Rental Scam - [email protected]

> From: Postoomphom Joseph < [email protected] >
> Subject: Apartment: 6233 Katsura St, Richmond, BC V6Y 4K1, Canada: 2 Beds 2 Baths
>
> Hello,
>
> The apartment (2bed/2bath) at 6233 Katsura St, Richmond, BC V6Y 4K1, Canada is still available. Everything is just like in the pictures fully equipped with all the appliances you need, very clean and well kept. The apartment can be rented furnished or unfurnished. I work as a chemical engineer in petroleum production and the company I work for has a new project in United Kingdom for the next 6 years. I already signed a job contract so the apartment will be available for renting for minimum 6 years. The apartment is vacant so you can move-in anytime you want.
> The rent of 1230$/month is for the whole apartment, utilities included and full access to all the building amenities. The apartment is insured but just in case repairs are needed I will cover the costs no worries. I would like to know how many people will live in the apartment and also which rental contract do you prefer to start with - 6 months or 1 year with option of renewal. The price I'm asking is below the market because I want to find a responsible tenant to take good care of the place. I have a Canadian Bank account for the monthly payments, or we can use any other payment method that is suitable for you.
> I'm the owner of the apartment, it's already paid in full and no mortgage on it. Schools and groceries are near-by. You have everything you need because it's one of the best neighbourhood in the area. Pets are allowed. You'll love it for sure!
> It's the first time I'm renting an apartment so I prefer to use services of a professional property management company to make all the necessary arrangements and this way I'm sure both of us will be satisfied.
> I need to know if you are really interested in the place so I can talk with my family and move foward with the process.
>
>
> Regards,
> Joseph Postom

This person asks for a deposit payment via Western Union, MoneyGram, pre-paid credit card or bank transfer with a promise that you can have the keys to a property that does not belong to him.

Sounds safe. It's not!

At other times, he will ask for proof that you are able to pay the deposit and rent due to a string of time wasters.
This proof is in the form of a Western Union or MoneyGram payment to a lawyer,a friend or family member.

In either case, if payment is made and you give this person the details, they will collect the money.
You will not hear from them again.

All the details such as names, addresses, pictures etc. that the scammer uses in order to back up his story, are stolen from elsewhere.

If you are reading this because you are looking for property to rent, and you are in contact with this thief you are probably searching Craigslist, Gumtree or similar listing sites. If you receive any requests from 'Landlords' asking for some kind of payment before viewing, then it will also be a scam. Please forward the mail to me at the address in my signature line and I will investigate and list them if necessary.