I don't think hotpads.com is the actual scammer, but it's where the scam occured and may still be occureing. My daughter found a rental home at hotpads.com. "Rebecca Wilson" wrote to my daughter that she transferred to London for 3 years and as soon as she received a $1000 deposit by Western Union (I know), the house keys would be sent via overnight mail. I sent 1/3 of the deposit, my daughter's share. I noticed Rebecca's venacular was not quite right... Then after I asked why we couldn't use the safe, secure paypal and all around easier for all parties, and was flatly told "no, " I became more suspicious and asked for the $334 back. Of course, we haven't heard from them.
My daughter found another apartment at hotpads.com and when she wrote the lessor, she got the same message: person was in London on 3 year transfer, etc.
Wanted to warn people of this scam, but it's surprisingly difficult to find any resources or contact information to do so.
0 comments