I responded to a craiglist ad about an apartment for rent. Everything seemed legitimate, he even sent me photos of the apartment, except for the low rent considering that the suite is supposedly located at 18 Yonge St. My conversation with the supposed owner John Wesson was going well and he explained to me his reason why the rent is low, i asked why and he explained that he wants someone to look after the apartment in exchange for a cheaper rent while he and his family are away for a few years. It was almost believable until he asked for my personal address so he can send the keys and the contract and for a deposit to secure the transaction, that's when i figured out that this was all but a scam. Please beware of such scams and do not ever disclose personal information online. I almost did, he was a very good con man and he almost outsmarted me. Also, do not open or download any photos he sent. I did, and my computer shut down on me because my computer detected it was a virus. Good thing i had virus protection. He also uses different aliases and email addresses when writing to people.
From: Concerned Citizen
Here's a sample of his first letter tome:
Hello!
I appreciate your interest!
The offer is still available. Don't miss out on this opportunity! I think $685.00 is a good deal!
Please check your attached file, I attached a few pictures of it, just so you can have a good idea of what the place looks like.
The apartment has just been renovated, it looks exactly like in the pictures, totally finished, fully furnished and I have the option of sending all my furniture into storage if you want to bring your own, no extra costs!
It comes with 2 parking spots and has all the facilities and the utilities:
- Washing machine, dishwasher, dryer, refrigerator, stove, oven, juice machine, iron, toaster, coffee maker, microwave, vacuum cleaner.
The all utilities are included in this price (rent/month). No extra fees!
It means:
- Water, sewer, trash, electricity, gas, cable and Internet.
It is very close, in walking distance to local transport, close to school, restaurants, and shopping, with very quiet neighbors and safe area!
The lease is flexible, can be month to month, min stay 3 months, max 7 years. The rent for 1 month is $685.00, for the entire apartment. The price will not increase monthly, it will remain the same for the whole period that the contract will be signed for.
I'm the owner of it, I love this apartment and it means a lot to me! You must understand, I'm not looking to make a business or a profit with it, I just want to find the proper tenant, someone who will treat and care my apartment like it was his own. It is unoccupied, clean, quiet and if you are really interested in this apartment, I want this rental to be as smooth as possible, I really need to take care of this matter by the end of the next week.
I just need your answer and I will send you more details ASAP.
Thanks for your interest!
John Wesson
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