RENTAL SCAM IN SINGAPORE!! PLS WARN OTHER PPL

Hi All,

Thank you very much, you all just save me from being cheated.

I received an e-mail from SweetHoney <[email protected]> and another one from
Jue He <[email protected]>.

I can't believe that I almost believe them and take the deal. After I think about the case of rental scam, I google for the forum of scam and luckily I had found this.


The e-mail as follow:

Dear Eddy,

Kindly locate a nearby Western Union agent closer to you and make the payment to Me (S .H . Hoon UK, ) and provide me with the Senders details, including the total amount , MTCN, preferably the scan copy of the western union receipt.

Aternatively my international bank details are stated bellow, but this might take several days before the money arrives in to my account,

BANK NAME : SANTANDER BANK
BANK ADDS : UNITED KINGDOM
Miss S.H. HOON
ac..75437967
sc..090127
IBAN.....GB40ABBY09012775437967
SWIFT....ABBYGB2L

Endeavour to send the scan copy of the transfer payment receipt as well , i will be looking foward to read back from you asap.

Regards,

Swee.

Attached is the rental agreement as requested, read through and let me know if you have any question, upon satisfaction i will provide you with the payment details asap,


Regards,


Swee

The signed agreement and the payment receipt with the copy of my NIRC will be required by the management, before you will granted ab access to the unit, alternatively , and to make this easier and avoid any sort of doubt or breach of trust, you can proceed by putting the rent and the deposit on the name of your friend or any close associate via western union money transfer payable to UK and provide me with the MTCN only for confirmation only online or by phone because without the other details there is no one eligible to pick up the money , upon confirmation of the availability of this fund then we can proceed to the viewing , and if every thing is ok, then you can go ahead and change the beneficiary name to my name, and provide me other sending details.


(NOTE, I DIDNT ASK YOU TO SEND ANY MONEY TO ME INITIALLY)

Let me know if i made my self clear with this .before i proceed with the agreement,

Revert to me asap.

Swee

Hello Removed,

Thank you for your kind interest in my unit, the master bed room is airconditioned and
I would have love to facilitate the viewing, but due to the fact that i am already in UK, for my new job , and the management will only allow you in to the unit only upon presenting on demand the signed copies of the rental agreement and the payment receipt that certify our mutual agreement with the rent and due to the past inconviniencies this have caused the potential residence of the City square in the past

Hence the management insist that all the rental agreement must have been concluded before detailing a potential tenant to come for viewing when the landlord is not around to conduct the viewing personally , the violator is subjected to a fine ,

If you will like to proceed with the rental contract agreement , kindly provide me with your full names and the intended move in date with the desired duration of the contract i will provide you with my IC and the proof of ownership that will guarantee the transaction ,

Kindly let me know if you have any question and how you intend to proceed asap.


Regards.

Hello,

I am a single professional lady in my early thirties, i m pleased to offer the unit situated in a secured development area close to Farrer Park MRT. to a well well mannered, and responsible person with sense of humour that knows what to do in time without supervision and who can also look after the unit and pay up the rent and the bills in time, i will not be living in the unit for the next 12/24 months due to my job contract in England


The property consists of two bedrooms with a gorgeous 5ft wide double bed, fitted wardrobes, fully equipped kitchen with washing machine, dishwasher, fridge/freezer,hob/oven, three bathroom ensuited to each of the bedroom, with power shower cubicle, basin and W.C. A reception room has modern decorations with two comfy leather sofas, coffee table, modern 42" lcd TV.DVD. Hi Fi System and Sky Broadband and Wi Fi internet connection with Built-in,



Location: CITY

SQUARE RESIDENCES Address, 10/12/14 KITCHENER LINK 207226 Singapore

City Square Residences stands tall to give you breathtaking views
with units facing the park, the city or the beautiful landscape
incorporating the pools and water features.
Most blocks are oriented
north-south, and with the soothing sight and sounds of water everywhere,
you’ll experience resort living right at home and right in the city.

City Square Residences stands as a soaring example of
well-integrated living, where everything you need is within your reach.
Shopping will no doubt become a way of life for the entire family at
City Square Residences, where over 700,000 sq ft of exciting shops,
restaurants and even a Cineplex beckon from right next door. A
hypermarket, specialty shops, boutiques, cafes, and shops dedicated to
beauty, health, travel and household needs are all easily within your
reach. Life will never be the same again with so many things to see and
do under one roof. With a location that puts everything you need within
easy reach, City Square Residences is the epitome of convenience and
city living.

City Square Residences is only a short 2-minute stroll away from
the Farrer Park MRT Station and enables easy access to the city. City Square
Residences is accessible via the nearby Central Expressway (CTE) and East Coast Parkway (ECP). Commuting to the Central Business District
(CBD) and the Changi International Airport is convenient and easy.

About me:

I am a lively, fun, decent, tidy & clean, lovable professional Civil Engineer working Construction company , and like to be with fun loving people like myself and have some laugh with friends, I sometimes share moment with glass of wine and talk about happenings around the world. I am into music, movies and most especially sport.

I consider myself as a social person as I love to go to cinema,
watch Tv sometimes and go partying with friends whenever am not working,
I also like to read novels, anything that has to do with the crime and
fiction types,


Facilities:

50M Lap Pool, Bubble Lounger, Jacuzzi, Pool Deck, Ring Fountain
Poll Playground, Kids waterway, Clubhouse, Gymnasium, Bowling Alley, Function
Room, GamesRoom, Karaoke Room, Steam Baths, Table Game Lounge, Fitness
Stations, Teniss Court, BBQ Pits, Putting Green, Covered Car Park and ,
24-Hours Security Services

Price:Rent/month ($ 800.00) for the master room and ($1,500) for
the whole unit . reasonable negotiation is welcome

Condition of Rent:

- The refundable

security deposit of $1000 will be required plus at least 2

months rent at the time of executing a contract.
.
Kindly get back to me if this term is okay by in order to proceed with other aspect of the rent ASAP.

Have a great and wonderful day.

Sincerely,


Ms. Swee,

+447024022967

And the second e-mail from Jue He [email protected] it sound:

Hello Removed,
Thanks for your mail, I'd love you to come and visit the flat but at the moment am not around, I had a trip to Newcastle yesterday as my mother informed me my fiance is ill (not feeling fine) so travel to Newcastle to check on his health.Though i have the keys and contract document with me here that is why i asked you to send me the details so that i can start the necessary preparation from our family Lawyer here in UK. My apartment has 2 rooms and a living room,so i use one room while other is for rent and there is also a visitor room in the apartment,which I used as guest room.I have scanned the pictures of my apartment and you should find them below; the living room,bathroom and toilet that is in the rooms that I have for rent and would be for your private use and also pictures of the Kitchen where we deal with our stomach...!!!:)

The rent for the apartment is 900$ while you would also make a security deposit of 700$. This deposit would be refunded to you at the end of your stay in the apartment if nothing is destroyed during your stay. Before we proceed though,there are some conditions and rules and I would like us to decide on and it just requires your consent and afterwards we can proceed with the contract and for you to reserve the room and to move in soon:

1.You shall sign a document ( Tenement Agreement Document) confirming that the room has been reserved for you and thereafter you can then make your payment for the reservation and also for your immediate move in following the contract.

2.You shall have to read the agreement contract which i shall send to you firstly as an attached mail before you make your payment.

For the document to be prepared successfully, I would be needing the following details:

(1) Your Full Name

(2) Your move in and out date:

(3) Your current address and also the address where you would like the keys to the apartment,the Original copy of the contract and also the receipt of payment sent to after confirmation of payment from my mother, which you shall sign and bring along with you when moving in finally as my room mate

(4) Your scanned ID passport for identification..

I hope you quite understand me and everything?

There is also a washer and dryer in the apartment for the laundry needs and also to the apartment has a car park....Infact,it has being allotted two car spaces.

I wait to read from you soonest to continue the contract and further details about the documents towards having you as my room mate.

Your Flatmate!
Jue

Hi,
Thanks for your mail, I can reserve the room for you until the day of your move in which is July but only if you show me how serious you need the room. I have other offer who is also interested in the room but I think we will be a perfect match (flatmate) and I would love to give the room to you. My apartment is a Two bedroom apartment located on 55 Victoria St, Singapore 188000 to be precise and I am looking for tenants for one of the rooms in the apartment. The apartment belongs to my Mother although she got it from my father after the demise of my Father last year.

The apartment is fully furnished and also the rooms am renting out so you might not need to come with any other furniture but if you intend coming with any stuff, let me know alright?... The apartment has a heating system, water, parking space, security, Electricity, Gas, Phone, Internet Connectivity (Broadband), You would have free and unlimited access to the kitchen, the store room, the guest room, and all areas and part of the house except my room of course... You are also entitled to your own visitors.

The two rooms has the same amenities and are of the same size. The rent for the apartment and also the cost of the utility bills is 900$. Once again, this includes the cost of the utilities as earlier mentioned. The apartment is centrally located and is just some minutes walk to the nearest bus station and also you would have easy and fast access to other locations.

You would also be required to pay a security deposit as is the custom, the security deposit would be refunded to you at the end of your stay in the apartment if nothing is destroyed by you during your stay in the apartment. The deposit is 700$. About Me: My Name is Jue He I am a 25 year old Female. I am the only child of my parents and I live alone in this apartment.This apartment used to be my family apartment till when my Dad moved us all to London where he eventually passed away but I alone stay here in the apartment and have being renting it out for sometime now. My last flatmate left for France last week hence my search for new flatmates.

I am calm and laid back person and my hobbies are reading, swimming and also at times on fridays/weekend, I attend social events but I have not being having the opportunity dues to my work to hang out with my friends. I work as a marketing officer and when I am free I go to the pool to relax my mind and also unwind. I also visit the gym to keep fit at times..
Let me also know more about you because I believe it is essential that we get to know each other before we become flatmates. I shall be glad to send you pictures and also the contract so that we can conclude and be good flatmates.

I await to read your response.

Regards,
Jue

Note: Both of these sucks attached very nice pictures for the interior of the condo. The SweetHoney even e-mail me a copy of property title under her name, a copy of property tax pay to singapore inland revenue authority which under her name and also a copy of Singapore NRIC. (These are for proof of ownership which probably fake) Everything make you feel that, it's real. I'm not sure whether have to make a police report since I had e-mail my copy of NRIC to him/her.
Sigh....

Edits for clarity - Ralph

Hi Ed, welcome to Scamwarners.

Thank you for posting the details of this scam, well done for spotting it before losing and money.

Any other details you have including the documents you were sent could be helpful so others can see the kinds of documents that scammers create to help them with their scams.

In case you have trouble posting the pictures i have already PMed an email address where you can forward them to and I will post them as time permits.

Scammers will usually prefer their victims to use Western Union to send them money but sometimes they do provide bank accounts, when they do these can be reported, it may be the bank account of an innocent person or perhaps a bank account actually set up by the scammer but either way we can look into that, what we do need in order to report the bank account is a copy of teh email header, if you could please find and post the header for us it will be a huge help and may even help us to save teh real owner of teh bank account from being scammed.

If you dont know how to find headers if you could let us know which email provider you use (hotmail/yahoo/outlook / ect) we can give you specific instructions on finding it.

If you have any questions please ask

Just to supprt what Ralph says, scammers who use bank accounts are much more dangerous than the ones who use Western Union. Western Union is a legitimate company but few people in the West use it for normal day to day transactions, and certainly not in paying for goods or services, so that's always a good indicator as to whether or not an offer is a scam.

When scammers have access to a bank account then they have a better chance of appearing legitimate to a potential victim, but if we know from other features that's it's a scam then we like to be able to ensure that the bank account is flagged up to the relevant authorities. The account holder could be an innocent dupe, but that doesn't get away from the fact that a criminal is intending it to be used to launder stolen funds.

We have our own process for dealing with this information and it's one way we can interfere with the activites of scammers, but not the only one.

Below are some further details and emails from this person thanks to a concerned citizen who was able to provide it, thank you;

From: SweetHoney <[email protected]>
To: [email protected]
Sent:
Subject: Condo to let Details

Hello,

I am a single professional lady in my early thirties, i m pleased to offer the unit situated in a secured development area close to Farrer Park MRT. to a well well mannered, and responsible person with sense of humour that knows what to do in time without supervision and who can also look after the unit and pay up the rent and the bills in time, i will not be living in the unit for the next 12/24 months due to my job contract in England

The property consists of two bedrooms with a gorgeous 5ft wide double bed, fitted wardrobes, fully equipped kitchen with washing machine, dishwasher, fridge/freezer,hob/oven, three bathroom ensuited to each of the bedroom, with power shower cubicle, basin and W.C. A reception room has modern decorations with two comfy leather sofas, coffee table, modern 42" lcd TV.DVD. Hi Fi System and Sky Broadband and Wi Fi internet connection with Built-in,

Location: CITY

SQUARE RESIDENCES Address, 10/12/14 KITCHENER LINK 207226 Singapore

City Square Residences stands tall to give you breathtaking views
with units facing the park, the city or the beautiful landscape
incorporating the pools and water features.
Most blocks are oriented
north-south, and with the soothing sight and sounds of water everywhere,
you’ll experience resort living right at home and right in the city.

City Square Residences stands as a soaring example of
well-integrated living, where everything you need is within your reach.
Shopping will no doubt become a way of life for the entire family at
City Square Residences, where over 700,000 sq ft of exciting shops,
restaurants and even a Cineplex beckon from right next door. A
hypermarket, specialty shops, boutiques, cafes, and shops dedicated to
beauty, health, travel and household needs are all easily within your
reach. Life will never be the same again with so many things to see and
do under one roof. With a location that puts everything you need within
easy reach, City Square Residences is the epitome of convenience and
city living.

City Square Residences is only a short 2-minute stroll away from
the Farrer Park MRT Station and enables easy access to the city. City Square
Residences is accessible via the nearby Central Expressway (CTE) and East Coast Parkway (ECP). Commuting to the Central Business District
(CBD) and the Changi International Airport is convenient and easy.

About me:

I am a lively, fun, decent, tidy & clean, lovable professional Civil Engineer working Construction company , and like to be with fun loving people like myself and have some laugh with friends, I sometimes share moment with glass of wine and talk about happenings around the world. I am into music, movies and most especially sport.

I consider myself as a social person as I love to go to cinema,
watch Tv sometimes and go partying with friends whenever am not working,
I also like to read novels, anything that has to do with the crime and
fiction types,

Facilities:

50M Lap Pool, Bubble Lounger, Jacuzzi, Pool Deck, Ring Fountain
Poll Playground, Kids waterway, Clubhouse, Gymnasium, Bowling Alley, Function
Room, GamesRoom, Karaoke Room, Steam Baths, Table Game Lounge, Fitness
Stations, Teniss Court, BBQ Pits, Putting Green, Covered Car Park and ,
24-Hours Security Services

Price:Rent/month ($ 800.00) for the master room and ($1,500) for
the whole unit . reasonable negotiation is welcome

Condition of Rent:

- The refundable

security deposit of $1000 will be required plus at least 2

months rent at the time of executing a contract.
.
Kindly get back to me if this term is okay by in order to proceed with other aspect of the rent ASAP.

Have a great and wonderful day.

Sincerely,

Ms. Swee,

+447024022967

Here is an excuse as to why you cant view the appartment before paying money;

Thank you for your kind interest in my unit, the master bed room is airconditioned and
I would have love to facilitate the viewing, but due to the fact that i am already in UK, for my new job , and the management will only allow you in to the unit only upon presenting on demand the signed copies of the rental agreement and the payment receipt that certify our mutual agreement with the rent and due to the past inconviniencies this have caused the potential residence of the City square in the past

Hence the management insist that all the rental agreement must have been concluded before detailing a potential tenant to come for viewing when the landlord is not around to conduct the viewing personally , the violator is subjected to a fine ,

If you will like to proceed with the rental contract agreement , kindly provide me with your full names and the intended move in date with the desired duration of the contract i will provide you with my IC and the proof of ownership that will guarantee the transaction ,

Kindly let me know if you have any question and how you intend to proceed asap.


Regards.

Once again restating the same excuse;

From: SweetHoney <[email protected]>
To:
Sent:
Subject: Re: Condo to let Details

The signed agreement and the payment receipt with the copy of my NIRC will be required by the management, before you will granted ab access to the unit, alternatively , and to make this easier and avoid any sort of doubt or breach of trust, you can proceed by putting the rent and the deposit on the name of your friend or any close associate via western union money transfer payable to UK and provide me with the MTCN only for confirmation only online or by phone because without the other details there is no one eligible to pick up the money , upon confirmation of the availability of this fund then we can proceed to the viewing , and if every thing is ok, then you can go ahead and change the beneficiary name to my name, and provide me other sending details.


(NOTE, I DIDNT ASK YOU TO SEND ANY MONEY TO ME INITIALLY)

Let me know if i made my self clear with this .before i proceed with the agreement,

Revert to me asap.

Swee

WoW.. I think they should totally ban TAN TONG NEE from share-accomodation.sg. I wonder why he can still use the same e-mail add for so long as he's long been track as a scammer.

By the way, anyone familiar with Jennifer Larson , e-mail add: [email protected] ?

It's pretty scary to find rooms/ houses through these portal already.

If anyone got any information, kindly post them up!!!

Thanks!

Hi guys,

I'm a journalist from the Straits Times in Singapore and I'm very interested in finding out more about these scams so something can be done about it, since it is still ongoing. Please contact me at [email protected] with your story . Thanks!

hi,

thanks to this forum... my bff told me about it before i proceed with my rental payment to those bastard and bitches! here is some of those emails i received which was a scam!

********************************************************************************************************************************

Details of my available rooms.... I have a 3 bedroom apartment located at BLK 6A Lincoln Road. Park Infinia @ Wee Nam. #15-14. Singapore 308366 , I occupied one of them at the moment, two tenants whom lived with me moved out about a couple of months ago, they traveled back to US. So I just decided to rent out the place as am lonely living in the house alone.Jennifer Larson is my name, 29yrs old, female , professional, straight, Christian, I grew up in United state,I like adventures , honest and clean. Tell me about yourself.

My place is affordable, popular location, Bukit Timah Area,cafes and shops, as well Near Newton MRT .... It comprises of new a kitchen with stainless steel Smeg dishwasher, induction hob, oven, Omega range hood, plenty of cupboards, servery to dining area, neat older style bathroom with bathtub, separate internal laundry, Light and airy floor position, Spacious floor plan includes double size bedroom and built ins, flexible open plan study zone and dining/living areas flow to sunny easterly balcony. Recently refurbished by my husband to a very high standard of interior design. That's all i could say for now until you have a taste of my place.

I'm looking to rent out my place to a neat and responsible person to share my available rooms with...(2 rooms are available out of the 3 at the moment). The minimum stay is two weeks but long term rent will be preferred ($500/Month) utilities included such as Internet access(wireless), Parking space, electricity, water, laundry, dishwasher, kitchen utensils e.t.c , Bond: $500.00 (The Bond is a refundable security deposit).

I have successfully attached some picture of my apartment for you to view what i am talking about.

I wish you the best in your search if my place doesn't suit your preferable location and taste.

God bless you.

Cheers

Jennifer Larson
**********************************************************************************************************************************

Hello,


I am a single professional lady in my early thirties, i m pleased to offer the unit situated in a secured development area close to Farrer Park MRT. to a well well mannered, and responsible person with sense of humour that knows what to do in time without supervision and who can also look after the unit and pay up the rent and the bills in time, i will not be living in the unit for the next 12/24 months due to my job contract in England


The property consists of two bedrooms with a gorgeous 5ft wide double bed, fitted wardrobes, fully equipped kitchen with washing machine, dishwasher, fridge/freezer,hob/oven, three bathroom ensuited to each of the bedroom, with power shower cubicle, basin and W.C. A reception room has modern decorations with two comfy leather sofas, coffee table, modern 42" lcd TV.DVD. Hi Fi System and Sky Broadband and Wi Fi internet connection with Built-in,



Location: CITY

SQUARE RESIDENCES Address, 10/12/14 KITCHENER LINK 207226 Singapore

City Square Residences stands tall to give you breathtaking views
with units facing the park, the city or the beautiful landscape
incorporating the pools and water features.
Most blocks are oriented
north-south, and with the soothing sight and sounds of water everywhere,
you’ll experience resort living right at home and right in the city.

City Square Residences stands as a soaring example of
well-integrated living, where everything you need is within your reach.
Shopping will no doubt become a way of life for the entire family at
City Square Residences, where over 700,000 sq ft of exciting shops,
restaurants and even a Cineplex beckon from right next door. A
hypermarket, specialty shops, boutiques, cafes, and shops dedicated to
beauty, health, travel and household needs are all easily within your
reach. Life will never be the same again with so many things to see and
do under one roof. With a location that puts everything you need within
easy reach, City Square Residences is the epitome of convenience and
city living.

City Square Residences is only a short 2-minute stroll away from
the Farrer Park MRT Station and enables easy access to the city. City Square
Residences is accessible via the nearby Central Expressway (CTE) and East Coast Parkway (ECP). Commuting to the Central Business District
(CBD) and the Changi International Airport is convenient and easy.

About me:

I am a lively, fun, decent, tidy & clean, lovable professional Civil Engineer working Construction company , and like to be with fun loving people like myself and have some laugh with friends, I sometimes share moment with glass of wine and talk about happenings around the world. I am into music, movies and most especially sport.

I consider myself as a social person as I love to go to cinema,
watch Tv sometimes and go partying with friends whenever am not working,
I also like to read novels, anything that has to do with the crime and
fiction types,


Facilities:

50M Lap Pool, Bubble Lounger, Jacuzzi, Pool Deck, Ring Fountain
Poll Playground, Kids waterway, Clubhouse, Gymnasium, Bowling Alley, Function
Room, GamesRoom, Karaoke Room, Steam Baths, Table Game Lounge, Fitness
Stations, Teniss Court, BBQ Pits, Putting Green, Covered Car Park and ,
24-Hours Security Services

Price:Rent/month ($ 800.00) for the master room and ($1,500) for
the whole unit . reasonable negotiation is welcome

Condition of Rent:

- The refundable

security deposit of $1000 will be required plus at least 2

months rent at the time of executing a contract.
.
Kindly get back to me if this term is okay by in order to proceed with other aspect of the rent ASAP.

Have a great and wonderful day.

Sincerely,


Ms. Heng


+44 7024084897

**********************************************************************************************************************************
Hi Flatmate,
I noticed in your profile in Share Accommodation you were in search of a room lucky enough i have a Well furnished apartment suitable and decent for a Perfect roommate, the apartment is ready for immediate move in and it is located at 14 Scotts Rd 228213 Singapore but before i start telling you about it, it is only right that I let you know more about me being your potential flatmate so that you can know somethings about me.

My Name is Tan Nee an easygoing jovial and friendly male. My Hobbies are swimming, reading and traveling. In fact, I have being to France,also recently UK,I also like hanging out with friends and associating with people but I have not had the opportunity to hang out with my friends as I have being busy with my studies and also as I am looking to have my masters very soon. My Dad used to live here in this apartment with my Family but we later moved to UK where he passed away and I am the only one in this apartment although my mother is still in UK overseeing my late father's business and am not around for now and would not be back for sometime. I am in UK now on an internship project attached to a firm of my Dad's Company and I have being sent to supervise and would be back by the end of october 2010. As soon as i have confirmed you as my flatmate for reservation, I will send you the Keys to the apartment by mail

About my apartment, It is a three bedroom apartment and as I live in one room of the apartment, I have two rooms ready for move in, the rooms are furnished with a sofa-bed, two armchairs, dining table with expendable leaves with 4 matching chairs, television with digital receiver, telephone, parquet floors, and there is a window facing north. The apartment is wireless Internet enabled

You will have free and unlimited access to all part of the apartment, the Kitchen, the living room and of course except my room, and you can also have your own visitors.The rent for the room is $700 Per Month and this includes the utility bills(all included) and you will be required to pay a security deposit of $800. This security deposit will be refunded to you at the end of your stay in my apartment.

I hope it suits you well and if you have any more questions you can surely ask me, I also attach the pictures of the apartment and i am willing to send you the tenement contract agreement so that we can conclude and you can eventually move in.
Regards and waiting to read from you soon
NEE


**********************************************************************************************************************************

They even send the proof of ownership and their IC to me... OMG, i almost fell into it... Lucky enough that my bff give me a heads up before i proceed with any payment. I am only worried that they might use my name and my other half name to scam people as i have given her these details to process the tenancy agreement. However, i am still grateful that i did not send a copy of our passport/IC to them.

Thank you again to ALL of u and guys... be careful...

P/S: i still have 1 email in my mailbox which looks like a scam but let me jst wait for her respond, and if it was indeed a scam, i will post it here so everyone will know!

Thanks again and God bless!

Geez, rite after i post the previous posting, here i am receiving new scam emails! I dont even need her reply, i already knew it was a scam.. Name provided was Maria fur ([email protected]). its also has this attachment email (to: [email protected]) could be another victim!

**********************************************************************************************************************************

Thanks for your mail and for your response.. The apartment is ready for immediate move in and like Singapore but before i start telling you about it, it is only right that I let you know more about me being your potential flatmate so that you can know somethings about me.My Name is Fur maria and I am a easygoing female . My Hobbies are swimming,reading and traveling. In fact, I have being to the United Kingdom,USA and also recently in spain .I also like hanging out with friends and associating with people but I have not had the opportunity to hang out with my friends as I have being busy with my studies and also as I am looking to have my masters very soon.. My Dad used to live her in this apartment with my Family but we later moved to London where he passed away and I am the only one in this apartment although my mother is still in London over seeing my late father's business.About my apartment, It is a three bedroom apartment and as I live
> >> in one room of the apartment, I have two rooms ready for move in. The apartment is located in Singapore and the rooms have the following amenities:
> >> Internet connectivity.... (Broadband)
> >> Heating and cooling system.
> >> Electricity
> >> Gas Phone connectivity
> >> Car Space, et..c
> >> You will have free and unlimited access to all part of the apartment, the Kitchen, the living room and course except my room ) and you can also have your own visitors. The rent for the room is 400 and this includes the utility bills(all included) and you will be required to pay a security deposit of 1600 . This security deposit will be refunded to you at the end of vour stay in my apartment Also its Negotiable .I hope it suits you well an d if you have anymore questions you can surely ask me, I would be glad to send you the pictures of my flat and also the tenement agreement so that we
> >> can conclude and you can eventually move in.Regards

**********************************************************************************************************************************

I hope this syndicate of room for rent scam will end! unbelieveable!

Welcome here Nel.

Thanks for posting this information, it will help warn others.

Guys, you arent gonna believe that I was scammed as well... Originally I am from Central Asia, but I am studying in Italy. So, as my summer holidays were going to finish, I began to look for an apartment for staying during my coming back Italy for school. I registered in one web-site, and then received some e-mails. One of them I found truly interesting: beautiful room in the center of town, with all conditions, +bills included, parking, private bath room, and the price was so good! That is why I decided to get this room. The owner - Alexandra Galasso, 22 y.o. female, [email protected], sent me an e-mail, the same e-mail which was sent to Toybox! At that time I didnt know about all this stuff, and just was doing everything she said me. Of course first time I suspected her, but after getting her scanned passport I was sure that everything was fine. She said that I have to send her the deposit in amount of 600 euro and rent for 1st month living, 400 euro, totally 1000 euro. I said that I would send her 400 euro, and would hand her myself the deposit, when I come to the room myself. She said that then I'd better send the deposit first, and would hand another 400 euro at the time of coming. I agreed. She also told me the same story about her faher death and her mom's living in UK, that is why I wasnt chocked with her "good english", cuz actually Italian guys do not speak English well... So, I just went to Western Union office and sent her mom 600 euro (she said that mom is the owner of the flat, thats why I had to send the money to UK, where mom's living), then I gave her all information. She said she would send me the keys and contract to my country by post as soon as her mom get money, after that I have never received any mail from her. I mailed her one million two thousand times, but there is no any reply! After two weeks of muting, I took my laptop and carefully began to check all information through google. Actually I had done it before sending money, but there wasnt any bad information, seems I wasnt so careful, but when I did it second time when money already was sent, I wrote in goole the adress in UK, where I sent money (Saffron Hills blah blah blah), as a result I found you guys! OMG, I didnt want to believe to my eyes! I was sure that Alexandra left Italy and couldnt reply me or may be had holidays, cuz I know how much Italian guys are lazy (Scuza mi Italiani... Sorry, Italians, but its true). But now I know everything... The worst thing that I study in Europe through Internation Program of my Country, and the government pays for my utilities, cuz for me its impossible to pay such money, so, I took that goddamned 600 euro from the government, and now the government will not give me money for first 2 months, cuz I already took them! It means that I will be hungry in stranger country for 2 months! I have no idea what to do... The money which I have earned in the summer time is so poor for living in Italy for two months! I dont know what to do... I have never wished and done something bad to anyone, and now I dont know why it happend to me? Do I deserve it? Just know one thing that God will punish that person so hard! I am even not sure if I can go to police, they never pay attention to foreigners... Is there any authority, which could help me?...

And also, I think you can find it useful:
Alexandra's mom:
Name: MARIA GALASSO
Address: 26 Saffron Hills, EC1N 8QX, London, England, United Kingdom

As well, I got e-mail from another Alexandra Romero, or Amelie (she Said her name is Amelie, but the e-mail was from Alexandra Romero) [email protected] I am more than sure she is swindler too!!!

BE CAREFUL GUYS, I DONT WANNA ANYONE TO BE SCAMMED AS I WAS...

Welcome to Scamwarners Aiya, and I'm sorry you were scammed. But the information you've given us may help other potential victims.
There's no need for scammers to use their real details, so it's highly unlikely there is any connection with Italy or the UK. Western Union payments can be picked up anywhere in the world, regardless of the name and address shown on the payment slip.
It's Saffron Hill, not Saffron Hills, and most people can spell their own address correctly.

Hi All,

THANK GOD FOR THIS WEBSITE and to everyone who posted their stories/comments! Thank you for sharing!

I just want to share that I received a similar email yesterday, September 8, but the scammer used a different name: Anais Elsa. The emails being used by this person are [email protected] and [email protected]. I also got tapped after placing an ad in http://share-accommodation.sg/. I already deactived my ad there as to avoid being tapped further by scammers. Below is the email she sent me:

Hi Flatmate,
I noticed in your profile in Share Accommodation you were in search of a room lucky enough i have a Well furnished apartment suitable and decent for a Perfect roommate, the apartment is ready for immediate move in and it is located in 28 Scotts Road 228223 Singapore,close to shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants,shopping mall,Central train station,Fully furnished with TV , fitted kitchen with all pots/pans, toaster, fridge, dishwasher, dryer, etc.Heated indoor pool and spa, Gym,sauna,fully serviced apartment complex,Large balcony with excellent views,Internet Access,Air Conditioning,Opening Windows,Washing Machine,Ironing Equipment,Tea/Coffee Making,Hairdryerbut before i start telling you about it, it is only right that I let you know more about me being your potential flatmate so that you can know somethings about me.

My Name is Elsa Fontaille and I am a 23 year old easygoing female,My father is from France and my mother is from Singapore. My Hobbies are swimming, reading and traveling. In fact, I have being to Germany,Wales,also recently Scotland,I also like hanging out with friends and associating with people but I have not had the opportunity to hang out with my friends as I have being busy with my studies and also as I am looking to have my masters very soon. My mother used to live here in this apartment with my Family. but my father live in the apartment also later moved to USA where he passed away and I am the only one in this apartment although my mother is still in USA overseeing my late father's business and am not around for now and would not be back for sometime. I am in UK now on an internship project attached to a firm of my Dad's Company and I have being sent to supervise and would be back by the end of November 2010. As soon as i have confirmed you as my flatmate for reservation, I will send you the Keys to the apartment by mail

About my apartment, It is a three bedroom apartment and as I live in one room of the apartment, I have two rooms ready for move in, the rooms are furnished with a sofa-bed, two armchairs, dining table with expendable leaves with 4 matching chairs, television with digital receiver,Air Condition,laudry machine, telephone, parquet floors, and there is a window facing north. The apartment is wireless Internet enabled

Living room description:
Air conditioning ; DVD ; Hifi ; Broadband Internet WIFI ; Tv by Cable ; Phone ; TV ; Bookshelf ; Desk ; Sofa ; Chairs ; Double Glass ; Shelves ; Armchair ; Window ; Parquet flooring ; Coffee Table ; View on courtyard

Bedroom 1 description:Bed, bathroom and households linen ; Double bed ; Double Glass ; Shelves ; Window ; Bedside lamp ; Bed ; Parquet flooring ; Wardrobe ; Cupboards

Bathroom 1 description:
Shower ; Bed, bathroom and households linen ; Hair Dryer ; Tiling ; Single wash basin ; Towel Dryer ; WC

Kitchen description:
Vacuum cleaner ; Kettle ; Iron ; Fridge ; Toaster ; Coffee machine ; Micro wave oven ; Chairs ; Shoulder-height kitchen cupboards ; Floor-standing kitchen cupboards ; Parquet flooring ; Kitchen Table

You will have free and unlimited access to all part of the apartment, the Kitchen, the living room and of course except my room, and you can also have your own visitors.The rent for the room is $700 Per Month and this includes the utility bills(all included) and you will be required to pay a security deposit of $500. This security deposit will be refunded to you at the end of your stay in my apartment.
I hope it suits you well and if you have any more questions you can surely ask me, I also attached the pictures of my flat and also the tenement agreement so that we can conclude and you can eventually move in.

you can also reach me at [email protected]

Regards and waiting to read from you soon,



Elsa


I LEARNED THAT "When something seems too good to be true, it probably is." LET'S ALL BE CAREFUL AND BE VIGILANT OF SUSPICIOUS TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING OUTRIGHT CASH OUT.

After replying to her email, "Elsa" sent me another message which made me highly suspicious:

Hi Flatmate,
Thanks for your mail,the rooms are still available and Like i said,my apartment has 3 rooms and a living room,so i use one room while two is for rent.The rent for the apartment is $700 per month while you would also make a security deposit of $500.This deposit would be refunded to you at the end of your stay in the apartment if nothing is destroyed during your stay.
Before we proceed though,there are some conditions and rules and I will like us to decide on and it just requires your conscent and afterwards we can proceed with the contract and for me to reserve the room you so you can move in as soon as you want to,i will need you to get back to me with the following:

1.You shall sign a document confirming that the room has been reserved for you

2.You shall make your first month payment to me

3.You shall have to read the agreement contract which i shall send to you firstly as an attached mail before you make your payment. For the document to be prepared successfully,I would be needing the following details:

(1) Your move in and out date;

(2) Your current address and also the address where you would like the keys to the apartment,the Original copy of the contract and also the receipt of payment sent to after confirmation of payment from me which you shall sign and bring along with you when moving in finally as my room mate

(3) Your scanned ID passport for identification

(4) Your Full name

(5) The total months you will like to stay in my apartment

(6) Mobile #

The house is located at 28 Scotts Road 228223 Singapore.close to shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants,shopping mall,Central train station,Fully furnished with TV , fitted kitchen with all pots/pans, toaster, fridge, dishwasher, dryer, etc.Heated indoor pool and spa, Gym,sauna,fully serviced apartment complex,Large balcony with excellent views,Internet Access,Air Conditioning,Opening Windows,Washing Machine,Ironing Equipment,Tea/Coffee Making,Hairdryer It overviews the courtyard with a large window. This apartment is ideal for 3 guests.The living room is well furnished and perfect,i am not around for now and would not be back for sometime. I am in UK now and would be back by the end of November 2010.As soon as i have confirmed you as my flatmate for reservation, I would send you the Keys to the apartment by mail and also send the contract documents and receipt as well.

I hope you quite understand me and everything?

There is also a washer and dryer in the apartment for the laundry needs and also to the apartment has a car park.In fact,it has being allotted two car spaces.

I wait to read from you soonest to continue the contract and further details about the documents towards having you as my room mate. You can call me on +447011151047

Warmest regards,

Elsa


Because of this email reply and the sinking feeling that something doesn't feel right, I researched for scammers and came across this website. I am so glad that I did and found out the truth early! Please spread the word and help save innocent people from being scammed.

Damn it, I was suspicious but I stupidly went ahead and sent a copy of my passport and my home address. Has anyone had any bad experience as a result of sending your passport or home address? i.e. Identity Theft/burglary etc... at least I didn't send my bank details or any money

This is the e-mail I first received -

Hi Flatmate,
I noticed in your profile in Share Accommodation you were in search of a room lucky enough i have a Well furnished apartment suitable and decent for a Perfect roommate, the apartment is ready for immediate move in and it is located at 14 Scotts Rd 228213 Singapore but before i start telling you about it, it is only right that I let you know more about me being your potential flatmate so that you can know somethings about me.

My Name is Tan Nee an easygoing jovial and friendly male. My Hobbies are swimming, reading and traveling. In fact, I have being to France,also recently UK,I also like hanging out with friends and associating with people but I have not had the opportunity to hang out with my friends as I have being busy with my studies and also as I am looking to have my masters very soon. My Dad used to live here in this apartment with my Family but we later moved to UK where he passed away and I am the only one in this apartment although my mother is still in UK overseeing my late father's business and am not around for now and would not be back for sometime. I am in UK now on an internship project attached to a firm of my Dad's Company and I have being sent to supervise and would be back by the end of november 2010. As soon as i have confirmed you as my flatmate for reservation, I will send you the Keys to the apartment by mail

About my apartment, It is a three bedroom apartment and as I live in one room of the apartment, I have two rooms ready for move in, the rooms are furnished with a sofa-bed, two armchairs, dining table with expendable leaves with 4 matching chairs, television with digital receiver, telephone, parquet floors, and there is a window facing north. The apartment is wireless Internet enabled

You will have free and unlimited access to all part of the apartment, the Kitchen, the living room and of course except my room, and you can also have your own visitors.The rent for the room is $700 Per Month and this includes the utility bills(all included) and you will be required to pay a security deposit of $800. This security deposit will be refunded to you at the end of your stay in my apartment.

I hope it suits you well and if you have any more questions you can surely ask me, I also attach the pictures of the apartment and i am willing to send you the tenement contract agreement so that we can conclude and you can eventually move in.
Regards and waiting to read from you soon
NEE

Then following my reply the next one from him was -

Thanks for your mail,the rooms are still available either for short or long term basis depending on your choice and Like i said,my apartment has 3 rooms and a living room,so i use one room while two is for rent.The rent for the apartment is $700 per month while you would also make a security deposit of $800.This deposit would be refunded to you at the end of your stay in the apartment if nothing is destroyed during your stay.

Before we proceed though,there are some conditions and rules and I will like us to decide on and it just requires your conscent and afterwards we can proceed with the contract and for me to reserve the room you so you can move in as soon as you want to,i will need you to get back to me with the following:
1.You shall sign a document confirming that the room has been reserved for you
2.You shall make your first month payment to me
3.You shall have to read the agreement contract which i shall send to you firstly as an attached mail before you make your payment. For the document to be prepared successfully,I would be needing the following details:
(1) Your move in and out date;
(2) Your current address and also the address where you would like the keys to the apartment,the Original copy of the contract and also the receipt of payment sent to after confirmation of payment from me which you shall sign and bring along with you when moving in finally as my room mate
(3) Your scanned ID passport for identification
(4) Your Full Name
(5) The Total Months you will like to stay in my apartment
(6) Mobile #

The house is located at 14 Scotts Rd 228213 Singapore . It overviews the courtyard with a large window. This apartment is ideal for 3 guests.The living room is well furnished and perfect,i am not around for now and would not be back for sometime. I am in UK now and would be back by the end of november.As soon as i have confirmed you as my flatmate for reservation, I would send you the Keys to the apartment by mail and also send the contract documents and receipt aswell.
I hope you quite understand me and everything?

There is also a washer and dryer in the apartment for the laundry needs and also to the apartment has a car park.Infact,it has being allotted two car spaces.
I wait to read from you soonest to continue the contract and further details about the documents towards having you as my room mate. You can call me on +447011198055
Warmest regards,
NEE

Then

As soon as you sign the contract and make payment,you will be getting the keys next day fron DHL to the adress you will be providing so i await all your informations today so i can prepare you the signed contract .you can also give me your hotel adress so i can send the keys there


NEE

Then

You will be making the payment via bank transfer but it will take 4-5 days for it to get credited into my account so i will prefer you use western union cos it's faster but you can choose any of the payment method.i await your details


NEE

Then I said

Hello Tan, sorry about not getting back to you yesterday. I am still very interested in the flat, but it's been playing on my mind that I have no assurances that I will receive the keys once I have transferred the money or in fact if the flat even exists. I hope you don't take offense to this and can understand the position I am in. If there was someone here in SG who you could send the keys to who could take me to the flat prior to payment I would be a lot more comfortable. It's too much money just to send internationally on trust alone. Is there any other way you can think of to give me any assurances?
Thank you
[My name]

To which he replied

I am a very honest and God fearing man and i have attached my passport for identification so you don't have to worry about anything and moreso i don't have anybody in singapore for now so i await your informations for me to prepare you the signed contract agreement as the contract is legal

NEE

Then like a stupid idiot I sent a high quality scanned image of my passport and my home address to him because I wanted to see what the contract would look like when he sent it. Anyone think I have anything further to worry about???

p.s. I'm so sorry for the people who have got scammed by this a**hole - it takes a certain type of heartless low life to pull off something like this and even though he may get lots of money he must be very very poor in character.