Personal Assistant Scam in Craiglist

I replied to a posting on CL to the email job-vr8kp-2704749313@craigslist.org

This email came from James.Huffy@artlover.com

I called him and he said that he approached the moderators of this site and they said they would remove it within 48 hours. Please note the subtle differences (UK vs. Australia, salary, etc.):

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Hello,

This said advertised job is a Part-time Package Handler, I'm seeking for an effective and efficient Person that will see to my personal and business errands at his/her spare time that might not collide with your full-time main job.Such successful applicant will be saddle with responsibilities of receiving my mails and drop them off at UPS,Shop for Gifts, Bill payment ( pay my bills on my behalf) Sit for delivery( at your home) or pick items up at nearby post office at your convenience.

Let me know if you will be able to offer me any/all of these services. Where are you located? I would love to meet up with you to talk about this job
but I am currently away on business trip to Australia so there will be no interview. And while I am away,you will be carrying out this aforementioned
duties out on my behalf .

I will prepay you in advance to do my shopping. I will also have my mails and packages forwarded to your address. If you will be unable to stay at
your house to get my mails, I can have it shipped to a post office near you and then you can pick it up at your convenience.

When you get my mails/packages; you are required to mail them to where I want them mailed to. You don't have to make use of your personal money, all you have to do is have packages shipped to your house and do my shopping. You are allowed to open the packages to reveal its content for a secured task with less risk for yourself.

The content of the packages are Art Material and Painting, clothing's business and personal letters. All expenses and taxes will be covered by me.
You will work between 15 and 20hrs a month,so the work is high flexible but your utmost devotion to this job is expected and all Instructions
followed to the letter.

I will pay $1000.00 per month, that is 250$ per week. I need your service because I am constantly out of town. I own an Art Gallery here in
Australia. I will return to USA in January, so this process will be on going till then and possibility of acquiring a Gallery in USA is being planned
and permanency of this job is possible,after seeing how committed you will be to this task with a lucrative salary.

If you don't mind, I will meet up with you when I return and then we can talk about the possibility of making this long term.
Well, let me know if you are able to handle the position. I will email you the list and pictures of what to shop for when I am ready. No heavy
packages is involved! You can do the shopping at any nearest stores.You will be shopping for Electronics, clothing's and Antiques.

I will provide you my personal UPS account number for Shipping. All you have to do is present my account number to UPS and shipping charges will be applied into the account.I will provide clear set of instructions for each task to be carry out as well the funds to cover them.
If I were to mail you money to do my shopping plus upfront payment for your service, where would you want it mailed to? How should your name appear on the money?

Kindly provide me with the following details below to enable me do a necessary background check on you:

Full Name:
Full Address:
Apt No:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Phone Number:
Age:
Thank you!
my phone num: 408-372-4049

--
James Huffy
Tel: 408-372-4049

So like, I was almost going to reply back to this job, but what kind of clued me in was the simple fact that he said that I had sent resume when I had specifically remembered that I had forgotten to attach one.

This is what he sent

Your resume was received and it has been reviewed, I did appreciate it. it's reasonable and acceptable. So I will give this a go.

I'm looking for someone that can be trusted and reliable, someone with good understanding and working skills.

I am Michael Morrison, 43 yrs of age, I'm Self employed..I am an importer by profession and I have been pretty successful in a handful of ventures I get involved in; from the Angel of importing fabrics to various welfare and community service programs. I most very often get my hands occupied, so it is imperative for me to have a worthy assistant who can monitor and keep me up to date with my activities.This position is home-based and flexible, working with me is basically about instructions and following them. My only fear is that I may come at you impromptu sometimes, so i need someone who can be able to meet up with my irregular timings.

As my personal assistant, your activities among others will include:
*Create and modify documents using Microsoft Office
*Running personal errands, supervisions and monitoring.
*Scheduling programmes, flights and keeping me up to date with them.
*Acting as an alternative telephone correspondence while I'm away.
*Making regular contacts and drop-offs on my behalf.
*Handling and monitoring some of my financial activities..
*Basic wage is $700 a week .

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
*Good planning, communication and organization skills
*Must be honest, reliable & dependable
*Excellent verbal & written communication skills
*Must have strong problem solving skills
*Must be organized & extremely detail oriented
*Experience working with the internet, email.
*A willingness to do whatever needs to be done is a must

NOTE: The above qualification requirements can also be learnt if you are willing to take up the challenges.

I'm sure you'll understand I tend to have a very busy schedule at this point as I am presently in France for a summit. I will be back in Three Weeks time.

I think you're the right person for this post, Please note that this position is not office based for now because of my frequent travels and tight schedules. It's a part-time, work from home basis and the flexibility means that there will be busier weeks than others. So it's a little difficult judging the exact number of hours you'll be doing per week. If you can manage your time properly, this job may even give you some extra while you do something else on the side. As I have said, I'd want us to get a head start with things as soon as possible. I do have a pile up of work and a number of unattended chores which you can immediately assist me with. I hope we can meet up with the workload eventually. Permit me to use the coming week to test your efficiency and diligence towards all this, also to work out your time schedule and fit it to mine.

I really need to find the perfect person for this job and i am confident you can take up the challenges. On the long run we should have a relatively sound working relationship between us.I'm online most of the time as I am hard of hearing so I prefer we contact each other through E-mails but if there is need for me to call, I will be glad to do that. I am glad you are willing to work with me and i promise to be a good boss. I am also glad on the commitment in working. I have been checking my files and what i would want you to do for me next week is to run some errands out to some of the orphanage home which I do every month. The funds will be in form of Cashier check, it will be sent over to you from one of my clients and i have some list to email you once you received the funds. You will make some arrangements by buying some stuff for the kids in the nearest store around you so you can mail them out. I will get you more information on that.

PLEASE FILL THE APPLICATION FORM BELOW;

Fuu Name:
Full Street Address(Not PO BOX):
City, State, Zip Code :
Cell Phone Number:
Home Phone Number:
Current Occupation :
Email Address :

Once I have received your application form, I will get back to you with the task for next week. Please understand that you will also be paid as well as its important for me to make the necessary steps before i get back from my business trip. I hope i am clear with that?

NOTE: This position is home-based and flexible part time job, you can be in any location, work from your home doing all the activities.

AVAILABILITY:

How often do you check your email daily___________

Please get back as soon as possible.
Michael Morrison

Thank God I searched this.

From: Sam Patel meronymeg@gmail.com
Craigslist Ad: http://austin.craigslist.org/csr/2747739113.html

Dear Applicant,
I got your application resume. I'm looking for someone that can be trusted and reliable to work very well with good understanding as my Personal Assistant. This position I am offering is home-based and flexible, working with me is basically about instructions and following them, my only fear is that I May come at you impromptu sometimes, so I need someone who can be able to meet up with my irregular timings. As my Personal assistant, your activities Amongst other things will include;

Primary Responsibilities:

* Creating orders/pick slips/invoices/credit memos.
* Processing return authorizations for me as needed.
* Running personal errands.
* supervisions and monitoring.
* Scheduling programmes, flights and keeping me up-to-date with them.
* Acting as an alternative telephone correspondence while I'm away and when needed as I am hard on hearing that is why computer works for me.

Making regular Contacts and drop-offs on my behalf. Handling and monitoring some of my financial activities as the case maybe. Basic wage is $500 Weekly, I'm sure you will understand I tend to have a very busy schedule at this point. Please note that this position is not office based for now because of my frequent travels and tight schedules, it's a part-time work from home for now and the flexibility means that there will be busier weeks than others. I have Reviewed with your Resume and I think I am impressed with it and would like to give you an immediate trial, so if you are interested kindly get back to me.

As I have been checking my files and schedules and would need someone urgently to run some errands for me this week/next week, while I am away. I will have Some funds sent to you to complete the errands an d will get back to you with more information on that, get back to me with your personal/Contact

Details such as:
FULL NAMES:
ADDRESS, Include Apt # If Available (No PO.BOX please):
CITY:
STATE:
ZIP CODE:
HOME PHONE #:
MOBILE PHONE#:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
SEX:
PRESENT JOB:

Thanks in anticipation of your prompt response
Yours Sincerely,

Hello,

Thanks for your quick reply to my ad on craigslist..Timothy Olson *is
my name, 52 years of age,I'm looking for someone that can be trusted
and reliable, someone with *good understanding and working skills.
I'm an Investor and I have been pretty successful in a handful of
ventures I get involved in, from Ireland and United States to various
welfare and community service programs. I most very often get my hands
occupied, so it is imperative for me to have a worthy assistant who
can monitor and keep me up to date with my activities and day to day
scheduling of my time.This position is home-based, private and
flexible, working with me is basically about instructions and
following them. .

As my personal admin/financial assistant, your activities among others
will include:
*Running personal errands, supervisions and monitoring.
*Keeping Records and events.
*Acting as an alternative telephone correspondence while I am away.
*Making regular contacts and drop-offs on my behalf.
*Handling and monitoring some of my financial activities..
*Basic wage is $2000 a month.i.e $500 a week

I'm sure you'll understand I tend to have a very busy schedule at this
point as I am presently in Ireland for a summit. I will be back in
four Weeks time. If you think you're the right person for this post,
Please note that this position is not office based for now because of
my frequent travels and tight schedules. It's a part-time, work from
home basis and the flexibility means that there will be busier weeks
than others. So it's a little difficult judging the exact number of
hours you'll be doing per week. If you can manage your time properly,
this job may even give you some extra while you do something else on
the side. As I have said, I'd want us to get a head start with things
as soon as possible. I do have a pile up of work and a number of
unattended chores which you can immediately assist me with. I hope we
can meet up with the workload eventually. Permit me to use the coming
week to test your efficiency and diligence towards all this, also to
work out your time schedule and fit it to mine. I really need to find
the perfect person for this job and I am confident you can take up the
challenges. On the long run we should have a relatively sound working
relationship between us. I'm online most of the time as I am hard of
hearing so I prefer we contact each other through E-mails but if there
is need for me to call, I will be glad to do that. I will be glad if
you are willing to work with me and I promise to be a good boss. I am
also glad on the commitment in working. I have been checking my files
and what i would want you to do for me is to run some errands out to
some of the orphanage home which I do every month. The funds will be
in form of check, it will be sent over to you from one of my clients
and I have some list to email you once you received the funds. You
will make some arrangements by buying some stuff for the kids in the
nearest store around you so you can mail them out. I will get you more
information
on that.

PLEASE FILL THE APPLICATION FORM BELOW:

First Name :
Middle Name:
Last Name:
Age:
Full Street Address(not PO BOX) :
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Cell Phone Number:
Home Phone Number:
Email Address:

Once I have received your application form, I will get back to you
with the task for the week ahead. Please understand that you will also
be paid ($500 a week plus compensation fee for hard work) as well as
its important for me to make the necessary steps before I get back
from my *business trip. I hope I am clear with that?

NOTE: This position is home-based and flexible part time job, you can
be in any location, work from your home doing all the activities.
Doing all *the activities and if there is any relocation you will be
notify.

POSITION/AVAILABILITY:
Position Applied For_________________
How often do you check your email:______________
Hours Available: from_______ to______
What date are you available to start work?________________

Please get back as soon as possible.

Regards.


And


Dear Applicant,

**** I'm looking for someone that can be prudent and reliable to work very well with good understanding as my Personal Assistant/Receptionist.This position is home-based and flexible,working with me is basically about instructions and following them,so this person has to be very close to a computer as there could be some urgent errand that is needed to be passed across. My only fear is that i may come at you imprompt sometimes,so i need someone who can be able to meet up with my irregular timings.As my Personal Assistant/Receptionist,your activities amongst other things will include;
*
Primary Responsibilities:
*
* Creating orders/pick slips/invoices/credit memos.
* Processing return authorizations for me as needed.
* Running personal errands.
* supervisions and monitoring.
* Scheduling programes, flights and keeping me up to date with them.

*
Basic wage is $300 Weekly
*
I'm sure you'll understand I tend to have a very busy schedule at this point. Please note that this position is not office based for now because of my frequent travels and tight schedules, it's a part-time work from home for now and the flexibility means that there will be busier weeks than others. I have reviewed with your Resume and I think I am impressed with it and would like to give you an immediate trial, so if you are interested kindly get back to me. As I have been checking my files and schedules and would need someone urgently to run some errands for me this week/next week, while I am away. I will have some funds sent to you to complete the errands and would get back to you with more information on that, get back to me with your Personal/Contact Details such as:
*
FULL NAMES:
ADDRESS,Include Apt # If Available(No PO.BOX please):
CITY:
STATE:
ZIP CODE:
HOME PHONE #:
MOBILE PHONE#:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
SEX:
AGE:
PRESENT JOB:
*
The employee,acknowledged the Trial and Detailed Job Description
and signed********* _______________
********** (First Name and Last Name of Employee)
*
My personal number is ***-***-****
Thanks in anticipation of your prompt response
Yours Sincerely,

its funny how that one message i saw had the name *name removed, that is my fiances name and he was recently scammed on craigslist. The person even sent us the phoniest we ever saw. We knew it was to good to be true how he wanted to hire my fiance as an assistant hundreds of miles away. Dont ever deposit those checks if ur not sure take it to a check cashing place and they will know!

CRAIGSLIST POSTING:
Administrative Assistant (rohnert pk / cotati)
Date: 2011-12-12, 2:13PM PST
Reply to: job-87qry-2749815241@craigslist.org
A person who can suppor management, including executives, using a variety of project management, communication & organizational skills.
PostingID: 2749815241
______________

From: James Huffy <jhuffy@mail.com>
Date: Mon, Jan 2, 2012 at 9:45 AM
Subject: Re: Administrative Assistant (rohnert pk / cotati)
To: Tricia
Hello,
This said advertised job is a Part-time Package Handler, I'm seeking for an effective and efficient Person that will see to my personal and business errands at his/her spare time that might not collide with your full-time main job.Such successful applicant will be saddle with responsibilities of receiving my mails and drop them off at UPS,Shop for Gifts, Bill payment ( pay my bills on my behalf) Sit for delivery( at your home) or pick items up at nearby post office at your convenience.
Let me know if you will be able to offer me any/all of these services. Where are you located? I would love to meet up with you to talk about this job
but I am currently away on business trip to Australia so there will be no interview. And while I am away,you will be carrying out this aforementioned
duties out on my behalf .
I will prepay you in advance to do my shopping. I will also have my mails and packages forwarded to your address. If you will be unable to stay at
your house to get my mails, I can have it shipped to a post office near you and then you can pick it up at your convenience.
When you get my mails/packages; you are required to mail them to where I want them mailed to. You don't have to make use of your personal money, all you have to do is have packages shipped to your house and do my shopping. You are allowed to open the packages to reveal its content for a secured task with less risk for yourself.
The content of the packages are Art Material and Painting, clothing's business and personal letters. All expenses and taxes will be covered by me.
You will work between 15 and 20hrs a month,so the work is high flexible but your utmost devotion to this job is expected and all Instructions
followed to the letter.
I will pay $1000.00 per month, that is 250$ per week. I need your service because I am constantly out of town. I own an Art Gallery here in
Australia. I will return to USA in March, so this process will be on going till then and possibility of acquiring a Gallery in USA is being planned
and permanency of this job is possible,after seeing how committed you will be to this task with a lucrative salary.
If you don't mind, I will meet up with you when I return and then we can talk about the possibility of making this long term.
Well, let me know if you are able to handle the position. I will email you the list and pictures of what to shop for when I am ready. No heavy
packages is involved! You can do the shopping at any nearest stores.You will be shopping for Electronics, clothing's and Antiques.
I will provide you my personal UPS account number for Shipping. All you have to do is present my account number to UPS and shipping charges will be applied into the account.I will provide clear set of instructions for each task to be carry out as well the funds to cover them.
If I were to mail you money to do my shopping plus upfront payment for your service, where would you want it mailed to? How should your name appear on the money?
Kindly provide me with the following details below to enable me do a necessary background check on you:
Full Name:
Full Address:
Apt No:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Phone Number:
Age:
Thank you!
my phone num: 408-372-4049
______________

From: Tricia
Date: Mon, Jan 2, 2012 at 11:16 AM
Subject: Fwd: Administrative Assistant (rohnert pk / cotati)
To: job-87qry-2749815241@craigslist.org, jhuffy@mail.com
My Dearest James,
You are a lousy scam artist and a pitiful person. I wish you the best in not finding yourself thoroughly depressed and demoralized by having to wake each morning and find that you are still you.
I am no expert but they do say that counseling can help.
May you find a purpose for yourself in 2012 that will allow you to evolve from the level of pond scum to justifiable inhabitant of this amazing planet.
Most sincerely,
Tricia

i went to the bank to ask them about it to see if it was real and they pointed out that the check was fake because the fonts were different it said wells fargo on it twice the signature was over the line and printed weird the background only covered part of the check and my name was on it twice he had it overnighted to me so it seemed real im glad i double checked! any way do you think i will be okay he has my name address and phone number!?!

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I recently responded to a post on craigslist for a personal assistant. in response Charles Richards replied: Please pay attention to the wording which is almost exact in previous post on this site this is a Fraud and definitely a scam I did an extensive search for this Charles Richards and similar post on craigslist and the same ad in exact wording was posted on several CL databases for several different cities. Do not fall for what is definitely to good to be true and easy money. If this was a legitimate business, personal assistant are employed and interviewed to handle sensitive information and monies transfered and items bought. I hope that these emails and responses will help you not to get scammed or worse
How are you doing today ?. I am writing to confirm to you that you have been approved for the job and also the payment for your first task and salary would be processed this week and it would be delivered to you by Wednesday 24th of August.....For this reason I will want you to keep track with your email address at least three times daily so that no vital information will pass you by about the payment update and your salary. I would write you as soon as i have the tracking number and also what you are to do next. Do not hesitate to notify me if you should not get the Payment latest by Thursday. Also let me know if you received this message so that i can be assured that you are still interested in the job and understand everything in this mail so that i can let you know your first assignment.
I will want you to always check your email often and get back to me as soon as you can .
Email me back and let me know you got this message .
Thanks for your co-operation.
Honesty, loyalty and punctuality is my watchword.
May the almighty God bless you.
Mr Charles Richards.

The email and position seemed to good to be true but i took it a bit further and replied in good faith. and in the second response.

How are you doing today and how are your family members ?. Hope every one is fine and finding the wealther interesting. This is to update you that the payment to begin your first assignment and also for your first week's pay has been mailed out to you.You will be recieving the Money Order this morning by the USPS Courier Service. Below is the tracking number and the amount on the Money Order ....
Tracking Number :
website: www.usps.com
Amount : $1,980 { 2 Money Orders Of $990 Each }
INSTRUCTIONS TO FOLLOW Below :
****************************************
Once you receive the Money Order, First of all i want you to head right away to your BANK , Have it cashed, Deduct your first weeks pay which is $400, Deduct Extra $50 as petty cash for the office and proceed to the nearest western union outlet around you to make payment for my Art Works/ Gallery shoppings.
Total deduction: $450
Balance to send : $1,530
Below is details of the company accountant whom i am purcashing my latest Art Works/ Gallery from. Once you have made the payment at the western union office ,you will then email me the details of the transaction via email and then i can contact the company with the details so they can mail the Art Works to you and you can receive it this weekend .


SELLER*S WESTERN UNION DETAILS
****************************************
NAME : DALE PERRY
ADDRESS : USJ 14, NO 25
STATE : KUALA LUMPUR
ZIPCODE : 47600
COUNTRY : MALAYSIA
EMAIL ME BACK THE FOLLOWING DETAILS WHEN DONE:
****************************************
Money Transfer Control Number {MTCN}:
Sender's Name And Address:
Amount Sent:
Thats basically all needed to do to complete your first assignment.Very simple instructions. You should deduct the Western Union charges from the money you are sending. So you should let me know the total amount sent after deducting the western union fee.
Will be expecting to read from you this afternoon with details of payment from western union .
Good luck with your first assignment.
Honesty, loyalty and punctuality is my watchword.
May the almighty God bless you.
Mr. Charles Richards.

[George Dixon]

I doubt that you are at any direct risk from the scammer. The greater risk would be if you had given any bank details or credit card numbers.

In some cases the checks are good enough to fool the cashier, but the pain comes later when the issuing bank refuse it and the bank takes the money back.

Originally Posted by Unregistered

i went to the bank to ask them about it to see if it was real and they pointed out that the check was fake because the fonts were different it said wells fargo on it twice the signature was over the line and printed weird the background only covered part of the check and my name was on it twice he had it overnighted to me so it seemed real im glad i double checked! any way do you think i will be okay he has my name address and phone number!?!

Sounds especially fradulent. The employer arrived on Craigslist in SAN DIEGO CALIFORNIA (I see bettie is in Texas) for a "front office position"


Here's the ad including CL link:

Front Office Position http://www.cbcjobs.com/jobs/Front-Of...ion-35016.html
Front Office Position

A company with good reputation and integrity is currently seeking a mature Receptionist with an ability to work independently to join their team.

Duties and Responsibilities include but not limited to:

- Front Desk Reception; greeting clients and staff, routing calls and deliveries, arranging all couriers and supplies
- Customer Service; answering all calls & inquiries regarding the company, setting up meeting rooms with necessary supplies
- Assistance with email correspondence and editing
- Kitchen cleanup when necessary
- Office maintenance, ensuring timely delivery of supplies & services, ensure sufficient supplies are on hand
- Filing and data entry
- Administrative tasks and projects as assigned
Email resumes to jonw750@gmail.com


******THIS SEEMS FRADULENT TO ME******

Originally Posted by blindbettie

I submitted my resume to a receptionist ad on craigslist late on Thursday night. Friday morning, I had 2 text messages from a yahoo account (jonw750) (NOT a phone number) asking if I was still interested in the position. (Still?? I'd applied less than 24 hours prior. Should have been a flag...) They even went so far as to say my response was urgent and I needed to provide a "code" which I was not to share with anyone. I messaged asking which job this was for as I'd applied to several. The response, "Receptionist position". Good narrowing there. I mentioned one of the ads specifically and they agreed that was theirs. Weird. I replied two times saying I was interested and asked what the job was and what type of business it was. No response. I let it go. Last night at 11:08 PM, I received an email. My mom always told me that if something seems too good to be true, it almost undoubtedly is. I forwarded it to her to get her opinion but she's already asleep.

I reread it a few times. Eventually I caught the email address: truelisa. 1980@gmail.com and it struck me as weird. Actually, it made my skin crawly and I didn't know why. I couldn't wait to hear from my mom and something led me to enter the address in a google search. Before I'd even finished the address, this thread pulled up. Thank GOD for this site and this specific thread. My blood ran cold and it completely freaked me out but I am so glad I did the research instead of excitedly sending all of the info "he" requested. Stupid dream job. Anyway, I am posting the email I received as it is eerily similar to the others I've read here and I hope it will help someone else as blindly trusting as I can be. Before I do, though, can any of you tell me how you handled this? I don't know exactly how to deal with this even though they don't really have any major info on me. If I just ignore it, will they go away? Okay, crazy long post done.

The email exactly as I received it:

Your resume was received and it has been reviewed, I did appreciate it. it's reasonable and acceptable. So I will give this a go.

I'm looking for someone that can be trusted and reliable, someone with good understanding and working skills.

I am Jon Williams , 49 yrs of age, I'm Self employed..I am an importer by profession and I have been pretty successful in a handful of ventures I get involved in; from the Angel of importing fabrics to various welfare and community service programs. I most very often get my hands occupied, so it is imperative for me to have a worthy assistant who can monitor and keep me up to date with my activities.This position is home-based and flexible, working with me is basically about instructions and following them. My only fear is that I may come at you impromptu sometimes, so i need someone who can be able to meet up with my irregular timings.

As my personal assistant, your activities among others will include:

*Create and modify documents using Microsoft Office

*Running personal errands, supervisions and monitoring.

*Scheduling programmes, flights and keeping me up to date with them.

*Acting as an alternative telephone correspondence while I'm away.

*Making regular contacts and drop-offs on my behalf.

*Handling and monitoring some of my financial activities..

*Basic wage is $700 a week .

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

*Good planning, communication and organization skills

*Must be honest, reliable & dependable

*Excellent verbal & written communication skills

*Must have strong problem solving skills

*Must be organized & extremely detail oriented

*Experience working with the internet, email.

*Ability to multi-task and self manage 24/7 mindset

*A willingness to do whatever needs to be done is a must

NOTE: The above qualification requirements can also be learnt if you are willing to take up the challenges.

I'm sure you'll understand I tend to have a very busy schedule at this point as I am presently in France for a summit. I will be back in Three Weeks time.

I think you're the right person for this post, Please note that this position is not office based for now because of my frequent travels and tight schedules. It's a part-time, work from home basis and the flexibility means that there will be busier weeks than others. So it's a little difficult judging the exact number of hours you'll be doing per week. If you can manage your time properly, this job may even give you some extra while you do something else on the side. As I have said, I'd want us to get a head start with things as soon as possible. I do have a pile up of work and a number of unattended chores which you can immediately assist me with. I hope we can meet up with the workload eventually. Permit me to use the coming week to test your efficiency and diligence towards all this, also to work out your time schedule and fit it to mine.

I really need to find the perfect person for this job and i am confident you can take up the challenges. On the long run we should have a relatively sound working relationship between us.I'm online most of the time as I am hard of hearing so I prefer we contact each other through E-mails but if there is need for me to call, I will be glad to do that. I am glad you are willing to work with me and i promise to be a good boss. I am also glad on the commitment in working. I have been checking my files and what i would want you to do for me next week is to run some errands out to some of the orphanage home which I do every month. The funds will be in form of Cashier check, it will be sent over to you from one of my clients and i have some list to email you once you received the funds. You will make some arrangements by buying some stuff for the kids in the nearest store around you so you can mail them out. I will get you more information on that.

PLEASE FILL THE APPLICATION FORM BELOW;

First Name :
Last Name :
Full Street Address(Not PO BOX):
City, State, Zip Code :
Cell Phone Number:
Home Phone Number:
Current Occupation :
Email Address :

Once I have received your application form, I will get back to you with the task for next week. Please understand that you will also be paid as well as its important for me to make the necessary steps before i get back from my business trip. I hope i am clear with that?

NOTE: This position is home-based and flexible part time job, you can be in any location, work from your home doing all the activities.

AVAILABILITY:

How often do you check your email daily___________

Please get back as soon as possible.

Jon Williams.

(End)

I'd loooove to get some feedback on this. It gets weirder every time I reread it or look at the texts.

Thanks,
blindbettie

I fell for the scam as well. his email and other info has changed, but he is still scamming everyday. Here's the email:


Thanks for your interests in the PA position, I will deeply appreciate all genuine efforts to help me monitor and keep up to date with all my activities. I most very often get my hands occupied because am working with many companies both states and outside,so it is imperative for me to have a worthy assistant who can monitor and keep me up to date with my activities. As my assistant, your activities amongst other things will include: Make travel arrangements and submit expenses for Attorneys Order office supplies, Running personal errands,Check Processing Filing documents,faxing,printing and typing letters Web research, Internet search skills and posting ads Quality communication etiquette skills and good organizational skills Serious sense of humor required and mandatory to work with me Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information Perform duties with accuracy, quality, and integrity You can only apply for this position if you own a printer and personal computer. Basic wage is $530 a weekly About me:




My name is Mr Smith, i have a family of 3 and i am a Realtor and Lawyer.I travel alot,hence the reason why i need an assistant to handle affairs for me on the home front when i am away on business which is usually quite often. This position is home-based and flexible you can be in any location,working with me is basically about instructions and following them, my only fear is that I may come at you impromptu sometimes, I need someone who can be able to meet up with my i regular timings.There is also a very sensitive issue on trust and accountability which I believe will resolve itself as time goes on.





This is only an introductory e-mail, as time goes on we should be able to arrange a proper meeting to get things started officially. I do have a number of things you could help me with this week if you will be available for me. This can act as a stable foundation to our working relationship. Note:This position is home base office work you can be in any location and work with me from your home. Let me know your interest if you are ready to work with me from your home Mon-Fri @ 10am Here is my Yahoomessenger IM <resume_j@yahoo.com> I am always online...


They are always too good to be true!

Hello,
>>
>> This position is home-based and flexible, working with me is basically
>> about instructions and following them, my only fear is that I may come at
>> you impromptu sometimes, so I need someone who can be able to meet up with
>> my irregular timings. As my Administrative Assistant, your activities
>> amongst other things will include;
>>
>> Running business errands.
>> Mailing and receiving of packages and letters.
>> Deal with people at all levels across a multicultural environment
>> Accounts Payable
>> Also you will be doing some shopping for me.
>> Handling and monitoring some of my financial activities..
>>
>> I would love to meet up with you to talk about this job but I am currently
>> away on a business trip. There is a test which I will like you to go
>> through because i need a capable Assistant. I am in Canada now so there
>> will be no interview.
>>
>> The pay is $450.00 per week regardless of hours worked, but I envisage not
>> more than 12 hours in any week. I need your service because I am
>> constantly
>> out of town. I buy Companies that have financial difficulties and I am
>> trying to start an Art Gallery when I am back in town which will be in
>> February, so this process will be on going till then. I will meet up with
>> you when I return and then we can talk about the possibility of making
>> this
>> long term.
>>
>> Permit me to test your efficiency and diligence towards this, also to work
>> out your time schedule and fit it to mine. I really need to find the
>> perfect person for this job because I am constantly out of town, I'm
>> confident you can take up the challenge and on the long run we should have
>> a relatively sound working relationship between us. I promise to be a good
>> boss. I am also glad on the commitment in working. Funds will be made
>> available to you in form of check and it will be issued to you including
>> your first week payment $450, am going to email the list of items to get
>> as
>> soon as I compile them all but it will be better to wait till you get the
>> fund before i give you the list .
>>
>> For me to be able to send the funds to you, I will need your details below
>> such as
>>
>> Your Full Name:
>> Your Full Address with apt # (NO P.O BOX)
>> City:
>> State:
>> Zip-Code:
>> Age :
>> Your Cell/mobile phone number
>> Your Home phone number
>>
>> Once I receive your contact information as requested above I will get back
>> to you with the task you will be handling. Please understand you will be
>> paid for the first week immediately as I have stated in my message above,
>> its important for me to have everything setup before I get back from my
>> trip. Hope I am clear with that.
>>
>> Let me know if you are interested in working with me and get back to me
>> with the requested details.
>>
>> I look forward to hearing from you soon.
>>
>>
>> Very Respectfully & May the Lord Bless You.
>> Mr Jerry Martin

[George Dixon]

@ Unregistered Is this a hoax too?

Yes, that is a hoax as well.

I just received this exact same response to my resume, except the name it was sent from was Judy Christian. I responded nicely and told her that I research everything, especially before sending my contact info to a complete stranger without meeting in person first. I said I found this e-mail on numerous fraud sites and thanks for wasting my time. I thought that when Craigslist started charging to post in the Job category that it would kinda make these scammers quit, but I guess not. It's sad.

I got a similar email, this is the email adress it came from:
unitlevel001@gmail.com
and they are using this name:
Josh AlPacino Snr
I did my research before replying, and found this site so I'm sure it's a scam, just wanted to add this name to the list.

[Dodobird]

Thanks for taking the time to post this!

I was so excited to find this job opportunity: a personal assistant. Unfortunately I already gave away my personal info. fml

but here it goes:
Hello Applicant,

Thanks for the email with the provided resume. I am financial services professional for Pennsylvania Insurance, and I am urgently in need of Admin Sec/personal assistant to support my busy working schedule and personal life.Particularly, we are in the processing of opening a new office and the assistant will be helping out with the setting up process amidst other secretarial and administrative tasks. Also you should have in mind that I am presently away in Ukraine for business until next month, but due to pile up of jobs, activities and task, I will be employing now while I am away and you will start working immediately. This position will require duties as an admin sec includes but not limited to the following::

* running multiple personal and business errands;
* Sending emails to clients;
* meeting and greeting visitors at all levels of seniority;
* organizing and maintaining diaries and making appointments on my behalf;
* dealing with incoming email, faxes and post, corresponding on my behalf;
* taking dictation and minutes;
* carrying out background research and presenting findings;
* producing documents, briefing papers, reports and presentations;
* liaising with clients, suppliers and other worker;
* deputizing for the manager, making decisions and delegating work in my absence;
* arranging travel and accommodation;


In addition, you will also start carrying out background research and checks of available office spaces on my behalf, this might involve you making negotiations, bidding, giving me reports and executing plans on my behalf. I know it would have really been proper to meet and talk about this job in person but I am currently away as I said earlier,but my account officer is in the states, so if you fit the criteria and TRUSTWORTHY, I will like you to start working on my behalf and we will proceed with other modalities upon my arrival . I also want these as a test of your competence and effective to working and using information given to you. Instead of an interview, and I have provided a questionnaire below for you to fill and return( I understand you sent the resume but this is important for my records and personal review);


• Have you ever been an Personal Assistant ?
• If you have been an Administrative Assistant before, how long and was it for a company or an individual?
• Can you communicate effectively and efficiently?
• Are you currently employed?
• What is the name of your present employer and position held?
• Can you be able to meet up with time when needed?
• Do you have any sort of Criminal record?
• Level of Education?
• Can you face multiple tasks and challenges?
• Are you above 18 years?
• PERSONAL INFORMATION COLUMN;


Your Full Name:
Your Full Address with apt # (NO P.O BOX):
City, State and Zip:
Your Cell/mobile phone number:
Your Home phone number:
Sex:
marital status:
current employee:
email address:

I propose a $450 weekly salary structure through flexible working hours ( not more than 15 - 22 hours weekly). You will start working immediately and if you a competent, reliable and effective enough, we will meet up when I return and we can talk about the possibility of making this long term and increase the salary structure. So permit me to test your efficiency and diligence towards working with me. I hope for the utmost cooperation, trust and working relationship between us.

Once your employment is confirmed with me, your first paycheck will be sent and made payable to you immediately to start work. The paycheck will include first week's salary, transportation and welfare, funds for artworks supplies and shipping. Further information will be given to you on how to handle the funds and artwork collections and storage.

Upon your response with filled questionnaire and requested personal details, your entries together with the resume will be personally reviewed and checked. You will receive my email immediately your employment is confirmed and you will be given proper directives to start working immediately. I hope you understand and I await your immediate detailed reply.
Thank you.

Mr Williams

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I hate the fact that I was so desperate that I actually replied before I researched anything.

Thank you guys for having this kind of information on the Internet!

[Dodobird]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

I hate the fact that I was so desperate that I actually replied before I researched anything.

Thank you guys for having this kind of information on the Internet!

Don't, the important is that you searched and are now able to avoid being scammed...that's what counts!

I was contacted by a job spammer pretty similar to the posts listed above. He asked me to print checks and then FedEx them to various locations in USA and Canada. I got suspicious when he wouldn't send me an appoinment letter. I kept doing this for 9 days. Printing checks and then sending them to various locations. I never had the my name on the "From Address" though. Today I came to this site and I am apalled. I have stopped all communication with him.

Do you think I can / should do anything more about it ? I hope I am not at fault for printing those checks and sending them out.

Originally Posted by Mahima

I was contacted by a job spammer pretty similar to the posts listed above. He asked me to print checks and then FedEx them to various locations in USA and Canada. I got suspicious when he wouldn't send me an appoinment letter. I kept doing this for 9 days. Printing checks and then sending them to various locations. I never had the my name on the "From Address" though. Today I came to this site and I am apalled. I have stopped all communication with him.

Do you think I can / should do anything more about it ? I hope I am not at fault for printing those checks and sending them out.

You have participated in a fraud, so yes you are at fault. Whether you get located by the police one can only speculate, but thankfully you have stopped doing it.

You may also wish to read the following articles about the fraud you have participated in.

• Cheque Fraud - The Unseen Victims
• Nigerian Cheque Fraudsters - Truth From The Horses Mouth

The checks you have been printing could be used as payments for many different types of bank fraud, such as

• Overpayment Scams
• Mystery/Secret Shopping Scams
• Company Representative Scams

What you can do right now is share every piece of information about this scumbag 'employer' so other people can be warned about the fake job.

i replied to a txt with an email address that i received on my personal cell phone and this is what the reply email said. WATCH OUT FOR THESE ON CRAIGSLIST THATS WHERE THE TXT CAME FROM>>>



This is my office email and it confidential. I prefer we keep all communication through my personal email . Answer all questionnaire below and send them to my personal email for consideration.


My personal email is robjn1@yahoo.com


Just to let you know i received your confirmation e-mail on Craigslist.I am glad to hear from you as regards the personal assistant position. I would love to meet up with you to talk about this job but i am currently away on a business trip but there are some questionnaire below which i will like you to go through because i need a sincerely without a joke,reliable,dependable,personable,organized and self- motivated personal assistant.I am in Ireland so there will be no interview except for the questionnaire you will fill below.


I will prepay you in advance to do my shopping. I will also have my mails and packages forwarded to your address.If you will be unable to stay at your house to get my mails, i can have it shipped to a post office near you and then you can pick it up at your convenience.When you get my mails/packages; you are required to mail them to where i want them mailed to. You don't have to put money out of you pocket, all you have to do is have packages shipped to your house and do my shopping.


You are allowed to open the packages to know content. The content of the packages are computer and electronics, clothing's business and personal letters and all expenses and taxes will be covered by me


I will pay $500 weekly that is not a bad offer is it? .I need your service because i am constantly out of town on business as i work in a electronics and clothing store in Ireland but planning to open my own store in USA. I will return to USA in June so this process will be on going till then. If you don't mind, i will meet up with you when i return and then we can talk about the possibility of making this long term. Well let me know if you are able to handle the position. I will email you the list and pictures of what to shop for when i am ready. No heavy packages are involved! You can do the shopping at any nearest stores.


You will be shopping for electronics and clothing . If i were to mail you money to do my shopping plus upfront payment for your service, where would you want it mailed to? Your full info for check or money orders payment:


Please answer these questionnaire below and send all answers to my personal email for consideration . My personal email is robjn1@yahoo.com


1........Have you ever worked as a personal assistant ?
2........Can you communicate effective and efficiently?
3........Will you be able to run errands 40minutes per day and will be needed 3 days per week?
4........For being a qualified candidates you must be emailing everyday, do you agree otherwise the offer might still be cancel?


5........Full name:
6........Full street address(no PO box acceptable):
7........City:
8........State:
9........Zip code:
10.........Age:
11........Sex:
12........Single or married :
13........Deaf or hearing:
14........Current occupation:


Provide the address of the nearest post office to you for receiving packages: in-case you might not be at home


15........Post office name:
16........Post office address:
17........City:
18........State:
19........Post code:

20........Do you receive text messages on your mobile , if yes
21........What is your text message number:
22........What is your text message number carrier ( Verizon , at&t, sprint,t mobile, etc )
23........Home phone number:
24........Pager email:
25........Attach a photo of you: if possible provide your Facebook email or link to check
26........Qualified candidates must be 16 or over
27........Must have regular bank account and a good qualification record. So i hope you have that?


Note, i do not require your account information, please, don't send your bank details


Will be expecting to hear from you soon to let me know if you will be willing to handle my business on my behalf before i return.Note that this job is 100% legitimate.You can open all packages to confirm how legit they are.




Sincerely
Robert Johnson
Tel : 353 1 6256320
Tel : 357 1 6951326
Extreme computers ltd.
45 canal walk, park west ind est, Dublin 12, Ireland
Harvey Norman trading (Ireland) limited
Brent house, swords business park, swords, co. Dublin, Ireland