Victim Location 98115
Total money lost $1,350
Type of a scam Rental
I was following up on an craiglist listing for a house. The person who contacted me said they worked for clearresortrentals, and asked me to fill out a basic renters questionnaire, and then eventually asked for a copy of my drivers license for identification. They had a lease drafted for me and my roommate to review, and asked initially that the first month and security deposit be sent to them via wire transfer. Eventually they said just the security deposit would suffice, showing us a comcast bill paid by the landlord for the property for peace of mind. This was before we had met them and viewed the property, with the understanding (as stated in the lease as well), that the lease would be annulled if the property was not what we wanted upon viewing. The money was sent, they followed up for a few days, and then on the day of the tour they stopped responding. After looking into it, I found a reddit forum talking about the same group and how they were most likely a scam, and I perused their website that although initially looked good at first glance, was riddled with dead links and spelling errors, and was clearly compiled from other real estate sites. Other emails used were [email protected], and [email protected] I have a copy of the lease that was drafted and the emails if needed.
Victim Location 98107
Type of a scam Rental
Craigslist ad for a duplex in Seattle, no address in ad. Pictures & clear details about amenities. Responded promptly to email and asked for certain impersonal details before moving forward. After I sent those, "Laura Johnson" replied telling me the address (likely fake), telling me I have been approved, asking me to go ahead and sign the lease and send over a copy of my drivers license without ever meeting in person.
Victim Location 90066
Type of a scam Rental
I contacted an apartment listing in seattle. I was promptly approved and sent a lease to sign. They wanted a wire transfer or zelle. They have a website that is filled with stock images and fake names and fake properties. Even fake reviews.