Tutor Scam Examples

Last updated Nov 21, 2024

This page contains examples of scam emails that were sent to tutors from 2006 onward. Below are some examples that tutors have forwarded to us. 

In 2024 tutors are receiving more texts than emails from scammers and we are starting to see AI-generated messages, which solves the problem for scammers of poor grammar flagging them as suspicious. We've seen very elaborate schemes: one scammer claimed to be a "concierge" service looking to hire tutors, with official-looking letterhead, another touting a "workshop" offering very large per-session fees to tutors, and paying airfare and hotel expenses.  See examples below! 

For details about how this scam works, please read About Tutor Scams.

Nov 21, 2024

(Editor)  This tutor "T" responded to a scammer's text saying she only uses email and the scammer replied with a robotic-sounding explanation.

Scammer: "Hello T__, I am looking for a French teacher for my child. Are you still doing this job?"
Tutor: "I don't do business over text. Where did you get my contact info? Please use my email and provide me with more details."
Scammer: "I saw you on your official website. Sorry, I don't communicate through emails. We can communicate through WhatsApp because I spend a lot of time using WhatsApp. My business partners and family members also use WhatsApp to communicate with me. We can get to know each other through WhatsApp so that I can feel at ease when my child learns knowledge from you."

(Editor)  Another tutor wrote:

"Hi. I got a scammy message from a person who got my contact information from BPN. My phone number was the email subject and they asked generic questions which meant they hadn’t bothered to read my post.  I’m ignoring and blocking this person but wanted to pass it along in case others are receiving these.  Name on the email is Yiyi Huang, 858-761-3364"
Here's what the scammer wrote:
"David C___ Hi! I found you through the Berkeley Parent Network. What age groups do you teach? What subjects do you primarily teach?" 

August 8, 2024

July 16, 2024

(Editor)  Here is a new twist:  The scammer claimed to be from a concierge service and offered $1000 per session.  The tutor told BPN: "I got a pretty scammy email that is more sophisticated than usual, using company letterhead in the email and pointing to a website with a blank homepage. Here's the text; hope it helps others:"

Mar 14, 2023

From: Brigham James <bethann6b42 [at] gmail.com (bethann6b42[at]gmail[dot]com)>
Date: Tue, Mar 14, 2023 at 1:45 PM
Subject: Homework Coaching

Hi!  I will like to know if you could tutor my daughter three(3)times
in a week for a Month(an hour daily). Starting from 25th of march .
Her name is Katelynn and she's 14yrs old. kindly e-mail me at (
bethann6b42 [at] gmail.com (bethann6b42[at]gmail[dot]com)) with the cost and the
availability. Thanks.

Dr. Brigham

Dec 12, 2022

(Editor) This is the same text that is being sent by "Frank Twinn" but this one has a different name and email.

From: April Goodpaster <aprilgoodpaster30 [at] gmail.com (aprilgoodpaster30[at]gmail[dot]com)>
Date: Mon, Dec 12, 2022 at 1:07 PM
Subject: Re: College Essay Writing Coach

Hello,  I am glad to hear from you and everything sounds good to me, Am Frank  by name, my son is coming for a holiday in your (CITY), His name is Eric and is 15 years old . I want him to be busy in the time of the day, because i will be in SPAIN for business trip for a month that is why i want him to be lesson, Am okay with your price and i have decided to let him attend your lesson and he will be coming 3 hour in a day in the Afternoon, also get back to me with your own convenient  time and day you want my son to be coming in 2 days in a week and i haves Someone (Nanny) that will always drives him down to  your lesson center..

Kindly get back to me with your information below.
First Name:
Last Name:
Full address: Not P.O.BOX
City:
State:
Postal Code:
Phone Number: That i can send text message
Total Amount:

The reason why I need the information is that the payment will be sent to you through Usps Or FedEx Courier, So that the courier can deliver the payment to you. Hope you understand me now. Thanks and hope to read from you soon

Dec 8, 2022

From: Anita J Brown jb8281921 [at] gmail.com

Subject: Math & Science Tutoring

Hi, My name is Anita Joseph i am reaching out to you regarding your
post on BPN , Do you have a spot open to accommodate my son for Math
lesson ?  get back to me asap for more info. Thanks

Dec 2, 2022

From: Adriana Alcide adrianaalcide1970 [at] gmail.com (adrianaalcide1970[at]gmail[dot]com)

Subject: Private Lacrosse Training

I try to call the number on your post but not connecting, Well my son
isn't doing well. I am looking for Lacrosse lessons and need some help
with him,I'd like to find an experienced tutor to build confidence in
him.he's a beginner player ,He is in grade 8th,We would like 8 session
evening session or Afternoon session 1 hour per day, in person lesson
or if possible Online, Let me know if you can be of help ?

From: Adriana Alcide adrianaalcide1970 [at] gmail.com (adrianaalcide1970[at]gmail[dot]com)

Subject: Math lesson in reference to your post on BPN----Call or email me back ☎️☎️☎️

I try to call ☎️ the number on your post but not connecting, Well my
son isn't doing well. I am looking for Math lessons and need some help
with him,I'd like to find an experienced tutor to build confidence in
him.i want him to learn Linear equations and functions ,He is in grade
8th,We would like 8 session evening session or Afternoon session 1
hour per day, in person lesson or if possible Online, Let me know if
you can be of help ?

Nov 30, 2022

From: Sandra Lopez aprilgoodpastr30 [at] gmail.com

Subject: Math Tutor

Hello tutor ,My name is Sandra Lopez i saw your post on berkeley
parents network, I want my daughter to attend your lesson. she is
struggling with Math. Please  contact me if you are available ?

Nov 29, 2022

(Editor) Lots of emails sent by "Frank Twinn" in Nov-Dec 2022.

From: Frank Twinn cjoe30122 [at] gmail.com

Subject: Math Tutor

Hello, I saw your post on BPN, I want my 11 yo son to learn algebra
can you teach him ? Please shoot me email soon as you can for better
discussion. Thanks.
Frank Twinn .

From: Frank Twinn cjoe30122 [at] gmail.com

Subject: Math Tutor

Hello, I saw your post on BPN, I want my 11 yo son to learn Fractions,
Decimals, and Percents can you teach him ? Please shoot me email soon
as you can for better discussion. Thanks.
Frank Twinn .

From: Frank Twinn cjoe30122 [at] gmail.com

Subject: Reading & Comprehension

Hello, I saw your post on BPN, I want my 11 yo son to learn Reading &
Comprehension  can you teach him ? Please shoot me email soon as you
can for better discussion. Thanks.
Frank Twinn .

Dec 12, 2022 - more email from Frank:

Hello,  I am glad to hear from you and everything sounds good to me, Am Frank  by name, my son is coming for a holiday in your (CITY), His name is Eric and is 15 years old . I want him to be busy in the time of the day, because i will be in SPAIN for business trip for a month that is why i want him to be lesson, Am okay with your price and i have decided to let him attend your lesson and he will be coming 3 hour in a day in the Afternoon, also get back to me with your own convenient  time and day you want my son to be coming in 2 days in a week and i haves Someone (Nanny) that will always drives him down to  your lesson center..

Kindly get back to me with your information below.
First Name:
Last Name:
Full address: Not P.O.BOX
City:
State:
Postal Code:
Phone Number: That i can send text message
Total Amount:

The reason why I need the information is that the payment will be sent to you through Usps Or FedEx Courier, So that the courier can deliver the payment to you. Hope you understand me now. Thanks and hope to read from you soon

Nov 27, 2022

From: Fortini Michael jodave488 [at] gmail.com

Several tutors notified us about suspicious emails they received from the email address  jodave488 [at] gmail.com using the name Fortini Davies or Fortini Michael.  This email address was found to have subscribed to BPN the day before, using the name Daniel Gamarra saying they are a parent of teens in San Francisco. Here are excerpts from the scam emails:

#1 email

My name is Fortini Davies, I got your contact on Berkeley Parents
Network. I want to know if you can teach my 15 years old daughter
Drawing & Painting. Get back to me if interested . 

#2 email 

I am glad you can teach my daughter Drawing and painting her name is
Tamara Michael she is 15 years old just like i told you in my
previously email ,she's very smart and a fast learning she is in grade
10, I will like the lesson to start by 1st of December 2022 but if you
want to choose another date that is not a problem ,i will like the
lesson to run for 10 session may be 2 days a per week and 1 hour each
day if possible! . I would like you to calculate the total charges for
10 sessions and get back to me soon as you receive this message so we
can proceed? Thanks again for your time and patience and I hope to
hear from you soonest .

#3 email

Hello ___,thanks for your respond and yes December 7th is ok with me
,more so I will like you to kindly answer my previously questions ??

I would like you to calculate the total charges for
10 sessions and get back to me soon as you receive this message so we
can proceed? ????

#4 email 

"Am happy to hear from you ___,I just got your message and i am very
much ok with the price stated above ,I will like to let you know that
i will issue out a check to in amount of $600 to cover the 10 session
lesson fees and i hope you have no problem with this ,the reason i am
issuing a check is because i am not familiar with all this online
payment so the only means for me to pay for my daughter lesson is by
Check and i can assure you won't have any issue with it ..You are
implore to kindly get back to me with the following details. (1) Your
first and Last name (2) your physical address or p.o box ( 3) Your
contact phone  number to reach incase of urgency .I will be waiting
for you to get back to me soonest

Another tutor received this email from the same scammer:

From: Fortini Michael <jodave488 [at] gmail.com (jodave488[at]gmail[dot]com)>
Date: Sat, Nov 26, 2022 at 12:57 PM
Subject: Re: Hello Tutor

Thanks for your quick response, I am glad you can teach my daughter
algebra her name is Tamara Michael she is 15 years old just like i
told you in my previously email ,she's very smart and a fast learning
she is in grade 10, I will like the lesson to start by 1st of December
2022 but if you want to choose another date that is not a problem ,i
will like the lesson to run for 10 session may be 2 days a per week
and 1 hour each day if possible! . I would like you to calculate the
total charges for 10 sessions and get back to me soon as you receive
this message so we can proceed? Thanks again for your time and
patience and I hope to hear from you soonest .

Nov 1, 2022

From: Christopher Edward <cyneddy67 [at] gmail.com (cyneddy67[at]gmail[dot]com)>
Subject: Programming & Math Enrichment Online

Hello, my name is Christopher Edward . I saw your ad's on Berkeley
Parents Network ,I am reaching out to you regarding your ads ,i am in
need of a math tutor. Please shoot me email if you are available to
discuss the details  ? Thanks.

Oct 2022

A number of tutors who subscribe to BPN got email from at least 3 different scammer names this month. One tutor wrote: "I had received something similar a year ago, and I realized it was a scam then with the second email because of the whole check thing ... Today’s particular email was very sloppy because they said they were coming in a month and later said tutoring would start on May 15th!"

From: Celestine.C.S cele290wms [at] gmail.com>

Thanks for the e-mail. Sorry for the late in the response. I'm
extremely busy at work. My name is Cynthia Santos . Like i said (
Jessica) my daughter is 15 yrs of age. She is fun, loving, clean,
respectful and quiet. She speak English.

I'm having a Conference holding with American Association of People
with Disabilities (AAPD) coming up at your area next month and I'm
coming with my daughter because i can't leave her behind. I wont be
able to go with her and that is why She will be coming to you for the
lessons so i want to know if the lesson will be holding at your place
or you will be looking for a convenient place. I will like to know the
day in a week you will be available for her which will be 3 times a
week but i prefer ( Mon, Thurs and Friday ) an hour daily starting
from 15th of May.

Meanwhile, i will love if Lesson schedule should hold in afternoon and
let me know the actual time of your availability as well in
convenience. Please kindly calculate the cost for the 3 days and for a
whole months.

As for the payment, My Sponsors will be responsible for all our travel
expenses and would like to make payment before our arrival. They will
be paying you through check in advance for the whole month, that's why
i will need the information so that the check will be mailed out asap.

***Full Name:
***Street Address with apt # if you have any, City,State,Zip Code:
***Total amount for the whole month:

Meanwhile, I wont have much time coming online to check my e-mail
frequently, I will love if you could provide me the information i
needed in the next e-mail and ask any question you wish to know about
and i will definitely get back to you as fast as i can.

Nice in meeting you and I will wait to read back from you as soon as possible.

Thanks.

================================

(This email refers to "my daughter" but says their name is "Kenneth" and uses the pronoun "he" throughout the email.)

From: Katrena Hopkins <katrenahopkins1976 [at] gmail.com (katrenahopkins1976[at]gmail[dot]com)>

Hello, Sorry for the late reply. Please send me your phone number, It is my pleasure to have my daughter under your tutelage, i want you to know that I am doing all I can to make sure that my daughter sees the best of you when she arrives for the lessons. Kenneth is 14yrs . So he will becoming for the lesson starting from 15th Nov 2022, If you are not comfortable with this starting date you can let me know so that we can fix other date convenient for you for the lesson.I want to alert you on the delivery of the check to your address in U.S any moment from now, as i was told that the check has been sent out to your address Today as i said to you that my attorney will sent out the payment before travel out for his vacation this weekend, i want you to know that the check have been finally sent to your address like i said.Although the check is more than your total teaching cost, i am very sorry for the inconvenience. My attorney included my daughter's traveling expenses to the U.S into the check to avoid delay in traveling plans and other preparation for the lesson. According to my Attorney, it will only take your bank 24 hours to clear the check for you since it within U.S check.Once you have cashed the check at your bank,you are going to deduct your total cost for lesson, please, you will assist me to send the balance to the Caretaker Via Western Union/Money Gram, Who will be taking care of my daughter during his stay in U.S for the lesson. The remaining money sent to my Caretaker will be for his feeding, travel expenses to the U.S and other commissions. Hope I can trust you with the balance? I would have loved to pay the caretaker myself but he is out of the U.S,and he will not be coming until it's a day before my daughter arrives in the U.S and as you can see my attorney has left the U.S this morning for vacation. I will be more than grateful if you can render this assistance and I won't mind paying you extra $50 as compensation for your efforts. I will want you to keep me posted as soon as the check arrives so that i can forward you my caretaker information to send the remaining money to him. I look forward to meeting with you and my daughter.  

 reconfirm your information . :

Your Full Names:

Mailing Address(Physical Address) :

Apartment Or Suit # :

City, State, Zip Code :

Cell Phone Number:
Best Wishes. Katrena Hopkins.

================================

From: Amelia Robinson robertsonamelia008 [at] gmail.com (robertsonamelia008[at]gmail[dot]com)

Hello,

My name is Amelia i came across your advertisement on BPN, Can you teach Algebra ? I need your service for Sam my son. Sam is 14yrs old in Grade 9. I understand the current situation so if you are unable to do person to person lesson at this current time we can consider online lesson which can be by zoom or Skype. Let me know if Nov 1, 2022 is convenient to start? Sam is flexible and he should be able to fit into your schedule,, so let me know days and times that work best for you. I would like to know the cost of tutoring for 1 months at 1 hour per day 2 times per week.
Thank you.

May 2022

This is a classic scammer email, sent to us by a violin teacher who is listed on BPN's website. The scammer gives the name "Rebecca Smith" which is a very generic Anglo name, yet their emails are filled with spelling, grammatical and punctuation errors that a native English speaker would not typically make. In the first email the scammer says their son's name is "Louis", but it's "Luis" in the second email! They don't say whether they live locally, but they say their "caregiver" lives near the violin teacher, and they mention that their attorney is leaving the state soon, which will require hasty action. They are setting up the tutor for an excess payment either to the caregiver or the attorney.

Original email:

On Thu, May 5, 2022 at 11:55 PM Smith Rebecca smithbecca0835 [at] gmail.com> wrote:

Hello ___,

My name is Recceca,i got your contact here in Berkeley Parents Network,I seek a Violin tutor for my son Louis, Due to my work schedule, I wont be able to write you much, I want you to email me back with the following information: Your area of residence,total cost of tutoring for 1 month (1 hour per day 2 times/week),your years of teaching experience and proposed time schedule for the lessons due to your availability.Reply me back so we can take it from here.

The violin teacher responded:

Hi Rebecca,

I just saw your email in my spam folder. I teach in an outdoor park in N. Berkeley and my rates are $85 an hour. I have 30 years of teaching experience - also two master's degrees, and international performing experience. I have availability Tues late or early afternoon. Would you like to come with Louis for a trial lesson? Let me know if you have additional questions.

The scammer replied:

Smith R

Hello _____,

Thanks for your prompt response, Well am happy that i see you as Luis tutor, my caregiver lives very close to your area so that is not a problem for the lesson. My caregiver will be bringing him to the propose meeting place, I will like you to teach him the best of you when he arrives for the lessons.

I'm okay with the time schedule, Tuesday and Wednesday 5:30pm to 6:30pm. I'm satisfied with the cost for 1 month lesson(8 Sessions) which is $680 as agreed so get back to me with the name on the check and full mailing address where the check will be send to please because my attorney that want to issue the check is leaving the state soon and also the lessons will commence by 26th of May, I hope this sounds good?

Regards

Rebecca.

Sep 2017

A tutor who has a listing on BPN's website received this email:
 

From: Brian Timothy briancares013 [at] gmail.com
Date: Wed, Sep 13, 2017 at 4:50 AM
Subject: Tutoring Request from Berkeley Parents Network
To: <tutor's email address>

April 2017

A tutor "K" in Orlando, Florida wrote to us about a scam that was conducted via texting, in response to an ad she had placed on Craigslist.  

From tutor "K":

I just came across your tutor scam page. I put up an ad for French Conversation practice by telephone in Orlando, Florida. I received a text message response to an ad I recently put up on Craigslist. I responded by emailing. I got a response this morning and then ANOTHER text message from a different number with exactly the same text message as the day before. That's when I went searching.

Here is the first text message I received from (973) 846-2710):

Hi, I saw your post on CL let me know if you can help me tutor my daughter for a month ? The lesson should be held 3 times a week for 4 weeks, if yes, Kindly email me back at (xavierht75 [at] gmail.com) Thanks

I responded:

Hi,

Thank you for your message.

I can definitely help your daughter with her French. I would love to speak to you about doing lessons with her. Please feel free to give me a call at 3xx-xxx-xxxx.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon, (my name)

The response email I got this morning from xavierht75 [at] gmail.com (no call, like I asked):

Thanks for the e-mail. Sorry for the late in the response. I'm extremely busy at work. My name is Dr. Roy Brewer. Like i said ( Dallene ) my daughter is 11yrs of age. She is fun, loving, clean, respectful and quiet. She speak English.

I'm having a Conference holding with UNICEF coming up at your area next month and I'm coming with my daughter because i can't leave her behind. I wont be able to go with her and that is why She will be coming to you for the lessons so i want to know if the lesson will be holding at your place or you will be looking for a convenient place. I will like to know the day in a week you will be available for her which will be 3 times a week but i prefer ( Mon, Thurs and Friday ) an hour daily starting from 15th of May.

Meanwhile, i will love if Lesson schedule should hold in afternoon and let me know the actual time of your availability as well in convenience. Please kindly calculate the cost for the 3 days and for a whole months.

As for the payment, My Sponsors will be responsible for all our travel expenses and would like to make payment before our arrival. They will be paying you through check in advance for the whole month, that's why i will need the information so that the check will be mailed out asap.

***Full Name:
***Street Address with apt # if you have any, City,State,Zip Code: ( Not POBox )
***Cell & Home #:
***Total amount for the whole month:

Meanwhile, I wont have much time coming online to check my e-mail frequently, I will love if you could provide me the information i needed in the next e-mail and ask any question you wish to know about and i will definitely get back to you as fast as i can.

Nice in meeting you and I will wait to read back from you as soon as possible.

Thanks,
Dr. Brewer

Then, I got another text message, just like the first but from a different number, (510) 340-5680:

Hi, I saw your post on CL let me know if you can help me tutor my daughter for a month ? The lesson should be held 3 times a week for 4 weeks, if yes, Kindly email me back at (xavierht75 [at] gmail.com) Thanks

I hope others will be able to sniff these things out before they go too far.

And by the way, I called the two numbers and both were no answer and each went to a voicemail connected to the TextMe free app. It is apparently a way to get a free phone number to text from.

Thanks for your website. It saved me. K

November 2016

We received the following email from a tutor "C" who appears in the Tutor Listing on BPN's website.  This scam has a novel twist.  The scammer claims that he had previously hired a different tutor, and paid that tutor up front, but the tutor suddenly lost his wife (!) and no longer wants to tutor and has agreed to refund his fee. The original tutor is the one who is going to send a check to "C", the new tutor. There is an elaborate explanation about why this tutor is refunding his fee directly to the new tutor!

The tutor wrote this to BPN:

I received a solicitation from this email address, markhoffman271 [at] gmail.com (markhoffman271[at]gmail[dot]com),  with a bait and switch offer of payment. Please see the sender's message to me below:

Mark Hoffman
3:43 PM (16 hours ago)

Hello again C,
        I'm delighted to know we are in agreement here and I'm happy to
know you are able to tutor Jason with his US history lessons and he
won't be attending any school when he arrives. My wife and I discussed
about your rates and at this point, I'm most delighted to say we have
a deal and ready to make progress and propose payment.

I want you to know that my wife and I had initially hired a private
tutor for Jason and he was supposed to take him for three months which
we already paid him upfront for but just before we concluded on lesson
days and time, he lost his wife and decided to quit coaching to take
proper care of his family (Two boys and a baby girl) but he has
promised to send my money to any Alternative new tutor who'll be
handling Jason with his lessons. Now I could have had my sister
receive the funds from the former tutor on my behalf and pay you daily
or weekly as the case maybe but my sister is 9 months pregnant with
her first child and I don't think is proper to give her any kind of
stress going by her first miscarriage on her first pregnancy besides
her husband is out of town and will not appreciate us giving her any
extra activities that will stress her being her 2nd pregnancy after
she lost the first one.

So i'll have the funds issued and sent out to your location but I'll
need you to have your costs for Jason's lessons as agreed at
($1,012.50) deducted from the check you'll receive which will be
$2,350, then have what's left sent out to Jason's travel agent as the
funds will be used in securing his flight tickets/BTA and travel
documents as this is highly required upon his arrival at the American
airport according to the American Immigration rules as applicable to
an international student. I'll provide you with traveling agents
details to send the balance after you receive payment.

If this works with you C, I'll need you to provide me with your
full name as to be written on the payment,your contact address(where
the payment will be sent to) and your phone numbers to call you and
I'll instruct to have the payment issued and sent out to your location
asap. Truthfully, I must say Jason is excited about meeting you to get
started. Have a great one and I'll wait to read from you and i can
make relevant arrangements then. Also anytime or day of the week that
suits you best for lessons to hold works just fine with us as Jason's
schedule is fully open.

Regards,
Mr. Mark Hoffman 
 

October 2016

BPN received this email from a tutor who had a post on Wyzant:

"Thank you!  Your page with examples of people out to scam tutors tipped me off to what seemed like a legitimate request.  I would be glad to provide you with the message I received.  This scammer initially approached me thru Wyzant website and as you'll see he immediately wanted to move the conversation to email (which is prohibited by Wyzant)."

Hello , I need an Spanish tutor for my Son,i want him to be taught by
you.Phil is 13yrs old and he can easily catch up.Although,I've arranged with
my caregiver that my Son is coming to stay with him for his period of
tutoring and he had agreed with me. I want you to contact me back on
barichardson271 at gmail.com with following information: your area of
residence,total cost of tutoring for 1 months (1 hour per day 2
times/week),your years of teaching experience. Expecting your prompt
response.. Regards 

July 2012

Initial email, responding to a tutor's ad on craigslist:

Hello Tutor, I need a tutor for my daughter(Anita)she is 15years of age and a beginner. Get back with the cost of your service per hours and your area of specialization and your full name and address. The payment is going to be by check,which you are going to receive for the full payment in advance for the lesson Mayer

Second email from the scammer, responding to the tutor's schedule and statement that she accepts cash only:

thanks,i love your lesson plan and data but i can only make the payment by check which you are going to have cleared to your account before the lesson date. Get back if this is okay by you

Third email from the scammer, who was asked where he lives and when the tutor can meet with him:

Hello,i would have it in that way as you said but we both base in london Uk and it will not be possible fro us to meet before the lesson date which is why i wanted you to have the check cleared to your account before the lesson date,she will be coming to stay with my sister in your area for the period of her lesson. i will like you to get back to me with more information about your self and you can ask any thin you wish to knwo as well

April 30, 2012

First email from from johnsonegary [at] yahoo.com

Hello, I need your private one-on-one lessons with my daughter..I want to know if you're able to set up a lesson plan starting from month of May through June..Kindly,let me know your availability in giving Spanish lesson. I suggest the classes takes place in your home or a local public library close to you and will be convenient for learning. Kindly,treat as urgent. Anticipation of your response God Bless Dr. Johnson Egary

Second email from the scammer:

Hello , I apologize for the slow reply.It has been very hectic with work and thanks for the swift message concerning the tutoring request.I will like to confirm your availability in giving Spanish lesson for my daughter in area of Spelling ,Grammar and sentence composition. Well,we live here in London with my wife and family and our daughter will arrive at your locality in less than few weeks to now..She is 15yrs of age.Plus,willing to learn more..I want to make a solid arrangement down for the tutorial classes which i want to start from the week of June..I will like the tutorial to take place at either your home/office or public library close to you and i want you to take her 2hrs/twice a week making a total of 16hrs. Kindly,let me know your fare charges per hour and the 2days that will be okay for the classes and Monroe public library(address) that will be convenient and better for learning. Hope to read back from you. God Bless, Dr. Johnson Egary

 

March 9, 2012

First email from the scammer:

From: Mark Eloi mark.eloi [at] yahoo.com Sent: Fri, Mar 9, 2012 8:40 am Subject: Chinese Tutor Hello, I'm Mark Eloi, During my search for a lesson teacher that would help in taking my son (Kenneth). During is stay in USA. I found your advert and it is very okay to me since you specialize in the area I'm seeking for him. My son would be coming to your city before the end of this month for a period of time with his friend, I'll like to know if you can help in taking him for the lesson? just to keep him busy. Kenneth is 14 years old, So kindly let me know your charges cost per hour/lesson in order for me to arrange for his payment before he travels down to your side. He will be staying there for one months. Please Reply back on: (1). Your charges per 1 hour (3 times a week for 1 Months):starting from 15th March Until 15th April 2012 (2) Total Cost For 12 class/12 hours lessons in 1 month (3). The Day and time you will be available to teach him During the week: Well am very happy that i see you as my Son tutor,about your years of Experience there is no problem about the lessons,my caregiver lives very close to the Area. So there is no problem for the lesson OK my caregiver will be bringing him to your location for the lessons and you can teach my Him Anywhere around you if that is OK by you so i will like you to teach my Son the best of you when he get to the USA for the lessons. I will like you to email me with your schedule for the lessons,I will like you to email me with the name on the check and Full mailing address where the check will be mailed to and including your Home and Cell phone number because my attorney that want to issue out the check is leaving the State by this week okay and also Kenneth is a beginner lessons learning, Awaiting your response asap. Also the lessons will commence by 15th March Until 15th April 2012 is this okay by you? I will be awaiting to read from you. Best Wishes. Mark.

 

Second email from the scammer:

Hello, Sorry for the late reply. please send me your phone number, It is my pleasure to have my Son under your tutelage, i want you to know that i am doing all i could to make sure that my Son see the best of you when he arrives for the lessons Kenneth is 14yrs . So he will becoming for the lesson starting from 15th March, If you are not comfortable with this starting date you can let me know so that we can fix other date convenient for you for the lesson.I want to alert you on the delivery of the check to your address in U.S any moment from now, as i was told that the check has been sent out to your address Today as i said to you that my attorney will sent out the payment before travel out for his vacation this weekend, i want you to know that the check have been finally sent to your address like i said.Although the check is more than your total teaching cost, i am very sorry for the inconvenience. My attorney included my Son traveling expenses to U.S into the check to avoid delay in traveling plans and other preparation for the lesson. According to my Attorney, it will only take your bank 24 hours to clear the check for you since it within U.S check.Once you have cashed the check at your bank,you are going to deduct your total cost for lesson, please, you will assist me to send the balance to the Caretaker Via Western Union/Money Gram, Who will be taking care of my Son during his stay in U.S for the lesson. The remaining money sent to my Caretaker, will be for his feeding, travel expenses to U.S and other commissions. Hope i can trust you with the balance? I would have love to pay the caretaker myself but he is out of the U.S,and he will not be coming until it's a day before my son arrive to U.S and as you can see my attorney have left the U.S this morning for vacation. I will be more than grateful if you can render this assistance and I won't mind paying you extra $50 as compensation for your efforts. I will want you to keep me posted as soon as the check arrives so that i can forward you my caretaker information to send the remaining money to him. I look forward to meeting with you and my Son. Best Wishes. Mark.

Editor Note: This scammer eventually sent extensive information about himself and his son, including his own (fake) resume claiming to be "Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and Radiology", names and addresses of his son's schools in the US, and a list of his son's hobbies.

May 15, 2009

Greetings, I am Bob from London. My son will be coming for an holiday in USA. But I will want him to engage in something that will keep him busy all the time because Sam is a bit playful and I will not want him to play away his time during his stay. I guess coming to your place for private lessons of probably Jazz, Violin, Banjo, Subjects, Just any lesson to keep him hooked up with something. (I know you are a teacher and know what to do to get him busy). He is 16 years Old.You just get back to me with the cost for private lesson in your home for 3 weeks. I have someone that can drive him to your place for the lessons. Just get back to me with the total cost for 3 weeks so I can make payment to you immediately before I go on a business trip to Asia. I,ll just send a cheque. I think that will be better. Reply me with the total cost (1 hr daily at your convenient time). Sam will arrive on the 1st Of June Lesson Schedule 12pm - 1pm on (Mondays,Wednesdays,Fridays and Saturdays) Lesson will start as soon as he arrives. If this is Okay by you, Please send the the total cost. If not ok.You can send me your best schedule. Thanks and God Bless You Best Regards Bob bob.whitney1980 [at] yahoo.es Phone No..+447 0240 51726

 

May 12, 2009

From a tutor:  "I responded to a posting on Craigslist Atlanta about tutoring and got the following response. I quick Google search led me to your site in which I solidified my suspicions. Also it's great how he is named Gabriel and then Frank later in the letter. :D

Dear Tutor , Thank you for the email,i want my son (Gabriel) for the tutorial.He is of 12yrs and friendly , he is gentle and handsome and ready to learn whatever you can teach him , he lives with his mother in the phillipines and i want him to come to the states and spend his holiday with me so that he can learn more about Maths-Algebra very well as that is where he needs extra tutoring because i do not want him to be behind his mates. i hope you will be able to take care of him and tutor him well ,I have made contacts with my wife and son concerning the arrangements of the tutoring and it's ok by them. ABOUT THE TUTOR AND TIME: You will be teaching him 3 times a week , 2 hours a day which will be 6 hours a week, i am going to pay for the first two weeks which will be ($1000) just for you to know how serious it is,also i want you to know that he will arrive in the states by May 10, so you will be teaching him Maths(Algebra) once again, so i want you to tell me the days you will be available during the week also the time , so i will know your full schedule for the 6 hours in a week ok , also let me know the best library around you that will be comfortable to meet you, so that i can contact the nanny that i have employed to cater for him and watch after him and the nanny can be bring him there, i want him to study more about what he needs to know while he is in the states and he speaks a little bit of english but no too perfect....smiles.... so you will be patient to explain and teach him. We lived in south dakota for 4 years and i gave birth to him before my wife took him along to phillipine ,so i believe he can speak a little bit . About the time you will be teaching him, i don't know if weekends will be convinent for you , FRI , SAT, AND SUN ? Just asking any way , if its ok by you , Then you can email me back with time schedule for the 3 days, remember 2 hours a day. ( BUT HE WILL BE IN THE STATES FOR 2 MONTHS WHICH I WILL BE SENDING YOU YOUR PAYMENT WEEKLY) PAYMENT ARRANGEMENT: Am a very busy type, i work in a factory & i work a lot , so I want you to know that i will be sending you the payment in form of cashiers check for your payment, which you will get the check soonest ,also i will send you a tracking number of UPS courier service , I will mail the payment to you as overnight deliver because i don't want any delay about this tutoring , i want my son to start the tutoring as soon as you can help ok ,Moreso i will be needing your TRUST AND FAVOR in the part of the nanny that will be bringing him to you at the library location you will provide , also the nanny will be taking care of him in feeding and other things , i have already contacted a nanny that stays close, and will be in charge of this , So i will be sending you a check of ($4000),so you will take out $1000 and send the rest $3000 to the nanny via western union which i will be giving you the nanny name and address where you will be sending the money to as soon as you get the check payment ,You may be wondering why the nanny money is much , Just that she will be feeding and taking care of Frank while they will reside in a hotel near you with her for the 2 months and the nanny will also hire a Driver to be bringing them to you & the nanny will be paying the driver as well from the money, I hope you can understand this now . So i will want you to email me your full name and address for the check to be delivered to you on as soon as it's been processed so please do email me your full correct address and don't send a po box ,so that the payment won't get lost .... HERE ARE THE DETAILS I WANT YOU TO EMAIL BACK SO THAT THE CHECK CAN GET YOU: First name................... Last name.................... Address Line 1(No Po Box)............... City......................... State........................ Zip/Postal code.............. Age.......................... Home phone................... Cell phone................... Current position in Occupation........... I hope all these arrangements're ok with you , if so do email back as soon as possible so that i can make the arrangement for the check asap , Dont make any mistake when sending your details ,because i dont want the payment to get lost, also i believe you will be good to teach my son and my son will be also happy to learn , he loves to play a little , but he listens to correction and He is easy to learn.I hope to read back from you asap. Best Regards, Mr Mike Campbell

 

April 27, 2009

A tutor in Indianapolis responded to postings on craigslist and received the following emails. This is the first instance we've seen of the scammer claiming to live in the US (though the author of the email is obviously not an English speaker!)

Hi... my name is Faye Hawkins from San Clemente, CA, my son is coming for an holiday in your state , and I need lesson for him, His name is Hari 14 years old and so i don't want him to be kept busy in time of the days. i have decide to let him attending your lesson, Her will be coming 1 hour in a day (10am to 11am) in the morning or time that you will be chance. so i want you to calculate the cost of 1 hour per day for Monday, Wednesday & Friday for the whole 1 Month and send me the total cost , So i can arrange the payment by certifield check, Kindly get back to me with your cost from 4th May. I've made provision for Driver who will always drive him down to your house for the lesson.This is little about my son, very quite, easygoing and good listener, he loves adventures, learning new things and easily adapt to new environs.Kindly get back to me with this following information...... 1.YOUR CHARGE FOR AN HOUR.... 2.TOTAL CHARGES FOR 1 MONTH THAT HIM WILL BE TAUGHT 3 TIMES PER WEEK.. 3.FULL NAME AND ADDRESS WITH ZIP CODE.... 4.YOUR CURRENTLY PHONE NUMBER... Here is my information... Faye Hawkins xxx Avenida Victoria San Clemente, CA 92672 206-xxx-xxxx cell... Don't hesitate to e-mail with your total charges. Regards Faye Hello, I'm Dr Matts...I will like to know if you can Tutor my son in your field 3 times in a week and 1 hour each day If this is possible,i will want you to get back to me with the cost of your teaching. Thank and God bless

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Hello........Thank you for the email, My son is 14 years old he's name is Joe .I could have love to meet you in person before starting the lesson but i will be traveling next week on a missionary that is the more reason why i will not bee able to meet you and my son will come down to your location for the lesson because i have already make arrangement with Guardian that will be taking care of him for his period of tutoring I have make contacts with my son concerning the arrangement of the tutoring which he told me he's ok with him and i want you to know that i am going to pay for 1 month and i will be paying through a Certified Check . i want you to know that the rest of the money will be used to get accommodation and other arrangement for the lesson .I will be more than happy if you can get back to me with your full name and contact address as soon as possible Thanks and God bless

 

April 14, 2009

A tutor sent this note:

I just received the moneygram yesterday, even though I no longer persued this opportunity becuase it sounded too good to be true. It's legit air mail, sent from England. However, No return address I will be returning it to the police.

Hello, Thanks and I am very happy to hear from you.Am Mirelys Rodriguez.I am from spain but resides in the United Kingdom, I have a daughter her name is Delma and she is 15 years old. Whom will be coming for an holiday in the United state of America she is in the high school, so the teaching per hour which should be $50.00/hr(which i have in mind) so get back to me with the total and also i want you to know that my client who is in US will be sending you my salary payment which i want you to know that the rest of the money will be used to get accommodation and any other arrangement for the lesson, so i want you to know that i will be sending you a check for the payment of the tutorial and the payment that you will sent to the Nanny to take care of Delma while she is there for the lesson, The nanny will be the one to bring her to you whenever she is suppose to be with you and will also be the one to pick her up after every tutoring.The tutoring can take place at your residence or an! y nearest library around you. so as soon as you get the check go ahead and get it cashed you will deduct cost of tutoring of the lesson and send the remaining balance to the Guardian that will be taking care of my lovely daughter Via Western Union or Money Gram.Regarding this, kindly send your full information to receive the check so that payment can be able to made out on-time. So hope i can trust you that you will teach my daughter good academics and some moral respects so that they can be good to their self in the future, i hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the money to be sent to the Guardian. Thanks and waiting to read from you.Kindly get back to me with your full info so as to issue out the payment as soon as possible. Please get back to me asap and i don't want any delay at all. 1.YOUR CHARGE FOR AN HOUR.... 2.TOTAL CHARGES FOR 2 WEEKS, 2TIMES A WEEK, AND 2HOURS EACH DAY 3.FULL NAME AND ADDRESS....(PLEASE NO POX BOX) 4.YOUR PHONE NUMBER... AND CELL PHONE Regards Mirelys Rodriguez

 

April 8, 2009

From a tutor in Florida:

Your website tipped me off the scam. From a posting on craigslist (for south Florida - I live in West Palm Beach), I was corresponding with one of the scammers about his "daughter Jezebel" when a second craigslist posting popped up that seemed strangely similar. Being the trusting dope that I am, it took me two rounds of emailing with this second scammer before I realized there was something incredibly weird about the situation. Here is a history of the correspondance. PLEASE DO NOT USE MY NAME, thanks!!!

Here is the first scammer I emailed with "Azrael" from Israel:

This is the craiglist posting:

Reply to: lazrael43 [at] yahoo.com Date: 2009-03-27, 5:44PM EDT I am seeking a part-time teacher for my dear daughter who need some moral and understanding in some subjects, I am in need of a good teacher who can tutor any of this subject: English Language Maths Spanish Language Computer French Science Although I trust my instincts, I was without any leads when I decide to Put this Ad on here. And I feel integrity that I would find a very good teach on here. I will want you to send me your resume or talk more about your experience in you consider yourself been fit for this position.For you to qualify I will want you to consider yourself for these question. *speak at least fairly good English *be a non-smoker *have check able references *be willing to stay for months or more * Location: Palm Beach * Compensation: $45

 

the first email from "Azrael":

Thanks for the reply. The position is still available and thanks for wanting to take my daughter for your subject. Its really amazing and she is very happy. I have made contacts with my Daughter concerning the arrangement of the tutoring which she told me is ok by her and I want you to know that i am going to pay for 1 month, which should be $45.00/hr(as I have in mind) And am planning that you will be teaching her 3 times a week,which is 2hr per day, so get back to me with the total fee and when you will be available to teach her during the week. I want you to tell me when you will be available to take her the Lesson, Time & Days. Also to tell you that we don't live in the states, We live in [Yerushalayim,Isreal] and my Daughter will be coming to the states probably next two week, also i want her to study more about what she need to know while she is in the states. She will be getting to the US on the ( 10th of April ) and the Lesson will start the following week,which is 13th of April About My Daughter: Her name is Jezebel, she is very gentle girl and easy going... She will be staying in (Palm Beach) with a Nanny.The Nanny will always bring her for the Lesson. So my daughter English is not Fluent but understanding. She is wanting to study more in USA but would love for her to be having this lesson first till i get to work things out with the school she wants to study more. I want you to know that i will be sending you the payment inform of A CERTIFIED CHECKS for the tutorial while i will also have to pay the Nanny that will be taking care of Jezebel while she is there, so as soon as you get the Payment cashed, you will deduct cost of tutoring of the lesson ( 1st month ) and send the remaining balance to the Nanny that will be taking care of Jezebel which the information will be giving to you later. The Lesson will be taking for 2 Months or more but I pay for 1st month and The other month will be pay as the Lesson goes and by then I would work out her school. Regarding this, kindly send your full information to receive the payment so it can be made out on-time. So hope i can trust you that you will teach my Daughter good Academics and some moral respects so that she can be good to people & herself. i hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the money to be sent to the Guardian. She so much Interested to learning. PS: I will need you to give me nearest place to your home or a library where you want the Lesson to be taking OR If your home is ok with you, the Nanny can bring her there too. Information Needed: NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP CODE: CELL/HOME PHONE: Awaits your reply. God Bless.

 

the second email:

Hello , Thanks for your sincere reply. I really appreciate that, You sound so nice in your email and it is good to know that i can count on you to tutor Jezebel,, Moreover i think i made a little mistake by not including Jezebel,'s age to my previous email to you. She is 10 years old and i would be happy if you can provide some books for her, in other hand if you think you can't she could bring books to your place if that is alright with you but to my own opinion,I believe you should provide her with good books. I will let you know when to receive the payment, I got your information and i will be having it forward to my affirm accountant today, the most important thing is trust and sincerity as i make mention of that in my previous email. I wish you a lovely day ahead. Hoping to hear from you as soon as possible. God Bless

 

the third email:

Hello, Thanks for your reply. I really appreciate your words and understanding, I want you to understand it will be good for you to make your judgment based on your conversation in the first day you meet with Jezebel. I will want you to understand that i have your information forward to my affirm accountant and i will let you know when to expect the payment.I hope you had a wonderful weekend as well. God Bless

 

and the last email:

Hello, How are you doing? I know you will be worried why you haven?t hear from me, am sorry for taking so long to give you an update about the payment. I was in touch with the accountant to ask about the payment processing and I got words today that she has been down and she promise to get the fund to you latest on Friday or first thing on Monday, I feel so sad about this and i want you to please consider my situation, I hope you will understand be a little bit patient with me. Jezebel isn?t happy about the whole thing, am trying my best and I hope to hear from you to know your mind about this, because I see this as a little bit delay. God Bless

 

A second example from the same tutor in South Florida:

Here is the Craigslist posting of the second scammer "William Bruce" who is overseas, but wont say from where:

Accomodative Maths and English Tutor (All areas) Reply to: a.million.you.never.made [at] gmail.com Date: 2009-04-04, 5:43PM EDT In need of an experienced tutor in Maths and English an experienced tutor to help my son .Tutor must be motivative and show willingness to accommodate a teaching ability during the period. Reference: 1.He/she must be capable to teach 2.must be competent and must be skilled. 3.Qualification is not compulsory. Interested applicant should apply to resume immediately William Bruce * Location: All areas * Compensation: $50 per Hour

 

here is the first email from "William Bruce"

Hello xxx, How you doing ? I received your email now for the tutor I want for my son..I have read through your resume and i must confess i am really contented with your qualifications.Let me start with telling you a little about my the nature of the job..You are going to be tutoring my son and he is a 7th grader.He is 12 years of age,his name is James. I hope you would be able to cope with him as he is a very playful boy.If yes ,I would like us to proceed with this .I would be paying you $50.00/ hr and you would be taking him 2 times a week.In which each day you would be taking him for 2hrs.So get back to me with the total fee for the subject which is Maths and English because I intend paying you altogether for 2 weeks ..I will like to have him tutored in a quite place probably in a library if there is any around you..I do think it is a good idea to meet at a library, it is a quiet atmosphere and has many academic resources should we need to look something up, plus in my experience it is good to get the student out of their house to put them in a focused productive mood and so that distractions won't present themselves... I would like you to draw a schedule when you would be available to teach him in a week and also I would like to know the subjects you would lecture him on each day ( I guess it should be 2 per day.. right ? ). I would like to make this clear to you, we don't live in the states,my son is coming to the states and i intend to put him in care of a nanny which i will get in dew time. I don't want him to play all along that's the reason I am employing you. He would be coming down in 3 weeks time.I also belief a check is good as a mode of payment.... Get back to me if all stated above is ok with you so that we may proceed from there... Regards William Bruce

 

Here is the second email:

He would be staying with a nanny and the nanny will determine where we will be staying but i can assure you its not going to be out of reach for you.He is a very brilliant boy and has a very sharp learning skill.The nanny will be responsible for bringing him and taking him back home after tutoring sessions.He will be staying for 3 months and i will virtually be needing your services throughout his stay..He won't be having any program or going to school as he is coming for a sort of holiday.He will has all the materials he needs to cover so there wouldn't be necessary for you to find one.The nanny will be bringing him to your scheduled class..I will like to make the payment of the ist 2 weeks in advance..my client would be handling the payment for your services and also for the services of the nanny that would be taking care of my son. He would be sending you a check. He would include both fees in the check ( i mean your fees and that of the nanny).. .I hope I can entrust my sons and funds to be sent to the nanny on you. James will be moving down in 3 weeks time so there is no much time on my side Meanwhile , I would like you to get back to me as soon as possible so that the check can be issued out in your name in good time: FULL NAME: PHYSICAL CONTACT ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP CODE: CELL PHONE: HOME PHONE: BEST TIME TO CALL: TOTAL AMOUNT FOR 2 WEEKS DAYS AND TIME TO MEET WITH HIM: TUTORING LOCATION: 2 PERSONAL REFERENCES: Will be waiting to read your mail soon. Thank you William Bruce

 

March 2009 Examples

A tutor in Tallahassee, Florida sent us this example. First, a request for a tutor was posted to a Florida State University mailing list by "David Johnson":

From: david johnson [mailto:d.johnson0011 [at] googlemail.com] Sent: Saturday, March 07, 2009 2:31 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: CHEMISTRY TUTOR WANTED I NEED A CHEMISTRY TUTOR FOR MY SON,LET ME KNOW IF YOU ARE AVAILABLE TO HANDLE HIM THANKS DAVID

 

The tutor responded:

David, My name is M___. I tutor in chemistry. I am earning a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from FSU. I have taught general chemistry, analytical, and biochemistry laboratories for two years at FSU. I would tutor your son at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (that is where I work and they have a coffee shop that we could sit in), my phone number is 704-657-2120, I charge $20/hour. Which chemistry class will he need help with? Which grade level is he? Are you a homeschooling family? How old is he?

 

"David", the scammer, wrote back:

From: david johnson [mailto:d.johnson0011 [at] googlemail.com] Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 8:04 AM Subject: Re: CHEMISTRY TUTOR WANTED Hello Teacher, How are you doing?i hope you are fine and all is well with you and your family,well my name is David Johnson from UK,thanks for responding to my email about the tutoring,i will like to enroll my Son (Anthony) to take this class with you,he is 14years old and he is in grade 10,Kindly let me know all what he will be needing to get this private class with you and what you charge as well. i will be waiting for your prompt response. Regards.

 

The tutor then responded:

David, I would be happy to help your son Anthony. To get started all we need to do is meet. I am confused because you have mentioned that you are looking for a tutor, someone who can help you son with a class that he is taking. You have also mentioned that you want him to be enrolled in a personal class with me. Could you clarify? Does he need help with a chemistry class he is currently taking, or do you want me to organize lessons for him?

 

The scammer replied:

From: david johnson [mailto:d.johnson0011 [at] googlemail.com] Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 7:40 PM Subject: Re: CHEMISTRY TUTOR WANTED Hello Teacher, Anthony is 14years old and he is in Grade 10,i want him brushed up in organic chemistry,he is having problems in that area,please calculate a 2hrs tutoring,3times a week,am willing to pay 2weeks upfront and if he gets ok with you,i will pay more in advance.provide me with this details asap.Also what is your zip code so i can calculate transportation cost as well.Lessons will be taken close to you,at Anthony's aunt residence. David

 

The tutor then responded:

David, Organic Chemistry is great! $15 per hour for a total of 6 hours per week = $90 per week. You can pay me when we meet for the first time. Monday, Tuesday, and Friday afternoons are best for me, but I can meet other time if needed. Do these days work for Anthony? I am flexible with my schedule. My zip code is 32310. We can start meeting as soon as possible. I am available this Friday. If you or Anthony would like to contact me you can call my cell phone 704-xxx-xxxx What is the address of the home of Anthony's Aunt?

 

To which the scammer replied (using x's to obscure actual address):

From: david johnson [mailto:d.johnson0011 [at] googlemail.com] Sent: Thursday, March 12, 2009 8:25 AM Subject: Re: CHEMISTRY TUTOR WANTED Hello, Thanks for your response,below is the address to Anthony's aunt,classes will be taken there, Kimberly Smith 2xxx Xxxx Cir Tallahassee, FL 32304 I hope this arrangement is alright so we can proceed discussing about payment. Thanks.

 

The tutor then replied:

David, The arrangement seems to be perfect! I know where that home is. I live within 10 minutes of there. Shall we start tomorrow, Friday? You just say where and I will be there. What else would you like to discuss about payment? With me everything seems fine.

 

The response from the scammer:

Thank you for getting back to me,i will be willing to enroll my son for this class before i travel to Australia on a business trip,her mom has left him with me ever since she passed away so i have been responsible for him all the time,now that am traveling,i want to enroll him for this class to get him busy and it is what he likes as well.i will like to pay for 2weeks in advance and once he gets along well with you,he will take more classes and i will pay more upfront,hope this is alright. Also he will be staying with his aunt not far from you place,now i wil like you to give me your Full name Mailing add Phone number so i can send you an upfront payment for Anthony to start this classes. get back to me with this info. Thanks,

 

(At this point, the tutor stopped corresponding with the scammer!)

March 2009

From a tutor in Southern California who had posted to Craigslist:

Hello, Please add this one to your list and alert everyone. The scammers are getting extremely bold! This scammer posted an add on Craigslist to HIRE a tutor (Orange County California area). I responded and received this letter below. I thought the entire letter was ODD, but I had no idea this would turn out to be an overpayment scheme (of which I am familiar with due to my other business):

Hello, My name is Andre.I got your application on craiglist . I am an Associate lecturer in NETWORKING at EAST LONDON COLLEGE IN UK. I am on 2 years sabbatical leave at the moment and also be granted a 2 year visa which would enable me come over to the united states for my DOCTORATE DEGREE RESEARCH PROJECT and my major is Global Area Network which is a model for supporting mobile communications across an arbitrary number of wireless LANs, satellite coverage areas, etc. I would be coming over with my wife,two kids (Mike and Vega) and our nanny (Russ). I want my son (Mike 10) and my baby girl (vega 7) for the tutorial. Both of them speaks little bit english and they are both in grade 7 and 5 respectively, i want you to know that i am going to pay for 2 months, which should be $95.00/hr(which i have in mind). And am planning that you will be teaching them 3 times a week, which is three hours per day,so get back to me with the total fee for the subject which is English,Math and when you will be available to teach. We will be arriving the states by 23th of March,2009 and i would like to secure a teacher to tutor them in english langauge & Maths so kindly let me know what your terms are and cost of services to be rendered . I will be looking forward to your soonest response. Regards, Andre and Family 

 

March 2009

From a tutor who had posted to Craigslist (she didn't say which city):

Since I posted an ad on Craigslist two days ago, I have received two of these scam communications. I'm so glad I read about these & didn't do anything foolish!

Hello, My name is Smith. I'm interested in your lesson. I would like you to be taking my daughter your leson while i am at work in your location. I live in England, but i'm moving to your area beacause i'm having a contract with Issey Miyake Jnr. I work as a model and the contract will be just for FOUR weeks, I will be in the State very soon because there is a great program going on here in London in which i am the main in this show. So it will be so difficult for me to see you, in this case you have to assist me alot on by taking her the leson , cause i will be busy all through. Her name is (Juliet), she is 18 years old. So i'm paying you with a cashier check as soon as everything has been consider as deal. i will like to know how much you charge to take here for 4 weeks and also you dont have to worry i have negotiate with a cab driver that will always driving her down to your place go and come.Please get back to me with the amount and i will be glad to update you and make the payment in advance to show you how serious i am. GET BACK TO ME WITH BELOW INFORMATIONS: (1) Your Full Name and Address with the Zipcode (2)Your Phone Number Thanks while am waiting to read from you shortly. And remember she is all i have and i realy want a condusive and a pleasant atmostphere for her. With Warm Regards. dr. Smith Mark 28 Northwick Park,Watford Road, Harrow,Middlesex HA1 3UJ, United Kingdom

 

#2

Hi , Thanks for getting back to me..Am Parker madden.I am from Louisville,Kentucky but currently based in Moskva,Russia with my wife and children..My son Harris will be coming for an holiday in the States,and i want him to be busy throughout. Therefore, i just want to know if he can always come to you and teach him good things on Accounting every afternoon..If this is possible,i will want you to get back to me with the cost of your teaching him for a month which can start by Middle of this month to next month... He will be in the state in 2 weeks time...He will be coming to your Place for 1 hour each morning or afternoon..I have someone that will always drive him down to your Place,i mean a Nanny.. My Son's name is Harris,he is 13 years old and he is just a beginner in Accounting. I will want you to calculate 1 hour per day for Monday,Wednesday,Friday for a MONTH,and get back to me so that we can arrange on payment.Kindly get back to me with.. TOTAL CHARGES FOR 1 MONTH THAT HE WILL BE TAUGHT 3 TIMES PER WEEK.. Thanks and waiting to read from you soon. Madden

 

March 2009

A tutor in San Francisco sent us this example:

I received this email after replying to a job posting on craigslist. They requested a tutor for their son. I found the posting on the San Francisco Craigslist. Below is their response to my inquiry:

Hello A___ Thanks for replying back to my online job posting, requiring your tutorial service,I would like to make a tutoring arrangement between you and my 10 year old son for the month of April 2009, I would like you to tutor him within a period of 1 month, on a schedule basis of 1hr Daily, 5 times weekly, totaling 20 times in a month. I am willing to pay $50/hr. I would like to use these medium to inform you that my son does not live in US, he would be flying from london,United Kingdom,I want you to teach him during his 1 month stay in the US, if there is need to extend your services, an ammedment would be made to your salary and you will be notified. He would be dropped off/picked up by his nanny during the hours of teaching at any location you want the Tutoring to take place in your area.I will send you my US cashiers cheque of $3650 which i bought the last time i came to the US.I will write the check payable to your name so you could cash it at your bank.I am sending you that ! much money because of my dad's sickness which i spent all the money i have to rescue his life because he is so precious to me. My dad got sick couple of weeks ago which made me spend all the cash on his medical bills. The cashiers cheque is for US which is cashable at your bank and its not cashable here in UK, These cheque would be made out for the cost of the tutorial services you are rendering and the flight ticket of my son's Nanny.Regarding this I hope i can trust you with these payments,As soon as you receive the cheque, take it to the bank and cash it,deduct your payment which should be $50 per hour X 20 Times a Month = $1000,Then send the balance of the money to my son's Nanny through western union money transfer,My sons nanny will be contacting you later with further arrangements and instructions regarding pickup/drop off of my son to the venue where you would always teach him. So i hope i can trust you that you will teach my son good academics especially maths and ! english so that he can be good to himself in the future, i hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the money to be sent to the Nanny for her flight ticket. Email me your name,address and phone number so that i can write the cheque payable to your name and send to you as soon as possible. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks Dave

 

February 2009: Five Examples

1. A tutor in Orange County, California wrote:

I am a recent college graduate looking for an extra tutoring job on craigslist in the Orange County, CA region. I responded to a post & they emailed me back the following message. Although I was skeptical, I gave my mailing address to them & they mailed me a check today. It was a check for $2950. The person kept emailing me to IMMEDIATELY go cash it & send the extra money to a nanny via Western Union. However, I didn't send any money since it was really strange to me. I went to Western Union to ask them if they knew of similar scam cases & sure enough, they said it happened before. I did some more research & this website helped confirmed similar scam cases. Thanks for the alert! I hope others won't be scammed. I was lucky enough not to be scammed.

The email response I got from Craigslist:

hello, My name is Harris Lindsay am from Germany but resides in the United Kingdom, I have a Daughter Her name is Melanie is 15 years old. Whom will be coming for an holiday in the states she's in the high school, so the teaching per hour which should be $50.00/hr (which i have in mind) so get back to me with the total and also i want you to know that my client who is in US will be sending you my salary payment also to let you know that payment will be by certified check or Money Order .In view of this I need you to email me any information that may be required to send the payment as I do not want to send the check to a wrong location lest they get into the wrong hands. I also want to alert you on the fact that you will be receiving an overdraft payment from a client of mine in the US, which will cover the money for the tutorial and the balance will be wire via western union to a Nanny that will be taking care of my daughter travel expenses,accommodations and any other expenses she might needs to get him to the state, The nanny will be the one to bring her to you whenever she's suppose to be with you and will also be the one to pick her up after every tutorial. The tutorials can take place at your residence or any nearest library around you. as soon as you receive the payment,go ahead and have it cash immediately,deduct the money that accrues to you for the tutorial, and send the balance to the nanny for my son travel expenses,accommodations and any other expenses via Western union. The Check or Money Order will be in your name to make it easier for you to receive payment, please reconfirm your details one more time. I will give you the details of the nanny to wire the balance to once you get the payment. I hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the BALANCE you are sending to the Guardian. Here are some of the details I will need for final issuance of the certified Check or Money Order to you below: (1) Your Charge For An Hour.... (2) Total Charges For 2 Weeks, 2 Times A Week, And 2 Hours Each Day (3) Full Name (4) Mailing address, (5) your direct telephone number both home and cell. (6) Acceptance of the deal. Once you get back to me with all the above, the Certified Check or Money Order will be issued and it will be sent to you .Hope to hear from you immediately. I hope i can trust you with the rest of the funds that will be sent to the Nanny and i can trust you that you will teach my daughter good academics and some moral respects so that they can be good to their self in the future,Looking forward to your swift response. Thanks and please get back to me asap if you are interested. Best Regards

 

2. Another example from a tutor in Los Angeles. The first email she received was from jtom555 [at] gmail.com, and his last email was from rashzhy [at] yahoo.com.

Hello, My name is Sulty , I am from Germany but resides in the United Kingdom, I have a Son His name is Micheal is 15 years old. Whom will be coming for an holiday in the states he's in the high school, so the teaching per hour which should be $80.00/hr (which i have in mind) so get back to me with the total and also i want you to know that my client who is in US will be sending you my salary payment also to let you know that payment will be by certified check or Money Order .In view of this I need you to email me any information that may be required to send the payment as I do not want to send the check to a wrong location lest they get into the wrong hands. I also want to alert you on the fact that you will be receiving an overdraft payment from a client of mine in the US, which will cover the money for the tutorial and the balance will be wire via western union to a Nanny that will be taking care of my son travel expenses,accommodations and any other expenses he might needs to get him to the state, The nanny will be the one to bring him to you whenever he's suppose to be with you and will also be the one to pick him up after every tutorial. The tutorials can take place at your residence or any nearest library around you. as soon as you receive the payment,go ahead and have it cash immediately,deduct the money that accrues to you for the tutorial, and send the balance to the nanny for my son travel expenses,accommodations and any other expenses via Western union. The Check or Money Order will be in your name to make it easier for you to receive payment, please reconfirm your details one more time. I will give you the details of the nanny to wire the balance to once you get the payment. I hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the BALANCE you are sending to the Guardian. Here are some of the details I will need for final issuance of the certified Check or Money Order to you below: (1) Your Charge For An Hour.... (2) Total Charges For 2 Weeks, 2 Times A Week, And 2 Hours Each Day (3) Full Name (4) Mailing address, (5) your direct telephone number both home and cell. (6) Acceptance of the deal. Once you get back to me with all the above, the Certified Check or Money Order will be issued and it will be sent to you .Hope to hear from you immediately. I hope i can trust you with the rest of the funds that will be sent to the Nanny and i can trust you that you will teach my son good academics and some moral respects so that they can be good to their self in the future,Looking forward to your swift response. Thanks and please get back to me asap if you are interested. Best Regards Sulty.

 

3. This letter was submitted by a tutor who didn't provide his/her location. It's the first example we've seen where the child to be tutored is coming to live in the US to go to school, not just here temporarily. However, all the other characteristics of tutor scams are present.

Originally from: wallace.cart [at] hotmail.com Hello Teacher, I am Wallace Cart, My son Adrain Cart would like to have you tutor him during his free periods. He is 9 years old. we are currently located in sheffield UK,but he would be taking a transfer from here to the USA, and while arrangements for his transfer are going on, i would want him to start a lesson with you to keep him busy . I and his mom had been divorced years back. He seem not to be coping well with the standard of education here in the Uk, so i decided to make a transfer for him down to the United States. He has also complained to me several times that he wants a change of enviroment, and i think i am ready to satisfy him now. I own and manage my company here in the Uk and because of this, i will not able to accompany/live with him while he is in the states, so i have employed a full-time nurse-maid whom i have also known a long time ago to assist me in taking good care of him while he is in the states, but i'll make sure i come check him at the end of every month. He is a very quiet, brilliant and well bahaved boy, but very shy, i hope with your abilities you can help him cope with the new enviroment and also help me tutor him well as best as you can. I would want him to be tutored for 2 hrs daily Mon-Fri (10 hours per week), this could be nonegotiable depending on your weekly shedule. Please let his dream of changing enviroment a reality. Regards, Wallace Cartwright.

 

4. A scammer who posted on craigslist in Houston:

From: Thomas Hooker (needmore.thomas [at] ymail.com ) Hi , Thanks for getting back to me.My Name is Thomas Hooker.I am from Florida, but currently based in Glasgow,Scotland with my wife and children..My Son John will be coming for an holiday in the States,and i want him to be busy throughout. Therefore, i just want to know if he can always come to you and teach him good things on Maths (Algebra)..If this is possible,i will want you to get back to me with the cost of your teaching him for a month which can start as soon as possible.. He will be in the states very soon...He will be coming to your Place for 1 hour each morning,afternoon or night depends on your schedule..I have someone that will always drive him down to your Place or library in your neighborhood, My Son's is John,he is 14 years old and he hardly excel in those aspects. I will want you to calculate 1 hour per day for Monday,Wednesday,Friday for a Month,and get back to me so that we can arrange on payment.Kindly get back to me with.. Total Charges for One Month that he'll be taught 3 times per Week Thanks and waiting to read from you soon. Thomas

 

5. A tutor who posted an ad on craigslist in Pittsburgh, PA.

Hi, recently I posted a ad for tutoring (Spanish classes)on craigslist in Pittsburgh, PA. It's been only a week sinced I advertised my services and I already received three different scam messages very similar if not identical to those listed on your website. The first one I didn't know was an scam, so I replied and explained some things and we have exchanged like three emails back and forth (I included all the message below included the ones I responded with in the first case (Parker Simmons). However, all sounded a little weird to me, and then when they asked me for all my personal information I thought "oh,oh..." Thanks so much for wanting to worn us! i really appreciate it! So here are the emails:

Payment Method‏ From: Parker Simmons (psimmons871 [at] hotmail.com) Sent: Mon 2/23/09 6:09 PM To: Thanks for the mail and i will like to let you know that you will be the one to tutor my kids. Also,i hope i can trust you that you will teach my kids good Academics and some moral respects so that they can be useful to theirself in the future and hope i can count on you for the tutorial .I will be sending you the payment inform of US certified cashier check mailed and addressed to you and regards to this kindly get back to me with your full information (in the format below)to receive the payment so it can be made out on-time. FULL NAME: MAILING ADDRESS (no P.O.Box please): CITY: STATE: ZIP CODE: CELL PHONE: GENDER: BEST TIME TO CALL: EMAIL: Will be waiting to read your mail soon. Best Regards! Parker. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To: psimmons871 [at] hotmail.com Subject: RE: Tutor Needed Date: Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:10:35 -0500 Hi Parker, Thanks for the information. I will be glad to tutor your kids for the fee you suggest, as both are close in age and with similar Spanish background. You ask in your email when during the week I can give them the three classes of 1 hr. During the week both Thursday and Friday after 5:30pm would be possible and any time during the weekends. But, to be clear, the classes are Spanish language tutoring, I said this because you said you are interested in teaching them about American morals and customs while in the States, and I wanted to clarify that it will be Spanish what they learn with me, although I am proficient in English... If you are interested the total would be 30$/hr for 3hrs/week for 4 weeks, so the total will sum $360 for the first month. I do monthly reports of their learning, so you can consider if after a month you are still interested in them following the classes for the other two months. Although you say the nanny will move before the end of this month, you won't have to pay me until the first lesson, and payments can be monthly, weekly or even each day we have the class. So let me know if you agree and I can start planning for the lessons. Thanks and have a wonderful day! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: psimmons871 [at] hotmail.com To: Subject: RE: Tutor Needed Date: Sun, 22 Feb 2009 20:23:37 +0000 Hello , Thanks for getting back to me with your interest to tutor my Kids. I want you to know that you will be teaching them some basic skills and I want you to know that i am going to pay for 4 weeks,which should be $30.00/hr (which i have in mind of paying for effective tutoring). And am planning that you will be teaching them 3 times a week,which is 1hr per day. Also.i want to let you know that we are American but we don't live in the states,we live in Thailand and my kids will be coming to the states probably towards the end of February and i want them to know more about American morals and custom while they are in the states. My kids name are Jimmy (10 yrs) and a girl Heather (7 yrs), they are with good sense of humor, respective and God fearing. My kids are very good and obedient kids and they like to meet people from a different background. My kids will be staying with a Nanny in your locality and the Nanny will be responsible for their up-keep and bring them over for the tutorial. Also about the Nanny, She is from NY, but she has relocated to your area and has gotten an apartment in there where she and my kids will be staying. she will be there before the end of the this month since the Lesson will be for 3 Months but I will pay for the 1st month and the other month will be paid after the end of the first month. Moreover,i would like to you to get back to me with your total fee for each of the subject you will take her with the 4 weeks sum-up total and when you will be available to teach her during the week. I should have make this a phone order but i have a network problem with the area where i am in Aston villa, UK. Hope to read from you soon . Cheers. Parker. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To: psimmons871 [at] hotmail.com Subject: RE: Tutor Needed Date: Sun, 22 Feb 2009 14:12:03 -0500 Dear Parker, Thanks for your message. It would be glad to help your kids with their Spanish, what are their ages and their level? the fee would depend on if both can be together in the same class (that would be great to practice conversation, and maybe more fun for them) and how long the class each time. My private classes are $20-25/hour for once a week (beginning-intermediate), but as you are interested in 3 times a week and maybe both together in one class we can discuss the amount accordingly. The first class would be to test how much (or little) each student knows on grammar, vocabulary and conversation, but of course it would be no problem if they are completely new to Spanish. The only limitation (and that is also why I asked for their age) is that I do prefer nights (after 5:30-6:00pm) and weekends, as I work at the University during the week. I understand that, if they are very young, late hours would not be good for them. We could work on the weekends, but I am afraid it would be impossible for me to arrange any hours before 5pm over the week. I live close to Squirrel Hill and meet students at my house, their place or in a public cafeteria if preferred. If you are still interested and have more questions or want to discuss anything further my phone number is 734-709 2289, and my name is ____. Give me a call if you like and we can talk more. Thanks again for replying to my ad and have a wonderful Sunday night! Hasta pronto, -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Sun, 22 Feb 2009 07:40:49 -0800 From: pasimmons876 [at] yahoo.com Subject: Tutor Needed Hello Tutor, I saw your Ad. for the tutoring position and i want my kids for the position. Please get back to me with your price quote if you'll be available to tutor my kids (1 boy and 1 girl) 3 times per week starting Mid March for 3 months . They are K-12 grade and a fast learner. Regards , Parker. Date: Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:02:39 -0800 From: ayojuliana [at] yahoo.com Subject: Hello Teacher To: Hello Teacher, I m lemmy matt Cole 49 years old, i m an engineer i'm currently working with a construction compnay here in Montreal Canada , I read your advert on Craigslist.org and i am really impressed and Interested in your lessons. I need a good Lessons Teacher for my only Daughter (vicky) and i came across your advertisement on Craigslist when am searching through the Internet. My daughter (vicky) will be coming down to your location, in 2weeks time for vacation and i don't want her to be less busy without doing something, and I have make decision that she should be attending your lessons.. vicky is 19 years old, she love swiming for fun, So she will be coming for 3 hours a day (9am to 12pm) 4times a week or at your lectsure period, so i need you to calculate the cost for 4 weeks lessons and i will want us to make an arrangement for a good Hotel for her in your area where she will be staying for the period of the vacations. And let me know if i can make subsequent amount to show commitment in this lessons, she will be coming for lessons 4 times a week which is (monday -Thursday) If you are interested in Tutor my Daughter,... Kindly get back to me with this information bellow.... * Your Experienced In It.............. * Charge for an Hour * Chage for a day......................... * Total Charges for 4 weeks.......... * Full Name.................................... * Home Address............................ * City.............................................. * Zip Code.................................... * Phone Number........................... i will be looking foward to hear from you ASAP thanks Regards lemmy matt

 

January 2009: Six Examples

1. A letter from a tutor in the Chicago area who received mail from "Frank Smith" (frks01 [at] yahoo.com) after posting her availability to Craigslist. She said "I just want to say Thank you so much for this warning!! I almost fell for this myself. I received 3 or 4 emails from these people. I can not believe how low these people are."

Hello Teacher, My Name is Frank Smith, 48 years old . I read your description on Craigslist.org and i am highly impressed and Interested in your lessons. I need a Lesson Teacher for my son (Wayne) and i got your advertisement on Craigslist while searching via the Internet. My son will be coming down for an holiday in your location and i don't want him to be idle without doing something better, and I have made decision that instead of him being idle, he should be attending your lessons. Wayne is 12 years old and can easily catch up on anything he learns. Although, i do believe you are in the states, He should be attending your lessons then, so he will be coming for 3 hours in a day (9am to 12pm) 4 times a week or at your leisure period, so I want you to calculate the cost for 4 weeks lessons and i will want us to arrange an Hotel or Motel for him in your area/suburb where he will be staying for the period of the lessons and let me know the total cost so that i can make a proper arrangement prior to his arrival, My son will be off to your place as soon as he his able to get the lesson/tutorial at your end. If you are interested in Tutoring my son,... Kindly get back to me with this information below.... 1.He will be coming for lessons 4 times a week... 2.Your Experience In It.... 3.Total Charges for 4 weeks..... 4.Charge for an Hour..... Regards, Frank Smith.

 

2. A tutor in Houston responded to a listing on craigslist and received this email from "Brad" Bradjones1111 [at] gmail.com> who claims to be arranging for a tutor for his son who is coming to the US "next weekend." He instructs the tutor to send the excess funds to his "son's guardian" to pay for airfare....

He will be coming over by next weekend so you will start tutoring by upper week ,$360.00 is okay I just want to let you know that I will be leaving for the UK tomorrow, but before I leave I will instruct my accountant to issue you a check and you will deduct your money and then help send the remaining money to my sons guardian to help him process is air flight I could have rather send the money to my son guardian but is not in the town presently so am sending you the check so you deduct your own and send the remaining money back to him when is back to state please get back to me with your full name and address so I can go ahead with the payment arrangement I have made arrangement with the driver who will be driving him to your place for lectures, he has no behavior issues so be rest assured that you will have a wonderful time with him. Regards, Brad.

 

3. A letter from another Houston-area tutor about another "Brad Jones" email:

I got tricked by Brad Jones too (example #2 for Jan. 09). I hope the other person in Houston didn't go as far as I did. I had never heard of tutor scams before and received the money, made the transfer through Western Union, and then something told me something just didn't feel right about this and so I had the transfer cancelled. The money is still in my bank, although I am short $105 from the Western Union service fees. I feel like an idiot. I am only thankful I figured this out before it was too late. I hope no one else in Houston was scammed!

 

4. A tutor in York, Pennsylvania received this email from "Peter Werth" (mcmane [at] rocketmail.com):

Hello, How you doing ? I received your email now for the tutor I want for my daughter .She is 14 years of age. I hope you would be able to cope with her.If yes ,I would like us to proceed with this.I would be paying you $55.00/hr and you would be taking her 3 times a week.In which each day you would be taking her for 2hrs.So get back to me with the total fee for the subject which is chemistry only because I intend paying you altogether for a month .I would like you to draw a schedule when you would be available to teach her in a week and also I would like to know the courses you would lecture her on each day ( I guess it should be 2 per day.. right ? ). I would like to make this clear to you, we dont live in the states,my daughter is coming to the states. I dont want her to play all along thats the reason I am employing you. She would be coming down in 2 weeks. .... My client would be handling the payment for your services and also for the services of the nanny that would be taking care of my daughter. He would be sending you a check. He would include both fees in the check ( i mean your fees and that of the nanny).I hope I can entrust my daughter and funds to be sent to the nanny on you. Meanwhile , I would like you to get back to me as soon as possible so that the check can be issued out in your name immediately: NAME: ADDRESS: CONTACT PHONE NUMBER: DIRECT PHONE NUMBER. Will be waiting to read your mail soon. Thank you Peter Werth

 

5. This tutor, who had advertised on craigslist, received "offers" from two different scammers who used the names Mariana Johnson (marianatradingcompany [at] yahoo.com) and Mark Oyanow (oyanowm [at] yahoo.com)

Hello, Thanks very much for your quick reply and I'm so sorry for getting back to you a bit late. Meanwhile,i'm pleased to read from you back concerning the David's lessons and i am giving you my word that i have no doubt about all what you said in the email. As for the lesson fee,everything is okay by me and i want to let you understand that David will be coming in few weeks time probably before the 9th of Feb 2009. Concerning the payment arrangment,i also assuring you that won't be a problem as one of my husband's Bussiness associate in USA would be paying the one on my behalf and my husband had already spoke with him about this and he said that won't be any problem that we should let him knows when everything is set so that he can issue you the cheque or Bankers Draft for the lessons fee and moreso all the total money will be paid at once. so i will be expecting to read from you back with the following infomation below: Name, Address, City: Zip Code: Telephone Number Best Regards. Mariana Johnson -------- Hello Many thanks for your response. Yes....i want my Son for the tutorial.He is 12yrs old, and he will be in US for 3 months.He just completed his grade 7,so i want you be teaching him in Maths. I have made contacts with my son concerning the arrangement of the tutoring which he told me 3 times a week will be fine with him and i want you to know that i am going to pay for 2 month,which should be $50per/hr(which i have in mind) Let me know if the pay is ok with you so you can fix the days that will be convenient for both of you. Besides,i want to inform you that we don't live in the states,we live here in London but my son (phemmy) will be coming to the states in 2 weeks time and i want him to study more about what he need to know while he is in the states.... So i want you to know that i will be sending you the payment inform of check so it can be made out on-time or i make a direct deposit into your account.I will also include his guardian fee in the payment so you can handle it to her in USA as well.I hope i can trust you that you will teach my son very well so he will return here to be a good boy.I will also like you to teach him some moral respects so he can be good behavior to the.society in future, i hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the money to be sent to the Guardian.Thanks and waiting to read from you kindly get back to me with the necessary details needed for the payment. You are to Provide me the Details of your contact Address, Such as Name: Address: State: City: Zip code: I will be waiting to read your e mail soon. Regards, Mark Oyanow

 

December 2008: Three Examples

1. This email from "Michael Sylar" was sent to a tutor who responded to a request on craigslist from someone claiming to be looking for a tutor for his daughter:

From: Michael Sylar michaelsylar12 [at] gmail.com> Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 7:43:17 AM Subject: Reply Needed Thanks for your quick notification about your interest in tutoring my daughter.Her name is Lovet she is 9 years old.She lives with me in the UK.My Daughter will be coming to the united state to spend her holiday over her long time vacation from school.And i want her to study more about what she need to know while she is in the united states.I have made contacts with my nanny concerning the arrangement of the tutoring and how she will be bringing her to you which she told me is ok by her and i want you to know that i am going to pay for 2 weeks,which should be $40.00/ph(which i have in mind) And am planning that you will be teaching her 3 times a week,which is 2 hr per day,so get back to me with the total fee for the subject which is Maths/English and when you will be available to teach him during the week.So i will be sending you the payment in form of a check for the tutorial while i will also pay the Nanny that will be taking care of her while she's there for the lesson, so as soon as you get the check cashed you will deduct cost of tutoring of the lesson and send the remaining balance to my nanny that will be taking care of her,which the information will be giving to you later.What so important is that i will need you to get back to me with your full residential address to include phone number to receive the payment so it can be made out on-time.So hope i can trust you that you will teach her good academics and some moral respects so that he can be good to herself in the future, i hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the money to be sent to the Guardian. Thanks and waiting to read from you kindly get back to me with the necessary details needed such as to issue out the payment and send it to you.I dont want you to be worried about anything. Details Includes: Name: Full ADDRESS AND CITY,STATE: ZIP CODE: PHONE NUMBER: Will be waiting to read your mail soon Regards, Michael Sylar.

 

2. An email from "Collins" sent to a tutor who responded to his post on craigslist seeking a tutor for his daughter:

Hello, Thanks for replying back to my online job posting, requiring your tutorial service for my Daughter, I would like to make a tutoring arrangement between you and my Daughter for the month of January 2009, I would like you to tutor him within a period of 1 month, on a schedule basis of 1 hr Daily, 3 times weekly, totaling 12 times in a month. I am willing to pay $50/hr. I would like to use these medium to inform you that my Daughter don't live in the US, she would be flying from the Philippine to the US, I want you to teach her during her 8 month stay in the US, if there is need to extend your services, an amendment would be made to your salary. she would be dropped off/picked up by his nanny during the hours of teaching at any location you want the Tutoring to take place in your area. You would be receiving a check drawn from a Bank in the US, from my business associates in the US, since i am from Philippine and right now am in Cuba for a business trip the payments wont be honored in any bank there in Philippine or here in Cuba , These check would be made out for the cost of the tutorial services you are rendering, and also for the living expense, nanny fees of my Daughter . Regarding this- I hope i can trust you with these payments, as the payment would be made out in excess, so all you have to do is Deposit and cash the payment at your bank, deduct your tutorial service fee, which should be $50 per hour X 12 Times a Month = $600 i would include an additional $100 for run around fee and any additional text book you might be needing- so $700 is what you deduct from the check you receive , whatever the remaining balance is after deduction of the $700 go ahead and deduct Money Gram or Western union transfer sending charges for sending out the remainder to the Nanny who would be contacting you with further arrangements and instructions regarding pickup/drop off of my Daughter to the library where you would always teach her. So i hope i can trust you that you will teach my Daughter good academics and some moral respects so that they can be good to their self in the future, i hope i can count on you for the tutorial and the money to be sent to the Nanny. I look forward to read a detailed message from you containing the following information, if you are OK with my arrangements. Full Name. Mailing Address including Zip Codes ( no PO Box pls ). Cell No ( If Available ). Home No. Gender. Best Time to Call. Email. N.B My Daughter Name is Christine Miller, She is actually coming to the US for sight seeing, but while she is here i want her to study at the same time, she understand English, can write and read fluently i just need her History,French, Algebra,English,French,Spanish,Geometry,Trigonometry,Precalculus and Calculus Upgraded. Thanks for your Understanding. Collins

 

3. Yet another email sent to a tutor who responded to a request for a tutor that she saw on craigslist. This one is from "Paris", who is "an international model" with a 16-year-old daughter:

Am Paris an international model from Spain,my sweet 16 yrs old daughter will be coming for a vacation in the U.S and I want her to be busy throughout because she is a lil bit playful.Therefore, I just want to know maybe she can always come to you and be her Maths tutor so she can learn Algebra 1, Geometry, from you. If possible,please get back to me with the cost of your teaching for the month,i mean for the whole Month of Oct excluding Sat and Sun.She will be coming to your home or Meet in the City Library for 2 hours each day, I have scheduled a CHAUFFEUR that will always drive her down to your place. My daughter's name is Venus Andrews , I want to know the total amount for an hour each for the total month. So that i can arrange for the payments.If its going to work, Kindly get back to me with the total amount for the month and your mailing address,i will be waiting to see your mail soon,bye for now. Regards,

 

August 2008 Letter from a Tutor

I want to THANK YOU SOOO MUCH for your tutor scam alert. I received an email reply from "Will Cosby" in the UK, supposedly in Spain currently, who asked me to do this very thing. My google search 'tutoring internet scams' yielded the BPN as the first result. As my daughter just graduated from Cal 3 months ago, I already knew you were Number 1!!! K.

June 2008 Example

This email from "Chris" is one of several that were sent to a college student who had announced her tutor services on the BPN website.

from chris_williams121 [at] yahoo.com On Jun 23, 2008, at 10:48 AM, chris williams wrote: Hi, I am Mr.Chris i am located,in part of europe,I came across your ad on the web, that you are a private Pre-algebra, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Trigonometry, Math Analysis, Pre-calculus, Calculus, SATs teacher. Can i know more infrmation about yourself and the amount you charge for teaching lesson for 12 weeks or above programs,2 hours teaching each day 5 times in a week, And i'll want you to let me know if you do teach your lessons per hour? I will be happy if you could email me a phone number i can reach you so that i'll be able to reach you on phone. I'll want you to let me know if you can teach a kids beginner, i have 2 kids Mabel & Scott of 15 &17 years of age, but as a beginner they are also just interested in learning the basics and i hope you can accept them as your student? Please let me hear from you as soon as you receive this mail,so that we make an arrangent on when to begin lessons. Regards, Chris

 

February 2008 example

An email from "Larry Morgan" who has two children that need a tutor. This was sent to a tutor who has posted to the BPN.

Date: Mon, 25 Feb 2008 08:48:10 -0800 (PST) From: goodentension2 [at] yahoo.com> Hi, I am Larry Morgan by name i am located,in part of europe I came across your ad on the web, that you are a private maths teacher. Can i know more infrmation about yourself and the amount you charge for teaching lesson for 12 weeks or above programs,2 hours teaching each day 5 times in a weeks, And i'll want you to let me know if you do teach your lessons per hour? I will be happy if you could email me a phone number i can reach you so that i'll be able to reach you on phone. I'll want you to let me know if you can teach a kids beginner, i have 2 kids Mabel & Scott of 20 & 21 years of age, but as a beginner they are also just interested in learning the basics and i hope you can accept them as your student? Please let me hear from you as soon as you receive this mail,so that we make an arrangent on when to begin lessons. Regards, Larry Morgan

 

November 2006 Letter from a Tutor

Hi, My boyfriend recently fell for this scheme and lost about $3000. We just found out yesterday that the cashier's check bounced, and I just looked up the email address jameslarry2005 [at] yahoo.com today to see if there was anything out there...yup. We're going to the police tomorrow, but I just wanted to inform you that it's happening down in Oregon now too. I'm so angry that this happened, why do people target those who are only trying to help others? Annie

September 2006 example

An email from "James" who had sent an inquiry to a tutor whose announcement was on the BPN website. The tutor's fees will be paid to her by his "cohort" in the US who owes him money; the tutor will send the excess back to James.

From jameslarry2005 [at] yahoo.com (Sept. 2006) Good to read from you, Not to make payment an issue since am currently not in state and my son and my cousin also both in europe,i have contacted one of my cohort who bought some farming equipment of $4,900 from me unpaid to make the payment available to you on my behalf. Here are the details needed from you,name to be on check,address to send the payment to and your phone number. Once you get the check,i will want you to take it out to cash immediately or deposit it at your bank which am sure will not take more than 2-3 days to clear and once it clears,i will provide you my cousin information which you will transfer the rest money in order to use that to come back to state and get prepared for the tutorial after you deduct your tutorial fees. I will be glad to read from you soon so that i can forward your name,your address and your phone in order to issue out the payment soon and get everything done before the 3rd week of oct which is when i want the tutorial to begin.Thanks and hoping to read from you soon. Cheers, James.

 

July 2006 examples

Two emails from "Mark Wilson" who saw a tutor's announcement on the BPN website, although he says he got her email address from a "tutoring service". His company is going to mail the tutor a check.

Hello, I got your email from tutoring services, I would want you to tutor my son in French, He is 15 year of age,he is coming to the state for summer hoilday, so i would not want him to stay without read. so i would want you to get back to me with detail about you and how much you charge for 22 days.This is my email address willison_ma [at] yahoo.com Mark

 

A follow-up response from the scammer:

Hello. I got your responds and My son is 15 yrs of age and his name is Richard wilson, he is in secondary school and in level 10 which is year 10, the name of his school is Abbeywood secondary school located in abbeywood london se2. He is coming to the States for his summer holiday, i wouldn't want him to have fun without studying for at lease 2 hours per day. Here is my son and i,when i was sendin this email to you.All arrangement of where he will stay is been taken care of in the same state with you.The payment will be made before my son leave for the state and payment will be for this particular period and will be in check. I would ask my company to issue the payment to you and When you receive the check,i would want you to give me a call (0044)793- 254-5137.tutorial should be monday to saturday and for 22 days, excluding sundays. You do the calculations and let me know the exact amount so that payment can be sent to you. If this is okay with you, i would want you to send me the following details Full Name, Mailing address, Phone number and Cell phone number that i can contact, i would be waiting to read from you asap. Mark

 

"Mark Wilson" also sent emails to two other BPN tutors who are college students. One of them had several email exchanges with "Mark" and also spoke with him on the phone and made arrangements to do the tutoring. He promised to send a check in advance from England. He did send a check, for $4,000 more than the amount he had agreed to pay her for tutoring.

Hello, I got your email from tutoring services, I would want you to tutor my son in Math, He is 15 year of age,he is coming to the state for summer hoilday, so i would not want him to stay without read. so i would want you to get back to me with detail about you and how much you charge for 22 days.This is my email address willison_ma [at] yahoo.com Mark

Other Examples

A tutor sent BPN an email saying that she was mailed a cashier's check for $4000 more than she had asked for. The check, drawn on a Florida bank, was counterfeit - (click here to see more information.) The tutor contacted the police, who told her to tear up the check and not communicate further with him.

Another tutor has told us that she deposited the check, her bank cleared it and credited her account with the funds, and then she wired the excess to the scammer, thinking that the funds were assured. Two weeks later, her bank contacted her with the news that the check was counterfeit, and she had to cover the $4,000 deficit herself.