Identity & Passport Theft, used to lure people into Western Union/ Bank Transfer Scams:
1) I would never use my real name as an email address.
2) I never use my middle name.
3) I have almost been scammed by these Western Union/Passport criminals 6 months ago myself.
4) Unfortunately, and fortunately all they got from me is some personal information and a copy of my passport and ID, but no money.
5) I speak perfect english!!!! Grrrrr…
6) I’m American, I would NEVER say CHEERS MATE!!! Wtf?!?!
7) I hate MSN Msngr, and would never continue a conversation there.. I would keep it to email and go str8 to phone. I dont care if it was long distance. Aside from that.. I’m a singer..You can hear my songs on www.myspace.com/kimberlyhallmp3 and you can hear my voice there. I do not have an english/asian/australian..anything accent!!!!
8) I no longer live in Brisbane…I’m now in Canberra.
UPDATE: Just found out that the people who recently scammed an individual out of their money by using my name, were from Bangladesh and Nigeria, according to the bank details and IP addresses used. This is not to say that all of the identity theft scammers are from the same are or even the same people. I believe it’s an organisation that reuses the same methods and information to trick honest people into giving them money. If you read somewhere in the comments from last year, you’ll see that I tracked some of the people who tricked me and they were from the US. So, in conclusion. This is a global problem.
If you have been contacted regarding a room/flat share ANYWHERE….Ireland, France, Australia, UK, etc.from me (Kimberly Ann Hall)… It’s a scam. It’s NOT ME!!!!!
You can read my Bio on the link up above to see who I am and where I’ve been.
I am creating this post on my blog in hopes that if anyone has been contacted by someone saying they are me, then they can google Kimberly Ann Hall, California.. and find that it’s a scam. And that I have no intention on harming anyone in this way. 😦 I’m so upset. But by posting this.. I feel alot better.. as the FTC online complaint form seems to leave something to be desired.. I find no solice on this matter otherwise.
There are many emails with duping information but as they are listed in the comment section I will not repost. Please, if you do comment, leave as much information as possible, being that you found me with your information…someone else can find this blog with yours. Thank you so much to all who have commented. 
October 2010: Another almost-victim. 😦
Someone recently contacted me saying this ( she already sent $850 Euros to London):
(THIS IS NOT ME, BUT A THEFT OF MY IDENTITY)
“Hello, you are Kimberly Hall ? I am french and looking for a student room in Dublin so I would like to know if you have a house in Dublin , because I found an announcement with the name “Kimi” and I added her on MSN the adress is kimberlyhall@live.com. Please contact me because I think there is something wrong.
Thanks.
And I have a copy of your passport… It s not a joke.
This person sent me an e mail saying :
My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall, i was born in California,U.S.A but live all my life in Dublin, Ireland. i’m single, 25years old,i work as a marketer in the company i work for, am flexible, very quiet but friendly. i’m also a member of the near by food coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle.”
“Dear JB,
Enclosed in this mail, you’ll see the lease contract and the copy of my passport ID attached to this mail so that you can know the terms and conditions of living in my flat.
Here is the details to make the initial payment:
kimberly Ann Hall
11 Byng Street, Westferry Road,
London E14 8GG,
United Kingdom
I will be waiting to see your mail and the Western Union transfer details as:
NAME OF SENDER:?
ADDRESS OF SENDER:?
Money Transfer Control Number(MTCN)
AMOUNT:800euros
As soon as your payment is confirmed with me here, i’ll issue you an acknowledgment receipt which will show that you’ve fully reserve the property as your room to move in when you arrive on the 5th of September,2009.
I look forward to reading from you ASAP.
Cheers,
Kimberly”
UPDATE: Another person was almost duped…Thanks to Daniel T – In Denmark for the following info.
SCAM EMAILS:hallkimberly98@yahoo.com
kimberlyhann@live.com
Here is the details to make the initial payment to my attorney:
First name: David L
Last name: Coates
Adress:1721 NE 8th St. Apt B
Zip Code: 33304
City: Fort Lauderdale
State :Florida
More fraud info;
Christopher Stuart Bower
11 Byng Street, Westferry Road,
London E14 8GG,
United Kingdom
There are more emails with duping information but as they are listed in the comment section I will not repost. Please, if you do comment, leave as much information as possible, being that you found me with your information…someone else can find this blog with yours. Thank you so much to all who have commented. 😀
Kimberly Hall's Blog on OZ 
Daniel Tuladhar is my name they’ve got my pasport and healthcard so don’t get into a SCAM involving me. As for Kimberly I didn’t send any money, but was looking forward to seeing you! A copy of your pasport was also included.
The add went something like
Dear Daniel,
Enclosed in this mail, you’ll see the copy of the lease contract duly prepared by my attorneyand my passport ID attached to this mail so that you can know the terms and conditions of living in my apt.
Here is the details to make the initial payment to my attorney:
First name: David L
Last name: Coates
Adress:1721 NE 8th St. Apt B
Zip Code: 33304
City: Fort Lauderdale
State :Florida
I will be waiting to see your mail and the Western Union transfer details as:
NAME OF SENDER:?
ADDRESS OF SENDER:?
Money Transfer Control Number(MTCN)
AMOUNT:$800
As soon as your payment is confirmed,i’ll issue you an acknowledgment receipt which shows that you’ve fully reserved the property as your room to move in when you arrive NYC.
I look forward to reading from you ASAP.
Cheers mate,
Kimberly
AND
Hi Daniel,
I’ve heard all your questions and i think it would be good if we could discuss this further on MSN for more understanding..
Let me know when you’ll be available so that we can talk better,
Cheers,
Kimberly
LikeLike
OMG!!! I’m sooo sorry. 😦 I will report this today with IC3.gov.
LikeLike
what was the email address they used, and/or the link the ad in which you contacted them?? all the information would be helpful.
LikeLike
Hey there…
Nearly the same happened to me last week, when I was looking for a room in NYC on easyrommate.com.
I had email contact with someone, who pretended to be Emily Brown from Great Britain (she even emailed me a copy of her ID) and had a room for rent on 5th Ave & W 31st St, Manhattan, New York, NY 10001 (rate $700 per month). The stated lawyer, who should receive the payment through Western Union, was the same as in your case:
Name: David L. Coates
Address: 1527 NE 6th St. Apt D, Fort Lauderdale,FL 33304
She or however it was, emailed me this text:
Hello,
How are you today? Enclosed in this mail, you will find the tenancy agreement duly prepared by my lawyer, i want you to go through it carefully and then you’ll get to study the terms and condition of living in my place.
If everything is okay for you, you have to sign the tenancy contract and send it back to me through email so that i can also sign.
You will be making the initial payment so that i can be positive about this and also confirm your reservation. You will make the security deposit US $700 and a month rent for 1 room US $700, the payment has to be made to my lawyer.
He’ll prefer Western union money transfer so that he can collect the payment same day.
Here is the details as follow:
Name: David L. Coates
Address: 1527 NE 6th St. Apt D, Fort Lauderdale,FL 33304
I will be waiting to see your mail and the Western Union transfer details as:
NAME OF SENDER:?
ADDRESS OF SENDER:?
MTCN:?
AMOUNT:?
You are to deduct the western union charges from the security deposit which be given to you when you arrive and the rest of the security deposit will be
given to you when your tenancy expires.
As soon as he confirm your payment he’ll issue you an acknowledgment receipt which serve as you’ve rent the room as your room to move in when you get to NY.
I have also attached my international passport photo page with this email because you will need to print it out and taken with the signed lease agreement contract when you are coming. You can locate a western union outlet at any post office around.
Hoping to read from you soon.
Sounds similar, does not it? This seems to be a gang, collecting IDs to misuse them for their crimes… Fortunately they did not get mine… But it costed me $1400, because I located this blog after it was too late…
Never use Western Union Money Transfer for your transactions… it is so easy to play a trick on somebody!!!
And if this happened to you as well…
Please report it to the FBI like I did:
http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx
Right now the add is still online on easyroommate.com, even though I reported it right away…
They do not seem to be so interested in this either…
DON´T GET INTO SCAM INVOLVING EMILY BROWN !!!!
LikeLike
Hello,
Exactly the same happened to me today. I was also looking for a room in NYC on easyroomate.com. The guy pretend to be Heather Nicole Buffington. She was also working as a marketer for the company “I work for”… I have the copy of her passeport! And they have mine… But, fortunately, and thank to your blog, i have not made any payment. I think they will use my own identity for a new ad, maybe an apartment to share in Paris or in Normandy, in France. Be carefull, it is a scam!
Thank you so much for your blog!
I give you examples of mails I received:
“Dear France,
Enclosed in this mail, you’ll see the copy of the contract lease and my passport ID attached to this mail so that you can know the terms and conditions of living in my apt.
Here is the details to make the initial payment:
Acc Holder : David L. Coates
Acc NO : 3402017285
Routine NO :267084131
Swift code WMSBUS 66
Bank name : Washington Mutual Bank
Bank Location : 5055 N. Dixie Hwy., Oakland Park, Fl 33334
United States.
I’ll be waiting to receive the copy of the bank transfer slip in order to confirm your payment.
Immediately your payment is confirmed with him, i’ll issue you an acknowledgment receipt which shows you’ve fully reserved the room as your room to move in when you arrive on the 24th of August,2009.
I look forward to reading from you asap.
Cheers mate,
Heather ”
Or the previous one:
“Hi Again,
I’ve received all the necessary details to proceed with the reservation and i’ll like to know when you can be available on MSN so that we can discuss further on how to fully secure the property for you before your arrival.
I look forward to talking to you ASAP.
Cheers,
Heather
And another one:
Dear France,
Thanks for the prompt in response.My apartment is located in lower Manhattan off Bowery 301 Broome St.NewYork,NY 10013 a few steps from Little Italy and China Town,a very conducive place.It is well furnished with easy access of transportation.features living/dining room,single and Double bedroom with access to a private garden with a shed.The modern kitchen includes a fridge/freezer,stove top,exhaust,microwave,washing machine and dish washer.The apartment has central heating;double glazed windows and,laminated wood floors.
Furniture includes: sofa bed, dining table, 4 dining table chairs,standing light,coffee table,rug,media/TV table,double bed+mattress,two night tables,two table lights,dresser,cupboard,built-in closet,full equipped kitchen (dishes, cutlery, pots, pans,etc.),two garden chairs,curtains,blinds and lighting fixtures.
The apt is three bedroom and i’ll like to lease out both single and double room. I’m the only one staying in the apt at the moment and there is no problem if you want to share the apt with me in as much you’re financially capable to make reservation for the spare room.I’ve attached to this mail more pictures of the apt including your own bathroom and toilet and i hope you’ll like them.Rent is reasonable at $700 per month including all Utility bills plus $800 refundable security deposit to be made before the property is reserved for you. .
My full names are Heather Buffington Nicole, i was born in Colorado,U.S..A but live all my life in NYC. i’m single,25years old,i work as a marketer in the company i work for, am flexible, very quiet but friendly. i’m also a member of the near by food coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible,reliable and respectful.
Let me know if you’re interested so that we can proceed in making your reservation because of other people who are also interested in the room.
I look forward to reading from you.
Regards,
Heather “
LikeLike
I was contacted by these people under the same name “Heather Nicole Buffington” born in Colorado, but lived all her life in Australia. Her uncle left her the apartment she was to share and she was a quiet person and kept to herself. Unfortunately, they are improving her story everyday by using information I have given them regarding “the local food coop” “responsible, respectful” “working in Marketing”. 😦 I tried contacting Heather to let her know what was going on, but was unable to find her on facebook or anything of that sort, but I do know she exists, as I found her records as a student in Colorado. I am so glad you found this blog of some help.. I really am.
UPDATE: Heather Buffington has found my blog and is aware of the situation and filed a report. 😀
LikeLike
Incredible!!
Your blog is such a good idea, without you I may have sent money… Thank you so much Kimberly! That was almost the same story..with a bad english (although I’m far from the fluent level I can notice mistakes..). I have tried to join Heather too, I found her records as a student in Colorado but I do not manage to find her mail or any contact. I am know afraid that they will do the same with my identity… On easyroommate.com there are many ad which are similar: a woman of 25, single, 2 vacant rooms, very well furnished, and a low rent, etc.
The only thing that is curious about me is the fact that when I refused to pay by Western Union, they gave me this bank account details… don’t you think so?
LikeLike
NO, what I find interesting.. is when you look up the lawyers name.. you find this..
http://www.arlingtonpd.org/sexoffen/code/OffenderDetails.asp?offid=1144&skipcheck=YES&ShowMap=1
LikeLike
Waouw…That is terrific! I do not manage to find this when I tried to find informations about him, just find something else and, fortunately, your blog!
LikeLike
Yes, it is at the end of the google page when you type his name…
LikeLike
Hi. I have just also been ALMOST conned by these crooks. Same story with the Marketing job, local coop,MSN messenger,etc. This was in Dublin Ireland though and the story was very convincing until I done a background check of myown and came across this blog.
Everything should be done to stop these criminals harassing genuine people.
I had a lucky escape and will know better in future.
Thanks Kimberly.
Get the message out!!!
LikeLike
Same thing just happened to me! I was looking for a room in NYC on Craigslist and corresponding with a one Michelle Whiting, who requested that I pay her “lawyer” David Coates. I wired the money, asked her if she had received it, the only response I’ve had from her since was an email saying she still didn’t have the funds after the bank confirmed that they had landed. She had drawn up a lease and everything. Please see email below.
Thanks for the mail,i have attached the contract again to rtf format it is very easy i hope you can open read it..i contacted my lawyer she said the accountant of the firm will able to receive the payment through bank transfer,here is the details of the account.
ACCOUNT NAME: David L. Coates
NAME OF BANK : Bank Of America
ACCOUNT NUMBER: 229004445934
SWIFT CODE : BOFAUS3N
WIRE TRANSFER NUMBER: 026009529
Hope to read from you soon.
Michelle
LikeLike
Nice write up…usually I never reply to these thing but this time I will,Thanks for the great info.
LikeLike
Awwww… thanks so much babe.. 😀 That means alot, seeing as I was devastated to hear someone may have been hurt by my stolen identity.. 😀 I hope I’ve helped in some fashion.
I’m on facebook. 😀
Kimi Hall
LikeLike
Dang Girl I got spam rent offers from whoevers trying to steal ur identity… exchanged 2-3 mails with them and then found ur blog.. good thing u wrote this..
Hi Mate,
I’ve shared-accommodation and i thought i should inform you.
The apartment is three bedroom and this is why i want to lease both the single and double room.I’m the only one staying in the apt prsently and this is why i need someone who is neat,clean and tidy to share the apartment with. I’ve attached to this mail more pictures of the room and i hope you will like it.
The apartments is situated at 41 gotha street, brisbane,Central, QLD 4006 centre.It is in cathedral place complex access to gym pool spa sauna,a min walk to centre of the valley and 10 min walk to queen st mall.Rent is reasonable at $500 per month including all Utility bills plus $600 refundable security bond have to be made before the property is reserved for you. .
Let me know if you are interested.
My full names are Heather Buffington Nicole i was born in Colorado,U.S.A and lived all my life in Melbourne Austrlia as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The bedrooms is furnished..it’s has a private bathroom,a deck, bedspread,and also in the sitting room there is plasma tv, internet access,fully fitted kitchen,central heating, tasteful bespoke lighting,washing with dryer machine, microwave oven and a parking space.
I look forward to reading from you ASAP..
Cheers,
Heather
————————
Hi Ankita,
Thanks for the interest in my spare room and there is no problem if you’re arriving next year February in as much you’re financially capable to make reservation for the spare room.
Meanwhile,as i told you before,i work with a marketing company and i’m not around at the moment due to the project we are doing with one of our Associate Marketing company in United Kingdom ,Rio Tinto.
But do not worry because i’ve all the necessary details,lease document including the keys of the apt deposited already with the Fedex Courier Agent who’ll get back to you with all the necessary details and keys of the apt within a day delivery.Let me know if you are interested before we proceed. .
I would have preferred we talk on phone but my mobile has not been active since i have been here.Better still,you can talk to me on MSN and mine is: kimberlyhann@live.com, anytime i am less busy at work.
I look forward to reading from you.
Regards,
Kimberly
LikeLike
Thank you so much for your blog. Because of this I have found that this person is using my passport to lure people into renting a flat in London. I have reported this to the local police and FBI. I thank you so much for your blog.
LikeLike
Check this out i recieved a scam email from the same B.i.t.c.h
Re: heather, ,
Hi Wilbur,
I just want to inform you that i’ve 2rooms available in my apt both(single and double room)
The apt is situated at 41 gotha street,brisbane,Central, QLD 4006 centre.It is in cathedral place complex access to gym pool spa sauna,a min walk to centre of the valley and 10 min walk to queen st mall.Rent is reasonable at $500 per month including all Utility bills plus $600 refundable security bond have to be made before the property is reserved for you. .
Let me know if you’re interested so that i can give you more details and pics of the flat.
Regards, hbuffingtonnicole@yahoo.com.au
Heather
LikeLike
Nice.. Thanks for that Wilbur.. What’s worse, is now they’re changing the lingo and have perfected the english.. UghhhhH!!! Now it’s regards instead of Cheers. lol
LikeLike
Hi Kimberly!
I really want to thank you for the fact that you started this blog! By this blog you protected me to make the same ‘mistake’ as other people did. I also made an account on easyroommate.com.au because I am looking for a room in Brisbane, Australia. The woman introduced herself as followed:
‘My full names are Heather Buffington Nicole i was born in Colorado,U.S.A and lived all my life in Melbourne Austrlia as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.’
When I send an email back that I was interested in the room, she suddenly used your details. It was her cousin, she said. I had to send her my details, so that she could make up a contract. Afster this,she send a contract and asked me to confirm an amount of money 1100 dollar by the method of Western Union. (she explained this with exactly the same words as I read on your blog!)
‘Meanwhile,i would have preferred we speak further on phone but my mobile just got spoilt yesterday.Better still,you can talk to me on msn:kimberlyhann@live.com,anytime i am less busy at work.’
I had to transfer money to her Lawyer:
‘Hi Cindy,
Enclosed in this mail, you’ll see the copy of the lease contract attached to this mail so that you can know the terms and conditions of living in my apt..
Here is the WU details to confirm your payment to him:
Christopher Stuart Bower
11 Byng Street, Westferry Road,
London E14 8GG,
United Kingdom
I will be waiting to see your mail and the Western Union transfer details as:
NAME OF SENDER:?
ADDRESS OF SENDER:?
Money Transfer Control Number(MTCN)
AMOUNT:$1100
As soon as your payment is confirmed with my lawyer,i’ll issue you an acknowledgement receipt and all the necessary details to move in, which shows you’ve fully reserved the property as your room to move in when you arrive on the 30th of January 2010.’
You see, the same address in London!! The address of the room is:
41 gotha street, brisbane,Central, QLD 4006 centre.
So I am happy that you started this blog and I hope many people will read this so no more innocent students will lose their money..
LikeLike
WOW, Thank you sooooooo much for writing about your situation… These people are relentless!!!!
Please report this to your local online web police for identity theft.. these people must be stopped!!!
LikeLike
I received an email from Linda with the email address
hbuffingtonnicole@yahoo.com.au
regarding a room in Brisbane on EasyRoomMate
http://au.easyroommate.com/content/common/listingdetail.aspx?code=H10011463353196&from=L0909299197260
Is this a scam?
LikeLike
SCAM!!!!!!!
Heather Buffington doesn’t even live in Australia!!!
Do not talk to anyone if they won’t talk on the phone or want you to wire them money!!
LikeLike
I got this email today, with photos. The photos were not even of an apartment in Brisbane.
Dear Jeff,
Thanks for the interest in my spare room and there is no problem if you want to stay in my apt in as much you’re capable to secure the property.
The apartment is three bedroom and this is why i want to lease both the single and double room.I’m the only one staying in the apt prsently,this is why i need someone who is neat,clean and tidy to share the apartment with.
The apartment is situated at 41 gotha street, brisbane,Central, QLD 4006 centre.It is in cathedral place complex access to gym pool spa sauna,a min walk to centre of the valley and 10 min walk to queen st mall.Rent is reasonable at $600 per month including all Utility bills plus $600 refundable bond has to be made before the property is secured for you. .
My full names are Heather Buffington Nicole i was born in Colorado,U.S.A and lived all my life in Melbourne Austrlia as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The bedrooms is furnished..it’s has a private bathroom,a deck, bedspread,and also in the sitting room there is plasma tv, internet access,fully fitted kitchen,central heating, tasteful bespoke lighting,washing with dryer machine, microwave oven and a parking space.
I look forward to reading from you ASAP..
Regards,
Heather
LikeLike
You have no idea how much praise I have for this blog. Kim you are a godsend. I got several different responses from the same person and it was only once i copied the text of the email into google your blog revealved them to be a hoax. Whoever this person is should fuck off and die. The common theme appears to be usually one of the following.
1. An international traveller who cannot reveal a contact number thus relying completely on emails. SCAM.
2. There is a phone number, but its an international number with more digits than my credit card discouraging anyone from ringing it because of the charges. If you ever do ring it usually its just a grainy answering machine that allows for any misunderstandings ie. “Hello?…..(grainy sounds)….. You ring about room?…….(grainy sounds)…… Hello?”. By then the conversation is so frustrating you’ve hung up and just gone with the emails instead. SCAM
3. They will claim to be religious and the transaction will be intrusted with faith in you as the consumer. Give me a break. Christians might give you the shirt off their back but noone is going to let you rent an apartment for $100 bucks a week with little to no bond unless they’ve just had a labotamy. SCAM
4. Look carefully at the photos. the windows dont match the outside. The qualities of the pictures differ. SCAM
5.Anyone you is offering you a good deal who you dont know personally. SCAM!!!!
Love you so much Kim. xoxox
PS. Why when they try to sound Aussie do they insist on misspelling? Sure we have a shortened colloquial dialect but we’re not idiots.
LikeLike
I absolutely love you for your comment… LOLZ.
I wholeheartedly agree on all your points. It’s just unfortunate that they somehow still keep hoaxing people into this situation. Were they unsuccessful, then I wouldn’t keep finding new comments and hits on my blog. It’s sad. 😦
But I am soooooo glad that I was able to help at least one person, and so far, I think the count has hit about 10?!?! Maybe more for people who don’t post comments. Thank you, you have helped me start a happy day. Glad I could be of help.
-Kimi
LikeLike
As you know I also got scammed and have spent a bit of time exposing the scammers to the world at large. I hope they hate me, because the $4,000USD they got from is now peanuts to what I expect they’ve now lost.
The main rule I tell everyone and anyone is this: if anyone asks you to pay via Western Union or any other form like that (such as Money Gram) then it’s a scam – full stop. Western Union will not assist you, they’re set up to assist the scammers and they could care less that you’ve been ripped off. NEVER PAY VIA WESTERN UNION.
Always find a bank account or pay via credit card, something that has some form of protection, Western Union and other money wire transfer systems have no protection at all, other than to protect the scammer.
And I’m sorry if anyone from Western Union is reading this, but it’s the truth, and they bloody well know it.
Sorry to hear how they’re still ripping you off Kim – hopefully it’ll work out in the end.
LikeLike
Love Google, I received the exact same email as wilbur today, googled the email address and took me straight to this page. *Thank You* for saving me the time and hassle. I thought the deal was too good to be true!
heather sent you a message on StudentFlatmates.com.au.
——————–
Re: heather, ,
Hi James,
I just want to inform you that i have 2rooms available in my 3bedroom flat both(single and double room)
The apt is situated at 41 gotha street,brisbane,Central, QLD 4006 centre.It is in cathedral place complex access to gym pool spa sauna,a min walk to centre of the valley and 10 min walk to queen st mall.Rent is reasonable at $500 per month including all Utility bills plus $600 refundable security bond have to be made before the property is reserved for you. .
Let me know if you’re interested so that i can give you more details and pics of the flat.
Regards, hbuffingtonnicole@yahoo.com.au
Heather
LikeLike
Lol I just woke up and found the same damn email as James, this sucks cause it is hard to find a place to live.
LikeLike
Hey, I read a lot of blogs on a daily basis and for the most part, people lack substance but, I just wanted to make a quick comment to say GREAT blog!…..I”ll be checking in on a regularly now….Keep up the good work! 🙂
LikeLike
Hey very nice blog!!….I’m an instant fan, I have bookmarked you and I’ll be checking back on a regular….See ya
LikeLike
I have just filed a complaint to IC3 on this scammer named Marguerite Phillipines , room for rent in New York. She found me on easyroommate.com (and I got scammed US$400 unfortunately!!)
Hello Ana,
Thanks so much for the signifying your interest in my vacant room, i so much appreciate it and i’ll be able to give your more details about the flat.My name is Marguerite Phillipines,26yrs, i like traveling, going out, …. Looking for someone independent, friendly, open minded. I have a huge two rooms to rent, the rooms are fully furnished, all the bill are included, gas, electricity, water, telephone, Internet wireless.
I can understand you point by paying just the monthly rent now and the refundable security deposit later,but you have to promise that you won’t fair to meet up with that.There is parking available and also i don’t have any problem with your sister coming over to spend some time with you as you have explain,but she must be tidy and friendly.
The apartment is located at 43 East 19th St,Manhattan,New York 10003.the room is available from first of April 2010.each room has a very bid bed that can sleep two people with a television connected to cable,a small refrigerator apart from a big freezer in the kitchen a private bathroom with toilet drawer,however the apartment itself has the following for your benefit:a big living room fully furnished with a television connected to cable,internet facility available.apartment located on the ground floor. Comprising fitted kitchen with appliances, lounge with feature fireplace, double bedrooms with fitted cupboards and brand new fully tiled bathroom with bath and shower. Gas central heating. Stripped wood floors & tiled floor surfaces throughout…. Rent to include all bills. Situated close to an excellent selection of shops, bars and restaurants in New York .The rent is $800. and $900. for the refundable security deposit,
I’ve attached to the mail some pictures of the flat and i hope that you will love it?.. Thanks while waiting to read from you.
Regards,
Marguerite Phillipines
LikeLike
The same scammer, now in Amsterdam.
First mail:
Hello Ali,
Thanks so much for the signifying your interest in my vacant room in Amsterdam, i so much appreciate it and i’ll be able to give your more details about the flat.My name is Marguerite Phllipines,26yrs, i like traveling, going out, …. Looking for someone independent, friendly, open minded. I have a huge two rooms to rent, the rooms are fully furnished, all the bill are included, gas, electricity, water, telephone, Internet wireless.all that you said about yourself sound pretty good to me.
The apartment is located at Deurloostraat 104 H Amsterdam.the room is available from May 2010so once we have get concluded i will be able to reserve it till when moving in, each room has a very bid bed that can sleep two people with a television connected to cable,a small refrigerator apart from a big freezer in the kitchen a private bathroom with toilet drawer,however the apartment itself has the following for your benefit:a big living room fully furnished with a television connected to cable,internet facility available.apartment located on the ground floor. Comprising fitted kitchen with appliances, lounge with feature fireplace, double bedrooms with fitted cupboards and brand new fully tiled bathroom with bath and shower. Gas central heating.. Stripped wood floors & tiled floor surfaces throughout….. Rent to include all bills. Situated close to an excellent selection of shops, bars and restaurants in Amsterdam .The rent is €400 and €500 for the refundable security deposit.
I’ve attached to the mail some pictures of the flat and i hope that you will love it?Thanks while waiting to read from you.
Regards,
Marguerite Phllipines
Second mail:
Hello Ali,
Thanks for the response and also for your much interest.all that you said about yourself sound pretty good to me and i believe that we’ll be able to reach a compromise and work things out as a roommate cos you sound nice and we really have a lot in common cos i love music so much and hanging out too.I drink occassionally not at all time.Am sorry i don’t have skype on this computer but i’ll try and download it.
Concerning your question,there is a desk in the room so you don’t have to worry about that.am okay by you rent the room of €400 but you will be paying €500 for the refundale security deposit in case of any damage which will be refund back to you at the end of the contract.
The room can be reserve for you till when moving in once we have get things concluded.I understand the fact that there can be some non-serious on the internet,but nothing in life will ever make me to be one cos i have a well good job that i can get all i need in life from that’s why all money transaction will be through bank which is traceable.Hope you understand?So if you’re willing to proceed kindly get back to me in other to ell you the procedure.Thanks
Regards,
Marguerite
LikeLike
Thanks google I found this website. I received that E-Mail above a few minutes ago, too. I’m searching for an accomodation in Amsterdam and contacted a few ads – and this shit is not what I am looking for
LikeLike
Hi guys,
I work for Easyroommate and scammers are no.1 enemy for our business. Although we do our best to remove dodgy listings from the site, there are always some that manage to go through and contact people. We always remind users about some essential rules when looking for accommdoation online:
* Payment by Money transfer: Money transfers can’t be traced (e.g. Western Union) and that’s why scammers use this method to receive payment. Be very cautious if a housesharer requests you use money transfer service. Be prepared to ask if they will accept an alternative payment means. Also never pass on a receipt for a money transfer even if the transaction was carried out with friends or family – receipts allow scammers to access the funds.
* Paying money upfront: Deposits are widely accepted standard in renting, paying money upfront to secure a room is certainly not! Arrange a viewing and see the house before you pay any money upfront.
* Always actually visit the house: The best way to ensure the house really exists is to visit the property and meet the person letting it out. Be suspicious whenever a person refuses to let you visit the house.
* It looks too good to be true: Sounds too cheap? Looks absolutely fantastic like it’s a five star hotel? Steer clear of very cheap rents for the area or very professional looking photos.
* Landlord based abroad: Most scams come from abroad. So if someone tells you they are abroad on holiday or on a business trip be very suspicious, especially if they say you can’t see the room because they are out of the country.
* Pushiness: For example if the housesharer states you must pay by money transfer and nothing else be careful. Scammers must make you do things in a certain fashion if you’re uncertain be assertive and ask questions, remember you can
Hope this will help!
LikeLike
Thanks for the post, Kimberly!
I received the same crab today as I was looking for a flat in Auckland. Luckily I did a google search on this before I actually reply with my personal info that this “mock Kim” is asking for. Her 1st & 2nd email to me as follow:
Hi Mate,
i’ve accommodation available in my apt and i hope you’ll like to share it with me.
The apartment is located at 11 Bankside 1001 Auckland City centre, Auckland, New Zealand. It is closed to everything and just 10mins walking distance to the nearest train station. It is only 5 min walking from the city (central station).Suitable, Comfy, Nice place for anybody to live in the city & convenient also.Close to the heart of the city as well as local parks, playgrounds, golf course all room mates are neat, clean & easy going.
The apt is fully furnished unit in very modern appartment is extremely comfortable & it has all appliances needed.This place is close to shops and is fenced and is close to public transport. Easy going & TIDY people staying.My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall i was born in California but live all my life in New Zealand.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500. It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim
The 2nd email goes like this:
Hi Cassie,
Thanks for the swift response and there is no problem if you’re arriving on the 17th of October in as much you’re neat and capable to make reservation for the spare room.
In other words,you’ll need to provide the following details so that we can proceed with the contract lease and you can know the terms and conditions of living in my apt by making a month plus the refundable bond deposit as upfront so that the room can be fully reserved for you.Here are the details below:
Full Name
Current Address
Sex
Date Of Birth
Move In Date
As soon as this is provided,we’ll need to proceed with the second phase of the documentation and how to fully reserved the room for you.
On the other hand,i would have preferred we speak further on phone but my mobile just got spoilt yesterday.Nonetheless,you could talk to me on msn: kimberlyhann@live.com,anytime i am less busy at work.
I look forward to reading from you,
Regards,
Kim
I noticed that I got the scam email right after I registered to http://www.share-accommodation.co.nz
This bunch of thieves could have been tracking all these sites for new members who are looking for accommodation.
I’m so glad that I found your blog! For sure I’ll not transfer money upfront to her, but I may have given her all my personal info just for the use of what she called the “lease contract”!!
I’m gonna share your blog link on my Facebook. We really have to spread this out, before any body else could have get conned.
LikeLike
Oh Cassie,
It truly saddens me that this is STILL happening. It’s been almost 2 years that I’ve moved to Australia, and these SHARE ACCOMODATION THIEVES are still trying to scam others with my identity! 😦
I’m really glad I decided to post this blog entry on this situation, as soooo many people have benefitted from it, like yourself. 🙂
lolz @ their english is getting worse.
Funny thing is, 90% of the time if I meet someone online, I will ask them to talk to me on Facebook before phone. AND, I truly despise MSN now because of this.
It’s bad enough that most people who choose to converse on MSN are perverts to begin with, lolz. But now with this??!! Hah….
Spread the word Cassie. Thanks for writing. 😉
-Kimi “The REAL KIMI” 😉
LikeLike
hey, Kimi~!!!
I was cheated by the same case here!
I’m from Hong Kong as a backpacker maker coming this November, and last week I saw the email sent from you that you are renting for a room for AU $500.
I deposited AU $500 to her “husband” account.
Once the transfer is made, she suddenly told me I have to pay an extra $500 for one more rent. But tenancy agreement didn’t state about that. She pushed on me that that is not her fault or problem, it’s the lawyer requests her that the tenants need to do so.
I think everything is so weird. She didn’t give me her telephone. She told I have to transfer the money to her husband account. She asked me to send an extra $500 to her for 2 months rent.
Everything is weird………………..
I did search your blog before transferring the money, but i’m so stupid i didn’t read through your blog. I was cheated…….heart-broken…………..
Your identity was hacked……………
LikeLike
I am wondering if i have to report the case to the police force.
i am so scare…..actually i deposited AU1000 to her, not AU500
I think my identity was thefted as well as they have my HK address and bank account details.
I wanna cry……
LikeLike
Oh sweetheart, I’m soo sorry… Yes they hav enow stolen your identity. 😦
Please report this to the local police where you live and where you were to rent an apartment.
They will lead you to where you can report this online as well.
I really wish you would’ve read the blog darling. 😦 I’m so sorry.
On a good note tho, another person in the past who lost her money, was refunded by Western Union. Maybe, something good will come from this inthe end for you.. keep fighting.
Keep me updated. Goodluck.
-Kimi
LikeLike
Thank you for this web page, Kimberley.
Another story from Auckland:
First email
“Hi Mate,
i’ve accommodation available in my apt and i hope you’ll like to share it with me.
The apartment is located at 11 Bankside 1001 Auckland City centre, Auckland, New Zealand. It is closed to everything and just 10mins walking distance to the nearest train station. It is only 5 min walking from the city (central station).Suitable, Comfy, Nice place for anybody to live in the city & convenient also.Close to the heart of the city as well as local parks, playgrounds, golf course all room mates are neat, clean & easy going.
The apt is fully furnished unit in very modern appartment is extremely comfortable & it has all appliances needed.This place is close to shops and is fenced and is close to public transport. Easy going & TIDY people staying.My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall i was born in California but live all my life in New Zealand.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500. It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim”
Second email
“Hello Jakub,
It’s nice reading from you once again and there is no problem if you’re both interested in sharing the apt with me in as much you’re neat and capable to secure the room before another person do so.
In other words,i would’ve loved to discuss all the process on phone but my mobile just messed up lately.Nonetheless,you can talk to me on MSN: kimberlyhann@live.com so that we can talk more better on how to fully secure the room for you.
Looking forward to reading from you.
Kind Regards,
kim”
LikeLike
Excuse my language… but… I wish these assholes would stop already!! 😦
LikeLike
Kimberly,
You have no right to say that all the scams are from Bangladesh or Nigeria…Even in your own country,there are scammers and swindlers there and everywhere so dont shift the whole shit to the two countries
LikeLike
You are exactly right!
I only recently updated that line after someone who recently was swindled out of money was told by the police that after they researched the ISP’s involved, that that’s where they were from. I had no intention on assuming that Bangladesh and Nigeria was the sole place for these scam artists. I’m sorry if it seemed as if that’s what I meant. I will reword my entry.
LikeLike
Hi Kim,
Thank you so much for posting this up. I have been receiving emails from “you” but hadn’t replied to any as I was suspicious already. Who sends her own picture in the first email, after all?
Anyways, glad to have googled today and found out the truth! The email is copied below for the record. It has pictures of the apartment and yourself.
Later,
A. Moiz
—– Forwarded Message —-
From: Kimberly a Hall
To: kim.ahall25@y7mail.com
Sent: Thursday, September 30, 2010 2:32:17
Subject: From shareaccommodation details and pics of the apt…
Hello there!
Thanks for the interest in my spare room and there’s no problem if you want to share the room with me in as much you’re neat and capable to secure the room.
The apartment is located at Zest 72, Nelson street 1010 Auckland City centre, Auckland, New Zealand. It is closed to everything and just 10mins walking distance to the nearest train station. It is only 5 min walking from the city (central station).Suitable, Comfy, Nice place for anybody to live in the city & convenient also.Close to the heart of the city as well as local parks, playgrounds, golf course all room mates are neat, clean & easy going.
The apt is fully furnished unit in very modern appartment is extremely comfortable & it has all appliances needed.This place is close to shops and is fenced and is close to public transport. Easy going & TIDY people staying.My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall i was born in California but live all my life in New Zealand.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500. It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim
LikeLike
I’m so very glad u found my blog as well.
Ughhh I hate how they keep doing this. 😦
LikeLike
I am speaking whit kim.ahall25@y7mail.com is the same history, but only i send mi name bithday and addres that is in mi facebook. but Idont know what i have to do? help me please
LikeLike
Do not continue to talk to this person. I’m sorry you divulged your personal information to this scammer, but they can’t really do anything without your photos. You’re lucky.
LikeLike
I got conned by Kimberly Ann Hall too! Luckily I was a bit suspicious when her english wasnt too good, and also since she wouldnt give me a contact phone number just wanted to talk on msn. Then she wanted me to pay the bond before i moved in, and the lease form was in word!!! So anyone could just change the details. I got the 41 Gotha street brisbane scam. EVERYBODY TELL EVERYBODY TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS PERSON SCAMMING PEOPLE ALL OVER THE WORLD THIS IS NOT ON. Luckily i am not dumb and wouldnt pay the bond straight away with little information. I couldnt believe it when I found this website!!! Like I thought oh itll be alright it must be all in my head that this doesnt seem right. But this is taught me to stick with my gut feeling!! Thanks Kimberly for spreading awareness this has happened, and I am so sorry they are using your name!!
LikeLike
I’m so glad you found my blog too! 🙂
It really sucks that they’re making me look like an evil person, when in reality, I bend over backwards to help others. It’s a shame. 😦
LikeLike
I was contacted by a scammer named Marguerite Phillipines using e-mail address againmag2@yahoo.com. She offered a room in Amsterdam but wanted me to transfer money to
her first by Western Union. As we e-mailed more, i found her more and more suspicious. I googled her named and found this blog. Thank you some much for warning people, lucky i didn’t transfer any money yet. This is the original e-mail she send me:
Dear Kyra
Please my dutch is not good that’s why am writing in english.Thanks so much for the signifying your interest in my vacant room in Amsterdam, i so much appreciate it and i’ll be able to give your more details about the flat.My name is Marguerite Phllipines,26yrs, i like traveling, going out non smoker, ….. Looking for someone independent, friendly, open minded. I have a huge two rooms to rent, the rooms are fully furnished, all the bill are included, gas, electricity, water, telephone, Internet wireless.will like to know if you’re tidy and friendly and how long you intend to rent the room?
The apartment is located at Deurloostraat 104 H Amsterdam .the room is available from October 2010 so once we have get concluded i will be able to reserve it till when moving in. each room has a very bid bed that can sleep two people with a television connected to cable,a small refrigerator apart from a big freezer in the kitchen a private bathroom with toilet drawer,however the apartment itself has the following for your benefit:a big living room fully furnished with a television connected to cable,internet facility available.apartment located on the ground floor. Comprising fitted kitchen with appliances, lounge with feature fireplace, double bedrooms with fitted cupboards and brand new fully tiled bathroom with bath and shower. Gas central heating.. Stripped wood floors & tiled floor surfaces throughout….. Rent to include all bills. Situated close to an excellent selection of shops, bars and restaurants in Amsterdam .The rent is €500 and €600. for the refundable security deposit for each room.
I’ve attached to the mail some pictures of the flat and i hope that you will love it?Thanks while waiting to read from you.
Regards,
Marguerite Phillipines
Other people looking for a room in Amsterdam, please beware of this ‘woman’ !!!
LikeLike
Same here folks!!
I’m travelling to NZ from Mexico and Kim’s announcement came up in the easyroommate page, I found the price really good and this person claiming to be Kimi arranged me to deposit 1000 dollars via WesternUnion, she urged me to reply since “the room is considered by two more people”. When I added her to the MSN, she was blunt, had a very bad english though she was “american, from California, living my whole life in New Zealand”. I asked her about the weather and she couldn’t give me an answer on aprox. how cold it gets on winter in celsius. I found that suspicious, she also told me that there was a german girl, whose name she didn’t give me, that was going to rent the other room. She refused to give me her name so I could contact her and ask her if she was comfortable with doing a payment from germany to an address- her “lawyer’s adress” in Australia, not even NZ, via WesternUnion.
The worst thing folks, is that I was going to do it, I was going to send that money and hope for the best. No guarantees, she seemed desperate in getting the money, not kind enough to give me proofs that this was legal, but still I was just hours apart from doing the deposit. Somehow, since I didn’t feel completely comfortable, went to the bank to withdraw the money and then go to western union, but I stopped at my office and typed “Kimberly Ann Hall” in the google search. This page came up.
Thank God for this page!
LikeLike
THANK GOD YOU DID!!!!
ahhhhhhhhhh, this drives me crazy that they’re still doing this. 😦
LikeLike
hahah, the best part is where she says her dutch isn’t so good, so she chooses to speak in english.. HAH, that’s probably just as bad.
LikeLike
Hi kim,
Just wondering if you if the scammer also goes under the name of Ruth Fitzgerald?? As I have received a similar type email from someone under this name, I recognised the language they used from the whole “Hope to read from you again soon”
Rachel
LikeLike
They have many people’s identities. Anytime someone is approached regarding renting a possible room, they gather their information and photos (like they did with me) and thus a new identity is born. 😦
LikeLike
i was also scam by EMILY BROWN, she was offering me a “nice apartment” un Manhattan very cheap (700 dolars a month) and she asked my passport number, full name, driver license to make a tenancy contract! she is a fraud, i think she was a easyroomate member, she also give me her MSNmessenger ID (emilimeters001@live.com)…. i put EMILY BROWN on google and there were 5 pages of emily brown scammer complains,
BE CAREFULL!
thanks for the page 🙂
LikeLike
Hey guys,
Poor Kim. The wrong Kim sent me an email today. I directly noticed it was a scam. I’m not English, however the English of this person was so poor for someone living in Australia. By the way, nowadays it’s really easy to steal personal information because of social networks such as Facebook. Never trust someone. Besides, I’m not sure that the real one portfolio of Kim. I hope you haven’t got my IP address 😦
ahahah
LikeLike
haha, sorry you were contacted by the fraudulent Kim.
Trust me, I don’t care about anyone’s identity but mine, let alone IP addresses. 😉
LikeLike
Hey Guys! Thanks a lot for your comments!
I am looking for the room in Paris now and just contacted this Marguerite Phillipine and got the email from her which is right the same as you got from her:
Hello Malika,
Thanks so so much for the signifying your interest in my vacant room in Paris which is still available, i so much appreciate it and i’ll be able to give your more details about the flat.My name is Marguerite Phillipine,26yrs female working as a facilitator i like traveling, going out non smoker, ….. Looking for someone independent, friendly, open minded. I have a huge two rooms to rent, the rooms are fully furnished, all the bill are included, gas, electricity, water, telephone, Internet wireless.
The apartment is located at 13,rue Auber 75009 Paris.the room is available from now so once we have get things concluded then i can reserve the room for you. each room has a very bid bed that can sleep two people with a television connected to cable,a small refrigerator apart from a big freezer in the kitchen a private bathroom with toilet drawer,however the apartment itself has the following for your benefit:a big living room fully furnished with a television connected to cable,internet facility available.apartment located on the ground floor. Comprising fitted kitchen with appliances, lounge with feature fireplace, double bedrooms with fitted cupboards and brand new fullytiled bathroom with bath and shower. Gas central heating.. Stripped wood floors & tiled floor surfaces throughout….. Rent to include all bills. Situated close to an excellent selection of shops, bars and restaurants in Paris.The rent is €500 and €700. for the refundable security deposit.
I’ve attached to the mail some pictures of the flat and i hope that you will love it?.thanks while waiting to read from you.
Regards,
Marguerite
PS.we can chat via skype if you have the time and my ID is lifebeautil1
Thanks again people! you prevented me being the next one!
LikeLike
hey, looks like you’ve been in this shit loop for quite some time kim. I just got into melbourne about 2 weeks ago from canada, been looking for a place and came across another http://www.shareaccommodation.com ad posted under your name.
kimberlyhann@live.com
Gtalk:kim.hall0000@gmail.com
our email responses have been the following:
Dear Mate,
i’Ve accommodation available in my apt and i hope you’ll like to share it with me.
The apartment is located at 6/36 Berkeley street Melbourne 3000 Australia.it closed to everything,houses,safeway post office, state library and QV square.
My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall.i’m a female and i was born in california but live all my life in Australia.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500.It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim
——————–
Hey Kimberly, great to hear from you.
Me and two of my mates have just arrived from Canada. We’re looking
for a nice place to rent, either one two or three of us are looking to
occupy your available room/s.
We are very responsible and also like to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
We have tenancy and work references from back home if needed. Please
contact us as soon as possible via this email or by mobile @ 04 ****
****.
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Dale, Patrick & Dylan. = )
(+ photo attached of us )
———————————-
Hello Dale,
Thanks for the swift response and there is no problem if the three of you rent the double room in as much you’re all neat,tidy and capable to secure the room before another mate do so.In addition,the bedroom is fully furnished with private bathroom and toilet;the rent is $500 and it is no problem sharing the apt with me.
In other words,i would’ve loved to discuss all the process on phone but my mobile just got messed up lately.Nonetheless,you can talk to me on MSN: kimberlyhann@live.com or Gtalk:kim.hall0000@gmail.com so that we can talk more better on how to fully secure the room for you.
Looking forward to reading from you.
Kind Regards,
kim
—————————————-
glad I came across this blog, all the best.
LikeLike
I’m glad you found my blog too.. 😦 Sorry you had to go through this. 😦
LikeLike
Hello all,
Thank u so much for this blog!!
I got scamed as well by Marguerite Phillipines, while I was looking for an appartment in Paris, it seemed way to good! I found her through craiglist, i thought this website would be trustful!
Be careful people, this wolrd is crazy!
LikeLike
She is now using operating on New Zealand flatting websites, using the tags kim.hall0000@gmail.com and kim.hall0000@yahoo.com (those are four zeroes after her name). I’m rather glad I found this site – I was 99% sure she was a fraud, but not quite certain! Nobody in New Zealand uses the word “mate” with such inane frequency. These were the payment details she requested, to her “family’s lawyer” in Te Puke:
Acct name:Prakash Gurung
Bank name:The National Bank of New Zealand
acct number: 060453013986500
Bank Swift Code: ANZ BNZ 22
Cnr Jocelyn & Jellicoe Streets PO Box 74 Te Puke, New Zealand.
Amount:$1000 NZD
There is no lawyer by that name in New Zealand, much less in Te Puke! Not quite sure what I should do with these now – report them to the NZ police? Interpol? Is there any point?
LikeLike
yes please report this… the more we can do to stop these fraudulent activities, the better chance we have that they will eventually stop.
LikeLike
Thanks for this website – it’s good that we can share information about this bunch of crooks! It is disturbing that this fraud has been going on for so long. Also, I’d add that they are using your photograph – the one you use as your avatar picture – which was sent to me with photos of “the apartment”.
LikeLike
Thanks for the heads up! I was literally just ALMOST scammed by Marguerite Phillipines, luckily I didn’t send her any money yet! Thank you thank you thank you.
Her email is againmag2@yahoo.com
Her skype is lifebeautil1
BE CAREFUL.
LikeLike
received scam email via Share Accommodation from
kim.ahall25@y7mail.com
I am currently in Auckland. They are lower than whale crap. Thanks for the heads up!
LikeLike
Hii Kim,
After reading all the stuff above, I was puzzled.
I hope you can recognize me from our mails and chat about renting your room at 41 gotha street today(27/02/10).
If not, please inform me asap by mail.
Awaiting your reply.
Priyanka.
LikeLike
Hii,
The mail and conatct details as I was referring to in my previous comment is as below.She also uses your photo id same as u have used in here.
The mail reads as:
———–
Dear Mate,
I’ve accommodation available if you may want to stay in my apt.
The apt is situated at 41 gotha street, brisbane,Central, QLD 4006 Austrlia.It is in cathedral place complex access to gym pool spa sauna,a min walk to centre of the valley and 10 min walk to queen st mall. The price rent is reasonable at $500 per month including all Utility bills plus $500 refundable bond deposit.
The apartment is fully furnished and extremely comfortable & it has all appliances needed.This place is close to shops and is fenced and is close to public transport. Easy going & TIDY people staying.
My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall,i’m a female,born in California but live all my life in Australiaa.my profession is sales marketing.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500. It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim
——
Hello Priyanka,
Thanks for the detailed email; there’s no problem if you’re arriving by June in as much you’re neat and capable to secure the room.In other words,the bedroom is fully furnished with private bathroom and toilet;the rent is $500 p/m including all utility bills.
Meanwhile,i would’ve loved to discuss all the process on phone but my mobile just got messed up lately.Nonetheless,you can talk to me on MSN: kimberlyhann@live.com or Gtalk:kim.hall0000@gmail.com so that we can talk more better on how to fully secure the room for you.
Looking forward to reading from you.
Regards,
Kim
———
Her contact addresses are:
1. hallk_ann008@yahoo.com.au
2. kim.hall0000@gmail.com
She is supposed to send me a contract tommorrow.
I hope it in not possibly you.
Can we do something to catch hold of this person.
LikeLike
please stop all contact with this person.. it is a scam.. it is not me, and there is no other person who is really trying t rent a room under my name.. They stole my identity. Those emails are not mine. They are lying to you. I’m sorry.
LikeLike
Thank you for your reply.
LikeLike
Currently, I am searching for a flatmate in New Zealand.
And today i received this mail in your name and with your picture by this email address (kim.ahall25@y7mail.com)
“Dear Mate,
I’ve share-accommodation available in my flat and in case you maybe interested.
The apartment is located at Zest 72 Nelson street 1010 Auckland City centre, Auckland, New Zealand. It is closed to everything and just 10mins walking distance to the nearest train station. It is only 5 min walking from the city (central station).Suitable, Comfy, Nice place for anybody to live in the city & convenient also.Close to the heart of the city as well as local parks, playgrounds, golf course all room mates are neat, clean & easy going.
The apt is fully furnished unit in very modern appartment is extremely comfortable & it has all appliances needed.This place is close to shops and is fenced and is close to public transport. Easy going & TIDY people staying.My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall i was born in California but live all my life in New Zealand.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500. It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim ”
It looks good, so I answered.
This email address (kim.hall0000@gmail.com) answered me that
“Dear Martial,
Thanks for the swift response and there is no problem if you’re arriving in April in as much you’re capable to make reservation for the spare room.
In other words,you’ll need to provide the following details so that we can proceed with the contract lease and you can know the terms and conditions of living in my apt by making a month plus the refundable bond deposit as upfront so that the room can be fully reserved for you.Here are the details below:
Full Name
Current Address
Sex
Date Of Birth
Move In Date
As soon as this is provided,we’ll need to proceed with the second phase of the documentation and how to fully reserved the room for you.
On the other hand,i would have preferred we speak further on phone but my mobile just got spoilt yesterday.Better still,you can talk to me on msn:kimberlyhann@live.com or Gtalk:kim.hall0000@gmail.com,anytime i am less busy at work.
I look forward to reading from you,
Regards,
Kim”
Thank you for this website page which avoid me to loose money! and good luck for you singeress carrer!
LikeLike
Thanks for posting. 😀 Glad I could help.
LikeLike
Dear Dan,
Thanks for the swift response;like i said earlier,there’s no problem arriving in April,as long you’re neat and capable to make reservation for the spare room before another mate do so.In other words,another lady has already reserves the other room since last week Monday.
In other words,you’ll need to provide the following details so that we can proceed with the contract lease and you can know the terms and conditions of living in my apt.Here are the details below:
Full Name
Current Address
Sex
Date Of Birth
Move In Date
As soon as this is provided,we’ll need to proceed with the second phase of the documentation and how to fully reserved the room for you.
On the other hand,i would have preferred we speak further on phone but my mobile just got spoilt yesterday.Better still,you can talk to me on msn:kimberlyhann@live.com or Gtalk:kim.hall0000@gmail.com,anytime i am less busy at work.
I look forward to reading from you,
Regards,
Kim
LikeLike
Thanks for this Dan.. how convenient that Her/my phone never works huh??? Ughh I Hate them!!
LikeLike
Hello real Kimberly
A few minutes ago I received this mail from you saying that you have a room available for rent in Adelaide Australia
Dear Mate,
i’Ve accommodation available in my apt and i hope you’ll like to share it with me.
The apartment is located at 188 Morphett St, Adelaide, SA 5000 Australia.it’s closed to everything,houses,safe way post office, state library and QV square.
My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall.i’m a female and i was born in california but live all my life in Australia.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500.It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim
Although it went into the junk mail, I want to show the message to other people so they don’t fall in this scam
LikeLike
Oh I almost forgot, the address that send me mail is kim.1759@yahoo.com.au
LikeLike
This is seriously annoying.. I’m desperately trying to find a cheap place to live, and there are scam artists out there using MY NAME and IDENTITY to scam other peopl (like myself) into giving them their money and personal information. UGhhhhhhhhh
Glad you knew better John.
-kimi
LikeLike
Hi real Kim!
I’m sending you the last email I’ve received, with the bank account details, maybe could be useful for the police to catch these fuckers..
Here is the details to make the initial payment to my family’s lawyer:
NAB BANK
acct name:Rexhep Nikqi
bsb number:082250
account number:810293482
Amount:$1500
39/patric street
Punchboul 2196
NSW Australia
I’ll be waiting to receive the bank transfer slip so as to confirm your payment.
As soon as your payment is confirmed,i’ll send you an acknowledgment receipt which shows you’ve fully made reservation for the spare room as one of my flat mates when you arrive.
I look forward to reading from you.
Regards Mate,
Kim
LikeLike
Hey guys,
I just realised some one called KIMBERLY ANN HALL has posted ad on many flat mate website asking people for money to provide them accomodation at my house, pleasae be aware that many people come to my place everyday to visit apartment and they got shocked once I told them that I do not know KIMBERLY ANN HALL, she / he is a fraud and using my address in order to steal your money.
I am going to report this matter to police of victoria straight away, be carefull do not deposit any money in advance to anyone without inspecting the property and landlord/agent in person.
Thanks for anyone who come up with this idea to shed a light on this fraudulant
LikeLike
I am the REAL Kimberly Ann Hall, and this saddens me SOOOO MUCH that they continue to use my identity for such filth. 😦
Please report them ASAP!
LikeLike
Oh wow I’m glad I googled about this, just got a msg about flatshare in Australia from some Kimberly Ann Hall too.
LikeLike
😦 I hate these spam people… using my good name. 😦
LikeLike
Hi Kim.
I just wanted to let you know that someone contacted me on flatmates.com.au in in regards to an apartment in Melbourne using Kimberly Ann Hall.
the email address they were using is kim.1899@yahoo.com
Thank you for posting this. I really appreciate it.
Kat
LikeLike
I’m glad you found my page.
LikeLike
Dear Mate,
i’ve accommodation available in my apt and i hope you’ll like to share it with me.
The apartment is located at 48 Webb Street, Wellington, 6011 wellington City centre New Zealand. It is closed to everything and just 10mins walking distance to the nearest train station. It is within pleasant walking distance to the business district, theatre and waterfront, Te Papa Museum of NZ, City Council Chambers and Massey University of Wellington. Victoria University is within a five minute drive or taxi ride, and the airport can be reached in ten minutes.
The apt is fully furnished unit in very modern apartment is extremely comfortable & it has all appliances needed.This place is close to shops and is fenced and is close to public transport. Easy going & TIDY people staying.My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall i was born in California but live all my life in New Zealand.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500. It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim
LikeLike
knew that was a scam.but hey,somebody might take that bait.so might as well post it up for all to see.
LikeLike
Dear Navneet,
Thanks for the keen interest and there’s no problem if you want to share the apt with me in as much you’re neat and capable to secure the room.
The apartment is located at 512 York street sydney 2000 Australia. It is closed to everything and just 10mins walking distance to the nearest train station. It is only 5 min walking from the city (central station).Suitable, Comfy, Nice place for anybody to live in the city & convenient also.Close to the heart of the city as well as local parks, playgrounds, golf course all room mates are neat, clean & easy going.
The fully furnished unit in very modern appartment is extremely comfortable & it has all appliances needed.This place is close to shops and is fenced and is close to public transport. Easy going & TIDY people staying.My full names are Kimberly Ann Hall i was born in California but live all my life in Australia.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The price is reasonable at $500p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $500. It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt…
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards mate,
Kim
LikeLike
The above email was attached with a few photographs and your pic from your myspace page with the ‘Kimi’ letters.
I googled 512 york st. No such number. York Street in Sydney goes down till 147 on one side and 74 on the other, followed by a gigantic shopping mall, which ends the street. What I found strange was the fact that she attached her own face (technically, your face) to an email. Who does that? Second was the fact that her cell phone wasn’t working, and that she’d seal the deal through msn (kimberlyhann@live.com) or gtalk (kim.hall0000@gmail.com), ignoring my request to arrange an inspection of the house first.
This blog has saved me a lot of trouble, I thank you for keeping this post up for 2 years!
All the best
LikeLike
(Sorry about spamming your comments) The email was sent from kim.1235@yahoo.com.au. And I believe they’re using r.natalir58@yahoo.com as well, because I received a message from Natalie, with a very similar vocabulary.
LikeLike
Thank you thank you thank you for posting all this information. Others will be very greatful as I am. 😀
LikeLike
Hi everyone,
this is just to warn you all that it’s all still going on… got this same scam from the email address
r.natalir58@yahoo.com
This person(s?) pretends to be working in a marketing company and being away from the house a lot, needs a trustworthy flatmate to share a house because of that. There isn’t any house at all of course… it’s just some made-up address.
This scumbag offered a very reasonable priced apartment from Australia but luckily didn’t get my money or id before I got suspicious, only name and address.
Thanks Kim for this blog, it’s one of the sources I could confirm it’s really a hoax!!
Don’t ever trust anyone who sends you a copy of their passport via email and asks you to do the same – and asks you to send money by using some untraceable means like WU or such!!
LikeLike
Hey, I’m soo glad I came upon this site. I got an email response to my ad on flatmates.com.au from a “Kim” regarding an apt for rent at 6/36 Berkeley St, Melbourne for $500 per month. The format of the message is exactly the same as those mentioned in earlier posts…with 2 bedrooms (a single and double) etc, except the email address being used is kim.1899@yahoo.com. Thank goodness I came upon this site (only because i was searching for photos of her so-called 36 Berkeley St apartment). Now I know its a scam. I did respond before I found this blog, saying that I’m interested and asking for photos and more details about the place but I would never send money to secure any place before I arrive. Viewing first! I know better than that! Good looking out and thanks for posting the email msgs by the scammer. We all know what to look out for now.
LikeLike
Hi Kim,
I am working on an investigation with the Australian Centre for Independent Journalism at University of Technology Sydney (UTS) on housing scams. I am really interested in your story and would highly appreciate if you have the time to tell me more about how those people got your identity details. Please contact me at bukahe@logstoff.com (don’t wonder about this mail adress, I don’t wont to post my right one just somewhere on the net). Looking forward to hearing from you soon!
Cheers, Bettina.
LikeLike
I’d be glad to help you with your investigation. But I’m rather cautious after what happened to me, so if you could please submit more details about who you are what you’re doing, I’d appreciate it.
LikeLike
Hi Kim,
thanks for your reply. I can understand your worries. I am exchange student in Sydney and myself also had trouble with housing scams as I was looking for a room from back home. In that time I was offered a room from sb. pretending to be you.
I am studying journalism at UTS in Sydney. At the university there is the Australian Centre for Independent Journalism for which I have to do an investigation as part of my studies.
It would be really great to talk to you. Is there anything else you like to know? Maybe just contact me on the mailadress above as I also don”t want to post personal information on the web…
Bettina.
LikeLike
hello,
just to let you guys know: this person is still active with this ID – just “meet” them on http://uk.easyroommate.com/
Seriously, how can it be that someone fucks people over for longer then 2 years still using the same ID and not getting caught.
LikeLike
unfortunately, I don’t think it’s one person. I think it’s a network of scam artists who recycle the information. 😦
Thanks for posting.
LikeLike
hey!
thanks for this website! also got in contact with this fake!
fortunately i’ve found this blog!
i was asking for a apt in new york:
here is the email:
Dear Christopher,
Thanks for the response.Myapartment is located at 86 spring street 10012 USA.The apt is located in the CBD New Yorks fashionable Soho district. Located approximately 5 minutes walk to the nearest subway and Close to a great variety of shops and Bar/Restaurants,supermarket,gym.It is well furnished with easy access of transportation.features living/dining room,single and Double bedroom with access to a private garden with a shed.The modern kitchen includes a fridge/freezer,stove top,exhaust,microwave,washing machine and dish washer.The apartment has central heating;double glazed windows and,laminated wood floors.
The apt is three bedroom and i’ll like to lease out the other two rooms, both single and the double room. there is no problem staying in my apt as long you’re both neat and capable to reserve the room.I’ve attached to this mail, more photos of the apartment including the private bathroom and toilet.Rent is reasonable at $700 per month including all Utility bills plus $800 refundable security deposit to be made before the property is fully reserved for you. .
My full names are Kim Joy Hall was born in cali but live all my life in NYC.i work as a marketer in the company i work for, am flexible, very quiet but friendly. i’m also a member of the near by food coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible,reliable and respectful.
Let me know if you’re interested before another mate rent it.
I look forward to reading from you.
Regards,
Kim
LikeLike
the e-mail was:
kim.hall0000@yahoo.com
found on easyroommate.com
LikeLike
i hate these people. 😦
thanks for posting. 🙂
LikeLike
Hi! I am going to New York and looking for a place where stay.
I receive the same mails from many people you are writing, the last one is the following:
Thanks for the keen interest and there’s no problem if you want to share the apt with me in as much you’re neat and capable to secure the room.
The apt is located at 123 Thompson Street, New York, NY 10012, it is also in prime Soho location with very low maintenance. This bright unit has high ceilings and it is a 3 bedroom with sunny west exposure. There are hardwood floors throughout, California closets, and light! The co-op allows co-purchasing and is friendly Located in the heart of Soho’s shopping and restaurants and close to major subway and bus lines. Four block from Washington Square Park/Nyu/ and so much more. Rent is reasonable at only $800 per month Including Utility bills and $1000 refundable Bond deposit for the apartment.
My full name is Heather Fitzgerald, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by food coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The bedrooms is furnished..it’s also have a private bathroom,a deck, bedspread,and also in the sitting room their is a plasma tv, internet access,fully fitted kitchen,central heating, tasteful bespoke lighting,washing with dryer machine, microwave oven and a parking space. Let me know if you are interested so that we can proceed in making your reservation.
I will be looking forward to read from you soon.
Cheers,
Heather
LikeLike
Hi Kimberly, I received last week an mail from “you” also offering a bedroom.
I don’t know the email because I deleted it. It sounded weird.
LikeLike
Hello just now I lookink for any place in auckland and I find this link http://www.easyroommate.co.nz/content/common/listingdetail.aspx?code=H11063022108512&from=L1107093558111
this person send me this adress kim.ahall25 @ y7mail.com I am not sure.
LikeLike
IT’S FAKE!!!!!!! Do Not respond to it!!!
LikeLike
HI KIm
Thanks for your blog, it saved me from being cheated =D
LikeLike
🙂 I’m glad.
LikeLike
hey gurl,
you’d think they’d get a new name if all you have to google is YOUR name and california and ‘identity theft’ comes up…this was the FIRST page that came up!!!!
the bloody smartass prick – i kinda figured as much though since the persons style of writing (if you read it out loud) sounds foreign as hell (for a 29yo raised in new zealand whos a marketing genius anyway)…this one wasn’t very pushy about depositing the money but called me a wannabe within seconds of chatting on gtalk…i was like WTF??? do you want me to get along with you or what lol (obviously before realising it was a scam!!!)
the ad i saw and emails i recieved were pretty much the same as everybody elses so….
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for posting this blog (but i wasnt keen on your ( 😛 ) fake ad anyway since the fake you has an attitude problem!!
but others may not be as lucky aye.
i copied and pasted this link and sent it to the scammers email address and informed the online flatting site also about the ad and this blog!!
Cheers gal
=D
LikeLike
lolz, you’re awesome Lawren… thanks for posting.. and everything you’ve said… is absolutely right…. they are soooooo …. gahhhhh,, annoying and stupid…. Add me on facebook,, I like you already lolz
LikeLike
Kim,
My fiance and I are moving to NY and looking for a place to rent. I always research my responses to make sure I am not being scammed. Thank you for the resource to save my hard earned money …. They sent pics of you and an apartment to my fiancé in response …. Their English was horrible, as you can read below. Thanks again ….. lots of people owe you big time 🙂 hope you have a wonderful day 🙂
Michael Lee
( and I only use my whole name because I looked it up and there are more than 4,000 people in the US with the same name lol 🙂 )
From: “Kimberly.A Hall”
Date: July 17, 2011 2:55:59 AM CDT
To: ( I deleted my fiancé’s e-mail address )
Subject: Details and Photos of the Apt
Hey,
Thanks for the prompt in response.My apartment is located in lower Manhattan, 115 bowery street 10013 NY USA.It’s not far to China Town,a very conducive place.It is well furnished with easy access of transportation.features living/dining room,single and Double bedroom with access to a private garden with a shed.The modern kitchen includes a fridge/freezer,stove top,exhaust,microwave,washing machine and dish washer.The apartment has central heating;double glazed windows and,laminated wood floors.
The apt is three bedroom and i want to lease out both single and the double room.There is no problem staying in my place as long you’re neat and capable to reserve the room before another person do so.I’ve attached to this mail more pictures of the apartment including your own bathroom and toilet and i hope you’ll like them.Rent is reasonable at $700 per month including all Utility bills plus $700 refundable security deposit to be made before the property is reserved for you. .
My full names are Kim Hall, was born in cali but live all my life in NY.i work as a marketer in the company i work for, am flexible, very quiet but friendly. i’m also a member of the near by food coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible,reliable and respectful.
Let me know if you’re interested before another mate rents it.
I look forward to reading from you.
Regards,
Kim
LikeLike
HI Kim,
Thanks for this blog. I was suspicious as the person said they are a marketer from California. What kind of marketer from Cali has really bad English and grammar!!!!… So I searched google and then came across your blog~! Thank goodness!
I was looking for a place through http://au.easyroommate.com/
Details of the fake scamming Kimmie:
kim.1235@yahoo.com.au
kimberlyhann@live.com
kim.hall0000@gmail.com
LikeLike
I´m so glad that i have found your blog….at the last moment!!!
i got exactly the same e-mails.
and i found “her” also on easyroommate.
I´m from germany and i arrive on sunday (24th of july)
just one day…..and now i have no room….I´m a little desperate 😦
LikeLike
Im so sorry to hear. But dont worry. Find a hostel to stay in for a few nights and the people there will help u find a place to move into. Good luck. Thanks for posting.
LikeLike
Hi. I am truely sorry of what has been happening to you for 3 years now. It happend the same to me. I am a french student coming to NYC and I found exactely the same ad on easyroommate from kim.hall0000@gmail.com.
What afraid me is that it is not the first scam I have seen in only 2 months researches of a flat in NYC from France.
If you are interested in the emails send by the authors of the scam, do not hesitate to contact me on my email.
Good luck and keep tracking these people.
LikeLike
if you can copy and paste the emails here, that would be appreciated. Thank Clem
LikeLike
Hi,
I’m french and lookin for a roommate in NY. I met the same scammer, so thanks for these informations! She contacted on a website i won’t name, i’ve sent her an ameil cause she was offering an apartement and lookin for a roommate or somethin like that, here’s what she wrote to me:
Hey,thanks for the interest in my ad and there’s no problem arriving on the 14th of September as long you’re neat and capable to make reservation for the room.In other words,for more details and photos of the apt,you can send me an email here: kim.hall0000@yahoo.com
Regards!
I didn’t respond but i guess she’s still usin your name….
Thomas
LikeLike
Thank you so much.
I´m Spanish. I´m looking for rent an apartment in New York.
Heather Fitzgerald wrote me a few days ago offering me a room.
This is the email:
Thanks for the keen interest and there’s no problem if you want to share the apt with me in
as much you are neat and capable to secure the room.
The apt is located at 124 Thompson Street, New York, NY 10012, it is also in prime Soho
location with very low maintenance. This bright unit has high ceilings and it is a 3 bedroom with sunny west exposure. There are hardwood floors throughout, California closets, and light!
The co-op allows co-purchasing and is friendly Located in the heart of Soho’s shopping and
restaurants and close to major subway and bus lines. Four block from Washington Square
Park/Nyu/ and so much more. Rent is reasonable at only $1000 per month Including Utility bills and $1000 refundable Bond deposit for the apartment.
My full name is Heather Fitzgerald, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member
of the near by food coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same
maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The bedrooms is furnished..it’s also have a private bathroom,a deck, bedspread,and also in
the sitting room their is a plasma tv, internet access,fully fitted kitchen,central heating,
tasteful bespoke lighting,washing with dryer machine, microwave oven and a parking space. Let me know if you are interested so that we can proceed in making your reservation.
I will be looking forward to read from you soon.
Cheers
I write in Spanish too.
Estafa, timo, robo, una persona que se hace llamar Heather Fitzgerald ofrece una habitación en Nueva York.
La pagina web es easyroomate.com. figaros bien en el texto y en los textos anteriores en esta pagina. tienen muchas coincidencias. Parece ser que lo intenta con varios nombres.
Importante, nunca deis una señal o cualquier tipo de anticipo sino es en un organismo o academia reconocida.
Gracias a este blog no me engañaron.
Thank you so much.
LikeLike
OMG, thanks guys! I was talking to this person and she/he seemed normal and reliable! Until I saw this! I sent her a picture of my id too, oh no! I hope she or he doesn’t use my id!
LikeLike
Unfortunately they will use ur id after this. But its ok just post your emails here so others wont be duped as well
LikeLike
Thanks a lot for this blog, I was trying to reserve an apartment in Dublin, and she looked like normal until he asked me to send the money by mail…I thought it was weird so I was very happy to find the blog!
Kimberly Ann Hall annhallk@yahoo.ie
para ————-
fecha 4 de septiembre de 2011 20:35
asunto Hello Dario….
firmado por yahoo.ie
ocultar detalles 20:35 (hace 21 horas)
Dear Dario,
Thanks for the swift response.In other words,there’s no problem if you want to share the apt with me in as much you’re neat,tidy and capable to secure the room.As i said before, the apt is fully furnished with private bathroom and toilet and it is just 15mins walking distance from the nearest station station;the rent is 400Euros p/m including all utility bills.
Meanwhile,i would’ve loved to discuss all the process on phone but my mobile just got messed up lately.Nonetheless,you can talk to me on MSN: kimberlyhann@live.com or Gtalk:kim.hall0000@gmail.com so that we can talk more better on how to fully secure the room for you.
Looking forward to reading from you.
Regards,
Kim
LikeLike
BE CAREFUL: katemcc.20181@gmail.com
Hello Yaka,
How are you doing today? I received your message on EASYROOMMATE site that you need accommodation in NEW YORK. Am renting out two vacant rooms in my apartment. The bedrooms are furnished..they also have private bathrooms, a sound system, bedspread, in the sitting room there is a plasma tv, internet access, fully fitted kitchen, central heating, tasteful bespoke lighting, washing with dryer machine, microwave oven and a parking space. The apartment is three bedrooms and i will like to rent out two vacant rooms.
The apartments is situated at 471 West 22nd Street, Manhattan, N.Y. 10011. You will locate it very close to Madison square garden close to 6th and 8th ave. Next to Penn. station and also not to far from Grand Central.
Rent is very reasonable at only 700$ per month Including Utility bills and 800$ refundable security deposit for the apartment . I’ve attached to the mail more pictures of the flat and i hope you will like it?
I was born in Australia, I’m single, 31years of age, i work as a marketer in the company i work for, I am a friendly, easy going and a happy person. I love meeting new people, having a good laugh and I’m always up for some fun. Am looking for an easy-going, clean and tidy flatmate who wants to share the flat as a home with me. I am seeking someone that is cool with an utmost level of maturity, stable occupation or studies, responsible, reliable and willing to keep a clean and peaceful atmosphere. Im a cheerful person full with humor so you should be prepared to carry a smiling face every time in the apartment. Please let me know if you’re interested Asap so that we can proceed with your rent.
Hoping to read from you soon
Regards
Emma.
LikeLike
http://www.easyroommate.com
From: Kzey
Received: 5 September 2011
Subject: Re: I’m interested in your Ad
Message: thanks for the interest in my ad.There’s no problem staying in my apt as long you’re neat and capable to reserve the room.For more details and photos of the Apt,you can send me an email here: kim.hall0000@gmail.com
Regards!
LikeLike
Thank god I was suspicious. Got this this morning!!
Dear Laura,
Thanks for the interest in my ad on Easyroommate.As i said before,there’s no problem staying in my Flat as long you’re neat and would able to take good care of your space before another mate do so.
Location: 12 Parnell dublin1 Ireland.It’s an Ideal location for DIT, Trinity, Griffith, NCAD, DBS, RCSI, Portobello.The price is reasonable at 400Euros per month Including all utility bills like Electicity,water,gas,water and internet plus refundable security deposit of 400Euros which is refunded after a week you move in.
About me:My Full name is Kim Tina Hall.I’m 28 years old, work as a supervisor in a marketing firm, I own the flat but I don’t live in it. I live and work in Edinburgh but I come to Dublin ones or twice in a month to check on my tenants.
The Flat is fully furnished,has a private bathroom, kitchens including Washer Driers, Microwaves, full Cookers, Grills, Fridge Freezer, toasters, etc,Study desk, chair,wardrobe,Large sitting room with TV, DVD, broadband and SKY+Gas and electric storage heating.
LikeLike
Lolz. They changed the story and my middle name. Losers!
Thanks for posting!
LikeLike
I just got the same thing on easyroomate.com for a place in Melbourne.
Hey,thanks for the interest in my ad.there’s no problem staying in my apt as long you’re neat and capable to secure the room.However,for more details and photos of the Apt,you can send me an email here: kim.1899@yahoo.com
Regards
LikeLike
Hi there,
her ne address is Kimberly Ann Hall [annhallk@yahoo.ie]
oh and her “new name” is kimberly tina hall. 😉
btw: thank you for the page. luckyly i didn’t send her the money. 🙂
saved in the last second. 😉
LikeLike
Thank YOU for posting!!!
LikeLike
Almost two years ago I happened to find this blog, and was forever grateful for it. Like you, Kim my identity was stolen and used to rent out fictitious apartments and collect money. I received an email today of the following correspondence (see below). This is NOT me, and I am NOT renting out an apartment in NYC. I have updated the FBI about this most recent occurrence.
Sent from email address: hfgerald2011@gmail.com
———-
Thanks for the keen interest and there’s no problem if you want to share the apt with me in
as much you are neat and capable to secure the room.
The apt is located at 124 Thompson Street, New York, NY 10012, it is also in prime Soho
location with very low maintenance. This bright unit has high ceilings and it is a 3 bedroom with sunny west exposure. There are hardwood floors throughout, California closets, and light!
The co-op allows co-purchasing and is friendly Located in the heart of Soho’s shopping and
restaurants and close to major subway and bus lines. Four block from Washington Square
Park/Nyu/ and so much more. Rent is reasonable at only $1000 per month Including Utility bills and $1000 refundable Bond deposit for the apartment.
My full name is Heather, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member
of the near by food coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same
maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
The bedrooms is furnished..it’s also have a private bathroom,a deck, bedspread,and also in
the sitting room their is a plasma tv, internet access,fully fitted kitchen,central heating,
tasteful bespoke lighting,washing with dryer machine, microwave oven and a parking space. Let me know if you are interested so that we can proceed in making your reservation.
I will be looking forward to read from you soon.
Cheers,
Heather
LikeLike
Thank you for coming back and spreading the info
LikeLike
I am about to rent an apartment in Amsterdam and the address is the same as reported above Deurloostraat 104H but the name of the owner is different is it possible that this is another scam??they didn’t ask me any money in advance though but…OMG I have 2 little girls travelling with me
LikeLike
Hi Kimberly, im french, from Paris, i was looking for a short term accomodation in Sydney through the website ‘easyroommate.com.au, here’s the mail i got from them :
Dear Alex,
Thanks for the interest in my ad .There’s no problem staying in my apt as long you’re neat and capable to secure the room before another mate do so.Also,another lady from Germany just secured the other room not quite long which confirms her as one of my housemates.
The apartment is located at 8 Pitt street Sydney 2000 Australia.It is Centrally located and in a convenient location. short walk to valley mall, clubs, supermarket, restaurants. Easy 15 min walk to city mall.The price is reasonable at $700p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $700.
My full names are Kim Hall i was born in California but live all my life in Australia.I work as a marketer in the company i work for, i’m flexible, very quiet but friendly. I’m also a member of the near by good coop and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
It has a large living room, 3bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking available, fully secured,great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.See attached files for pictures of the apt.
Let me know if you’re interested.
Regards,
Kim
…thing is , i ve lived in Sydney before, and i knew there was no apartment buildings in that part of Sydney, even better, the street numbers start at 10 …so there is no number 8…
so this caught my attention, then i went to check if i could find this person ‘ you’…and the picture profil is the same as the one they sent me in the mail…went to your myspace page, then ended up on your website..and found that page.
Anyway, i just wanted to let you know… the email address used was kim.1235@yahoo.com.au
Cheers
Alex
LikeLike
…and here’s the 2nd mail i got…
Dear Alex,
It’s nice reading from you once again.As i said before, there is no problem arriving in November as long you’re neat and capable to reserve the room before another mate do so.The price is reasonable at $700 including all utility bills like internet,gas,water,electricity plus the refundable security deposit which is refundable a week you move in.Also, i’ve other overseas students who are also interested in the room and a Germany lady just reserved the other room yesterday.
In other words,you’ll need to provide the following details so that we can proceed with the contract lease and you can know the terms and conditions of living in my apt.Here are the details below:
Full Name
Current Address
Sex
Date Of Birth
Move In Date
As soon as this is provided,we’ll need to proceed with the second phase of the documentation and how to fully reserved the room for you.
Unfortunately ,i would have preferred we speak further on phone but my mobile got in the pool yesterday.Nonetheless,you could still talk to me on msn:kimberlyhann@live.com, i am available online now.
I look forward to reading from you,
Regards,
Kim
LikeLike
If you can go to the address or look it up on google. Id suggest doing that first. Then if u can, ask to inspect the place before agreeing to rent ( stay at a backpackers or sonething first) then you’ll know if it’s real or not.
LikeLike
Hey
There’s still scamming going on, I just signed up for a share house website and got an email from a kimberly hall, for a place near QV. With a picture of you attached.
Thanks so much for putting this blog up. Thank god I didnt get sucked in to this junk.
The email the scammer sent me the email from is kim.1899@yahoo.com
LikeLike
http://au.easyroommate.com/content/common/listingdetail.aspx?code=H111217646293&from=L11121713442746
another kim.1235@yahoo.com.au
the same email
LikeLike
Man, somebody must really have something against you… it just happened to me too:
From: Kimberly Ann hall (hallk_ann008@yahoo.com.au)
Sent: Monday, 19 December 2011 11:07:52 PM
—————————————————
Dear Glyn,
Thanks for the interest in my ad .There’s no problem staying in my Apt as long you’re neat and capable to secure the room before another mate do so.Also,another lady from germany just secured the other room not quite long which confirms her as one of my housemates.
Apt Location: 55 Sedgebrok street, Brisbane,Central, spring hill 4000 Australia.Itis in cathedral place complex access to gym pool spa sauna,a min walk to centre of the valley and 10 min walk to queen st mall.The price is reasonable at $600p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $600.Fully furnished and secured with great location,big storage space. Gas, Electricity, Water & all other running bills included in rent. High speed Internet available.
Apt amenities: ensuite unit, 2 swiming pool,gym,sauna and spa,right enough sun comes into unit, cool, 5mins away from Central station, internet access , have fox8, fox8 sports 5 other channels.The house is fully furnished, the room already has a bed in it, ready for you to move in.
My full names are Kim Lisa Hall,i’m a young professional female,working as a SUPERVISOR in a marketing firm. i’m flexible, quiet but friendly.. I hope we are at the same maturity level, stable occupation, responsible, reliable,respectful.
Let me know if you’re interested before another mate have it.
Regards,
Kim
——————————————————
-Note that ‘your’ middle name changed from Ann in the header to Lisa in the body 🙂
-Writer is clearly from a non-english speaking background
-Multiple photographs attached (photos are definitely not from Cathedral Place though – interiors look completely different to those displayed)
Man, thank god for 21st century paranoia – and cheers google 😉
If you need anything from me to help catch this/these pricks, get in touch.
Cheers,
Glyn.
LikeLike
Hi guys!
I found a scam on gumtree.
It’s about a house to rent in Bondi (Sydney), and he/she emailed me that is in London, and blablablabla… you know the story 🙂
So now I’d like to report it to australian authorities.. do you know what can I do, or who can I contact??
Thanks 🙂 and sorry for my bad english 😦
Cheers!!
Alessio
LikeLike
Unfortunately, due to issues with jurisdictional boundaries (and the red tape that multi-national investigations inevitably create), the reality is that most law enforcement agencies aren’t particularly interested in following up cases such as these.
However, the Australian Federal Police (AFP – http://www.afp.gov.au/) has the following information listed on their website:
“Online fraud is the jurisdiction of the state or territory police if the victim is a not a Commonwealth Government department or a Commonwealth Authority.
The Australian Federal Police investigates frauds committed against a Commonwealth Government department or a Commonwealth Authority.
In general, state or territory police jurisdiction exists:
– in the state or territory where the offender has committed the crime, and
– in the state or territory where the victim has been defrauded – this includes situations where the offender is located overseas.
I suppose that the attitude of many law enforcement stakeholders is that internet scams are not a new phenomenon and there have been significant efforts made to educate the general public about how to identify such scams and prevent themselves from becoming financial victims.
In saying that, it’s hard to imagine this type of fraud continuing to flourish if there existed a taskforce that was able to operate across political and geographical boundaries to put an end to these criminal’s seemingly untouchable scamming spree.
Unfortunately, such a concept is a pipedream at best – which leaves us with little option other than using our own common sense – or failing that, avoid the internet 🙂
I’m guessing that NSW Police would be your best bet if you still want to proceed (given that the property was in Bondi) – http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/
Good luck Alessio.
LikeLike
Hi Kimberly,
The fraud using your name still continues. I pity you. Thanks for this blog anyway. It really helps!
Sincerely,
Ridzuan
LikeLike
I have one too, only thing she got was a copy of my drivers licence. I thought was old there was a facebook account of you as a singer, this person only wants to talk on msn.
Dear Peter,
Enclosed in this mail, you’ll see the tenancy lease and the copy of house proof of Ownership attached to this mail so that you can know the terms and conditions of living in my Apt
Here is the details to make the initial payment to my family’s lawyer:
Bank name:St George Bank
Account name: Ms Jennifer G. Moloney
Account number: 150786352
Bsb number : 113879
Amount: $2400
I’ll be waiting to receive the bank transfer slip in order to fully confirm your payment.
As soon as your payment is confirmed,i’ll send you the Apt ACKNOWLEDGEMENT RECEIPT LETTER and keys to your current address so that you could receive it within 24hours day delivery and which shows you’ve fully secured the room as one of my housemates..
I look forward to reading from you.
Regards Mate
Kim
LikeLike
Hi,
I can’t believe this is still going as a scam.! Now operating in Adelaide, offering a room on North Terrace / Bank Street. Using three e-mails: , kimberlyhann@live.com or Gtalk:kim.hall0000@gmail.com
I’m going to report it to the site now so hopefully she/they will be gone from their soon.
LikeLike
Got one today on au.easyroomate.com changed the name to Kim Jenny Hall….same pictures, same email addresses. Luckily I noticed some really odd rhetoric and a general avoidance of my specific questions, so I googled the address. I’ll have it reported to the website immediately.
LikeLike
Hi, this impostor is also on au.easyroommate.com, posting an apartment in Fortitude Valley.
Email addresses: kimberlyhann@live.com, khall9347@gmail.com, kchall.1235@yahoo.com.au
Got tipped off by the odd English and refusal to give a contact number.
LikeLike
thank you for your article,My problem has been resolved.
LikeLike
I have spent a bit of time going through your posts, more than I should have but I must say, its worth it!
LikeLike
Wow. Thank goodness for google huh! I just had an offer of a place to rent in Melbourne on flatmates.com.au:
I have 2 rooms available in my apt and i hope you’ll like to share the apt with me.
The apartment is located at 6/36 Berkely street Melbourne 3000 Australia. It is corner of swanston street and Victoria Streetright in the heart of city(CBD) No need to pay for public transportation and it is Short walk to all universities and education providers in Melbourne.Rent is reasonable at $600p/m Including all bills plus refundable Bond deposit $600 has to be made to be fully secured for you.
Let me know if you’re interested and for more details and photos of the apt: kim.1899@yahoo.com
Regards mate,
Kim
I’m also now quite wary of two responses I have had for enquiries about rooms:
Thanks for the interest… i really appreciate your mail.. please kindly get back to me via my email @ phil_jagiellka@yahoo.com so that you could get the full details of the apartment..
Regards
I’ll like you to send a message to my private email: sweetjacqui26@yahoo.com so that i can tell and send you more details about the rooms i have up for rent and am sure you will like it.
Hope to read from you again soon.
Best Regards,
Jacqueline Fitzgerald
ARGH!! And to think I actually emailed one back before I thought about it properly. Luckily it was just an email saying I wanted the extra info! Hopefully no damage has been done.
Thank you so much! x
LikeLike