I sent my resume in to a posting on Craigslist (of course), and got an e-mail back from a Marisa Delorme on April 30th. I went ahead with it, even though my e-mail told me the message looked suspicious, because ... Sometimes my e-mail is wrong. The e-mail told me to go here: http://employeestaffingus.com-idents.info and fill out the screening.
After filling it out, I received an e-mail from Teresita Kloster on May 1st (who is apparently already on the Scammers List). I clicked on the link (Bad, I know) and filled out the information. At the end of it, it told me I would have to put in my credit card information, and it would run a credit check that would cost $1, but that $1 would be reimbursed. I did, but since I'm super broke to begin with, my card had less that $1 and it told me it couldn't process.
At this point, I begin to think this is a scam, and since I couldn't do the whole "credit thing" I probably wouldn't be hearing back from them anytime soon.
A few days later, on May 4th, I receive an e-mail from a Mr. Scott Doyle that goes as reads:
__________________________________________________________________
Hello,
How are you doing today? Your application to the post is duly noted, your resume was carefully scrutinized and found to be satisfactory, actually this Receptionist/Secretary position has been open a while now and it would be a great pleasure to have you onboard.
I live with my lovely Wife and 2 Beautiful daughters. I’m a Program Director who specializes on taking exhibitions,holding lectures and special events for both adult and youth education activities in architectural development .I'm looking for someone trustworthy and reliable to work very well with good understanding.
Basic wage is $600 weekly
Benefits:
- Yearly performance bonus
- Paid vacation/sick/personal days
- Medical benefits
This position is a flexible Part-time job, it must be noted that you will be working from your home for the time being, executing all the activities and duties.... I am presently out of state for a business retreat and will be back before the end of the Month, Pending my arrival I want you to start working for me and I have a number of things you could help me with this week or next week, providing you will be available to start. This will serve as a stable foundation to our working relationship.
In addition,Your kind of work is classified under the 1099. Also you will be reimbursed for any travel and extra expenses. I have the first task waiting for you, I just need you to indicate your willingness to work. I have been checking my files and what I would want you to do for me this week is to run some errands out to some FOSTER HOMES, You will be making some donations to them which is something of a monthly indulgence for me. I would expect you to consider this a test of your efficiency and efficacy.
Funds required to make the Donations will be sent to you from one of my financial aides in form of Money order...You will make arrangements to buy some stuff for the kids in nearby store around you and mail them out.
I will like for you to get back to me with your contact details as follow:
Full Name(s) :
Home Mailing Address (NOT PO BOX) :
APT # :
City :
State:
Zip-Code :
Mobile Phone Number :
Acceptance of offer :
Email Address:
Soon as I receive your contact information, I will get back to you with the task for the week.
I will await your prompt response.
Scott Doyle.
__________________________________________________________________
To make this already long story, short, we've exchanged a few e-mails since then and he's given me this "position" without interviewing me like the original e-mail said.
On top of all of that, I've received a check in my name, in the mail for the amount stated in another, more recent e-mail. It's a rather large check, and at $1950, how can I not question this all? ... This is a check from someone who I have never met, and who has never met me.
The original e-mail also said that I would be purchasing items for the homes, and now he just wants me to put the money in my bank, take it out and then transfer it to:
NAME : Steve Richardson
ADDRESS : 162 East Ohio st
CITY : Chicago
STATE: Illinois
ZIP CODE : 60611
THE BIG QUESTION NOW IS: What should I do with the check, since it may possibly be a fake? ... Should I just rip it up? Should I show it to someone? Should I just stop e-mailing and this person and let it go?
After that, what should I do next?
