickly. She even emailed me to say she was out of the office this week so could only be reached by email.

I'm so glad I found this before sending payment.

But these posts have been up for 2 years and the same person (?) is still pulling the same scam.
-------------
Here's the email she sent me when I asked for info, from vacationshomess@aol.com

The deposit to be paid now is $600 which is inclusive of the rates and the balance $600 paid at check in date. I have attached the booking forms. You would have to fill them out and pay the deposit via money gram money transfer,do visit their web site www.moneygram.com. You would have to return to me along with the scanned attached receipt given to you at money gram as confirmation of deposit paid and the booking forms via EMAIL. Payment is to be made to my accountant. Donna Gallagher
This is fast and insures quick hold on the dates. Cancellation policy is on the forms and check out time also. We offer free pick up service, if interested in this, you would have to fill out the space in the forms, this involves picking you up and also taking you back to the airport.. Check in is done at the front desk upon presentation of the original receipt of payments. And keys given then. we do have a tour guide to help you not only with your shopping, sight seeing but major broad way shows also, do get back to me ASAP. Do let us know when to expect the deposit, as we do have another party interested in holding dates affecting yours soon. And also if you do have any questions, am presently working NOT from the office so you would have to send me an email ok.
Thanks
Ida Nieves
Pietro said…
I have been frauded too, by Mary Gardner, on criglist.org, e-mail gardner.apartments@yahoo.com

i sent 900$ and this person desappeared.
Does anyone know if i can do a report to the police in New York by internet?
i live in italy..
This person gave me a very big problem...
Anonymous said…
Thanks so much for posting! My friend was about to send Wanda Burts $600 via money gram. You really saved us some headache.

I was first tipped off by the bad grammar and language in the email. Then they sent two different addresses for the accommodations. After repeatedly asking to speak by phone "Wanda's husband" called and was really shady. Thankfully, googling WANDA BURTS lead to this blog.
Mick Dundee123 said…
Wanda Burts is a SCAM!! I found her on the Craigslist.
Same as Danny C Baldwin et al
I found this smelling fishy today when "she" asked for a Western Union transfer for $1050! The wording of the emails is exactly the same as all the above. BEWARE! The rental address was W15th St and she gave a Seattle phone number, and a contact address of 5 Water St Brooklyn, which doesn't seem to exist.

Also beware of this name, I don't know for sure but suspect he is also a scammer: Raymond K. Oukrop.
206-338-0761.

Now I have to get back to finding some real NY apartments!

Good luck all!!
Anonymous said…
Oh, god! I was on my way to use Wester Union and make a deposit to James Labrre and for some reason decided to Google it before leaving home... THANKS!! But... still looking for an apt in NY.. any trustable reference?
Anonymous said…
I am so glad I found this blog. I wrote to a number of ads fir short term apartments in New York last night and believe I received ALL fraudulent responses. I would be VERY CAREFUL about renting a short term apartment on craigslist. These are the fraudsters I encountered:

Moss Housing
Tony Tony myvacation30@yahoo.com
coy miller coym2727@googlemail.com
Wanda Hernandez wandecoal02@yahoo.ca
Steve Marvets lovevacationhome@yahoo.com

BTW to those saying they are only targeting foreigners, that is not true. They are targeting ANYONE who will rent via craigslist. The authorities need to crack down on these guys. So sad.
Anonymous said…
i almost got done by harrell blaquelourde - thanks to y'all i'm going to stick it to him/her -
julia said…
this craiglist post fits the decription

http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1393977260.html

got this email back: googled the number and found this post linked from another post about these scams.


Thanks for your lovely Interest,

The rate is $150/night all inclusive. However, I need to know how many people. I also just received another inquiry for the same time so let me know your interest as soon as possible. Taxes and cleaning are included, and you can leave bags with the concierge either before you arrive or after checkout. There is also a lounge and bathroom on the 4th floor that you can use after you check out...
The only other charge is a $700 security deposit that will be refunded when you are leaving the Apartment if there are no damages.

Definitely, your chosen dates will be Available... DEC 22 - JAN 05, 14-nights is $2100 (@$150 a night).... To make a Reservation, 50% of the rental fee will be required = ($1050) + $700 a fixed refundable damage deposit, so all you need pay to book down the Apartment for your desire dates is = $1750..

The address is 365 W 18th St, New York, NY 10011.
It was completed in 2006 and so the condo is very new. The full kitchen and appliances such as a washer/dryer are all top of the line and new.
Apartment is a private unit and not shared.. Approximately 1400 sq. ft and has 2 great Bedrooms (all with own TV) and 2 superb modern bathrooms (two en suite, two with power shower, toilet, tub, Bidet). In the Living room, there`s an integrated individually controlled comfort cooling and heating (very silent and does not dry air), integrated audio system and plasma screen TV, gas fireplace, low level storage units, fitted shelving, ornate cornicing, five amp ring main, Lutron lighting, latest Creston system with Imerge, recessed low voltage halogen spotlights.
Bedding arrangements are : Bedroom 1 - 1 King, 1 double sofa chair and Bedroom 2 - 1 Queen size, 1 futon, single Bed(extra). Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, 46" HDTV with premium satellite entertainment, hi-fi system, VCR, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satellite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarm clock, hair dryer, washing machine and dryer, mosquito nets, fully air-conditioned, central heating, Washer and Dryer, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more... Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available. It can Accommodate 6people with comfort..

If you are interest to mak a Reservation, I`ll send you a Booking Agreement Form to fill in.. Payment via Money Transfer.

Decide asap before someone else does..

Thanks for the inquiry.


Wayne C. Miller
+ 1 206-9844076
Anonymous said…
hey! we were almost been scammed too, but we didn't, thanks to this post and comments.
we founs sevral appartments in craiglist and were about to make a reservation with Wanda Burts (w_burts@yahoo.com).
apartment supposed location-308 W 31st , New York, NY 10001
phone-631-485-4824 .
we've also enquired with:

John Morgan -johnmr618@aol.com
27 e 10th Street New York, NY 10003

James Don -realagenthelp@yahoo.com
180 W 17th St New York, NY 10011

all of those-
* dont have an apartment number *the e-mail titles looked exactly the same
* the e-mails text was really similar
*they all responded really quick and were available in one week notice. suspicious.


the recommenders names were-

Johnson Smith
johnsonsmith197080@yahoo.com

Mrs Lucy Scott
Lucyscott2009@gmail.com

Mr kelvin bruce
kelvinbruce52@yahoo.com


thank god for google. i hope this information will be helpful for other people in the feutre.
Jackie said…
Thank you so much for this post! Definately saved me from being scammed!
Anonymous said…
Thank you very much for setting up this blog. I'm very fortunate that one of my friends warned me about scams and also came across this website.

All from craigslist.org, the first two apt rentals are frauds, the third apt I'm not too sure, but have already lost all confidence in renting vacation apt in NY.

1) Wayne C. Miller, wcmhomes50@gmail.com, +1 206-9844076 (1400sq ft, 2BR apt, USD150/night @ 365 W 18th St, New York, NY 10011)

2) Ms Karlynn Vosbury, karlynnvosbury@yahoo.com (950sq ft, 1BR apt, USD100/night @ 246 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA)
Also, provided past tenants contacts as followed: -
stella and her husband Bauder.. 2weeks stay in my Apartment
bauder.stellat@yahoo.com
Elena & Anne Carey from France. Stayed 8nights
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM

3) John George, gjohn35@ymail.com
Attached below email:
Thanks for your patronage.

I will arrange to pick you people up at no extra cost from the airport to my apartment just let me know your flight schedule

Here is all you need to make your payment for your reservation. The booking form is attached below, please fill, sign and send back to me along with the payment confirmation slip.

To Hold Your Dates Deposit Required: $940.

MODE OF PAYMENT: WESTERN UNION MONEY TRANSFER:

SENDERS NAME:

SENDERS ADDRESS

RECEIVERS NAME: PETERSON EDWARD.
(Company’s Accountant).

RECEIVERS ADDRESS: 106-110 Belgrade Road , London , SW1V 2BJ

U.K (Head office).

We have exceeded the transaction limit on our pay pal account and we do not accept cash payment here in our NY office. Please bear with us as we are working on a new account; hence all further payment should be made through our account’s office in London for accountability record purpose.

To assure you more on our apartment you are about booking, you are free to make contact for reference with the below contacts.

1. Mrs. Diana Smith of South Caroline sleeps 8night

Email: dnsmith@live.com

2. Mr. Donald Nelson of California sleeps 3night

Email: dd4n56@gmail.com

3. Mr. Essa Sey of South Africa sleep 11night for conference

Email:essa_sey@Yahoo.com

4. Mr. Vincent Aku of Maryland USA sleeps 2night

E-mail: vincentaku@yahoo.com

... An so many more.



We all have to be careful, Check Check Check and Cross-Check before any decision is made!!!
Daniel said…
Check and cross check yes, but the more important thing is to NEVER pay via Western Union or MoneyGram. If you do then you're just giving your money away. And if you do then don't bother expecting either company to lift a finger to assist - they're just there to help the criminals and to assist with the fraud.

As soon as anyone asks for payment via Western Union or MoneyGram, move on to the next person without delay.

If anyone does go after any of these people, legally, let me know (via email at: snoopy967@gmail.com) so I can then post updates. We've got more than enough people here for a class action suit.
Anonymous said…
I contacted some one called Karlynn Vosbury (karlynnvosbury@hotmail.com) via Craig list and now I see this person offers other apartments.

I have done my stupid mistake of not reading enough care before doing a transfer with monegram, result of this lost 1000usd !!! fuck me. Now has been like 2 weeks and I did not get a properly booking, and even not answering my email. This are the links of same bastards:

http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1418994089.html

http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1419377214.html (this is the one I booked)

http://newyork.backpage.com/VacationForRent/_200_3br_awesome_3br_wonderful_loving_and_furnished_luxury_apartment_max_11/classifieds/ViewAd?oid=10183635

I am from Spain and I have done a internet Crime complain Center (IC3), I am not sure if will be usefull, but I tried.
Spanish victims said…
Look out! Beware the next contact, it's a fraud, an arnaque, un TIMO!!!

cboweyss@aol.com

The contact's name is:
Vincent Crawford M.
424 Carlton Avenue, Brooklyn, Ny 11238

He/she has stolen us 1.266 dolars. Yes, men, we paid him even the transfer charge of the funds by Western Union...
ec said…
I have been doing research for my uncle on places to stay in NYC and have received what seems like about 20 scams from Craigslist. I am not sure if they are truly scams because I stopped replying if anything looked shady (i.e.: wanted way too much money up front and crazy security deposit, wouldn't show my friend in NY the place, seemed in a hurry, had very bad English) but here are a few names I thought seemed shady:
1. Jackson Bells or Bels
2. Fred McGuire
3. James Don
4. Tony Stevens (my particular favorite because he wrote in a very bizarre font and gave me referral contacts whom I emailed. They responded within 10 minutes (from Australia and London) with the same crazy font and bad English as Tony. These guys are crazy.

Not exactly sure if they're all fake but thought I'd do my first blog as a warning for anyone searching these guys. Although I found one guy who was honest on Craigslist, I'm not sure I would ever use it again because of the headache of weeding these thieves out. Hope they are all in jail!

I use priceline.com for hotels and name my own price (usually cheaper and trustworthy site).

Good luck!
Anonymous said…
anyone from rheinland-pfalz or hessen in germany in here who has been scammed?

please contact: thop@arcor.de

i am working on a report for german TV on this and would like to talk to someone who has made this experience.

thank you!
Anonymous said…
I replied to an advertisement yesterday on Craigslist regarding an NY apartment: 211 E 35th St New York. 50 dollar per night, which is of course too good to be true. I got a mail from WANDA BURTS (w_burts@yahoo.com), asking for 550 dollar. I didn't pay as I found this website (and many others) where Wanda Burts was metioned to be fake and scame. Be aware, if it is too good to be true, something suspiciuos is going on.
Anonymous said…
Just wanted to post about another fake ad which i don't think was mentioned here - i also got one response from Wanda Burts, and another one from Michelle Gaskins (holidayvacation1000@gmail.com) - advertising a "$100 / 1br - Marvelous & Beautiful furnished apartment in central Manhattan"
Both e-mails were very similar and too good to be true so i googled and found this post.

Hope this helps someone out there.
Unknown said…
This site saved me ;)

craigslist ad
WANDA BURTS
wandaandscottburts@yahoo.com
RECEIVER`S ADDRESS: 211 E 35th St New York, NY 10016
Love + Marriage said…
Just looking at booking an apartment that was too good to be true, I found your site.

On craigslist:
$50 / 1br - Private Studio,Romantic, Christmas Studio #1 in Midtown Manhattan (Midtown)

Same signs - broken English, repeated phrases through various emails, large deposit for small daily charge.

Names:
Freda Bray (couldn't find anything accurate on google)
w_burts@yahoo.com (googles this address and it directed me to your site!)
347-995-3743 (this was on a website that said it needed to be reported)
Western Union (to this my husband said hell no!)

Many signs point to SCAM but your blog confirmed it! Thank you so much!
Love + Marriage said…
Just looking at booking an apartment that was too good to be true, I found your site.

On craigslist:
$50 / 1br - Private Studio,Romantic, Christmas Studio #1 in Midtown Manhattan (Midtown)

Same signs - broken English, repeated phrases through various emails, large deposit for small daily charge.

Names:
Freda Bray (couldn't find anything accurate on google)
w_burts@yahoo.com (googles this address and it directed me to your site!)
347-995-3743 (this was on a website that said it needed to be reported)
Western Union (to this my husband said hell no!)

Many signs point to SCAM but your blog confirmed it! Thank you so much!
Anonymous said…
this site saved me too from WANDA BURTS. She also goes by Freda Bray. Beware!
Unknown said…
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU... I WAS ACTUALLY GOOGLEING HOW TO SEND MONEY VIA WESTERN UNION TO WANDA BURTS, AKA SCOT BURTS, AKA FREDA BAY.... When I decided to google the address 308 W 31st , New York, NY 10001 instead and WOW!

Quite frankly, I was uneasy about this "deal" because it was $100 per night in Manhattan for an apartment that looked quite ok in the photos. It simply sounded toooo good to be true.

This person not only wrote in an impossible English, but also seemed to not be reading my e-mails and just repeating boilerplates. Although I informed that I would go to NY by bus or car he/she kept repeating the she would pick me up from airport in her "2008 Nissan Armada SE, V8 SUV"...

Thanks again for sharing this!
Anonymous said…
Hi,
I was scammed to a week ago by Wanda Hernandez, 245E 40th Street, NYC 10016, email wandez01@yahoo.com. Unfortunately, I made a reservation by wiring $360 through Western Union. I discovered it was a scam the day before leaving for NY, when she asked for another $100 to be wired to her security personnel located in Texas… She never answered to any of my emails after she canceled the booking. Be extremely careful because she has posted many ads, in particular on German websites.

When I was looking for an apartment to rent, I also came across Syed Hussein (syedhussain70@ymail.com) who sent me the following email, which is exactly the same as Joe Neyer's mentioned above:

"Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment is situated in Center Midtown of Manhattan area, New York City's most populous and wealthiest borough, 308 W 31st , New York, NY 10001 and is available for your desired dates,October 28 - November 1,4night and the rent for your stay is 280(@70/night), You`ll need to Quickly Book down the Apartment for your dates cos someone else is begging for a Similar date.... To secure the Apartment 50% of the rent will be required ($140) plus a fixed refundable security deposit of $500, so all you need pay to book down the Apartment for your Lovely dates is $640

I`d love to know where exactly you`ll be coming from?

Are you coming with Pets?I have attached more pictures of the place with this message, hope you like them? Apartment is approximately 750 sq. ft and Studio, sleeps maximum of 6 people.... Bedding arrangements are :1 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 4 people Bedroom 1 - 1 King, 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon, air mattress available ...Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, 46" HDTV with premium satellite entertainment, hi-fi system, VCR, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satellite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarm clock, hair dryer, mosquito nets, fully air-conditioned, central heating, Washing Machine and Dryer, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more... Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available...

Everything is Professionally Cleaned and prepared, there's a 24 hours doorman and there's an elevator to help you up as the apartment is on the 4th floor of the building... There`s a reserved Parking space for 1car.. Apartment is located in good locality, that's a walking distance away from the Shops and Restaurants. Noting much to write about, Its Located in the historic Murray Hill neighborhood in lower Midtown of the Manhattan, New York most wealthies Borough, situated on West 31th Street, New York, NY 10001; between 8th and 9th Avenues. The Apartment is @ a quick walk to Madison Square Garden/Penn Station, and a 5 minute walk from Times Square; and is just between the A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, N, R, Q, W, F, B, V, and D subway lines..

However, like I said there`s an Airport Complimentary Pick up for you and your party members from the airport with my 2008 Nissan Armada SE, V8 SUV, so I`ll need your flight details, Its a Free for my Customers.
Kindly get back to me if you can meet up with my conditions so I can send you a Booking Agreement Form/ Payment method, so you call fill the Agreement form and make the Payment to be able to get the place secured on time, and I'd advise you make booking on time before someone else does..

Many Thanks,
Syed
NOTE.: A reference from UK.....
Mr kelvin bruce and his Family stayed 2weeks in my Apartment
kelvinbruce52@yahoo.com"

I still can't believe it... Wish I had checked your website first...
Anonymous said…
Thank you so much for this useful information.

Thomas Blaquelourde is actually operating with the email jamesdavid1145@aol.com

He has several ads on Craigslist.

He wanted a bank transfert to
Nevada State Bank
ACCOUNT NAME: THOMAS BLAQUELOURDE
Routing # 122400779
Checking# 0011359643
Swift Code ZFNBUS25
4970 E Tropicana Ave
Las Vegas, NV 89121

How come is he still out there ?

Thanks again,

Sophie
Amanda said…
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1454014520.html

The listing is still there as of 8 November
Wanda is now Michelle Gaskins
Check out her email which is the same as the one above:

Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment is situated in Center of Manhattan area, New York City's most populous and wealthiest borough, 308 West 31st , New York, NY 10001 and is available for your desired dates,Wednesday 1st September 2010 to Tuesday the 14th of September 23 December 09 to 1 Jan 10,9nights and the rent for your stay is $1350 (@150/night), You`ll need to Quickly Book down the Apartment for your dates cos someone else is begging for a Similar date....
To secure the Apartment,
50% of the rental fee will be required = $675 plus
A fixed refundable security deposit = $400
-------------
$1075 Is all you need pay to book down the Apartment to hold your Dates.
--------------
I`d love to know where exactly you`ll be coming from?
Are you coming with Pets?
I have attached more pictures of the place with this message, hope you like them? Apartment is approximately 2000 sq. ft and 2 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 6 people.... Bedding arrangements are : Bedroom 1 - 1 king size, 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon, sleeps 4 persons, Bedroom 2 - 1 Queen, sleeps 2 persons.. First bedroom is decorated with a king sized bed Sealy posturepedic bed. Beautiful linens, silks and cotton bedding. Bedroom size 10X12. Lots of light. Second Bedroom has a day bed private from the first bedding with the same decors as the bedroom #1. Bedroom size is 6X10...
Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, 46" HDTV with premium satellite entertainment, hi-fi system, VCR, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satellite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarm clock, hair dryer, mosquito nets, fully air-conditioned, central heating, Washing Machine and Dryer, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more... Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available...

Everything is Professionally Cleaned and prepared, there's a 24 hours doorman and there's an elevator to help you up as the apartment is on the 4th floor of the building... There`s a reserved Parking space for 1car.. Apartment is located in good locality, that's a walking distance away from the Shops and Restaurants. Noting much to write about, Its Located in the Midtown of the Manhattan, New York most wealthies Borough, situated on West 31th Street, New York, NY 10001; between 8th and 9th Avenues. The Apartment is @ a quick walk to Madison Square Garden/Penn Station, and a 5 minute walk from Times Square; and is just between the A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, N, R, Q, W, F, B, V, and D subway lines..
However, like I said there`s an Airport Complimentary Pick up for you and your party members from the airport with my 2008 Nissan Armada SE, V8 SUV, so I`ll need your flight details, Its a Free for my Customers.
Kindly get back to me if you can meet up with my conditions so I can send you a Booking Agreement Form/ Payment method, so you call fill the Agreement form and make the Payment to be able to get the place secured on time, and I'd advise you make booking on time before someone else does..

You can contact my Past Tenant from France and California before you Decide...
stella and her husband Bauder.. 2weeks stay in my Apartment
bauder.stellat@yahoo.com

Elena & Anne Carey from France. Stayed 8nights
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM

DECIDE AND GET BACK TO ME ASAP.

Many Thanks,
Michelle Gaskins
-----------
Amanda
Amanda said…
I am now very cautious as I lost $927 to Landa Williams. Her tactic is that she is an agent for the owner, Samantha Hart in UK. They requested for the transfer through Western Union. Like the others, the number provided could not be reached and went straight to voicemail. DO NOT TRUST HER. They did not even send us a contract. There were various signs of scamming but we were too ignorant and that caused us to lose the money. I sincerely hope this would not occur to anyone else.

We are trying to get our money back from Western Union and reporting the case. Anybody know if this is possible?

Also thank you Danny for this site.
I only wish I had seen this earlier.

Amanda
Danny said…
Amanda, Don't bother with Western Union - they couldn't care less. They'll tell you that they take absolutely no responsibility for money transfers and will not assist you in any way, shape or form. In their own way they're just as bad as the scammers as they assist the people who are ripping everyone off by protecting their identities. As long as they get their cut, Western Union couldn't give a rats arse about how much you lost.
kicks79 said…
Damn wish i'd done a little research and found this website. Beware of this guy

John Morgan -johnmr618@aol.com
27 e 10th Street New York, NY 10003

He is a scammer. Took me for $1000 Aus. Seems to bethe same old story. Western Union transfer for deposit. Offers to pick you up from the airport. Bad grammar and an apt that always seems to be available. Sucks becaused i've used craigslist before to find accommodation and had a great experience.
Camilla said…
Thank's to to you all, you save my holiday. I was reserving a midtown apartment for 50usd at night with Freda Bray. (email: w_burts@yahoo.com).
"she" was asking 700 dollars for the reservation. (200 rent + 500 deposit). I asked to pay the deposit oncoole in NY, and pay the whole amount (400) in advance.
Of course she answer yes, but the reply was in a very bad english, that's why I googled the name.

THANKS GOD!

The crazy thing is that she offered to pick up us for free at the airport and this was quite interesting for us, coming from italy.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing scams.
Daniel Best said…
The free valet service seems to be a carrot that they dangle in front of people to entice them to pay up. Another trap to avoid.

Again, and I can't stress this enough: DO NOT PAY FOR ANYTHING VIA WESTERN UNION, MONEYGRAM OR ANY OTHER SUCH WIRE TRANSFER SERVICE. If you do then the odds are excellent that you're being ripped off. And none of those services will assist you - they're there to make money, not find out who's stealing it. If anything they'll go out of their way to protect the scammers.
Anonymous said…
Nearly scammed by Ms. Michelle Gaskins. She left a real address in NC to receive the money.

Email address: holidayvacation1000@gmail.com

References: bauder.stellat@yahoo.com
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM

I emailed Stella Bauder and got a simple, poorly worded reply. When I emailed her back to see pictures of the place, she never replied.

The comments of "Our paypal account has exceeded the maximum" and "Send payment first" seem to be obvious scam tipoffs.
Anonymous said…
Hi

i found your page too late, i have been scamed by Donna L Gallagher about $1200,-

For the rest of my life i will never forget: never,nerver ....sending money with moneygram or western union.

Niki
Anonymous said…
Hi

i found your page too late, i have been scamed by Donna L Gallagher about $1200,-

For the rest of my life i will never forget: never,nerver ....sending money with moneygram or western union.

Niki
Anonymous said…
My family was just scammed by a "Michelle Gaskins" as I've seen noted a few times above, same email as people were getting and feel really stupid to not have realized some of the warning signs, mainly too good to be true. Let's find these people and make sure they get punished by the law.
Anonymous said…
Do you guys have any info on Jame Labrre. I am looking for an apartment in NYC and his behaviour has not been reliable so far.

Many thanks.
Otávio.
Anonymous said…
Another NY apt scam on Craigslist:
Michelle Gaskins [goodwomanapt@ymail.com]
$100 / 1br - Magnificent Luxurious Wonderful Loving in heart of Manhattan. Max. 4 (Midtown) - posted Dec 19, 18 and 17 of 2009
marta said…
Another one:

Paul Samuel

paulsamuelvacation@gmail.com
Graham said…
Donna Gallagher here too.. almost fell for it but found it so strange that she couldnt give me a phone number or provide any kind of documentation.

found her on craigs list.

here's her copy:

You will have to hold your date with a security deppsoit.The deposit to be paid now is $900 which is inclusive of the rates and the balance $600 paid at check in date. I have attached the booking forms. You would have to fill them out and pay the deposit via Bank
transfer. You would have to return to me along with the scanned attached transfer slip given to you as confirmation of deposit paid and the booking forms via EMAIL. Payment is to be made to my accountant

DEPOSIT (PAYMENT) INFORMATION:
Bank Name: Bank of America
Account Holder's Name: Rebecca S Miller
Account Number: 518001924855
Swift number: BOFAUS3N
Wire routing number: 026009593
This is fast and insures quick hold on the dates. Cancellation policy is on the forms and check out time also. We offer free pick up service, if interested in this, you would have to fill out the space in the forms, this involves picking you up and also taking you back to the airport. Check in is done at the front desk upon presentation of the original receipt of payments. And keys given then. we do have a tour guide to help you not only with your shopping, sight seeing but major broad way shows also, do get back to me ASAP. Do let us know when to expect the deposit, as we do have another party interested in holding dates affecting yours soon. And also if you do have any questions, am presently working NOT from the office so you would have
to send me an email ok.
Thanks
Donna Gallagher
Frank said…
Hi there,

we almost got scammed too - thank for sharing your experiences.

Other Names you shouldn´t trust:

Rose Mose (nycapt001@gmail.com)
Paul Samuel (paulsamuelvacation@gmail.com)

and many more.

It´s just soo wrong to scam people. Has anyone of you made good experiences, because a lot of people were asking us to make a deposit vie paypal - but as far as I know, Paypal is not safe either.

best of luck - even though it´s not my favourite option we best stick to a hotel.
Lisa said…
I was looking for an apartment in NY and look who I found on craigslist today!

richardsonclare.rental@gmail.com with this apartment on 113 West 46th Street,
NY,10036, New York City
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/vac/1559712177.html
An absolute scam. He signes with 'David', sends pict of different studio's, saying its the same and his english is as bad as mine.

froogle009@yahoo.com, with an apartment on 222 E 35th St New York, NY 10016
His account on WESTERN UNION:
RECEIVER`S NAME: FREDA BRAY
RECEIVER`S ADDRESS: 222 E 35th St New York, NY 10016
And his or her friend lisaneedu4222@yahoo.com, who emailed me that the penthouse from Freda was awesome. Yeah, right.

And last but not least Marvin, with his studio on 223 W 59th St, New York, NY 10021 , B
marvinapart@gmail.com aka Marvin Grey with paypal account:
ACCOUNT NAME:Renee Chretien
PAYPAL coeur_perce@hotmail.com

Now I'm too scared to rent something, so we gonna check in to a hotel.

Thanks for this blog!

Greetings from the Netherlands.
Bill Lavery said…
I think I have found this same scammer with a new name. Here is the craigslist post. Below that I have included one of his emails. I also found an email address of jhlabrre@google trying to rent an apartment in Paris.

$100 / 1br - Stunning Furnished apartment (Midtown West) (map)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 2010-01-19, 8:16PM EST
Reply to: jhlabrre@aol.com [Errors when replying to ads?]

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


A building just west of Times Square and the Theater District, in the very heart of Manhattan. This is a corner unit facing south and east with full views (through floor-to-ceiling windows) of half of Manhattan, including the Empire State Building, Times Square, the Hudson River, all the way downtown to the Statue of Liberty. The apartment is owned by a designer and is smartly furnished in a modern style to complement the modern architecture. The unit is a large 1-bedroom of 775 square feet, with high ceilings, fully-outfitted gourmet kitchen, hardwood floors, luxury linens, oversized bathtub (3' x 6'), central heating and A/C individually controlled in each room. With its height above the street and its modern, high quality construction, the apartment is quiet and private inside.

And here is the text from one of his emails. The language is very similar to others' comments here.

Thanks for your interest in my apartment.

The monthly rate for this apartment is $2250 , but the date is what you have not specify and without that I cant confirm if your date is available or not , To reserve this apartment after you must have confirm the date you are arriving and when you would be checking out .

The breakdown for the total stay would amount to 12 month @ $2250 =$27000, To secure your date there is deposit of 50% of the total which deposit ,which bring to $13500 plus the refundable security deposit of 1000 and could be review as the case may be .this mean the total deposit to secure your stay would be $14500 and this have to be paid before arrival to the apartment. after which you must have sign my booking form and your details filed officially .

I wait for your usual prompt response .

Sincerely,

Joseph.
Anonymous said…
Same thing happened to me..
If anyone has experienced any SCAM involving myself "Kimberly Hall" or
"Heather Nicole Buffington" or even the lawyer "David L. Coates" please follow this link to my blog.

http://kimberlyhallinaustralia.wordpress.com/2009/06/22/monday-june-22nd-2009-identity-theft/
Anonymous said…
Hey I just got an email from stellabauder@ymail.com. Guess what she's rich and wants to be my girlfriend. Name also pos up in rental scams here.
Anonymous said…
Warning, I contacted this person FAITH BARBER to rent an apt in the West Village for a month. She would not give me a phone number to call her or she would not meet a friend of mine to verify that this was not a scam. I hadn't given over any money thank god, but a word of warning for anyone else who sees this ad on Craiglist.
Mary Zander said…
hi, wow, almost fell for Renee Chretien, foudn his ad for a London apartment in Craigslist too. he gave me two paypall accounts: coeur_perce@hotmail.com and also a second one mommab66@yahoo.com

be awared...

greetings from south america!
Anonymous said…
Hi, I'm French and was about to book an apartment in Paris through Craiglist, please be aware that
richardsonclare.rental@gmail.com (already denounced in this blog by Lisa in January) and dodgexisto@yahoo.com are both scams trying to make you pay through Western Union or Paypal for amazing places in Paris at cheap rates.
Anonymous said…
Beware of this guy as well. We even e-mail one of his references and received a very favorable response.
Address: * 246 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Herbert Mouscardy
+1 607 595 0261
Anonymous said…
Still posting on Craig's List. I just don't get it, HOW IS THIS CONTINUING TO BE ALLOWED?

Even sent a 'photocopy' of a US Passport? I've included below our online conversation and details.

Thanks for your email & I do understand your concern. To assure you more on our apartment you are about booking, you are free to make contact for reference with the below contacts, also attach is copy of my I.D to assure you of my person.


I will arrange to pick you people up at no extra cost from the airport to my apartment just let me know your flight schedule.

Here is all you need to make your payment for your reservation. The booking form is attached below, please fill, sign and send back to me along with the payment confirmation slip.


To Hold Your Dates Deposit Required: $1,040


MODE OF PAYMENT: PAY PAL OR WIRE TRANSFER



PAY PAL ACCOUNT: manacct2k@hotmail.com



Please for quick confirmation of the payment; select PAYMENT OWED OR Simply select OTHER and type - PAYMENT ADVANCE when making the payment via pay pal. If your prefer sending the deposit via wire transfer let me know I will provide the info for your follow-up.




1. Mrs. Diana Smith of South Caroline sleeps 8nights

Email: dnsmith@live.com



2. Mr. Donald Nelson of California sleeps 3nights

Email: dd4n56@gmail.com



3. Mr. Essa Sey of South Africa sleep 11night6 for conference

Email:essa_sey@Yahoo.com



4. Mr. Vincent Aku of Maryland USA sleeps 1night

E-mail: vincentaku@yahoo.com

... A so many more.


Thanks,


Charles.

Charles:
We would be thrilled to be guests at your beautiful home. I am a bit concerned to rent online through Craig's List because we would be paying in advance of coming. I will be arriving with my young son, and would be at a loss if I had any changes. Please help me to find comfort in knowing this is a legitimate rental.

Sincerely,
Sharlene



-----Original Message-----
From: Charles Husby
To:
Sent: Fri, Feb 12, 2010 3:08 am
Subject: Re: March 19-27



Thanks for choosing my apartment.

Luckily, it’ll be free for your dates 03/19/2010 to 03/27/2010, 8-night is $1,280 @ $160 per night.

To secure the Apartment down for your dates 50% of the rental fee will be required = ($640 + $400) a fixed refundable security deposit, so all you need pay to book down the Apartment for your desire dates is = $1,040.

The Remaining 50% Balance will be paid when you arrive to the Apartment and your security deposit of $400 will be refunded to you when you are leaving the Apartment on your Departure date...

Please let me know your interest ASAP, so I can send you a Booking Agreement Form and How to make the Payment via Pay Pal or Wire Transfer.

RESERVE ASAP, before someone else does...

Apartment exact location 9th floor with direct elevator

210 East 47th Street
New York - NY - 10017

Attach are more photo for your view.

Building Aminities:

Amenities: Roof-top swiming pool, Air Conditioning, flat screen TV, Washer/Dryer,bedlinen, towels, Secured entry access, 24/7 doorman, A parking space assigned to each tenant at no cost, high speed internet access, kitchen equipped with a stove, an oven, a sink, a refrigerator with freezing compartment and a microwave. There is cookware available, dining ware and other kitchen utensils, elevator access.

Neighborhood:

Supermarket, pharmacy, bank, laundromat are nearby. Midtown Manhattan, or simply Midtown, is an area of Manhattan, New York City home to world-famous commercial zones such as Rockefeller Center, Broadway, and Times Square. Midtown Manhattan is home to the city's tallest and most famous buildings such as the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building.the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building.

Thanks and have a great day,

Charles

Subject: March 19-27
To: husbyc@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, February 12, 2010, 3:29 AM


Please indicate availability for mother and son visiting for ballet scholarship competition. Rate with taxes, etc.
julia l said…
Has anyone heard of a Jane Synovec at jane.synovec724@gmail.com? She lists the apartment as 325 West 58th Street, #08 (although she says it is on the 4th floor - is that possible?) When I questioned her further about scamming she told me she is the owner and she "has a license to prove this".
Unknown said…
That Charles Husby in the later postings -- is he confirmed to be a scammer? I'm communicating with him presently as I look for an apt in NYC to rent. Thanks for your help!!!

Rudy
Michael said…
Hi, I am from Brazil and I nearly got scammed too.

Was looking for an apartment in craigslist and came across with :

Wanda Burts - Wanda Burts [wandaburst3@gmail.com]

and looking over with Google came to your blog, thanks a lot.

The apt she is offering is in :

NEW YORK CITY VACATION RENTAL BOOKING FORM
Address: 246 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Owner’s Name: WANDA BURTS

she asks for a transfer via MONEYGRAM and the address referenced for teh transfer is :

4. MODE OF PAYMENT VIA MONEYGRAM® MONEY TRANSFER TO:
RECEIVER`S NAME: Wanda Burts
RECEIVER`S ADDRESS: 1563 Lexington Ave, New York, NY USA

The same name and addreas also used many times ans referenced in this BLOG.

THANKS AGAIN, really good to have a blog with all this information.

have a nice day
Unknown said…
Thanks for having this information here. I've rented apartments in NY before and the $100 a night for a 950 square foot apt. sounded too good. I emailed them and received a very quick response but I decided to look into it a bit further. This brought me to this blog.
You can get great deals but you can smell this one a mile away.
Mick said…
Hi, we've just been scammed by a person called Keith Davis keith.nyholidays@live.com renting an apartment in nyc at 87w 57th st on the Craigslist website. Judging by google street view I doubt whether the building now exists! Initially we were asked to wire 30% deposit into his "accountant's" bank account Valerie Adams a/c 4245357466. At his insistence a month later we stupidly wired another 30% deposit into another account under the name of Julie Cooper a/c 863257911. When he asked for the full balance now instead upon arrival we pulled out and requested a refund..guess what...haven't heard from him since. Lesson learned. Hope these postings help out other innocent people before they too part with their hard earned cash.
Anonymous said…
Looking for a place to stay in DC, I found a place too good to be true. When I Binged the referenced yahoo email addresses both brought up this blog. So thank you.

Here is the posting info off Craigs list-
$150/2br-Charming Gorgeous Luxurious Condo Beginnings Amazing Sleep8(WASHINGTON DC,DOWNTOWN)
Vassileva Gaskins
apartmentrentaldc@gmail.com
bauder.stellat@yahoo.com
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM
Julie L said…
Just discovered that the address 325 West 58th Street in midtown doesn't exist. So, beware Jane Synovec.....
Anonymous said…
wow... I was just about to fall into doing the same thing. We will have to fly to the US for student seminars and I want to find an affordable apartment in NYC for 2-3 nights. I looked up Craiglist and came across this name: Herbert Mouscardy (hmouscardy@ymail.com).
I unintentionallly sent e-mail to the same person, responding to two different ads. The reply I got look exactly the same, and with the same reference person Tom Bruce.
Email- tombruce67@yahoo.com

I searched the Herbert and found on his profile as a PhD in Management and Certfied Public Accountant.

I don't know if he's a scam but probably you're right. I should consider paying more rent rather than losing it for free.

Many thanks for the blog and I truly feel sorry for your bad experience. It would be even tougher for me to solve that problem up front when in a foreign country.
Anonymous said…
I think that this may be another one to add to the list.

From: miguel Garcia [mailto:philandersonapt@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, March 04, 2010 To: ---
Subject: Re: EUR150 / 3br - Luxury Apartment (Madrid)

http://madrid.craigslist.es/vac/1627280234.html

Hello
The apartment is as shown in the pictures, We do provide linens and towels. The deposit to be paid now is 700euros and this does include the rates and the balance refunded at check out date after inspection of the property for damages. . The total rates is 450Euros for 3 nights with no additional cost. for reference you can write to the Redford family presently renting at rredford1964@gmail.com . I have attached the booking forms.You would have to fill them out and pay the deposit via western union money transfer, do visit their web site www.westernunion.com to locate the closest agent location to you. You would have to return to me along with the scanned attached receipt given to you at money gram as confirmation of deposit paid and the booking forms via EMAIL Information to pay the deposit to are
Miguel Garcia
30, Plaza Mayor
Madrid
Spain
This is fast and insure quick hold on the dates. Cancellation policy is on the forms and check out time also. we offer free pick up service, if interested in this, you would have to fill out the space in the forms, this involves picking you up and also taking you back to the airport. check in is done at the front desk upon presentation of the original receipt of payments. and keys given then. Please state were we would have to send your receipt from us to ok. we do have a tour guide to help you not only with your shopping, sight seeing, do get back to me and let us know when to expect the deposit , since we do have another party interested in holding dates affecting yours soon.and also if you do have any questions, am presently working NOT from the office so you would have to send me an email ok.

Thanks
Miguel Garcia
YKL said…
thanks for this - am currently trying to find a vacation rental in NYC and have already come across a couple of the characters like Wanda Burts, Herbert Mouscardy. and then two separate replies for different apartments (from Tony Tony and Steven Hagman) with identical and very fulsome apartment descriptions was very suspicious. As you've said, when they ask where you're travelling from, that may not be such a good sign. And I tried ringing a couple of the phone numbers they provided for references - chap couldn't decide who he was ... again, warning bells are getting louder.

Looks like we may end up in hotels after all.
Same story here. Almost fell for it for two different properties in Washington DC on craigslist.

$150 / 2br - Brand new luxurious Capital Hill home, Sleeps 1-5 (Downtown Washington DC)

"William" from Vacantion Rentals [robertsw81@gmail.com]

and

$150 / 2br - Extraordinarily Gorgeous Charming.Fabulous Luxury Apt, Sleeps 1-8 (WASHINGTON,DC DOWNTOWN)

Vassileva kirsch [treatgoodpt@hotmail.com]

This one last one had:

You can contact my Past Tenant from France and California before you Decide...
stella and her husband Bauder.. 2weeks stay in my Apartment
bauder.stellat@yahoo.com

Elena & Anne Carey from France. Stayed 8nights
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM

The bauder.stellat@yahoo.com reference led me to this blog.

THANK YOU SO MUCH for alerting me to this scam!
Anonymous said…
WANDA BURTS

wandaburst3@gmail.com

$1,200

Then asked me to send the rest to another person: TIM KIRSCH

I'm in tears and totally embarrassed to tell the other two couples that are going to NY tomorrow to stay with us. I need to find another legit place for us in less than 12 hours. AND...My boyfriend tolds me not to. I'm going to listen to him from now on. I wish it wasn't too late. Thanks for posting this.
Anonymous said…
Beware of an individual impersonating a Robert Cullen out of Orange, CA. He even provides a copy of his drivers license. He uses the same references for his scam as many of the other scammers noted on this site I only found out by the posting referring to Vassileva Gaskins when I was looking for a place in DC.
Anonymous said…
almost fell for herbert mouscardy....his picture? is on facebook and Frenchfriendfinder , a dating site...maybe someone out there could"date" him with some handcuffs

david,
Papa said…
I was looking at renting a place in DC. Thanks for posting up the emails. I've got two new addresses to add to your list. Too much of the email is the same for it to be a coincidence. It triggered my BS meter pretty quick and a google search of the emails providing references pointed me to this site.

Thanks and sorry you got ripped off :(

bauder.stellat@yahoo.com
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM
the email was from:
treatgoodpt@hotmail.com

Here's the full email. It might help someone else:

Thanks very much for contacting me, the apartment is situated in Downtown Washington DC, 672 14th St Nw, Washington, DC 20005 and luckily it`ll be available for your dates ,4/3 - 4/10?7nights and the rent for your stay is $1050 (@$150 per night). You`ll need to Book down the Apartment for your dates cos someone else is asking for a Close date.. To secure the Apartment 50% of the rent will be required ($525 plus a refundable security deposit of $500, so all you need pay to book down the Apartment for your dates is $1025.
I'd also like to know where exactly you'll be coming from? and for how soon you`ll like to Book down the Apartment?
Apartment is approximately 1200sq. ft. and Bedding arrangements are : 2 bedrooms, sleeps maximum of 8 people, Bedroom 1 - 1 King, Bedroom 2 - 1 Queen, 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon... Large California King in Master Bedroom. Comfy queen in the guest room as well as large L-shaped sofa in living area that can accommodate two more! Amenities are also as follows : Fireplace, elevator, T.V., digital home cinema, hi-fi system, VCR, DVD player, phone, fax, computer, cable/satellite, internet access, wardrobe, cupboard, Hanging wardrobe, safe deposit box, radio alarm clock, hair dryer, mosquito nets, fully air-conditioned, central heating, intruder alarm, fire alarm and more...Linen, Towels and Toiletries also available, including a Telephone (free local, 800 calls), TVs w/ multi-channel premium Cable TV and VCR/DVD. Main Kitchen (w/new appliances)microwave, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Stove Oven, Blender, Dishwasher and more. The apartment sleeps 1-8 people.
Everything is Professionally Cleaned and prepared, there's a 24 hours doorman and theres a reserved parking space for a car, if you are driving.. Apartment is located in good locality, thats a walking distance to the White House, the Metro,Convention Center, Smithsonian Museums,The Washington Monument, Dupont Circle, fine and casual dining, theaters, and the World Bank and other memorials as well as a 24hr CVS and Whole Food Grocery, Shops and Restaurants.

Kindly get back to me if you can meet up with my conditions so I can send you a Booking Agreement form and advise you on to make a Secure Payment so as to be able to get the place secured on time, and Complimentary airport pick up and drop off in Lexus LS 460L. That is if you aren't coming with you car.....

NOTICE..: I have past tenants from all over the world, I`ll allow you to contact some of them if you`d love to......
You can contact my Past Tenant from France and California before you Decide...
stella and her husband Bauder.. 2weeks stay in my Apartment
bauder.stellat@yahoo.com
Elena & Anne Carey from France. Stayed 8nights
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM

DECIDE AND GET BACK TO ME ASAP.
Many Thanks,
Carolina said…
Thank you for posting! This is the only website I found any dirty on these people.

I live in New York and was about to help a friend book an apartment from Herbert Mouscardy (hmouscardy@ymail.com) in Midtown Manhattan. I found the ad on craigslist.org and it was a great deal. But it didn't sit well when he asked for 50% rent and a $300 deposit to be paid in advance through Western Union ONLY. He won't show me the apartment and answered my questions vaguely.

Also, watch out for Lawrence Rowland, rowland_lawrence@rocketmail.com, 607-595-0261. It's the same phone # someone previously posted for Herbert Mouscardy above!!
Anonymous said…
Hi everyone! I just got duped by Lawrence Rowland who is Herbert Mouscardy. I wanted to rent the apartment on 246 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA.
First of all I paid him 50% of the rent ($56) a night plus $500 security deposit. When I had sent the money via money gram he told me I'd have to pay the rest as I'm a traveler outside the U.S. I had to sent the money to his lawyer Leverta Massey..which I did. I was supposed to rent the apartment from March, 31st till April, 7th..now I haven't heard from him again...then I saw the same apartment posted again for $61 a night and contacted the person..guess what it was Herbert Mouscardy..then I knew...! I lost nearly $900 and I'm devastated..not only have I lost the money but also my holiday seems ruined...I'm asking all of you, can we not do something against this person? Or is does this person not exist in real life? I am so angry!!! I really can't believe it!!! Daniela (Spain)
Anonymous said…
Hi,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write.

I feel some comfort in knowing that there are other intelligent and informed individuals who have also been scammed. I am so embarrassed and angry at myself, at Craig's list and the fictitious 'Tim Kirsch.' Luckily I have been blessed to work with and have honest friends and colleagues who integrity is never questioned. 'Tim Kirsch' a pathetic person and I like to think he leads a pathetic life too...anyway I digress...
I too have just been scammed on the apartments in DC from 'Tim Kirsch.' I only discovered this last evening. I and my family were to have left for DC this morning, a 10 hour drive. I feel like such a fool. I have booked holiday apartment on-line several times in the past, with no problems. I guess I was naive in thinking that I was safe using Craig's list. I did some digging before sending the money, but obviously not deep enough.

Sadly our trip is off, but thank goodness we didn't get in the car and go. I was told the door man would give us the keys. Got an 'official' looking lease, the works, I sent my money to a reputable bank, JP Morgan Chase Bank. Again I naively thought that the bank has a responsibility to ensure that the accounts they set up are not fraudulent.

I would really like to take some action, but I am at a lost. I noticed many people have been scammed by postings on Craig's List. Certainly there must be something we can do. Do you have you any recommendations.

Thank you,

Janice
Brigid Schulte said…
Hi. This is Brigid Schulte. I nearly got scammed by Herbert Mouscardy, a James Pascale, a Joe Collins, an Angela Gomez and also a guy named Deron Milton on a couple NYC apartment rentals! I'm a reporter for the Washington Post and am writing a story about these internet vacation apartment rental scams. I'd like to talk to people to hear their stories - especially if they've had experience with Herbert or Deron.
Thanks.
schulteb@washpost.com
Anonymous said…
'am trying to rent an apartment using craiglist.. I found at least 20 scammers. These are some of the names they're using.. Becareful:

Tommy Jose
Smith Spencer
Dennis & Nan Milton
Mark & Lora Rentals
Mark & Jane Rentals
Shannon Clark
Mario Jim
Edward Kool
Glen & Maris Rentals
David Cummings
Tony Burton
David James
Dr. Larry Peter
David Bill (Dvaid Bill)
Robert J Kane
Kate Owen
Raphael Timothy
Michael Adams (Micheal Adams)
Johnson Hull
Dalia Ryan
Anonymous said…
Hi Everybody,
I just discover this site too late. We have just spent 1060 $ for nothing... We were about finalizing our stay in New-York for next summer when Mr Lawrence Rowland ask us for the entire amount of the location.

So be carefull if you see an ad from Lawrence Rowland our a 2br appartment in Manhattan for 80$/night.

Bye.

Olivier
Unknown said…
My man was Herbert Mouscardy. I did finally google him, after the bells and whistles went off, so I saved myself some money. The funny thing is, I asked him why his apartment was so inexpensive
and this is what he wrote...............

Thank you for the question ... I am so much grateful you have interest in my Apartment . Well we decide to givean offer to people who are coming for easter . we've been doing this for 5 years now , So please let me have a specific date to check on our calendar if your dates are available.

I also contacted the "real" apartment owner and let him know what was going on. I went on "Homeaway" and there were the pictires of the apartment Mouscardy was using for his.

I would like to post this link on Craigslist if someone hasn't already done it. I don't know if that's OK or not.

Leanne from Michigan
Julie UK said…
I almost got caught too!
My man was Herbert Mouscardy and I was all set to pay up, but something was niggling at me, Times Square, New Year for $70 a night...No that just wasnt sitting right for me!!

I traced his email headers, what do ya know, they came from Nigeria!
Id mailed his 'referee' and he had replied, so I traced those headers...... thats right they came out of Nigeria too!

I rang his guy who he told me was from London, and in a really heavy Nigerian accent he told me what a wonderful man Mr Herbert was, and how he had enjoyed his beautiful apartment.
I explained what I had discovered and he hung up...

I mailed the scammer this

Could you kindly explain how your name has become linked with this blog exposing rental scams in Manhattan I'll quote the part where you are mentioned


Anonymous said...

Beware of this guy as well. We even e-mail one of his references and received a very favorable response.
Address: * 246 E 47th St, New York, NY 10017, USA
Herbert Mouscardy
+1 607 595 0261

http://ohdannyboy.blogspot.com/2007/09/new-york-scam-serious-warning-for-all.html

Also I traced the headers on your email which gave me this information

Email sender herbertmouscardy48@rocketmail.com
This Email was sent at Mon, 12 Apr 2010 11:36:57 -0700 (PDT)
from this IP address:
41.155.89.159
IP Location: in Nigeria.

http://www.ip-adress.com/trace_email/#result

As you can imagine, Ive yet to receive a reply!

Ive given the apartment idea a wide birth and booked our stay in a hotel
Daniel Best said…
@Leanne - go ahead and post the link and details anywhere. The more people that are made aware of this scam the better. Just let me know so I can keep track of it all.

@Julie - well done! I bet you'll not ever get an answer from the swine.

To all - again, if ANYONE asks that you pay via MoneyGram or Western Union then you can be fairly sure it's a scam. DO NOT USE EITHER OF THOSE SERVICES. They will not assist you once you've been ripped off. If anything they appear to assist the scammer over the scammed.
Julie UK said…
OK Ive come across a few more of these scammers
Frank Moss
mossfrank65@yahoo.com
who also has an ip out of Nigeria
I asked if a friend could view the apartment, sure he says, once you have paid the deposit, (which he claims is a new policy)
I mailed him back

I dont think I will book it, seems strange you want payment before we even view!
Could this be because you are actually in Nigeria?
I traced your headers in your email due to the large amount of scammers Ive encountered
whilst trying to rent an apartment
Heres yours

Email sender mossfrank65@yahoo.com
This Email was sent at Tue, 13 Apr 2010 15:20:53 -0700 (PDT)
from this IP address:
41.189.14.32
IP Location: Lagos in Nigeria.


Felix De Ambrosi
fdeambrosi@santander.us
Who has an ip in China..

I suggest anyone who is dealing with this type of query runs the headers of the mail they received through a reader like this one

http://www.ip-adress.com/trace_email/

If you are not sure how to find the header, google it, there are hundreds of pages with the info

Ive also had one or two that have come back with a header which isnt valid, they have also gone on my shit list!
Anonymous said…
These guys are running the same scam on Washington DC craigslist. $150 / 2br - Vacation Excellent Magnificent Holiday Luxurious Marvel.sleep 1-8 using email address Michelle Voltaire and references
ou can contact my Past Tenant from France and California before you Decide...
Brian and he's friend .. 2weeks stay in my Apartment
barianwarren@ymail.com


Elena & Anne Carey from France. Stayed 8nights
ELENAROBERT21@YAHOO.COM
Anonymous said…
My suspicions have been laid to rest, Unfortunately, not in my favor as I was scammed by "Herbert Mouscardy". Appreciate this blog. I have reviewed some of the other responses I got from "renters" and they're all in broken English, wanting money upfront wire transferred, etc. Some other names that may be suspicious:

Jennifa Barber
jennbar22@yahoo.com

Mr and Mrs Hagman micpearce_alive@yahoo.com
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