Consider this post a public service. Two people who I know well were getting close to caught up in a real estate scam on
Craigslist (the poster is the honest one here, the patsy). Both people I know who got sucked up posted in
Google search for Nigerian scams.)
A bit of back and forth ensues where the scammer asks for details about the apartment and shares more about their plans overseas. Dr. J even mentions Merck CEO Raymond V.Gilmartin will arrange things on his behalf; now that's one connected renter right there (forget that Gilmartin is actually the former CEO, one who ironically resigned when Congress started investigating the safety issues with Vioxx). While the Gilmartin mention only appeared in one letter of the two scams sent my way, consider the following excerpts from both of the solicitations:
- Dr. Dennis Johnson: "Due to the limited time that we have before our arrival,we are making arrangements with a furniture company to supply the home with furniture,so we will need you to provide us with the measurements of the living room and bedroom so that we can send it to the furniture company so that they can supply the unit with furniture that will fit in well."
- Dr. Arun Gupta, PhD: "
The scammer says he sent a check for a certain amount to cover the security deposit and a couple months rent, but he used the same check to pay the furniture company too. Yet, surprise, his contact there is going on vacation and needs your help, so you can just refund the difference from the check they're sending you (don't try too hard to do the math here). Also, don't bother Googling company "Debbie Furnitures," as that doesn't exist. He makes it sound so urgent that someone who totally falls for all of this might just send the check before getting the other. It's possible he'll send a check as well, and the recipient will send the refund back before the scammer's check bounces.
That's the gist. For the full post, read the extended entry. The main goal for me here is that these letters are included in 
Dennis johnson [mailto:Dr. Johnson,
I will send you the pictures you asked for and the room measurements later this evening. The bedroom will only need a bed. The closets and cabinets are all built in so that no other furniture is needed. I think you will get a better idea from the pictures.
Dennis johnson [mailto:Dear Dr. Johnson,
Where are you so that I can speak to you on the phone at an appropriate time. You can call me anytime you wish at our home tel # [---------].
Dennis johnson [mailto: CRAIGSLIST ADVISORY --- AVOID SCAMS BY DEALING LOCALLY
Avoid: cashier checks, money orders, escrow, shipping
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