I saw an advertised real estate in Craigslist, I contacted the phone number posted because I want to get the exact address so that I may take a look at the property. The agent told me that in order for them to assist me to view the property, they need to activate my membership by using my credit card information. They did not tell me that I will be charged, so I gave them my credit card information that is almost at the credit limit, but I thought it was ok because they won't charge me anyways. The agent told me that they will send the instructions via email how they could assist me.
When I checked my email, the email stated that I was charged 80 dollars for membership on a scrupulous website (www.vipoptions.com) that has no indication of any kind of consumer security and later found out that my card was charged by Lotus Interworks. When I called them back, and told them that I am not interested of their service and has no intention of using it because they are not even the seller of the property, the agent told me that there is no refund.
When I checked their phone number on San Diego Craigslist - 1-800-280-0426, I found more than dozens of postings. I checked one of the streets that was advertised, and found out from the neighborhood that there is no house for sale or for rent at that street. It was a very short street so asking around only took around 30 minutes... So, it was after all a big scam... I later found out that my sister in law who is also looking for a house was a victim of this same service.
Other phone numbers that they use are: 1-866-361-2335,1-800-280-0426 and 310-442-3330
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