There’s another of these designer scams happening now, under the name VEEHAUS; just wanted to put it out there so that people can Google for it (as I did).
Here’s the initial email I received. Mine came from a “Paul Lowery,” but I’m sure they’ll use other names over time.
Hello, I’m Paul. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know.
I replied and asked for a call and what he was wanting (he said a catalogue), and he replied with this:
It is detailed; it’s a newly established company. Do drop your cell number for easy communication.
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as ottomans, desk lamps, sectional, buffets & sideboards, counter & bar stools, kitchen cabinet, sofa, office chair, accent tables, king bench bed etc.
The company name is VEEHAUS
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full text content and all images for the catalog will be submitted to you by the project consultant you’ll just handle the layout.
The brochure should be 24 in pages (including front and back cover) because i have lot information, approved and crosscheck text and images.
The size of brochure should be 8.5 x 11.5.
I’ll want you to add to add my mission, value, vision, etc to the catalog, I’ll have it sent to you.
So, this seems relatively legit. We exchanged numbers (he texted me), and here’s what he sent:
NOTE: he did actually call me. Never had that happen before with one of these scams. But it did this time. He had a very thick accent, but did actually call.
From here, I assume this will go nowhere. If I were to continue, I’m sure I’d eventually find out that Paul:
- Might have a disability. For whatever reason, this flavor of scam seems to feature a lead player with a disability, and there’s a LinkedIn profile showing someone in a hospital bed with a similar name.
- The project manager won’t be able to take payment
- I’ll be sent too much money, it will actually show up in my account, and then I’ll be asked to send some to the project manager. Once sent, after a week or so, the money sent to me will disappear from my account and the real money I sent will be lost.
Just wanted to put out a warning.
Update: Another similar scam
On Oct. 23, I received the following email, another scam along exactly the same lines:
Hi ,
The company is based on importing and exporting of Salon Equipment such as Dryer,hair cream,Weavon,Hairdressing,Clippers, i need a best of the best layout design for it. Can you handle that for me ?. so i need you to check out this site but i need something more perfect than this
if its possible .http://instaserve.in/... I have a private consultant that has the text content and logo for the site . the site would only be information, so i need you to give me an estimate.
1. I want the website to be informational only with 12 to 15 pages .
2. I want only English language
3. I don’t have a domain yet but i want the domain name as Hi5supply4u.com
4. you will be updating the site for me.
5. i will be proving the images, logos and content for the site.
6. i want the site up and running before ending of next 3 month.
7. My budget is $8000 to $12,000
8.Are you the Owner
Update: Another similar scam
Here’s the email. I don’t have any sort of proof that this one’s a scam, but it’s quite similar:
Hey, here’s what I’m looking to have done.it’s a newly established company so I ‘ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is “Woodrx “Online & Retail.
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitted to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.The catalog should be 56 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosscheckedThe size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.I would be needing just the digital version.You will oversee the catalog update.Final files should be submitted in pdf.See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG
LINK https://view.publitas.com/westelm/september2018/page/1 IKEA CATALOG
LINK https://onlinecatalog.ikeausa.com/US/en/lKEA_Catalogue#/pages/https://fliphtm15.com/pbnxv/edyi
I ‘ ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc. to the catalog, I ‘ l l have it sent to you.what your cell number? For better communication
I received the exact email from a Paul Wade. How long ago was this inquiry?
It was the same day I posted it.
Yeah it’s a scam now under new names. Sometimes they are trolling thru text as a text initially. Same listing of ‘Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools…’ etc. Obviously cut and paste trying to scam especially the young graphic designer. You can tell the verbiage of these con-artists. They know that there are few graphic jobs out there so they PRETEND to be so happy to have found you and give you this multi-level work.
I just received an email from a Jeff Tweed with exactly the content noted here. So glad I googled VEEHAUS and found your information. Thank you!
Thanks for updating with the new name!
I received the same email from Jeff Tweed (jefftweed88@gmail.com) on Sept 9. He told me he was in Delaware for health reasons and would not be able to meet with me (red flag). His new furniture company, Veehaus, needs a logo and catalog. His website is in the works. He sent a very long, elaborate explanation of the company and mission statement. I was a little suspicious so I asked him a LOT of questions and he always had an answer within minutes. He wanted to pay me with credit card (another red flag). When I asked him if he could pay the 50% deposit via PayPal, he told me he’s had some issues with his bank and he’s limited to certain services (BIG RED FLAG). He was insisting that I open an acct with QuickBooks or CardConnect. Obviously there was some kind of scam about to happen. I hope nobody has been duped by this scumbag.
Ditto! Jeff Tweed contacted me on Sept 9. He insisted I set up a QuickBooks acct so he could pay via credit card. It seemed fishy to me. I declined.
Been contacted by Jeff Tweed, Henry Rowe (henrywrowe0@gmail.com), Brown Vance (rbrownvance@gmail.com) w/Oakwey, Steven (5394444373) already. Brown Vance was the first one to contact me and got to the same level as the above and declined because it was fishy. Putting all of them out there for when others search.
Thanks, Matt. Appreciate you updating this thread. I know when I searched, there wasn’t much out there: the more of the names are here, the more people will find something when they Google for whether this is a scam.
I just got the same email from a paul phelps. Claimed to have lung cancer and could not pay his project consultant because he was about to have surgery
I received the same email today but the name was Moore James and the email mooregoodness0011@gmail.com, i googled VEEHAUS and find your info.
THANK’S FOR SHARING IT.
I received exactly the same email and texts from Jeff Tweed jefftweed085@gmail.com on 11/16/2019
“Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,
Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is “Adornium”
My Website Is Under Fabrication Which Would Be Registered Soon.
The Full-Text Content And All Images For The Catalog Will Be Submitted To You By The Project Consultant You’ll Just Handle The Layout.
The Brochure Should Be 44 Pages (Including Front And Back Cover) Because I Have Lot Information, Approved And Crosscheck Text And Images.
The Size Of Brochure Should Be 8.5 x 11.
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc to the catalog, I’ll have it sent to you. ”
—
Then on a separate email, I received the following
“Hello, I trust this email finds you well. Below are more details for the project.
Adornium is a modern and stylish brand name
Adornium meaning, from adorn – to make more beautiful or attractive.
Tag line ” Adding comfort to your home”
Our Furniture Are Guarantee Of beauty, comfort And Convenience’ That’s What It Should Mean To My Customers.
What Makes Adornium Uniques to customer is just the name. Classic yet modern with feeling of luxury.
PURPOSE OF BUSINESS: The purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for everyone.
WHO MY BUSINESS SERVES: My customers and others who are willing to patronize Adornium.
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness
will give the impression that Adornium and products are not easily attainable and perhaps too
expensive.
MISSION: To serve consumers and industrial market segment with a leading-edge product that will satisfy their needs in functionality, comfort, and style.
CORE VALUES: Our custumers are our values. We put them first in evrything we do.
TARGETS;
Our main customer will be from the age of 27-29 and I will like to target their income demographics. ( I would say a younger demographic with an eye for style, and available dollars to purchase nice stuff)
I want my company to be perceived as Professional, I want them to know that we offer the best prices.
For colors, I would like Teal and Brown (let me know what you think about that).
In the Next Decade, I would like my company to be known worldwide for now it’s the USA only.
Main Competitors are: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress
and Direct Home Furniture.
Important elements that I would like to stress are Beauty and Glamour, Friendly, Modern, High Quality.
For logo inspirations, you can look at brands like America Signature Furniture, Crate&Barrel, West Elm or Williams Sonoma.”
I said I can give a solid estimate but I can only give a rough estimate for the catalog without knowing the content. I also suggested that to work on the logo first and when we have the content, we can work on the catalog, which he agreed. But he said he can pay the deposit of the whole thing (logo and catalog), so I sent him a contract and the invoice via Wave.
He signed the contract with his address, which I believe is fake. Then he said he was in Delaware for a medical purpose and will pay with a credit card. And the rest is the same as Lori above. He said he cannot pay via Wave because he has some issues with his bank and is limited to some services (red flag) and asked me to send invoices via Quickbooks or Clover Card Connect.
At this point, I thought it was fishy but I sent an invoice from Quickbooks.
After a few more texts from him, he said this (copy and paste):
I got in touch with the consultant but I am having a little issue with him concerning our contract agreement, I’d signed the agreement to make cash or bank deposit to him for his payment but due to my present condition I was diagnosed with lung cancer and will undergo a surgery soon so I’m limited and won’t be able to do that.
Kindly send me an invoice of $9350 in which $3150 will be your payment for the job and $6000 you will help me forward to the project consultant so he can release the raw files for the catalog to yo, you can keep the $200
Once I make the payment and you have the funds in your possession then you can help me forward to him. I will balance upon job completion. Thank you.
Well this is bizarre. I just received the catalog and logo request from someone named Moore James. Exact same scenario as the originally entry. Thought I’d look up the company, VEEHAUS, and stumbled across this.
Thank you for posting!
I got the same kind of scam from someone who went by the name Curtis Bryan and his email was curtisanthony303@gmail.com
He sent me a text message at first and then followed up with an email. I felt it was a scam at the very beginning but did ask him for more information. The next day he sent me this message:
***email message***
Below are more details for the project.
“Hockwood” is a modern and stylish brand name
Hock meaning, from Wood – to make more beautiful or attractive
and Rx from life, misspelling.
Tag line ” Adding comfort to your home”
Our furniture is guarantee of beauty, comfort, and convenience. That’s what it should mean to my customers.
what makes Hockwood unique to the customer is just the name. Classic yet modern with the feeling of luxury.
Purpose of business: The purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for everyone.
Who my business serves: My customers and others who are willing to patronize Hockwood.com.
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness will give the impression that Hockwood and products are not easily attainable and perhaps too expensive.
Mission: To serve consumers and the industrial market segment with a leading-edge product that will satisfy their needs in functionality, comfort, and style.
Core Values: Our customers are our values. We put them first in everything we do.
TARGETS.
Our main customer will be from the age of 27-29 and I would like to target their income demographics. (I would say a younger demographic with an eye for style, and available dollars to purchase nice stuff)
I want my company to be perceived as Professional, I want them to know that we offer the best prices.
For colors, I would like Teal and Brown (let me know what you think about that).
In the Next Decade, I would like my company to be known worldwide, for now, it’s the USA only.
Main Competitors are.
Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/ Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
Important elements that I would like to stress are Beauty and Glamour, Friendly, Modern, High Quality.
For logo inspirations, you can look at brands like
America Signature Furniture https://www.americansignaturefurniture.com/ Crate&Barrel https://www.crateandbarrel.com/
West Elm
Williams Sonoma https://www.williams-sonoma.com/
I look forward to working with you!
***end of email***
Thanks for putting this on the web. I just received the same. They are probably getting our information from Yelp. Here’s what I got.
On November 8, 2019 at 8:29 PM Moore James wrote:
Hello, I’m Moore James. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know.
Design service
Regards,
Moore James
I received an email for design services from a Paul Wade with a company called Adornium. Something seemed odd so I googled the company and came across your Scam Alert.
This is what I received in the email —
Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company. Do drop your cell number so we can discuss better.
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional, Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is “Adornium”
My Website Is Under Construction Which Would Be Registered Soon.
The Full-Text Content And All Images For The Catalog Will Be Submitted To You By The Project Consultant You’ll Just Handle The Layout.
The Brochure Should Be 44 Pages (Including Front And Back Cover) Because I Have Lot Information, Approved And Crosscheck Text And Images.
The Size Of Brochure Should Be 8.5 x 11.
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc to the catalog, I’ll have it sent to you.
Jeff Connors approached me via email with his catalog request for ADORNIUM and it all seemed pretty legit until he wanted me to transfer 10 grand to his “Project Consultant” because he was diagnosed with Lung Cancer and is unable to make it to a bank.
SMH.
These scams are EVOLVING!
Thanks for leaving info about other account on the internet! Much appreciated. I’ll definitely be sharing for others to be cautious about their “potential clients”.
I got the same email from 3 different potential clients including VEEHAUS. So glad I didn’t go any further. Do these scumbags think that ripping off graphic designers will make them rich? What a joke!
Jeff Tweed pulled this on us this week. Kept dodging calls and wanted to start right away… As soon as he said he had lung cancer and wanted us to increase the invoice amount to pass cost to his content creator. We passed.
If any potential client doesn’t want a call to chat about the project. Big red flag.
I neglected to mention in the original post: he actually did call me. But yep, lots of other red flags as well.
Thank you so so sooo much for sharing this!!! He contacted me
Marrisa Oyler with Adornwood is another one. Same wording.
“Hi, Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,
Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is “Adornwood”
My Website Is Under Fabrication Which Would Be Registered Soon.
The Full-Text Content And All Images For The Catalog Will Be Submitted To You By The Project Consultant You’ll Just Handle The Layout.
The Catalog Should Be 44 Pages (Including Front And Back Cover) Because I Have Lot Information, Approved And Crosscheck Text And Images.
The Size Of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will be in charge of the catalog update.
I need a’ flipping book’ version.
See below are few samples”
Yep. Same here. Seems to be a lot of people starting “furniture” businesses. Paul Huffman is “my” guy. The nerve of some people.
Same exact email received here, only it was from a Marrisa Oyler (marrse04@gmail.com) and the company name was” Adornlyf.” Glad I found this thread. It’ll certainly save me the time I would have wasted getting a new project onboarded.
Keep up the good work! Glad this info is out there.
I also just received an email from “Robert J. Jack” (fishy name) and then when I responded I got a text message and his fake company was also called “Adornlyf.” Same thing, furniture catalog. This is actually the 2nd time I’ve gotten this scam attempt, first time was over a yr ago but the names have changed.
I might string him along for fun this time. 😉
Hi
I got a request from the same “guy.” I figured it was weird to be hiring me without any due diligence on his part – he didn’t even ask for work samples! Especially considering most of my work is minimal and for a few nonprofits. And is actually writing way more than design!
I am going to assume he’s a fraudster. Thanks.
I got the same, but from Charles Williams. The copy of the email was broken weirdly and he didn’t ask for any previous work…and it’s a bad name Adornlyf. I thought it was a typo.
Another email just received:
Thanks. I only have little details then you can decide on designs but I want the color to consist of Black and Gold with an image of an ancient chair. I want a very mature and presentable design and my budget for this project is $2,000-3,000.
For the Brochure, I want a double folded A4 size brochure with 8 pages and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant but the logo and brochure will be designed by you and the due date for the project is 29th of April 2020. The company name is JOHN’S FURNITURE INC and is based on importing and exporting of furniture.
That is all i can provide from my end and I need a more perfect Job. Kindly let me know the total cost of the Brochure and Logo Design if it will cost more than I budgeted.
HERE ARE THE DETAILS AND PROCEDURE OF THE JOB:
1) Company Name: JOHH S’ FURNITURE INC
2) MY WEBSITE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION WHICH WOULD BE REGISTER VERY SOON
3) I DON’T HAVE LOGO BUT NEED A CUSTOMIZED LOGO FROM YOU
4) I COULD ONLY SUPPLY THE TEXT CONTENT AND PHOTO AND ALL ARE WITH MY PROJECT CONSULTANT, BUT THE ARTWORK WILL BE DESIGNED BY YOU
I will be glad if you can handle this for me and I will meet you in person after this design is done.
My scammer was named “Boris Clark”! I might string him along just for laughs.
So glad I googled ‘Adornlyf’! Someone called Michael Grey texted me with the project.
Same scam here, but with “Dave Kasell” and furniture brand “Adornlyf.”
I got the same thing: Andornlyf and the name was William Charles or Charles William. I asked how he got my name or who referred him (3 times before he answered) and he said he got it from creativehotlist. I reported his email for phishing (charleswilliam0315@gmail.com)
Wow – so glad I googled this!!! I was texted yesterday by “Rod” about designing a logo and a catalog for his furniture company, Adornlyf. He said he found me through my website. I thought that was odd, though, because my phone number is not on my website. The number he texted me from was 802.440.1212, that area code is in Vermont. Then he emailed me two pdf files last night with all of the same info, word for word, that you all have been posting. The sender’s name on the email is Rodrick Dave McCall. He’s asking for an estimate to do the work – at this point there is no way I’m going to respond to him – thank you SO much for the heads up!!!
Yep – Robert J. Jack texted me and then emailed me. He never told me how he found my business – my website is under construction so he never even saw any of my design work!! So I tested the waters and quoted him something huge. He said yes right away. I said he needed to pay me upfront. He said Yes right away. I said he needed to pay me via PayPal, and then he said no and that he’d pay for me to set up quickbooks so he could pay me that way. I said no, found this thread, and then sent him my first draft of the logo he requested. I took a screen shot of a high chair from Ikea and put his “company name” over top of it in comic sans, rainbow font. He hasn’t replied yet 😉
That’s actually really funny.
just got same Thing
I really want to see that logo.
Thank you so much for posting this! Robert J. Jack emailed me wanting design services for his company “Adornlyf.” Everything about it was fishy, so I’m so glad there are decent people like you to help us all out.
Robert J. Jack texted me too. My guess is that he got my cell number from my website. When asked how he got my name his response was “I came across your info on creative hotlist”. (red flag) Honestly never been good enough nor advertised to be on a hotlist. Glad that I searched “Adornlyf”, you guys saved me a headache.
That’s why I’m keeping the comments going on this. People talking about the specifics of this scam as it evolves are making it increasingly searchable, which is good for everyone.
Just got done reading this whole thread and I’m so glad I found this as Robert J Jack was also one of the people that he was playing as. Talking about 100k+ being transferred and then paid to someone else. He also talked about his lung cancer surgery. He had this elaborate thing about waiting between responses to make it seem legit.
Sickening.
I got a text inquiring about my design services for the same type of catalog for their start up company called Adornlyf. David Timothy was the name they used with me.
My scammer was Curtis Bryan (curtisanthony303@gmail.com) of Adornlyf. Sent a text two days ago.
Happy I diligently did my googles and found this page. I was bored from the corona quarantine so I told him after reviewing the specs I estimate the job would be $100,000 and if that’s ok? He texted back (quite rapidly) if this was negotiable. I said “Firm. And 50% deposit due before work begins.” He texted a simple, “Nope.” lol
Thank goodness I googled the company name and found this page, ya’ll just saved me from wasting time, creating a quote , the email correspondence, not to mention the disappointment when I would have finally realized it was a scam!
Thank you to everyone who posted to this page!
(side note: it really would be amazing to get this type of project specifications from a real client about a real job! lol)
I too was contacted asking if I ” render graphics services”. Wanted a logo and catalog designed.
The company name is “Adornlyf”
the Email came from: Nicole Hamilton niceam04@gmail.com
she sent this:
“Hi, Here’s what I’m looking to have done. it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals. The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional, Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is “Adornlyf”
My Website Is Under Fabrication Which Would Be Registered Soon.
The Full-Text Content And All Images For The Catalog Will Be Submitted To You By The Project Consultant You’ll Just Handle The Layout.
The Catalog Should Be 44 Pages (Including Front And Back Cover) Because I Have Lot Information, Approved And Crosscheck Text And Images.
The Size Of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will be in charge of the catalog update.
I need a’ flipping book’ version.
See below are few samples”
END OF EMAIL
I got the same email. Something about it seemed fishy. I am so glad I googled the name of the company.
I have also received this scam in the last few days. I knew it was a scam because he tried my with all if the some time last year. Same idea that and on LinkedIn he comes up in a hospital bed, company name Veehaus, and it is about furniture.
Horrible!!!!!!!!!! I typed in his name, saw his LinkedIn with no info-fake profile, and then typed in Veehaus which brought me here. Thank you for putting this up to help everyone!
Ugh! I got the same scam the other day. A Tracy Bosch with a new furniture company named “Adornlyf”….all the same details as above.
I obviously wanted the work but wanted to talk to “her” first because getting all of my questions answered was stupid and time consuming via email. I kept asking her to call and nothing, just email reply’s. Then “what is the estimate?”…”I have a credit card to put it on”… I knew then it was a potential scam so I replied with yet again another bullet pointed list telling her I can’t provided a quote until I received her contact info: phone, mailing address and a quick phone meeting. I sent the email and received an email back in a few minutes with the contact info. I replied asking when would be the best time for me to call as we are a 3 hour difference; she’s in VT and I’m in AZ. then I asked the typical: “how did you hear about Wantz Design”. Lastly, I mentioned that there was a typo in the street address she gave me that she may have overlooked. She gave me this for the address: 23 Cherry Ave and Pleasant St, Montpelier, VT 05602. Said I never heard of a street like that. After I sent that email I didn’t hear back.
Then I knew for sure this was a scam, Google earthed that shit and it landed close by that address but in the middle of the road with no house. then…I found this post, called the “woman” and her thick accented male assistant answered and told me Tracy Bosch was in a conference. I told him to leave my business alone and told him I knew about his scam and would be reporting him. Finally, I just emailed him a link to this page…
Anyone interested, HIS number is 802-327-8868
Thanks so much for posting this alert!
I just received a text asking if I’m available to design a logo and catalog. The guy said his name is Rod. His number is 417.231.9257.
I asked for his company name and URL. He said ADORNLYF is the company.
As soon as I looked up ADORNLYF, this blogpost was at the top of the list.
Then I responded to his text with “I know this is a scam and will be offering this exchange to the authorities. You should be ashamed of yourself.”
Is there anything that can be done about this? I was contacted with a similar scam about a year ago.
I”m not aware of anything that can be done about it, unfortunately. My solution was to post as much information as I could about it here, hoping that others would google when it felt fishy. I wish there was something more that could be done!
https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/Information#crnt&panel1-1
Try reporting on this site. I think if everyone who has been scammed by this person reported, there could be something done! Or at least more awareness?
Look at this:
Good, I have business which i want to turn into large scale business now it located in Waterbury, CT
and the company is based on importing and exporting of Salon Equipment such as Dryer, hair cream, Weave on, Hairdressing, Clippers, I need a best of the best layout design for it. Can you handle that for me?. So I need you to check out this site but I need something more perfect than this if it’s possible http://govliquidation.com I have a private consultant that has the text content and logo for the site. the site would only be information, so I need you to give me an estimate.
1. I want the same number of pages with the example site i gave you to check excluding videos and blogs.
2. I want only English language.
3. I don’t have a domain yet but i want the domain name as L&S COMPANY ENTERPRISES.
4. you will be updating the site for me.
5. I will be proving the images, logos and content for the site.
6. I want the site up and running as soon as possible.
7.Are you the owner of the company?
Email: officialbryanpower012@outlook.com
Name: Curtis Bryan.
I’m so glad I googled “Adornlyf” I just got an email from a David Timothy. I was about to send him a contract. Thanks for posting this alert! I’ve gotten emails like this before but was suspicious because the English was always atrocious. This guy’s written English is actually pretty good so I wasn’t suspicious like last time.
Got the same scam last week, almost verbatim.
I was contacted by “Mark” with the same scam for a company called “Adornlyf” on March 23, 2020. Thanks for the heads-up!!!!
yep me too on March 20, 2020
I too was just contacted by a Mark Wade Lowrey for the exact same project titled “Adornlyf” on 3/23/20. He has a fake LinkedIn profile still up with the company named “VeeHaus”. So glad I googled everything and found your post, thank you for sharing your story!
My husband was scammed by Robert Juan Jack, robertjuanjack100@gmail.com, 212-340-7460 with Adornlyf. They were going back and forth for a week via email and text. We should have realized something was up when he wouldn’t talk on the phone. Today when he said he had lung cancer and needed an increased invoice we knew it was a scam. I’m glad you have this going so others can find out about it. I am reporting it to the FTC and internet crime complaint. Not sure what will happen. Perhaps if others report it they will look into it.
I’m glad I did my research. I got a message this morning very close to what everyone is saying here. I got a text from Curtis asking if I am a graphic designer, and that he needed logo, catalog and web design. I asked him a few questions including how he got my contact info to which he relied it came up in internet search. He asked for my email so he could provide more details. He then emailed me almost exactly what is written above except his company name is “Modernitive unique”
It seemed a little odd but didn’t shout scam.
They change business names and email addresses quite often. Perhaps this is the new iteration of the scam. If you would, please feel free to reply to this comment with the full text of the email he sent (that will help make it searchable for others).
WOW. March 27, 2020…..I just got a request for “Adornlyf” What tipped me off was that it’s aimed at people 27-29….bit too slim a market. Thanks for posting this. people suck.
THANK YOU So much for posting this I too was contacted by a guy named Mark via text saying he found me on Creative Hotlist website and asked me to create a 44 page catalog and a logo. I ALMOST corresponded with more questions and sent a proposal, but something told me to google his name….LOW and Behold here I am and finding all this info about the SCAM! Thank you for taking the time to post! You saved me a lot of time and money. God bless you!
Me too! Thank you guys for posting! I looked up ‘Adornlyf’ and haven’t responded to him. He said his name was Curtis.
This happened to me Friday March 28. I did send a proposal. So disjointed and odd. Same story, can’t take Paypal. Guy is sick now. want’s me to pay his project manager – no. I thought I might have met someone at a meet-up. I go to many. Nope.
I just had a run in with this scammer. Shamelessly targeting vulnerable freelancers during a pandemic doesn’t seem to be below this individual’s standards.
I would like to share what I learned to help others from being scammed.
Scammer Alias: Charles Williams
Company name: Adornlyf
When I get new contacts out of the blue I ask if they would mind telling me where they got my info. In this case he said from Creative Hotlist, a creative talent database associated with the magazine Communication Arts.
Apparently I signed up to be on this list when I signed up for the magazine a few years back. The problem is, they listed my phone number. I quickly signed in and removed my phone number from the list.
As an added measure. I enabled an extra layer of protection to my phone account. This can be in the form of a fingerprint or PIN. You would be surprised at how easy it is to transfer service to a new sim card with just a couple pieces of info.
Hope this helps! Stay vigilant out there
The scammer who texted me is named Alvaro Morata. He said he got my number from my Creative Hotlist resume. I may do a logo for myself just as an exercise – and label it on my Behance portfolio as “Watch out for Scammers”
Verbatum across the board in what I have read above and also received in the past few days. The name being used is Mark Wade Lowery, email Veehause@outlook.com, phone #469-840-0779.
I was already on scam high alert because of an overpayment scam that was “tried” a few months ago. Asking if my original illustrations were for sale and of course wanting the highest price one and asked if more money to be sent so she could pay her “shipping agent” that was scheduled to pick up the art since she was at sea with new hires, she said she was an ocean engineer. Note to scammers use the c correct job description it’s “oceanic engineer”! LOL. I played along from the get go and even received a very legitimate looking cashiers’s check for $23,000… 8K more than the original price. Turned all evidence over to the Federal Trade commission https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&panel1-1
Now as I was typing this above the following was just texted: “I just got in touch with the project consultant few mins back but I’m having a little issues with him concerning our contract agreement. I’d signed the agreement to make cash or bank/transfer deposit to him for his payment but due to my present condition I was diagnosed with lung cancer and will undergo a surgery soon so I’m limited and I won’t be able to do that.
Kindly send me an invoice of $16,860 in which $4,360 will be your upfront payment for the job, and $12,000 you will help me forward to the project consultant so he can release the raw files for the catalog to you. You can keep $500 for yourself. Once I make the payment and you have funds in your possession then you can help me forward to him. I will balance upon job completion. Thanks.
Stay Safe!”
The people need to burn! We are all easy targets, always looking for work or open to new clients. So threads like this are highly valuable, appreciated and need to be distribution to all!
I just got contacted again, this time by Robert Jack (nr. 831.246.6755). First time it was by Jeff Tweed and I fell for it all the way until the Quickbooks request — I realized then it was a scam.
Of course, this second time I knew exactly where the conversation was going so I decided to follow along and it was leading me exactly the same way. So it’s clearly a formula.
But then I until I called him out. I thought he would just stop texting me, but the fucker continue to engage in the conversation. I told him the FBI was on this case and he continue the back and forth calling me names and so forth.
He is very sure he’ll never get caught.
Funny enough, I still don’t know exactly how the scam would work.
Fuck this asshole tho.
Also received this communication from Stephengary76@gmail.com
Below are more details for the project.
‘Adornlyf” is a modern and stylish brand name
Adornlyf meaning, from adorn – to make more beautiful or attractive
and lyf from life, misspelling.
Tag line ” Adding comfort to your home”
Our furniture is guarantee of beauty, comfort, and convenience. That’s what it should mean to my customers.
what makes Adornlyf unique to the customer is just the name. Classic yet modern with the feeling of luxury.
Purpose of business: The purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for everyone.
Who my business serves: My customers and others who are willing to patronize Adornlyf.
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness
will give the impression that Adornlyf and products are not easily attainable and perhaps too expensive.
Mission: To serve consumers and the industrial market segment with a leading-edge product that will satisfy their needs in functionality, comfort, and style.
Core Values: Our customers are our values. We put them first in everything we do.
TARGETS.
Our main customer will be from the age of 27-29 and I would like to target their income demographics. (I would say a younger demographic with an eye for style, and available dollars to purchase nice stuff)
I want my company to be perceived as Professional, I want them to know that we offer the best prices.
For colors, I would like Teal and Brown (let me know what you think about that).
In the Next Decade, I would like my company to be known worldwide, for now, it’s the USA only.
I got a text on 3/30/20 from a David Timothy about this. He also said he got my number from Creative Hotlist. I gave him my email address to send me more info. We had some back and forth about Adonrlyf (which I originally read as Adorn-liff – such a bad name). He said his budget was $3,700 to $5,000 for the catalog and logo project. I asked him for some more info and he didn’t respond yet. On a whim I just googled Adornlyf and found this. Really glad I did!
There were some red flags but I continued communicating with him because I figured I have safety measures in place as far as getting paid. Based on what you guys are saying I’m not sure if I would have gotten scammed. I take 50% payment up front in a form of check made out to cash.
Small red flag: Spelling was fine but there was some weird grammar mistakes. I didn’t think much of it because we all know about lazy texters.
HUGE red flag: He’s already telling me about his $5K without seeing any samples of my work. Right now I don’t have a website so the link on Creative Hotlist leads to nowhere. So he’s allegedly throwing money at me before having a clue of what he would be getting. Either really dumb or really sneaky.
Glad I came here.
Thanks so much for this article. I was contacted by the same adornlyf “business” by a guy named Curtis. I was suspicious from the beginning (I mean, who texts someone to start a design inquiry?) but your post confirmed it. Beware, my design friends.
Thank you for publishing this blog! I fell for the same routine, even got as far as setting up a QuickBooks account. When he said he wanted to send me a lot more money, I balked and Googled his name. When I found this blog, I texted him every alias he provided the others on this page and told him a lot of people are looking for him.
He used the name Rodrick Dave McCall, company name WoodRx, with me. I hope my mistakes can help others out. Luckily no money exchanged hands, and I’ve deleted my QuickBooks data.
I thought perhaps it would be convenient for people to have this list I made from this article, adding the aliases he used with me:
Rodrick Dave McCall
802.440.1212
Rodrick Dave McCall – WoodRx
mccallldave@gmail.com 471-231-9257
Paul Lowery – Veehaus
Paul Wade
Jeff Tweed – Adornium jefftweed88@gmail.com, jefftweed085@gmail.com
Henry Rowe henrywrowe0@gmail.com
Brown Vance rbrownvance@gmail.com
Steven Oakwey 539 444 4373
Paul Phelps
Moore James mooregoodness0011@gmail.com
Jeff Connors
Marrisa Oyler – Adornwood marrse04@gmail.com
Paul Hoffman
Robert J. “Juan” Jack – Adornlyf robertjuanjack100@gmail.com
212-340-7460 (New York, NY)
831-246-6755 (Ben Lomond, CA)
Michael Grey – Adornlyf
Charles Williams / William Charles – John’s Furniture charleswilliam0315@gmail.com
Boris Clark
Dave Kasell – Adornlyf
David Timothy – Adornlyf
Curtis Bryan – Adornlyf curtisanthony303@gmail.com
Nicole Hamilton – Adornlyf niceam04@gmail.com
Tracy Bosch – Adornlyf
Mark Wade Lowrey – Modernitive Unique / Veehaus Veehause@outlook.com
469-840-0779 (Dallas, TX)
Alvaro Morata
Stephen Gary
Mark Wade Lowrey LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-wade-lowery-1aa141189/
Unassociated phone numbers:
802-327-8868
Thanks for putting this together, Jake!
Thanx for posting this. I just got a text request and then this email.
Alvaro Morata
10:58 AM (22 minutes ago)
to me
Hey, here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,
Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is Woodrx Online And Retails
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitted to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 56 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will oversee the catalog update.
I need a’ flipping book’ version, you can likewise design the catalog and send as pdf.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-01.html
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc. to the catalog.
______________________________________________________
And Thanx to Jake Thomas for sharing this on Facebook. It saved me a ton of hassle.
According to Jake this is his M.O
He’ll ask you to use QuickBooks or CardConnect so he can use a non-bank credit card. Then he asks if he can pay you a LOT of money, some of which you keep and some you pay to his “project manager”. Once you pay the project manager he does a chargeback, takes the entire original payment, and puts your bank account in negative balance.
I only got as far as him offering to pay me $10,000 for a $3000 job on condition I transfer the money as described.
Thank you all!
Received the same scam email request from “Curtis Martin” for a company called “Woodrx Online And Retails”. Said he was looking for a catalog and brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity) and had a budget of between $3,800 to $5,000.
The first contact was via text message from the number 989-203-2123 then via email after that. Said he got my info from googling graphic designers and from creativehotlist.com. Funny though my cell number is not listed on there.
Glad I did some digging and found this site! I appreciate the feedback and info!
Thank you!
Here’s an article about this phishing scam, it’s making the rounds. They’re now also using the name “Louis Dewitt Furniture.”
https://elod.in/veehaus-scam-theres-a-new-scam-targeting-designers/
Our company in the UK has just had one of these emails, also from Louis Dewitt. We thought the email was from a crazy person until we found this thread. Thanks all for sharing.
This guys back again, Breanna Kidd (Gmail email) name on the account is Kevin Mchugh.
Adornlyf furniture, asked for a logo and 55 page brochure.
4/7/2020
Got the same.
Hello, trust you’re doing well?
I will like to know if you offer catalog and logo design service and if you do accept cc as a form of payment?
Best regard,
Andry Rainey
andryrainey@gmail.com
I got this one yesterday too.
Just received my second one…this one is from Tonni Akter
I got an Adornlyf catalog request from Tonni Akter. Last year someone tried something similar and I went through the whole process until he mentioned needing to send me money to forward to someone else and I said I wasn’t comfortable with that.
I received this email yesterday, basically the same as all of the above. He contacted me first via text asking if it was the correct number for a graphic designer. Was obviously suspicious from the beginning.
Hey, here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,
Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is Woodrx Online And Retails
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitted to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 56 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will oversee the catalog update.
I need a’ flipping book’ version, you can likewise design the catalog and send as pdf.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-01.html
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc. to the catalog.
Oh my gosh! So glad I found this article and comments thread.
Same game, different names.
I was first contacted by FRANK FRED (weird name, hmmm) [fredfrank293@gmail.com] a couple weeks ago. I felt off about his request for his business DREAMS HOME FURNITURE….same type email like all you have listed. I lagged on response. He emailed me again a week later checking in. A friend suggested I send a list of questions and stress they had to be answered before continuing. I asked about his business location, languages of people I’d be working with, anticipated deadline of the project, and how he found me. He responded with a super vague “found you online” type response, avoided my other questions, and sent a watered down memo about his brand, mission, goals, etc. I had enough of the sketchiness so I responded today that it appears he’s avoiding answering my questions so we were not a good fit and wished him well.
Then this afternoon I get a TEXT from CURTIS BRYAN [989-203-2123] asking if I was a designer. (Hmm…Michigan area code. Maybe this is legit?) I ask how he found me and he said through CREATIVE HOTLIST which I haven’t used in ages but I do have my profile on there with my phone number! (I had to look it up to see.) I send him my email to continue the conversation.
Well, well…..I get an email from CURTIS [curtisanthony303@gmail.com] soon-after. The script is very similar to Frank’s email but no business name is included as of yet and he plans to send more info soon.
Bunch of criminals.
Actually, just saw CURTIS’ company name is HOCKWOOD.
I just got a text from “Wilson” this morning. The number is 989-203-2123 (hmmm… using Curtis’ phone to text me, lol?). I’ve ran into a similar scam last fall (was Veehouse that time, and I did Google and find out about the scam before any work was done), and I NEVER get work requests from strangers via text, so I immediately suspected. When I asked him to properly introduce his firm, list the company’s web address and official contact information, he asked for my email address–how did he find my phone number and doesn’t have my email address? If he went to my website, he would have this information, so how did he find me? Mystery is yet to be solved, but I know what to expect this time around.
Thanks for posting this, just got a text from Justin Morris at (831)246-6755. Saved me from replying. I don’t even use my Creative Hotlist account, guess i’ll be taking it down now.
“Hi, I trust you’re well. Do you offer graphic design services? Justin Morris”
I also got a text today from Justin Morris (469)333-2437 asking for design services. Thanks for posting.
Thanks, I got a text and email from Justin Morris – 802-440-1212, justinmorris870@gmail.com. I will not be replying.
Thank you for taking time to warn graphic designers of this scam. Here is my experience, that began on April 17, 2020
From: Jose Ramirez
Hello
I’m JOSE RAMIREZ, I will like to make an inquiry if you can handle Brochure and Logo Design for my personal company? Kindly get back to me so I can send you more details regarding the full scope of the project. Thanks.
Regards JOSE RAMIREZ.
————————————————————
From: Jose Ramirez
Thanks. I only have little details then you can decide on designs but I want the color to consist of Black and Gold with an image of an ancient chair. I want a very mature and presentable design and my budget for this project is $2,000-3,000.For the Brochure, I want a double folded A4 size brochure with 8 pages and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant but the logo and brochure will be designed by you and the due date for the project is 18th of May 2020. The company name is JOSE R’ FURNITURE INC and is based on importing and exporting of furniture.
That is all i can provide from my end and I need a more perfect Job. Kindly let me know the total cost of the Brochure and Logo Design if it will cost more than I budgeted.
HERE ARE THE DETAILS AND PROCEDURE OF THE JOB:
1) Company Name: JOSE R’ FURNITURE INC
2) MY WEBSITE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION WHICH WOULD BE REGISTER VERY SOON
3) I DON’T HAVE LOGO BUT NEED A CUSTOMIZED LOGO FROM YOU
4) I COULD ONLY SUPPLY THE TEXT CONTENT AND PHOTO AND ALL ARE WITH MY PROJECT CONSULTANT, BUT THE ARTWORK WILL BE DESIGNED BY YOU
I will be glad if you can handle this for me and I will meet you in person after this design is done.
Thank you.
————————————————————
[Thought I mess with him by giving the payment scheule 50% upfront, 50% upon approval before print production/relase file(s) and condtion that payment is by e-Transfer only.]
————————————————————
From: Jose Ramirez
You can set up Quickbook merchant OR Payoneer and send me the invoice through there because my card does not remit payment to both i cant pay through E transfer,PayPal and Squareup merchant,You can look up Quickbook merchant from your phone App store and setup an account with them it’s fast and reliable and I will pay you back for the setup fee okay
The scam has evolved slightly. New company name. From Frank Fred fredfrank293@gmail.com
Here’s what he wrote about the “project.”
——————————
Actually, I was searching for a good graphics designer and I came across your name.
Here are the details, it’s a newly established company. Do drop your cellphone number so we can discuss better.
This company is really based on sales of furniture such as Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed etc.
Ø Company Name: LIVING WOOD FURNITURE & HOME.
Ø MY WEBSITE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION WHICH WOULD BE REGISTER VERY SOON.
Ø I DON’T HAVE LOGO BUT NEED A CUSTOMIZED LOGO FROM YOU.
Ø I COULD ONLY SUPPLY THE TEXT CONTENT AND PHOTO ALL ARE WITH THE PROJECT CONSULTANT YOU WILL JUST HANDLE THE LAYOUT.
Ø I WANT THE PAGE OF THE CATALOG TO BE 24 PAGES (INCLUDING FRONT AND BACK COVER) BECAUSE I HAVE LOT INFORMATION. THE TEXT AND THE PICTURE IS APPROVED AND CROSSCHECK.
Ø THE SIZE OF BROCHURE SHOULD BE 8.5 X 11.5.
Received this text from 989-203-2123:
” Hello this is Willson I would like to confirm if this is the right contact of Graphic designer?”
I googled the number and found this and so glad I did. I will not be responding.
I don’t know how they got my number. I am a graphic designer but I don’t have my personal phone number anywhere on the internet.
They are getting creative. I got a call from someone (person A) saying they gave my information to someone that needs some work done. That person soon texted me saying:
“Hi Justine (<misspelled my name), how are you doing? I got your info from "Person A" for graphic design services.
Justin Morris"
I gave him my email and the rest is the same as everyone else here:
A furniture store, Woodrx Online & Retail, that needed a logo and a 56 page catalog. with a detailed list of what he wanted.
he later mentioned he has bank issues and is currently in Delaware for medical reasons *red flags*. He wants to me to use Quickbooks, clover or card cardconnect because he can only pay with card.
I later researched Person A. I think Person A's name was used because it's a real person on linkedin and went to the same school I went to and same profession as me. He was endorsed by my same professors. This is a small school so they would not endorse just anyone.
I found your post by searching the phone number “989-203-2123” because l suspected it was a scam.
I received this text from that number:
Hello this is Stephen I would like to confirm if this is the right contact of Graphic designer?
Glad my gut flagged it.
Have a great weekend.
I just received the same exact message and it was so strange to me that I looked up the email and it led me to this site . I am glad I could confirm and I didn’t reply to the email.
Just got the same email as @Nico
“December 19, 2019 at 4:03 am
Jeff Connors approached me via email with his catalog request for ADORNIUM”
Thank you all for these warnings posts.
Hello greetings, I was approached today and several days ago. Samestuff. thank you for sharing this!!!!!!
My company was approached via email just today. New company name they are using is “PrettifyLife”. Name of contact is Forest Elliott. The text was almost identical to the above however, they failed to catch the word “AdornLyf” in the body of the request for quote. I Googled it and found this. Curious as to what their endgame is. Hopefully it’s in this thread. I will comb through it when I have time. Thanks. G
We also received the same email and similar communications!
Be careful! As our industry is slow stay strong and alert for these scams.
I’ve joined this elite group of scammed graphic designers also! Mark Wade, 417.231.9257, veehause@outlook.com, same request for catalog and logo, etc. I thought it was weird that he was contacting me via text message, and his name suddenly changed from Paul to Mark, and he only had my phone number, not my email. I’ve reported him, or them, to the FTC.
I have just received the same scam and I would like to report them also. Is there a general FTC link for doing so? And have you received any response?
New company name being used – Adornlyf
Same MO. 56 page catalog, logo design, website in work, etc.
I get these scammers all the time… today’s scammer gave me this info:
Name:Alvaro Morataa
Billing Address :14965 Bolton Rd Posen, MI 49776,United States
Phone number:989 203 2123
Email address:morataa270@gmail.com
Mark Wade Lowrey – The company name is “INOTERIOR” / Veehaus Veehause@outlook.com
269-234-7740 (MI)..
the same history…
————————————————————–
The company name is “INOTERIOR”
We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials is completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor.
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitted to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 44 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will oversee the catalog update.
Final files should be submitted in pdf.
Just got the same thing, from Tonni Akter for Inoterior…
Here’s the skinny y’all
This is not just one person but the one that most recently contacted my mother went by Paul Flannery/Paul/Mark Wade. His IP address is out of Brazil 174.127.103.164. He’s using a windows 10 computer and google chrome web browser. I have been cat fishing him for a week because that’s my sense of humor. You can read the story at my website https://www.m-levine.com/catfish/index.php (this is not an advertisement for my site nor does it have ads it is a personal site only)
Stay safe and stay alert these guys won’t stop.
Same thing for me. They used the name Patrick Witter, company called Wood Furniture and Home. patrickwitter01@gmail.com
A new email just came through:
I have small scale business which i want to turn into large scale business now it located in Town and the company is based on importing and exporting of Agriculture products such as Kola Nut, Gacillia Nut and Cocoa so i need a best of the best layout design for it. Can you handle that for me ?. so i need you to check out this site but i need something more perfect than this if its possible http://farmrescue.org. the site would only be informational, so i need you to give me an estimate based on the site i gave you to check out, the estimate should include hosting and i want the same page as the site i gave you to check out and i have a private project consultant, he has the text content and the logos for the site.
Note:
1. I want 20 of pages with the example site i gave you to check excluding videos and blogs.
2. I want only English language
3. I don’t have a domain yet but i want the domain name as
premiumfarmproduces.biz
4. you will be updating the site for me.
5. i will be proving the images, logos and content for the site.
6. how many weeks it will take you to get the site ready?
7. My budget is $4000 to $10000
Kindly get back to me with:
(1) an estimate
(2) your cell phone number
(3) And will like to know if you are the owner ??
I received a variant on this. Paul Bell from Inoterior to make a decor catalog. no website, no asking for my references or portfolio. I am thinking of reporting it, and also letting my social network know about it.
Hi all,
Just found out one of the customer service reps here has been emailing with an Alvaro Morata, morataa270@gmail.com.
***
Hey, here ’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,
Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is Hockwood.com
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitte to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 56 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will oversee the catalog update.
I need a’ flipping book’ version, you can likewise design the catalog and send as pdf.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-01.html
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc. to the catalog.
Below are more details for the project.
“Hockwood” is a modern and stylish brand name
Hock meaning, from Wood – to make more beautiful or attractive
and Rx from life, misspelling.
Tag line ” Adding comfort to your home”
Our furniture is guarantee of beauty, comfort, and convenience. That’s what it should mean to my customers.
what makes Hockwood unique to the customer is just the name. Classic yet modern with the feeling of luxury.
Purpose of business: The purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for everyone.
Who my business serves: My customers and others who are willing to patronize Hockwood.com.
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness
will give the impression that Hockwood and products are not easily attainable and perhaps too expensive.
Mission: To serve consumers and the industrial market segment with a leading-edge product that will satisfy their needs in functionality, comfort, and style.
Core Values: Our customers are our values. We put them first in everything we do.
TARGETS.
Our main customer will be from the age of 27-29 and I would like to target their income demographics. (I would say a younger demographic with an eye for style, and available dollars to purchase nice stuff)
I want my company to be perceived as Professional, I want them to know that we offer the best prices.
For colors, I would like Teal and Brown (let me know what you think about that).
In the Next Decade, I would like my company to be known worldwide, for now, it’s the USA only.
Main Competitors are.
Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/ Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
Important elements that I would like to stress are Beauty and Glamour, Friendly, Modern, High Quality.
For logo inspirations, you can look at brands like
America Signature Furniture https://www.americansignaturefurniture.com/ Crate&Barrel https://www.crateandbarrel.com/
West Elm
Williams Sonoma https://www.williams-sonoma.com/
I look forward to working with you!
****
Thank you for posting this! I was emailed by a “Justin Morris” from email justinmorris803@gmail.com who wrote in English awkwardly (an instant red flag) about a 57 page catalog design including cover for “inoterior” furniture store, the website being now “fabricated.” One red flag as a designer is that such a catalog length is not divisible by 4 and so would have uneven spreads, ha ha! But he texted me then from 802-440-1212 asking if I got the emails about the project, and I responded that yes, now I knew he was a scam artist, and I’d be blocking his number.
I don’t know why these guys target designers…
Received a text from 802-440-1212:
Hello, how are you doing? I would like to know if you offer graphic design services? Justin
If you know my phone number, you should know that I am a designer… weird. Searched for the phone number, and found y’all. Thanks to you guys, I know not to answer that text.
wow he /they are still at it I got this today, you can always tell
looking at this thread I cant help to think if he put this time and effort into a real company he may have something, this time it is: Gabriel Timothy from Hockwood.com.
Here is the email:
Below are more details for the project.
“Hockwood” is a modern and stylish brand name
Hock meaning, from Wood – to make more beautiful or attractive
and Rx from life, misspelling.
Tag line ” Adding comfort to your home”
Our furniture is guarantee of beauty, comfort, and convenience. That’s what it should mean to my customers.
what makes Hockwood unique to the customer is just the name. Classic yet modern with the feeling of luxury.
Purpose of business: The purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for everyone.
Who my business serves: My customers and others who are willing to patronize Hockwood.com.
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness
will give the impression that Hockwood and products are not easily attainable and perhaps too expensive.
Mission: To serve consumers and the industrial market segment with a leading-edge product that will satisfy their needs in functionality, comfort, and style.
Core Values: Our customers are our values. We put them first in everything we do.
TARGETS.
Our main customer will be from the age of 27-29 and I would like to target their income demographics. (I would say a younger demographic with an eye for style, and available dollars to purchase nice stuff)
I want my company to be perceived as Professional, I want them to know that we offer the best prices.
For colors, I would like Teal and Brown (let me know what you think about that).
In the Next Decade, I would like my company to be known worldwide, for now, it’s the USA only.
Main Competitors are.
Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/ Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
Important elements that I would like to stress are Beauty and Glamour, Friendly, Modern, High Quality.
For logo inspirations, you can look at brands like
America Signature Furniture https://www.americansignaturefurniture.com/ Crate&Barrel https://www.crateandbarrel.com/
West Elm
Williams Sonoma https://www.williams-sonoma.com/
I look forward to working with you!
:: Heads UP ::
inoterior
“Justin Morris
May 26, 2020, 4:07 PM
to me
Okay good, Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
The company name is “inoterior”
We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials is completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor.
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitted to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 57 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
The catalog main purpose is to showcase all products. The purchase will be strictly on the website.
You will oversee the catalog update.
Final files should be submitted in pdf.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-03.html
IKEA CATALOG LINKhttps://www.ikea.com/ext/us/ikeacatalog/
What’s your cell number?
Thank you so much for posting this scam!!!! I wasted hours on this guy before he said he couldn’t pay with paypal and I realized something was up. Here’s the email:
Below are more details for the project.
“Hockwood” is a modern and stylish brand name
Hock meaning, from Wood – to make more beautiful or attractive
and Rx from life, misspelling.
Tag line ” Adding comfort to your home”
Our furniture is guarantee of beauty, comfort, and convenience. That’s what it should mean to my customers.
what makes Hockwood unique to the customer is just the name. Classic yet modern with the feeling of luxury.
Purpose of business: The purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for everyone.
Who my business serves: My customers and others who are willing to patronize Hockwood.com.
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness
will give the impression that Hockwood and products are not easily attainable and perhaps too expensive.
Mission: To serve consumers and the industrial market segment with a leading-edge product that will satisfy their needs in functionality, comfort, and style.
Core Values: Our customers are our values. We put them first in everything we do.
TARGETS.
Our main customer will be from the age of 27-29 and I would like to target their income demographics. (I would say a younger demographic with an eye for style, and available dollars to purchase nice stuff)
I want my company to be perceived as Professional, I want them to know that we offer the best prices.
For colors, I would like Teal and Brown (let me know what you think about that).
In the Next Decade, I would like my company to be known worldwide, for now, it’s the USA only.
Main Competitors are.
Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/ Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
Important elements that I would like to stress are Beauty and Glamour, Friendly, Modern, High Quality.
For logo inspirations, you can look at brands like
America Signature Furniture https://www.americansignaturefurniture.com/ Crate&Barrel https://www.crateandbarrel.com/
West Elm
Williams Sonoma https://www.williams-sonoma.com/
I look forward to working with you!
I wonder if there is any way to take the payment and not give him the money back?
You could do that, but the money will just disappear out of your account later. Maybe if you opened a bank account for that specifically and withdrew the money immediately you could game the system, but you’d be scamming the bank at that point.
I just got hit with this scam and I had a funny feeling about it when I asked how he got my contact info. He totally dodged the question, so I did some digging and came across this article. My encounter is pretty much the same but with a name “Inoterior” which I searched and seen the same crap he copied and pasted for the description of the name and what it meant. I’ll definitely pass this along to other designers I know so they don’t fall into the trap. Man, I really wonder why people do this? What do they get out of it? Especially if it doesn’t go very far? Makes no sense to me.
Here’s another version I just received:
Great! I have business which i want to turn into large scale business now it located in FL and the company is based on importing and exporting of Salon Equipment such as Dryer, hair cream, Weavon,Hairdressing,Clippers, i need a best of the best layout design for it. Can you handle that for me ?. so i need you to check out this site but i need something more perfect than this if its possible. https://zdca.thehybridcreative.com/ … I have a private consultant that has the text content and logo for the site. the site would only be informational, so i need you to give me an estimate.
1. I want 10 to 15 pages with the example site i gave you to check excluding videos and blogs 2. I want only English language. 3. I don’t have a domain yet but i want the domain name as zcsalonsolution.co. 4. You will be updating the site for me 2 times in a month. 5. I will be proving the images, logos and content for the site. 6.My budget is $8,000.00 to $18,000.00. 7. I want the site up and running before ending of 2 to 4 months.
Here’s mine…
Alright that fine , thanks for the swift response, I’ll like to tell you some details while you can decide on design,i will want the color of the logo to be Orange and cream with a brown background with an image of a straight house as we are into interior design , i want a very pure and presentable design . The brochure i want a half fold , size 8.5 x 14 brochure with 8 pages catalog and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant but the logo and brochure will be designed by you and the due date for the project is 31st of Aug 2020. My proposed company name is LOUISDEWITT INTERIOR INC , we are into interior design ,painting,space management,furniture supply and we also give architectural drawing.Our firm is enlisted in a wide array of services that include both full-scale projects and design collaboration, in addition to oversight of construction with the architect, contractors and clients. Our exquisite design sensibility can be seen in homes across the United States. Our services also include working alongside the top architects and builders throughout the blueprint stages and construction to ensure project management and detailed development oversight. here are few things i could provide from my end you can just ask me anything else you want to know so as to assist you in the achievement of the project as i will so appreciate a well perfected job. I will want you to let me know the cost of the logo and brochure as regard to your quote . On the Logo procedure I don’t have Logo but need a customized logo from you which will have a straight house design in the background from the company name as the logo. I’ll have the text content and photo supply to you through my project consultant while you will be the one to design the artwork, i just want to achieve a very bespoke design that will speak more about our interior design,our official website is still under redevelopment which i am sure should be ready just very soon before the project is completed so with that you will have more scope and idea of the company . I will like to let you know my budget for the project is within $3000-$4500. I will be much more glad if you can handle this for me and hopefully if possible we could meet upon completion of this design project only if this crisis is over .Thanks you
Best Regard
Louis Dewitt
Later, when the flags went up, he’s asked me to do him a “favor”…
It’s regarding the Project Consultant is still local and does not setup for credit card payment yet for now, even the initial payment i sent through check she couldn’t go cash it due to this crisis while i can’t even process check now, so I want you to add $3,100 to the estimate this will be for the project consultant that will be sending you the content of the brochure such as images and text. The Project Consultant was taking the photograph of the images which are in 300dpi resolution and the text has been proofread. I will be in charge of 3% Credit Card Charges and am giving you $100 as tip. So please kindly add it up in the invoice as the project consultant fee so in total sum of $4,481.02 and after the payment clears, you will be deducting $1.381.02 as your deposit charge/tip and help me deposit/transfer the project consultant $3,100 to his account details, so she can send you the contents for you to start the logo and brochure design on time .So i will want you to update the customer portal so i can make the payment now , once i made this first payment you can have the remaining $1000 as deposit up as well in the portal so i will process that next as your deposit balance .
Mine was from a man named Fred Jay for a logo and catalog project for HUB RITE INC. and one from Robert John for design of a logo and catalog, but I didn’t get so far as to ask the name of the company. Their emails were spaced about three weeks apart and were from individual gmail accounts. (May and June 2020)
I also got a Louis Dewitt one…
Alright that’s fine , I’ll like to tell you some details while you can decide on design,i will want the color of the logo to be Orange and cream with a brown background with an image of a straight house, i want a very pure and presentable design . The brochure I want is a double parallel , size 8.5 x 11 brochure with 8 pages catalog and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project management but the logo and brochure will be designed by you and the due date for the project is 31st of Aug 2020. My proposed company name is Louisdewitt Interior Inc , we are into interior design ,painting,space management,furniture supply and we also give architectural drawing.Our firm is enlisted in a wide array of services that include both full-scale projects and design collaboration, in addition to oversight of construction with the architect, contractors and clients. Our exquisite design sensibility can be seen in homes across the United States. Our services also include working alongside the top architects and builders throughout the blueprint stages and construction to ensure project management and detailed development oversight. Here are a few things I could provide from my end. You can just ask me anything else you want to know so as to assist you in the achievement of the project as I will so appreciate a well perfected job. I will want you to let me know the cost of the logo and brochure as regards to your quote . On the Logo procedure I don’t have Logo but need a customized logo from you which will have a straight house design in the background from the company name as the logo. I’ll have the text content and photo supply to you through my project management while you will be the one to design the artwork, i just want to achieve a very bespoke design that will speak more about our interior design,our official website is still under development which i am sure should be ready just very soon before the project is completed so with that you will have more scope and idea of the company . My budget for the design project is within $3000-$4500.I have just filled the form also. I will be much more glad if you can handle this for me and hopefully if possible we could meet upon completion of this design project only if this crisis is over .Thanks you
OMG!, I’m so glad I found this post! I just received this from Gabriel Timothy:
Hey, here ’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,
Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is Hockwood.com
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitte to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 56 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will oversee the catalog update.
I need a’ flipping book’ version, you can likewise design the catalog and send as pdf.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-01.html
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc. to the catalog.
Smiths Micheal
Jun 19, 2020, 4:15 PM (2 days ago)
to me
Hey, here ’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company so I’ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional,
Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is Hockwood.com
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitte to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 56 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will oversee the catalog update.
I need a’ flipping book’ version, you can likewise design the catalog and send as pdf.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-01.html
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc. to the catalog.
I’ll be sending more info shortly so you can have a better idea of my brand , I’ll include mission,targets ,Colors , brand info etc.
Smiths Micheal
I received the same text/email from Boris Clark! Thanks for posting these comments. Be aware of this guy. borisclark039@gmail.com
This is the email below:
inoterior
This fantastic name combines the two-word elements: ‘ino-‘ (a reference to innovation) and ‘-terior’ from the word ‘interior’
(or ‘exterior’). And it is of course created by simply adding the letter ‘O’ to the word ‘interior’. The result is a
contemporary name that suggests newness, improvement and restyling – as well as referencing the world of interior design,
architecture or space planning. Whilst invented, this superb name feels established and has a smart, confident style.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products come from China.
MISSION: Promoting German culture and building a national brand, Undoubtedly, Germany continues to be counted among the world’s biggest furniture nations. The main reasons for its good reputation are the high standard of quality, the use of selected materials
and the attractive modern design, but also the reliability and the competence of German furniture manufacturers.
VISION: To become a world-class multinational company that provide our customers with
high-quality home life by establishing a long-term foundation.
The needs of customers are the foundation of our survival and development,
our pursuit is to always meet up with our customers’ needs and expectations.
PURPOSE OF BUSINESS: The purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for everyone.
COMPETITORS: It’s quite obvious already, American Signature, Pottery barn, West Elm, Crate & Barrel.
COLORS: My competitors got Black and brown in common. Teal and Brown ( any comments?)
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
For logo inspirations, you can look at brands like
America Signature Furniture https://www.americansignaturefurniture.com/
Crate&Barrel https://www.crateandbarrel.com/
West Elm https://www.westelm.com/
Williams Sonoma https://www.williams-sonoma.com/
I look forward to working with you!
On Tue, Jun 23, 2020 at 8:09 PM Boris Clark wrote:
Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
The company name is “inoterior”
We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials is completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor.
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
The full-text content and all images for the catalog will be submitted to you by the Project Consultant. Layout and design would be done by you.
The catalog should be 56 pages including front and back cover. Texts are approved and crosschecked
The size of the catalog should Be 8.5 x 11.
I would be needing just the digital version.
You will oversee the catalog update.
Final files should be submitted in pdf.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-03.html
IKEA CATALOG LINKhttps://www.ikea.com/ext/us/ikeacatalog/
American signature (1) (2) (1).pngImage – Copy (1) (1) (1) (1) (1).jpegfurniture sample.pngsmapl (2).png
First of all, thank you for this post and all of the comments. I was able to confirm my suspicions that I was indeed dealing with a scammer, this time under the alias “Stefan Roy” at the email address “stefanroy1537@gmail.com”
FIRST EMAIL
Hi, I’m Stefan. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know. Thanks!
SECOND EMAIL
Thanks for getting back to me, I need help with catalog and logo design, can you do that?
THIRD EMAIL
Great.
Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company. Do drop your cell number so we can discuss better.
The company is really based on sales of furniture such as Ottomans, Desk lamps, Sectional, Buffets & Sideboards, Counter & Bar Stools, Kitchen Cabinet, Sofa, Office Chair, Accent tables, King bench bed, etc.
The company name is “Adornium”
My Website Is Under Fabrication Which Would Be Registered Soon.
The Full-Text Content And All Images For The Catalog Will Be Submitted To You By The Project Consultant You’ll Just Handle The Layout.
The Brochure Should Be 44 Pages (Including Front And Back Cover) Because I Have Lot Information, Approved And Crosscheck Text And Images.
The Size Of Brochure Should Be 8.5 x 11.
I’ll want you to add to my mission, value, vision, etc to the catalog, I’ll have it sent to you.