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.
I got the scam from texts 805-699-5862 and email [email protected]
Hi Terry,
this is Raymond Gagnon regarding regarding Graphic designs services, I appreciate your interest in helping our new startup business, Please see following details of my service request. Thank you!
Project overview: I want a complete graphic design work that will communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Also provide comprehensive layout and production design for applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports.
COMPANY NAME (DIAMODUS); This is a startup business solely 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 purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for every consumers homes.
Diamodus.com This Website Is currently under construction pending registration. Diamodus is a modern and stylish brand name meaning, generated from the word Diamond-to make it more unique and attractive to consumers. I want you to add to my mission, value, vision, on the catalog open to ideas / suggestions.
What Makes Diamodus.com to the customer is NOT just the name. Classic yet modern with a feeling of luxury. Our Furniture Are Guarantee Of beauty, comfort, And Convenience’ That’s What It Should Mean To Our Customers.
Tag Line ” Adding comfort to your home”
BROCHURE;
I would like the Brochure to be 44 Pages in total (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).
WHO MY BUSINESS SERVES: My customers and others who are willing to patronize DIAMODUS
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness will give the impression that Diamodus.com 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 17-59 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.
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, 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 believed I’ve forward you inclusive details, Let me know your thoughts once you review it. I will be looking forward to a price quote so we can proceed.
Talk soon,
Raymond
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.
Just received this same scam. Thanks for posting! I didn’t want to judge, but the English was broken and he was so vague about the details.
Mine was from a Mark Ryan ([email protected]). I googled his number (862-312-2098) and got your blog. This time it was for a company called Stamford Spar, which is also on the list.
I’m going to find that FTC link now too…
I got one yesterday for Mark George for the same company name and number
I also got one from the number 862-312–2098! He said his name was Maxwell Cole @ [email protected] and he worked for Stamford Spar
Do not answer him!
I just got this exact same email about Stamford Spar from a Ronald George. Same number. I thought it was legit until they didn’t answers my questions about the business (only saying “yes please proceed”) so I googled the number and found this article.
I just wanted to copy and paste the email he sent about his “company”
—————————————
My Goals about the project:
STAMFORD SPAR is pet project and same time a business avenue for me. I will be 10 years a vegan in June and I hope to launch the business (and unveil the logo with e-brochure then)to my customers.
STAMFORD SPAR . should be able to provide over 500 plant-derived minerals that can improve the value of foods, liquids, nutritional formulations and cosmiceuticals. That way also improving value of life.Whoever purchase our products would have a guarantee of good living and relish.
Our uniqueness will be privilege of our 5 locations around Texas and online store. Our products are also 100 percent plant based produce under strict standards from International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM). Our brand and style would also stand us out.
Other project essentials:
1. I want you to know that this is the first time I will be doing a Logo design so I can only give you little details then you can decide on designs but I want the color to consist of Green, Red and Brown (let me know what you think about that) with an image of some mixed fruits. I want a very mature and presentable design and my budget for this project is not more than $4000.
2. For logo inspirations you can look at logo from this samples site belomw
https://www.sprouts.com/
I just received this exact Stamford Spar email from [email protected] phone number 862-312-2098
Thank you all for the heads up!
I’m glad I found this! I just got the one for Stamford SPAR from Mark George. I took every name I found that he scammed people under and texted him with a hi (all the names). Told him he was being tracked through the forums. Hopefully that will freak him out a little, but I doubt it.
Just got the same email! I also parroted the tracked thing, I feel like if he gets it multiple times it might freak em out lol.
I just received the same email as everyone else. this time it was Douglas Walter – [email protected] from Stamford Spar. Thanks for posting this.
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 ([email protected]) 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 ([email protected]), Brown Vance ([email protected]) 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.
New version. Mark Ryan and Stamford Spar. Was exactly like the top one except for vegan stuff.
New name Cody Rhodes for the company Stamford Spar! SAME story!!!
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 just got this exact email from Paul Dennis for his brand Veqtis. Thanks for sharing this!
I got this exact email too from Paul Dennis ([email protected]). So glad I found this page!!
I just got one for Veqtis from Stanley Fuentes and checked against one I got last year w the same reference information when I asked for more detail. That email came from a Raymond Gagnon for a company called DIAMODUS. Both had almost the same background info I asked for. Both emails seemed scammy because of the brief and clueless nature about the request but you never know and I hate to assume that because someone writes poorly, they’re not legit. But in this case, I am glad I could find this website to prove it. Thanks.
I received the same email today but the name was Moore James and the email [email protected], i googled VEEHAUS and find your info.
THANK’S FOR SHARING IT.
I received exactly the same email and texts from Jeff Tweed [email protected] 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 [email protected]
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***
I just got the Hockwood request. What a crazy world we live in. Do not reply. Scammers in Asia pacific!
I did reply and now that I read this, I blocked the texter, Paul. Do I need to do anything else?
Just received one from a Curtis Bryan with a different email address [email protected]
Good, I have business which i want to turn into large scale business now it located in Brunswick, GA 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 https://www.heylovelyskin.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 them me an estimate.
Sadly i just got contacted by Paul Laurence needing branding and a brochure for Veqtis.
First red flag was that there was already a homeward company in Mexico with the same name. So that lack of due diligence left me
Searching more
And
Found this thread.
I got the exact same intro with the same odd grammar typo
“ Hi, I’m Paul. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know. Thanks!”
So April 2021 the scam is still going.
Thanks for whoever started this thread.
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 I had nearly the exact same email text although they changed the name to Adornium.
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 ([email protected]) 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.
I get tons of these! Most recent was Paul and the company was VEQTIS. Just to help people who google and find this.
Also looked up another text and it was Curtis Bryan.
yup, just got one with Veqtis (furniture) as well under the name Paul Timmreck [email protected]. Was kind of weird bc came to my work email and I never give out my work email so was a red flag to me, and then I googled and found this so thanks for the info.
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 ([email protected])
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.
Robert contacted me as well… Thanks so much to all the people who wrote here! You saved me a lot of headaches!!
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 ([email protected]) 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 [email protected]
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: [email protected]
Name: Curtis Bryan.
Hi! You can report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission online.
Nancy
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, [email protected], 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.
7-8 email exchanges within time period of 2 hours!
Sender email – Chris Steven • [email protected]
1st email- I’ll like to know if I got the right contact to a graphic designer. Kindly let me know
2nd email- Thanks for your response, I need help with catalogue and logo design kindly let me know if you can handle it, so I can send you the details.
3rd email- 1.Company Name: STAMFORD SPAR
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
4th email- Do drop your cell phone number, so we can discuss better, I I’ll be sending you more details about my project.
5th email- I was searching for a graphics designers online and I came across your contact.
My response to all his email was only this- May i know where are you located and where did you find me?
He never responded to my question and his responses were like copy pasted stuff… although we hv not reached to the stage where he ask me to register etc but i am sure its a SCAM!
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”
I got a text message from a Paul McKensie saying he found me via CreativeHotlist, which is weird because it hasn’t been updated in years and doesn’t have my portfolio up. I gave him my email and this is what he sent me from [email protected]
“INTERIALITY” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This is a distinctive and sophisticated name that will appeal to a business with a creative edge. Like many successful invented brand names, Interiality is clear in its focus, but still open to interpretation. By starting with the essence of the word ‘interior’, the concept of space, architecture and interior design is placed to the fore. The ‘-iality’ ending creates a new word that suggests a quality, concept or methodology. But it also echoes the sound of the word ‘reality’, so a suggestion of virtual reality, 3D modelling and visualisation is conveyed. This smart combination could resonate with architects and interior designers as well as builders, property developers, 3D designers, planners and landscapers. This confident, contemporary name has the qualities to be the foundation of a very effective brand.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
Tagline: “modern home design elements”
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
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 [email protected], 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 [email protected]
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
[email protected] 471-231-9257
Paul Lowery – Veehaus
Paul Wade
Jeff Tweed – Adornium [email protected], [email protected]
Henry Rowe [email protected]
Brown Vance [email protected]
Steven Oakwey 539 444 4373
Paul Phelps
Moore James [email protected]
Jeff Connors
Marrisa Oyler – Adornwood [email protected]
Paul Hoffman
Robert J. “Juan” Jack – Adornlyf [email protected]
212-340-7460 (New York, NY)
831-246-6755 (Ben Lomond, CA)
Michael Grey – Adornlyf
Charles Williams / William Charles – John’s Furniture [email protected]
Boris Clark
Dave Kasell – Adornlyf
David Timothy – Adornlyf
Curtis Bryan – Adornlyf [email protected]
Nicole Hamilton – Adornlyf [email protected]
Tracy Bosch – Adornlyf
Mark Wade Lowrey – Modernitive Unique / Veehaus [email protected]
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!
Thanks! I’m adding Robert John [email protected]
I also just received the intial inquiry email from this same Gmail adress for Robert John.
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
[email protected]
I got this one yesterday too.
Ditto, asking for business vehicle wraps this time.
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) [[email protected]] 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 [[email protected]] 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, [email protected]. 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 [email protected]
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, [email protected], 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:[email protected]
Mark Wade Lowrey – The company name is “INOTERIOR” / Veehaus [email protected]
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. [email protected]
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, [email protected].
***
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 [email protected] 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 .
I had the EXACT same experience from “Louis Dewitt”! How can I get him prosecuted?
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 got that one too. From Sim Joe. Big scam!
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
Word for word, I got the same exact email from Ben Ryan ([email protected])
Ben: I’ll like to know if I got he right contact to a graphic designer. Kindly let me know.
Me: Hi Ben, yes you have the right contact. How may I assist you?
Ben: Thanks for your response, I need help with catalogue and logo design kindly let me know if you can handle it, so I can send you the details.
Me: Yeah, I can do that for you. Just let me know the requirements you need, and I will work with you through the process to make it look the way you want it.
Ben:
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
At this point, I googled HUB RITE INC to see if I could find out anything more about this company if anything existed, and quickly found this article. The initial communication didn’t seem odd to me, aside from slightly broken English; but I work with legitimate companies all the time from other countries, so it didn’t seem out of place, so I fell for it. I’m glad that it’s not going to go any further than this.
I would have liked to earn a legitimate $4000 though…
I am so glad I googled this and found you all I got the Hub Rite one today…
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
It was from “ Robert Clarkson”
I just got this exact one also. So glad I googled it. Ugh, I feel so stupid. I sent him a contract even what do these scammers do with our information? 🙁
SO glad I found this post. I received almost this exact same email from [email protected]. Same conversation except a different business name. “STAMFORD SPAR”. Luckily this page came up when I googled the email address.
Can we do anything to report these people? I’m glad I didn’t waste any more time but I know some people might end up actually getting fucked over by these jerks.
Just got another one. Stamford Spar as the company name again but from a Robert Evans with the email address: [email protected] 🙃
I reported both email addresses that have contacted me and linked this thread to the Federal Trade Commission at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/. I suggest everyone else who ends up here does the same!
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
I had the same experience with Louis Dewitt.
He needs to be stopped.
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. [email protected]
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
Same exact email as above. I don’t understand what the scam is. Do they try to resell our work?
The email I got was from an Anthony Knox at [email protected].
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 “[email protected]”
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.
Yes, I just got the Stefan Roy email. All kinds of red flags with just the very first email. For one thing, he sounds European, so why not hire someone in Europe for this? Why me? Also, no one has to really put 4 numbers in their gmail address. It’s usually a sign of a fake account.
How do I scam this guy back and get HIS money?
I just got this e-mail from Stefan Roy today! So glad to find this post.
So glad all these comments are here. The same thing happened to me from Eric Pascarella.
Email 1:
Hi, I’m Eric. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know. Thanks!
Email 2:
Thanks for your reply. I need help with catalog and logo design, can you do that?
(After this email I was unsure, very vague info for a designer.)
Email 3: (pretty word for word from the others above)
Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company. Do drop your cell phone 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.
___________
I never responded after this. Never sent info. So happy I googled the company before proceeding and wasting a lot of time. Thanks everyone!!
Eric Pascarella was my guy too. lol.
I too was pulled into this scam. A Tracy Bosch reached out to a company that I used to work for and the creative director passed the information on to me. I did do a couple of logo designs using the name “Inoterior” and when I sent an invoice via PayPal, this person said their card did not work with PayPal, and to set up an Authorize account. I was then told that they would overpay me and then I was to send a $1000 check to the project manager. I refused and ended contact this person.
I don’t really understand how the scam works though. If they send you a big check, why not just deposit and cash it? How would the bank lose out?
I am admittedly bad at the more complicated banking stuff.
The money will go into your account, you’ll send money to the scammer’s “project manager,” and then a few days later, the bank will discover that the incoming transaction to your bank was fraudulent and will remove it, leaving you having sent real money to someone but without any money that someone sent you.
Looks like the [email protected] address is still in use. I’ve had several of these furniture company inquiries (always with the same text, project specs, etc.) but have never fussed with it long enough to learn as much as you all. Thanks so much for the participation everyone.
I’ve had a similar email from someone called “Dre Gus” who is working for HUB RITE INC.
I’m now very thankful I’ve read this thread, and have requested a non refundable deposit upfront and not heard back.
This was his email:
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
That’s strange, he accepted my deposit response. That was before I read this thread. I wonder what his angle is.
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
.
.
.
The same email came to me with this [email protected]
(Jame Stone)
Thanks to this page I was able to discover it. Thank you community of designers for supporting us and avoiding being scammed.
I had the exact same experience, down to the T! Dre Gus, from Hub Rite Inc, was the one who contacted me. Stated a $4,000 budget before I’d even mentioned anything about money. Obviously great money, but just didn’t sit well. Advised him that I would sit on it a day and give him a quote today, requiring deposits throughout and he agreed to that. But it’s just not right. Are they scamming for free work? Access to our accounts? Personal information? How does this one work?
I’m really glad I looked into this. I was really excited to be contacted by Paul Grant and wanting a 44 page catalog. A lot of the info that was posted above is exactly what was in the email to me except it was German Furniture. Can’t believe I fell for this. I didn’t get to the sending money part, thank god. Thanks for posting this so the naive people like me can check things out.
The company name is “FABREXA”
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.
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/
This brand name is clearly derived from the words ‘fabric’ or ‘fabricate’. It looks and sounds superb, and is short and easy to say and spell: all great qualities in a business brand name. The suggestion of fabric and fabrication would make this an excellent choice for a business that’s all about fabrics, or one that is focused on making things – from structures and buildings to furniture and other objects. This is a really well-made contemporary business name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurnitureni.com/
COLORS: My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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!
Thanks so much for sharing this. I knew it was fishy when the contact (Justin Morris) did not answer if he was local or not. Then I googled and found this page. I hope this helps someone else.
Here is what they emailed:
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 are 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 58 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’s 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 in pdf.
See below are few samples
https://www.ethanallen.com/en_US/shop-furniture-bedroom-beds-wood-metal
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 for easier conversation?
Best,
Justin Morris
Thanks Jon SO MUCH for posting this! Seems like this scam in alive and well as of August 11, 2020. Received a text to my phone asking asking for design services and a quote / proposal for a 32-page furniture catalog.
Be careful NOT to click on some of the links in the message below – you will get an Error Message “This Connection Is not Private” This website may be impersonating http://www.alexandrofurniture.com” to steal your personal or financial information. You should close this page.
__________
Email from Paul Barrett at [email protected] on 8/11/2020
Subject: DESIGN
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurnitureni.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-03.html
IKEA CATALOG LINKhttps: https://www.ikea.com/us/en/customer-service/catalogues/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
Well it’s Nov.2020 and Paul is still at it. but now as Paul Timmerick from [email protected]
What tipped me off is that he would never answer where he found me or who referred me to him. Then I googling and thankfully found all this!
Wow! I am thankful I researched this subject…something did not feel right…got a text today from Mark Edward (307) 216-2558 with similar request, logo and brochure design. I asked him to email me details and where he heard from me.
His answer was “a friend” and ignored when I asked the friend’s name (red flag 1). He did email me some info BUT (red flag 2)….3 weeks ago, I received an email from a person called Sophia Garcia. She had contacted me inquiring about a logo and brochure design for her furniture store. Other than the furniture store being called “TODDA’S FURNITURE INC ” and not “A FISHER FURNITURE COMPANY”, the email was identical to Mark’s.
When I replied to Sophia Garcia asking her to complete a lengthy briefing form, she magically disappeared.
This time around I will simply ignore… time is money and I have better things to do that entertain this type of thing….
For records their emails:
Mark Edward: [email protected]
Sophia Garcia: [email protected]
thank you for sharing the email. i googled the email and found myself here. thank you for the warning
I just was on unwork and as I’m vetting a project this marke8038 guy emails me.
Red flags all around
I just received an email from the same address ([email protected]), which led me here. He’s going by Mark Coleman now..in case anyone else gets the same scam. Thank you for sharing!
We received the following email from a Mark Coleman ([email protected]) recently:
Greetings over there how are you doing ..?will like to know if you can handle Brochure and Logo Design for my company. I anticipate your swift response. Thank you.Kindly get back to me so I can send you the details in full.
Thanks
BIG FAT SCAM!! VEQTIS!
I received this from Paul Park [email protected] 4:10am 18 August 2020:
“Good evening! I hope you are well and staying safe?
I got your info for design service, hope you are available?
Let me know, I need some work done!”
Am on annual leave so the scammer got a message from a bounce reply stating so.
A “Good evening” message at 04:10 in the morning, I don’t think so! Plus English not first language with that text, unsigned email, no regards, name, title or contact…. my suspicions were raised.
Another email from Park at 21:10, “ I need help designing a catalog and logo, can you do that?”
He got another bounce email.
Then at 23:07 on 18 August “Paul Park” sent:
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurnitureni.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number for easier communication.”
Nope, email blocked, not even wasting time communicating with him. I have a business to run and these scammers waste your valuable time.
Exactly the same email!
Got one today from [email protected]
Initial email:
Good evening! I hope you are well and staying safe?
I got your info for Design Services, hope you are available?
Let me know, I need some work done!
Have a great day!
after a couple of replies:
Paul Grant
Aug 26, 2020, 10:39 PM (2 hours ago)
to me
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurnitureni.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number for easier communication.
Just got a new one that I thought I’d post, submitted via the contact form on this site, from [email protected]:
I have a business which I want to turn into a large scale business now it is located in NJ and the company is based on importing and exporting 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 it’s 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 PDhomesolutions.com. 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 the end of 2 to 4 months
Yup, the same here from Smith p. Christopher – his LinkedIn profile is here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smith-p-christopher-9435101aa/
The company name is “inoterior”
We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are 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 58 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’s main purpose is to showcase all products. The purchase will be 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/
Thank god I saw this post. I felt skeptical at the beginning too..
I got the same thing! well from a guy call Paul Bell. And here is the email:
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurnitureni.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Thank you for this post. I have been contacted second time since February, first time it was Adornlyf, [email protected] and today NOUVIQUE, [email protected]. The first time I sent in the quote, but he never replied again. Getting contacted second time by the unknown person, with same sort of business made me google the names. That’s how I found this thread. The email is exactly what all of you described, I am just listing two new emails for the list. They both texted me first, asked for services, and later for email. Stay safe all.
I received a similar scam but the name was Paul Havelin…
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurnitureni.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
I received the same email from Robert John! He opened with “Hi, I’m Robert. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know. Thanks!” and it seemed legit.
I just happened to Google his email address since his business email was hosted by gmail and didn’t have a signature and it came up here. The follow up was the same too.
“Here’s what I’m looking to have done.
it’s a newly established company. Do drop your cell phone 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.”
Glad someone on here mentioned Veqtis so it popped up when I did a google search. I also got a Veqtis email. Putting mine here in case it helps someone else. I received an email from a Paul Shemeley asking for logo and catalog design. When I asked what all he needed, he responded with this Email below:
—————
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number for easier communication.
I got the same scam email today –
Paul Shemeley
9:14 PM (1 hour ago)
to me
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number for easier communication.
First a phone message from (678) 208-8422 saying:
Good afternoon! I hope you are well and staying safe?
I got your info for Graphic Design Services, hope you are available?
Let me know, I need some work done!
Have a great day!
P.
Hey! Can’t pick up the phone right now. Can I get back to you?
Me: Yes, certainly. Please tell us what we can do for you.
I need help with a catalog and logo, can you do that?
Yes, provide me with your email.
Good afternoon! I just emailed you the details for the job, let me know your thoughts once reviewed 🙂
Also, do get back to me with a quote and proposal so we can proceed. Okay?
Then on October 6 from Paul Yeller:
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
I googled Veqtis. Good thing. What is this guy’s issue with designers? Maybe I should play along for a bit.
What do you think?
I got the exact same email from Paul O’Dell
Teal and brown should be fine… LOL
Looks like P. has an objective. Who would fall for this?
https://novanym.com/products/veqtis
I got a text from a person named Paul Shannon today. He said he found me on Creative Hotlist, a profile I haven’t updated for a very long time, as it happens.
In our text exchange, he said he needed a website design for a small business “located in Michigan and the company is based on the importing and exporting of crude oil such as petroleum, gasoline, oil, and gas”.
After a few texts and a tentative show of interest on my part (I said it depends on how involved the project was), he asked for my email address in order to send more details. I said to message me via the contact link on Creative Hotlist (He’d already gotten my number from there, since he texted me and immediately addressed me by my name).
The email I received (from [email protected]) was exactly the same, word for word, as the emails describing a project for VEQTIS cited by Nathan and Amy in the posts before mine.
I think it’s also worth noting that the URL for Alexandro Furniture & Mattress gives me a “Your connection is not private” warning in my browser. So I looked up the company name, which does appear in a google search, but their URL redirects to https://globalfurniturenj.com/. I don’t know if that’s significant information or not, but maybe it’s noteworthy.
A little skepticism saved me this time. Thanks Jon for posting this. I’m so glad I found your blog post when I searched for this and confirmed my suspicion.
I initially got contacted via email, then requested they email me the details. This is what I got.
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
I also got this one a week ago.
For the Brochure, I want a double folded 8.5 x 11 brochure with 8 pages and I can only supply the texts 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 10th of Oct 2020. The company name is ERVIN’S FURNITURE LTD and we are based on import and exporting furniture, 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: ERVIN’S FURNITURE LTD
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.
Thanks.
I just got one. Started with a text last night. The big red flag was that he found me on my website but my website is extremely outdated and most of my business is word of mouth.
Name he is using is Paul Shemeley [email protected]
I asked him to email me details,
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
I also reported the scam here: https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/ and to anti-phishing organizations. I did. Thanks for this post or I would have wasted time writing a proposal!
So, I just had interaction with Paul. He accepted my proposal and agreed to 50% down. Then he told me that he couldn’t use PayPal and asked me to use stripe. That payment declined so he asked me to pay myself $10 to see if it goes through. I of course said no, and recommended Zelle, cash app, etc. he then had the nerve to send this text:
I’ll be sending you my card info to charge the total sum of $18,675 in which (50% dept.) will be your upfront payment for the job, and $$$$ you will help me forward to the project consultant so he can release the raw files for the catalog to you. You can keep $300 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.
I told him that I do not operate that way. He is responsible for paying his consultant and I would not use my bank account for his transactions.
The problem is, not I can’t fight out how to deactivate my stripe account because I do not plan on ever using it. 😳
Just adding mine for searchability, in case there’s any variation (haven’t read all the comments, but this is similar). Sender is “Paul Aumann” [email protected]. This isn’t my first rodeo with this type, so just asked him a few questions to be sure.
“Good afternoon! I got your info on your website for design services, I’ll like to know if you are available. Have a great day!”
“I need help with a catalog and logo, can you do that?”
“”VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number for easier communication.”
In response to the last one, I asked if he was sure they weren’t shipping their furniture from Lagos. 😀
Thanks for the heads-up. I just got a text from “Paul” with Veqtis. I appreciate that you made this post.
I’ll join the party, here what I received in my project brief form submission on my website. This was after receiving a text from ‘Paul’ asking me to price the project, and provide an email. I asked who had referred him, and he said ‘Creative Hotlist’, which of course raised a flag, as I haven’t heard anything from that channel for…a decade almost? He asked me for my email a couple of times, which I declined, but encouraged him to fill out the form on my site—which, would require fields to be filled out and then protect my email etc.
— Begin sketchy message —
Name: Paul Shemeley
Company: VEQTIS
Email Address: [email protected]
Website:
I’m looking for: Brand Identity
Timeframe: One month
Budget: $5K-10K
Project Information: “VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
How did you hear about us?: I came across your profile on Creative Hotlist.
Our initial email read: Hello
I’m Kenedy, just got your contact from D7Leadfinder and will like to know if you still offer Brochure and Logo Design for my new company?
Do revert my email as soon as you can, so i can forward you the scope of work
Regards
After my initial brief response, “Kenedy” ([email protected]) wrote:
Hello
Thanks for the swift response
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 $2,000-4,000 .
For the Brochure, 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 23rd of December 2020 and is based on importing and exporting of furniture.
That’s 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.
NOTE: My website is still under construction and will be completed soon.
HERE ARE THE DETAILS AND PROCEDURE OF THE JOB:
1) COMPANY NAME : KENEDY’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 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.
Kind Regards
It’s still going. I received this today. Saw you on creativehotlist via text. Then received this email.
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!”VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
I got this same thing a couple of days ago as well! Thank goodness for this site!
Received this exact email today.
Thanks for the heads up!
found this by searching the body of this email i just received:
Interested in your service
Inbox
Frank Fred
Nov 10, 2020, 6:19 PM (12 hours ago)
to me
Hi, this is Frank. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know. Thanks.
Fred? What email address did it come from. Sounrs so familiar to what I received
Thanks everyone for the heads up.
This is still an active scam, I received under Paul Yeller and Veqtis as brand name:
DESIGN
Contact photo
From Paul Yeller on 11/09/2020 7:07 pm
Details Plain text
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
HOLY WOW. I’m thankful for this thread. WTF. Yeah, so I just fell for the scam, too. Got emails and texts from:
PAUL TIMMRECK
305-707-8659
[email protected]
Company: VEQTIS
I got the same pitch verbatim. Also, that he’s at the hospital because of some illness. He wouldn’t get on the phone to talk.
I took it as far as me sending him an invoice for a deposit from my Stripe account. Then I googled VEQTIS and found this thread. While typing this, I voided my invoice. I hope my Stripe account will still be secure. Anyone know if it will? Are there other things I should make more secure after communicating with him? (paranoia setting in)
I can’t believe there are so many of us in this thread.
I read that some of you reported him? How and where?
Good luck everyone. Be safe out there. We all deserve LEGIT high-paid design work.
Peace.
It’s still happening! Like so many people on this list, I was contacted by a Paul (mine Paul Yeller) who’d found me on Creative Hotlist (who’s still using that?) and wanted an estimate for a logo and catalog. What a waste of time! Like any of us need this in 2020.
Received an email fromPaul Timmreck. On Nov 12, 2020, at 8:16 PM, Paul Timmreck wrote:
Good evening! I got your info for design services. I’ll like to know your availability, I need some work done!
I answered and asked where he got my info. He said he found my freelance services online and wondering if I could do a logo design and catalog. I replied yes I could but would not until I knew who he was and asked him to send credentials. This is what he sent.
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number for easier communication.
I replied, “I’ll pass, good luck with your project!”
I’m so glad you all took the initiative to post this scam and I was fortunate to find it before going any further. Thank you!
This SCAM Still going. I receive an email like this.
Project overview: I want a complete graphic design work that will communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Also provide comprehensive layout and production design for applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports.
COMPANY NAME (DIAMODUS); This is a startup business solely 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 purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for every consumer’s homes.
Diamodus.com This Website Is currently under construction pending registration. Diamodus is a modern and stylish brand name meaning, generated from the word Diamond-to make it more unique and attractive to consumers.
I want you to add to my mission, value, vision, in the catalog open to ideas / suggestions.
What Makes Diamodus.com to the customer is NOT just the name.
Classic yet modern with a feeling of luxury. Our Furniture Are Guaranteed Of Beauty, Comfort, And Convenience’ That’s What It Should Mean To Our Customers.
Tag Line ” Adding comfort to your home”
BROCHURE;
I would like the Brochure to be 44 Pages in total (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).
WHO MY BUSINESS SERVES: My customers and others who are willing to patronize DIAMODUS
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness will give the impression that Diamodus.com 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 17-59 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.
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 USA-only.
Main Competitors are Alexandro Furniture & Mattress and Direct Home Furniture.
Important elements that I would like to stress are Beauty, Glamour, Friendly, Modern & High Quality.
For logo inspirations, you can look at brands like American Signature Furniture, Crate & Barrel, West Elm or Williams Sonoma.
I believe I’ve forward you inclusive details, Let me know your thoughts once you review it. I will be looking forward to a price quote so we can proceed.
Talk soon,
Raymond.
Paul Yeller contacted me yesterday [email protected]. Same information, German Furniture company wanting Catalogue and Logo. He’s in the hospital in Deleware. The company was VEQTIS. Sent him a $4,300 proposal which he wanted to pay 1/2 right away via Stripe. I googled and found this page before sending Stripe invoice. ALWAYS question email addresses not ending in the @company who’s contacting you.
Hi Damian, Paul is now using [email protected]. I just posted about this a minute ago. I’m glad you found this page before sending the invoice.
One of the company’s name is Veqtis . The domain name is for sale for $2800. I smelled something fishy but thought I’d play along. He’s now using the name, Paul O’Dell. I got the email yesterday evening. It’s the same designer scam, furniture, wants to launch corporation, needs help with a catalogue and logo. He copied and pasted his description and vision for Veqtis straight from the site that was selling the domain. I thought I’d just add my experience to keep everyone up to date.
Add another name Paul Klos VEQTIS
Hi there, This just happened to me a few days ago. I called the whold thing off when it got too shady, but I appreciate you writing about your experience because it confirmed my suspicions. I have since posted this on an industry board for NYC to make more people aware. I talked to other experienced creatives about this as this project was unfolding to see if there were red flags or if I was being paranoid. It really did feel like a very legit project, especially given how engaged this person (Paul Dennis) was.
Again, thanks Jon for posting. You did a service to a lot of folks!
I just received a payment for $15k. How do they do that? What’s next. This guy is Curtis Bryan
Wow, I am sooo glad I googled “Adornium”. I received this EXACT email but from [email protected]. Please be aware, this scam is still alive and kicking. I received the original email 11/24/2020.
Hi everyone,
I received a similar email today and knew it was a scam as soon as I saw that it was sent to my personal email instead of my business email address. I immediately clicked on gmail’s “report phishing” button.
The same thing happened to me earlier this year when the pandemic first started and I was really upset because I spent time quoating the job, sending an estimate and then an invoice. Not only that, business was very slow and I was given “hope” to work on a big project with a new client. Anyway, here’s a copy the message from today’s email from Paul Wier, [email protected].
“Hello! I got your info for design services. I’ll like to know your availability. I need some work done.
Let me know your availability, have a great day!”
Anyway, I’m thankful for this post as I know this will help others to learn about this phishing scam. Happy holidays, my fellow graphic designers. 🙂
Hi everybody, same emails as all of the above. adding in another name to the scam:
Jeffrey Kinney
VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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,
Thank you for posting this to your fellow designers.
Recently a Paul Dennis at (559)428-9996 tried to scam my company as well by sending me a text which was kind of odd for a lengthy proposition since email is usually the route potential clients would take to inquire about my business. I played along, knowing it was a scam right up to the part where he said he’s diagnosed with cancer and in the hospital. I asked him to give me the hospital name and he went silent. Is there a way the law can trace this phone number?
Please beware!
Thank you for the feed. Yep, me too. 12/03/20
its name: [email protected] / +13057078493
I need help with a catalog and logo, can you do that?
“INTERIALITY” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This is a distinctive and sophisticated name that will appeal to a business with a creative edge. Like many successful invented brand names, Interiality is clear in its focus, but still open to interpretation. By starting with the essence of the word ‘interior’, the concept of space, architecture and interior design is placed to the fore. The ‘-iality’ ending creates a new word that suggests a quality, concept or methodology. But it also echoes the sound of the word ‘reality’, so a suggestion of virtual reality, 3D modelling and visualisation is conveyed. This smart combination could resonate with architects and interior designers as well as builders, property developers, 3D designers, planners and landscapers. This confident, contemporary name has the qualities to be the foundation of a very effective brand.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
Just got a weird request from Paul Timmreck too.
Subject line: SERVICES
and all the email said was…
“ Good afternoon! I got your info for design services.
I’ll like to know your availability, I need some work done!”
The lack of info and context seemed weird so I googled the email address and found this thread.
This scam must be working to some extent considering the original post is over a year old. You’d think he’d give up if it wasn’t. Bummer.
Received the same email from Paul Klos also using Interiality. I have to say, this is an incredibly well done scam lol. Their timelines are on par and reasonable for the project, the content is solid and what would be expected from an actual client… the details are thought through and very informative. Kudos to them!
You can also add Paul O’Dell to the list. He also used the company name Veqtis.
Was contacted by someone called ALLEN. I finally got his “last name” – John
The text below shows how similar the scam is.
I want a complete graphic design work that will communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Also provide comprehensive layout and production design for applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports.
COMPANY NAME (DIAMODUS); This is a startup business solely 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 purpose of my business is to bring modern furniture that will provide beauty and comfort for every consumer’s homes.
Diamodus.com This Website Is currently under construction pending registration. Diamodus is a modern and stylish brand name meaning, generated from the word Diamond-to make it more unique and attractive to consumers. I want you to add to my mission, value, vision, in the catalog open to ideas / suggestions.
What Makes Diamodus.com to the customer is NOT just the name. Classic yet modern with a feeling of luxury. Our Furniture Are Guaranteed Of Beauty, Comfort, And Convenience’ That’s What It Should Mean To Our Customers.
Tag Line ” Adding comfort to your home”
BROCHURE;
I would like the Brochure to be 44 Pages in total (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).
WHO MY BUSINESS SERVES: My customers and others who are willing to patronize DIAMODUS
I am thinking “Corporate Friendly” as an overall look for the logo. Too much so-called classiness will give the impression that Diamodus.com 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 17-59 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.
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 USA-only.
Main Competitors are Alexandro Furniture & Mattress and Direct Home Furniture.
Important elements that I would like to stress are Beauty, 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 believe I’ve forward you inclusive details, Let me know your thoughts once you review it. I will be looking forward to a price quote so we can proceed.
Talk soon,
Allen
This was the exact one I got!! DIAMODUS! Fake business. My guy’s name was Raymond Gagnon! SCAM!
Adding the name Gerald Vasquez asking for a logo and catalog for VEQTIS furniture. Same intro email, said he found my personal email address “through the net” when I asked about contact information. Thank you for posting all of this.
Still happening with Veqtis sndBilly Morgan
just happened with a company called INTERIALITY and the guy was named Paul Klos. [email protected] stay vigilante and aware of these low lifes
Got a text from ‘Paul Weir’ yesterday, same story as above. I asked him to email details and got a similar super long bunch of specs about a furniture store venture. He never answered RE: who referred him. All felt fishy so I searched the name and email address and found this thread. Ridiculous! Thanks so much everybody for posting!!
Got the same thing. Just sent him a text pic of your comment, he was using same name, Paul Weir. Wouldn’t tell me who referred him, and graphic design is not my job, although i am well versed in it, so no idea how he found me. Thinking it was someone who i worked with doing some design whose email was hacked, and he got my info….
OMG same person just tried to pull that on me last week!
I just got this scam email as well! Add “Mathew Baker” to the list of names. Here was his email with context:
“VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed. Let me have your cell phone number.”
Another one!
Paul Timmreck
[email protected]
559-428-9996
Same “I need a logo and catalog for a furniture company” scam. He also mentioned creative files were with consultant. Below is a partial sample of the email I was sent after inquiring about project specifics. Word for word as others have listed above.
———————–
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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,
This Paul guy sent me a text all similar to all listed on here only he used the last name of Timmerick with the email of [email protected]
Thanks so much for posting this and confirming my suspicions when I asked him how he found me and his answer was I was just searching the internet and came across your name.
Red flags were flying!
oh, and the name of the company he was proclaiming was to have was Interiality.
Adding another one to the pile. “John Albert” [email protected] sent:
>> Hi, I’m john. I’ll like to know if you offer design services, do let me know. Thanks!
After I responded, he came back with:
>>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.
You know what tipped me off? He said “Drop your cell number”… which is in my email sig. And I said to myself “So he’s not reading and not paying attention.” Which makes me not want to deal with that kind of client. So I Googled. Thank you to all those who posted here and helped me avoid the scam!
He reach out to me too
Below is his fake request
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Ley me have your cell phone number. Have a great day!
[email protected]
I’m so happy to found this post! I got a similar email from Davis Jazzman, [email protected].
He said he found me on the net and wanted me to design a furniture catalog and logo for VEQTIS. He sends me long email descriptions of the mission, competitors, budgets and etc. but mentioned this to me “My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon”
I knew something didn’t add up when I couldn’t found the person or the business.
omg I got an email from Davis Jazzman too! So glad I googled the email address and found this, sending that email promptly to my spam filter.
I just got one from [email protected] too! Red flags from the start. Glad I did not get too far with him. Just a couple emails.
Thank goodness you created this post!
Paul Weir of Interiality, a 32-page catalog, and logo with word for word email. I have been wondering how in the heck he found me, or my cell. He also avoided answering how he found me.
Glad I dodged this one.
Thanks to this post, I figured out a suspicious text was in fact a scam! His phone was 760-209-8290.
Here’s the email:
Paul Klos
to Ashley
“INTERIALITY” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This is a distinctive and sophisticated name that will appeal to a business with a creative edge. Like many successful invented brand names, Interiality is clear in its focus, but still open to interpretation. By starting with the essence of the word ‘interior’, the concept of space, architecture and interior design is placed to the fore. The ‘-iality’ ending creates a new word that suggests a quality, concept or methodology. But it also echoes the sound of the word ‘reality’, so a suggestion of virtual reality, 3D modelling and visualisation is conveyed. This smart combination could resonate with architects and interior designers as well as builders, property developers, 3D designers, planners and landscapers. This confident, contemporary name has the qualities to be the foundation of a very effective brand.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
…
I just blocked him. Will not be responding!
I just got something similar but via text
from +1(417)231-9257
PAUL: Good afternoon! I got your info for design services, I’ll like to know if you are available.
I need some work done, have a great day!
Regards,
Paul
***mostly the work I do is recommended by someone, this person never mentions where he found me. I asked him back “Good afternoon Paul, how I can help you and by the way how you heard about me?
PAUL: I was searching for a graphic designer and I came across your name.
I need help with a catalog and logo, can you do that?
*from this point I start to have this odd feeling about this text, anyway.. I called him back.
and did not respond. **it rang but it did not allow me to leave a voice message
He texts me back saying:
PAUL: Hey! Can’t pick up the phone right now. Can I get back to you?
***I texted him back
ME: Can you please provide more details about the catalog and logo for EX How many pages, sizes, branding colors…etc
from there is what I have but everything seems to match to you guys…
I wonder if I can trace this person…
FROM: Paul Pimentel
[email protected]
“INTERIALITY” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This is a distinctive and sophisticated name that will appeal to a business with a creative edge. Like many successful invented brand names, Interiality is clear in its focus, but still open to interpretation. By starting with the essence of the word ‘interior’, the concept of space, architecture and interior design is placed to the fore. The ‘-iality’ ending creates a new word that suggests a quality, concept or methodology. But it also echoes the sound of the word ‘reality’, so a suggestion of virtual reality, 3D modelling and visualisation is conveyed. This smart combination could resonate with architects and interior designers as well as builders, property developers, 3D designers, planners and landscapers. This confident, contemporary name has the qualities to be the foundation of a very effective brand.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Provide me with your cell number for easier communication.
The text I received from +1 (559) 428-9996 was
Hello! I got your info for a graphic designer on Creative Hotlist.
Kindly text me back, I need some work done 🙂
Regards,
Paul.
I asked him if we could schedule a call the next week to discuss.
He didn’t answer my question. He replied,
I need help with a catalog and logo, can you do that?
I blocked his number right away since it felt like a scam.
I just had the same scam too! Can someone please update this to explain what steps we need to take to protect ourselves from them hacking any of my personal information? I reported it to google as phishing but what other steps do I need to take??
I received the same email about the German furniture startup, “Interiality” from a Paul Salley (305-707-8659).
He sent me funds including my upfront fee, an extra $200, and the fee for his “project consultant”. I found it suspicious and immediately refunded him.
Thank you so much for this post. I’m glad I didn’t fall for this scam.
I received the same type of email from Gabriel Timothy at [email protected] for the company Diamodus.
Very similar text from a “Paul” with a furniture company called “INTERIALITY”. I emailed back and forth a couple times and felt unsure about continuing so I looked up the number and found this page. New (naive!) designer here so I was very gung-ho at first but glad I listened to my gut.
SCAM ALERT—————-
HERE’S A SIMILAR DESIGNER SCAM EMAIL THAT I RECEIVED BELOW!
[email protected]
Thank you for your response. 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.
I received same email as the first scam but now they change the name to James Kingsley and the company name to Adornium. I was skeptical from the beginning so I ask him many questions and get very vague answers. Thank you for sharing this.
Same! Just received and inquiry for:
“Thanks for your response, I need help with catalogue and logo design kindly let me know if you can handle it, so I can send you the details.”
Then I received this:
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
Just received an email from “Frank Fred” with the same outline. This is ridiculous. I asked him where he got my contact information from for ‘analytical’ reasons because he contacted me on my old design email which is my personal email now instead of my company email which raised flags there and he could not give me a straight answer about it and said the whole “was looking for good designers”; nah bruh lol. Didn’t bring up the company name, anything. So my instinct told me to google this and BAM lol Thank you for this thread your saving SO MANY designers right now.
My gut said WEIRD – glad I looked this up!
“robert clarkson”
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
I got the same basic HUB RITE INC pitch but from
Fred James 862 312 2098
[email protected]
Fred wanted me to set up an account at Stripe.com to receive my $1000 deposit, then the switch came later later, where $5,100 goes to me and I forward $4000 to the consultant for the file handoff. many, many texts from this person who is unrelenting.
I realized it was a scam and tried to alert stripe, but their customer service is so godawful they wouldn’t do anything.
So, instead I made this graphic and texted it to dear old Fred:
I thanked Fred for their geolocation data and then asked what they thought of the prison bars visual motif and haven’t heard back.
my hahaha Veehaus logo:
http://www.terboted.com/portfolio/veehaus.png
I received the same email, followed up with a few text conversations.
Company: Hub Rite Inc (SCAM)
Name: James Stone
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1-826-312-2098
Said he was from Texas with the exact same info stated above. Thanks for your diligence. All I had to do was google the company name and it directed me here. I appreciate it!
I got email from Robert Clarkson of HUB RITE INC., which also asked for my phone number. I wasn’t all that suspect, but I searched our HUB RITE INC., and fortunately, I came across these posts on the scam. Thank you all for the helpful feedback. What a dirtbag. Here’s the email I got:
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest
kindly send me your phone number
Thanks for your usual co-oporations
Thank you for this thread.
I received an email from a “Paul Dre” for a logo project….
“INTERIALITY” is the Big name.”
Something seemed wrong… this tread confirmed it.
I received this from a “James Stone”
On Mar 28, 2021, at 5:29 PM, james stone wrote:
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
I got the same email from Ben Ryan.
so annoying.
Same apparent scam today with Ben Ryan.
I think I just got a version of this too.
A message from a Joe Sim he sent:
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
Thanks so much for posting this & saving me the headache! New name for the list: Paul Waddle (559) 428-9996 “INTERIALITY” is the Big name again this time. lol
Another one for HUB RITE INC. here….And one important thing I always notice when it comes to these scammers is they ALWAYS overuse the word “Kindly” and sometimes not in the right context. So anytime I see the word Kindly with a broad question like do you offer graphic design services I immediately know its more then likely a scam. I also got these scams with my interior design business as well. Just FYI. Thank you for this thread as it immediately popped up when I searched the company name. Read further email details below.
He started with this email “I’ll like to know if I got the right contact to a graphic designer. Kindly let me know.” from Don Clark at [email protected]
I asked how I could help and he responded with this. “Thanks for your response, I need help with catalogue and logo design kindly let me know if you can handle it, so I can send you the details.”
I asked for more details and this is what he sent,
“1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.”
Add the name Carrick James to the list: [email protected].
He claimed to need a catalog and logo for Hub Rite Inc. It seemed suspicious so I googled the business name and this article came up. Thanks for sharing, I have never experienced such a thing.
Thank you for posting this.
I got the same one from David Smith.
[email protected]
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
So glad I googled HUB RITE INC. It was “Scott Wood” who contacted me:
***
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
***
Thanks for this thread! Saved me some time and frustration.
Same! Name using is carrick james
1. Company Name: HUB RITE INC.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
My Goals about the project:
HUB RITE INC. is pet project and same time a business avenue for me. I will be 10 years a vegan in June and I hope to launch the business (and unveil the logo with e-brochure then)to my customers. HUB RITE INC. should be able to provide over 500 plant-derived minerals that can improve the value of foods, liquids, nutritional formulations and cosmiceuticals. That way also improving value of life.Whoever purchase our products would have a guarantee of good living and relish.
Our uniqueness will be privilege of our 5 locations around Texas and online store. Our products are also 100 percent plant based produce under strict standards from International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM). Our brand and style would also stand us out.
Other project essentials:
1. I want you to know that this is the first time I will be doing a Logo design so I can only give you little details then you can decide on designs but I want the color to consist of Green, Red and Brown (let me know what you think about that) with an image of some mixed fruits. I want a very mature and presentable design and my budget for this project is not more than $4000
2. For logo inspirations you can look at logo from this samples site below
He texted me and asked about payment: What merchant I use. We never spoke. I declined to go any further.
I just got the HUB RITE Inc scam email from Jonas Stark. Exactly as described above with a new name & email. Jonas Stark even sounds made up!
I’ve already been down this road with Leo’s Tea, so I am pretty sceptical with out-of-the-blue emails. Really sad that we have to Google any potential clients before we can proceed with work.
Got this text message last night (not afternoon, unless they were in Hawaii):
5594289996 – Good afternoon, Fletch! I got your info for design services on Creative Hotlist.
Please let me know your availability, I need some work done! -Paul
I’m not even in graphic design work anymore, my site hasn’t been updated in over five years
I just got this same message, so I googled the phone number and found this blog post. Thanks for posting your comment!
Paul Thach
email: [email protected]
phone: 951-502-0362
“INTERIALITY” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This is a distinctive and sophisticated name that will appeal to a business with a creative edge. Like many successful invented brand names, Interiality is clear in its focus, but still open to interpretation. By starting with the essence of the word ‘interior’, the concept of space, architecture and interior design is placed to the fore. The ‘-iality’ ending creates a new word that suggests a quality, concept or methodology. But it also echoes the sound of the word ‘reality’, so a suggestion of virtual reality, 3D modelling and visualisation is conveyed. This smart combination could resonate with architects and interior designers as well as builders, property developers, 3D designers, planners and landscapers. This confident, contemporary name has the qualities to be the foundation of a very effective brand.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
Thank you so much for posting this. I’ve stumbled across this page a few times when searching for information about a company after getting a sketchy vibe from the initial email. It’s been very helpful to avoid wasting time with these scammers!
I got one today that’s word for word what many people have already posted here, but I thought I’d share anyway in case anyone searches for this particular sender.
This one comes from James Grice – [email protected]
VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Gah! Same scam different names. WTF?!?
For me it was from “Paul Waddle” ([email protected]) and new big name company is INTERIALITY. Otherwise details consistent with all the other posts.
My “spidey-sense” was tingling something not right with first contact, which was a TEXT. Said he found my contact info on Comm Arts’ Creative Hotlist. Took several texts just to get an email thread started. Always felt like a scam. SO GLAD I googled it and it lead to this post. Thanks Jon and everyone for posting and updating.
Stay safe out there.
cheers, jj
We’re a team that provides web/design service. Two scammers got in touch with us at separate times through email. My gut told me to do some search which led me to this post. The scammers used the exact same email ‘scripts’ as some of the commenters above. Of course we shunned the scammers. I’m putting out their info here to hopefully help those to find this post.
Scammer #1:
Date of 1st contact: 4/22/2021
Subject: design services
Name: Robert Clarkson
Email: [email protected]
“Business” name: HUB RITE INC.
Design request: Logo, e-brochure
Scammer #2:
Date of 1st contact: 5/10/2021
Subject: Freelance Project
Name: Gerald Vasquez
Email: [email protected]
“Business” name: VEQTIS
Design request: Logo, catalog
Thank you, everyone – especially Jon! – for this post/thread. Not all heroes wear capes, indeed! 🙂
Thanks for posting this info. Just had the same email this morning. From [email protected]
Same scam email – Furniture company, Need a logo and catalog. But they said they had ‘Super Flexible’ budget !?
Well, I’ll post mine too. So disappointing, I could really help a company like this! 😀
——–
From Eric Pascarella
——–
VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed. Let me have your cell phone number.
Well, I’ll post mine too. So disappointing, I could really help a company like this! 😀
It’s so similar, this website doesn’t want me to comment because there have been so many comments that are the same. 🙂
——–
From Eric Pascarella
——–
VEQTIS” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
Veqtis is inspired by the word ‘vector’ – a technical-sounding word with a range of definitions, including ‘determining the position of one point in relation to another’, and ‘a type of graphical representation using lines to construct the outlines of objects’. It’s also used to describe the process of carrying something from one location to another. But it’s the way Veqtis looks and sounds that’s its real strength: short, sharp, sophisticated, precise – and easy to say, spell and remember. Great qualities for a brand name.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
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/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed. Let me have your cell phone number.
Wow what a scam.
I got the same email from a “Paul Alonso”
[email protected]
559.428.9996
“SIGNITIVE” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This powerful-sounding business name sounds like it is a dictionary word – and it is; although only in obscure dictionaries that collect words used in historical philosophical works. You don’t need a dictionary to ‘read’ the potential meanings of the name though. The name Signitive follows the form and structure of the words significant, signify, sign, or signature. So it could refer to things that are important, to signs and directions, or to the written word. It’s a great example of bold, contemporary adjective-style business names that is both unique and timeless.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
Tagline: “modern home design elements”
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK: https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-03.html
IKEA CATALOG LINK: https://www.ikea.com/ext/us/ikeacatalog/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
I received one of these from someone named Chris Steven for the company STAMFORD SPAR, a vegan vitamin and supplement company that wanted a logo similar to Sprouts and a 24 page eCatalog. They used the exact same email template when reaching out to me and went through the lung cancer story and wanted me to transfer money to their writing consultant as they couldn’t do it. I felt extremely skeptical about this to begin with and finding this just confirmed my suspicion and I kindly blocked them from contacting info me further.
You saved me from wasting my time!
Email sent from: [email protected]
Thank you!
Just got an email from Robert Evans. Stamford spar. He kept asking me for my phone number. I just declined services to him. I don’t have time for that anyway. Lol
Email is [email protected]l.com
Hi!
I’ve received an email this morning that’s pretty much word-for-word. Only this time the scammer’s name was Cody Shawn and the business name was STAMFORD SPAR. Please be aware of this.
Their email: [email protected]
Company Name:
STAMFORD SPAR
.
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
Received the same from Paul Alonso phone 559-428-9996. Asked me to take drone photos of a constructions site. Once I passed the invoice prior to the job, said he wanted me to charge an extra 7k to the total so that the Architect could get paid because they had an issue of payments. Said he was not local because of going to Ohio for lung cancer.
Not today Satan…
THANK YOU FOR THIS. My email came from James Grice regarding logo and catalog design for VEQTIS, a German furniture company. Almost everything else in the email was identical to what’s been described. Thankfully I googled before wasting too much time and energy on it!
Guess they’re still at it. I received the following parameters on June 29, 2021 from Robert Evans:
1.Company Name: STAMFORD SPAR
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
New Name Leo Brian
Stamford Spar, Wish I found this sooner wasted my time making his bullshit logo. Here’s the assholes email [email protected]
New Name is Paul Bynum and email is [email protected]
Received the same furniture catalogue email with some alterations,
New scam business name is Signitive
sent me details are as follows:
ABOUT:
This powerful-sounding business name sounds like it is a dictionary word – and it is; although only in obscure dictionaries that collect words used in historical philosophical works. You don’t need a dictionary to ‘read’ the potential meanings of the name though. The name Signitive follows the form and structure of the words significant, signify, sign, or signature. So it could refer to things that are important, to signs and directions, or to the written word. It’s a great example of bold, contemporary adjective-style business names that is both unique and timeless.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number so we can discuss better.
I was contacted with this scam twice – via text both times. I was just contacted via LinkedIn with a new scam. A fake account named “Toby Laurie” wrote these:
“ Hello,
I was looking for a graphic designer, and I accidentally saw your profile in LinkedIn. Are you engaged in the development of logos? Our company is just in search of a suitable performer for this project.
Regards,
Toby”
—————
“ Hello,
Let me briefly describe our company and what we expect from our future artist.
Our company “AGRA WOOD” is engaged in the production of wooden pallets, wooden boxes, construction lumber, roof rafters and any type of packaging for individual orders. During 15 years of our productive existence in the market, we have managed to declare ourselves as professionals in the field, performing work efficiently and on time. We do not stand still, we are constantly developing and growing, so in 2021 we plan to enter the new markets and introduce new products to our range, these are fuel briquettes from recycled wood waste, as well as fertilizers for plants. These are new directions that we have mastered and plan to integrate into the line of our products. To keep up with the times, look presentable among competitors and have our own corporate identity, our company needs a logo that reflects all our strengths and inspires confidence in our customers.
Our company is located in Poland. Since 2006, we have been working in domestic and foreign markets and providing our customers with the highest quality wooden pallets. Our goal is to give customers the best, to grow and expand. That is why I believe that investing in development is the most useful! We are guided by the rule that says: “There is no limit to perfection, but you need to strive for more.” Our CEO managed to gather like-minded people who, like him, always pursue towards growth and development.
Development is always followed by results. In our case, the result are satisfied customers and a consistently high turnover. We work for quality, so that quality works for us. That is why we do not disrupt deliveries, do not save on raw materials and do not treat carelessly the work. Our logo, therefore, should reflect our reliability, stability and the main purpose of our work. The specialist to whom we entrust the work on our logo should share our values and principles, work according to the same rules as we do.If you don’t mind, I would like to ask you a few questions regarding the work process.
Thank you!
Toby”
—————
“ Hello,
Please do not think that I am asking you to sell yourself, I just want to get to know you as a potential artist a little better. These are simple questions that will help me understand your strengths and make a decision when hiring for a project.
I have the following questions:
1) What do you think is your strenght (A professional skill or feature that sets you apart from other designers)?
2) What is more priority task for you, compliance with the deadline or keeping the quality of the product above the deadline?
3) Do you have top projects in your portfolio? If so, I would be glad to look at them and hear a few words about each. I understand that projects are like children and it is difficult to choose the best one, but maybe you have favorites in your portfolio).
Thank you,
Toby
agrawood.pl”
—————
“ Hello,
Thanks for answering the questions
I showed your answers to questions and your work on other projects to our CEO. He liked your work and your approach to business, he said that you are possibly the best applicant for our project. Tomasz (our CEO) also expressed a desire to communicate with you personally and tell you in more detail about our company and what we specifically need in order to finally decide on the choice of the performer.
You can contact Tomasz in the Telegram messenger, let me know if it works for you and I will share contact details with you. I think you also have questions about the project and workflow, Tomasz will answer these questions better than me.
Cheers!”
—————
I was then contacted via Telegram by Tomasz Nowaczyk (username @Tomasz_n) with the following message:
“ Hello,
Pleased to meet you! I looked at your works and liked them, I think we can make a great logo with you. Our HR has already told you a little about our company and what we do, but I would be glad to discuss the details with you personally.
If you don’t mind, I immediately have several questions that will help me understand how our cooperation will be built.
1) How many edits on the logo can we make, and if the number of edits runs out, how much will the edits cost? Our HR probably told you that our budget is loyal, since we liked your work, and we can consider your proposal for the cost of work with all the edits.
2) For what deadline can you make a logo? We are counting on a few weeks deadline, but I am interested in your opinion.
3) Do you have any experience in working with corporate identity, if yes, then that’s good, so maybe we will develop not only a logo, but also a corporate identity for our company. I would be glad if you describe the progress of work in the development of corporate identity, as well as an approximate deadline.
Sincerely,
Tomasz”
————
“Toby Laurie” was using the name and photo of a real person, who is a graphic designer in the UK. Not sure what the end goal is here, but obviously a scam! Hope posting this will save the next guy the headache!
I got strung along by the AGRA Wood pl scam.
I replied to a sponsored ad for a freelance brand designer on Facebook.
I was then emailed by Toby on Protonmail then contacted via Telegram by the CEO ‘Tomasz’.
After alot if back & forth he filled out a questionnaire i sent and even printed & signed a contract and sent it back to me.
Unfortunately I signed up to coinseason.io as he requested for payment – it’s a convincing website (very good UI design) and submitted my Driving Licence as ID verification.
Tbh I had already felt the whole thing was fishy but when i noticed coinseason.io works by creating random wallets for every deposit request I knew it wasn’t legit. I googled around a bit and found mention of the same guy & coinseason on Reddit.
Thankfully I didn’t try to deposit any money to coinseason, but I did give them a photo of my Driver licence :/
Anyway since then I got the same sponsored ad again, this time on Instagram. I think I found the guy behind the scam….
https://m.facebook.com/saunakghosh-100956208050369/?tsid=0.6040390644584179&source=result
Ugh. Agra Wood got me, too! Thank you for this post. “Toby Laurie” contacted me through LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/toby-laurie-4b2784212/
Then I communicated with “Tomasz” via telegram. He signed the contract, and I was about to deposit money into bitgogo.io to link my account.
The same script from Toby with this additionally:
Hello,
Thanks for answering the questions
I showed your answers to questions and your work on other projects to our CEO. He liked your work and your approach to business, he said that you are possibly the best applicant for our project. Tomasz (our CEO) also expressed a desire to communicate with you personally and tell you in more detail about our company and what we specifically need in order to finally decide on the choice of the performer.
You can contact Tomasz in the Telegram messenger, let me know if it works for you and I will share contact details with you. I think you also have questions about the project and workflow, Tomasz will answer these questions better than me.
Cheers!
Hello,
Great, in that case, here is our CEO Telegram nickname – @Tomasz_n
Tomasz is looking forward to your message, let me know if you have any questions.
Regards,
Toby
Starting with this from “Tomasz”:
Pleased to meet you! I looked at your works and liked them, I think we can make a great logo with you. Our HR has already told you a little about our company and what we do, but I would be glad to discuss the details with you personally.
If you don’t mind, I immediately have several questions that will help me understand how our cooperation will be built.
1) How many edits on the logo can we make, and if the number of edits runs out, how much will the edits cost? Our HR probably told you that our budget is loyal, since we liked your work, and we can consider your proposal for the cost of work with all the edits.
2) For what deadline can you make a logo? We are counting on a few weeks deadline, but I am interested in your opinion.
3) Do you have any experience in working with corporate identity, if yes, then that’s good, so maybe we will develop not only a logo, but also a corporate identity for our company. I would be glad if you describe the progress of work in the development of corporate identity, as well as an approximate deadline.
May I ask how our HR found you? I need it in order to evaluate his work on finding a designer for our company.
Sincerely,
Tomasz
They are using bitgogo.io and coinseason.io as the same website. SO MAD! He is still contacting me. Trying to decide what to say to him. I’ve reported it to all of the parties involved and the FBI.
Here is an email I received yesterday, August 9, 2021 from a Paul Tickle
Email address: [email protected]
I am so glad that I do a research about a new company (first red flag … no professional signature line in the email) before I even start submitting a quote/proposal.
Here is the same basic info you all have posted. Thank you for much for this … it just saved me a bunch of work!
“SIGNITIVE” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This powerful-sounding business name sounds like it is a dictionary word – and it is; although only in obscure dictionaries that collect words used in historical philosophical works. You don’t need a dictionary to ‘read’ the potential meanings of the name though. The name Signitive follows the form and structure of the words significant, signify, sign, or signature. So it could refer to things that are important, to signs and directions, or to the written word. It’s a great example of bold, contemporary adjective-style business names that is both unique and timeless.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
Tagline: “modern home design elements”
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK: https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-03.html
IKEA CATALOG LINK: https://www.ikea.com/ext/us/ikeacatalog/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
I wasted hours this morning with this exact scam. I felt something was a little off with his persistence to get an estimate. When he refused to pay via PayPal and insisted I set up a Quickbooks account, I knew something was definitely up.
He called himself Bobby Thomas. Phone number: (862) 312-2098 Email: [email protected]
Email was word for word of a few of them above. So frustrating! 😩
Douglas Walter is the name I got
1.Company Name: STAMFORD SPAR
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
Number he texted me from was +1 (862) 312-2098
yup – i got this email from PAUL BYMUN ([email protected]) of the “brief”
——
“SIGNITIVE” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This powerful-sounding business name sounds like it is a dictionary word – and it is; although only in obscure dictionaries that collect words used in historical philosophical works. You don’t need a dictionary to ‘read’ the potential meanings of the name though. The name Signitive follows the form and structure of the words significant, signify, sign, or signature. So it could refer to things that are important, to signs and directions, or to the written word. It’s a great example of bold, contemporary adjective-style business names that is both unique and timeless.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Let me have your cell number so we can discuss better.
——-
I never responded – you shouldn’t either
Ditto. Paul Tickle (don’t laugh) # 213-289-6632. I’m in AZ and he wanted Logo/Brand design.
Seemed legit til he sent me a text stating he wanted me to send him a new invoice for $15K+ for a $2K branding gig. I noped out & reported it to the FTC.
This is the third scam email for us (the other two are posted in a comment dated May 11, 2021 above):
—-
Date of contact: 9/10/2021
Subject: Need your service
Name: Gregory Erlikhman
Email: [email protected]
Phone #: 831-706-9100
“Business” name: (Did not provide business name)
Design request: Art/illustration/cartoon
Email message (copied & pasted straight from actual email):
Hello,
My name is Gregory, I am an academic event organizer and an Apraxia
patient. I got your contact details online. I need the service of an artist or
illustrator/cartoonist to work on a project for an upcoming workshop.
I will give the idea of what I need to be illustrated/drawn and you can get
back to me with the price to get it done. I will pay your fees up front if you want.
Please get back to me for more details.
Warm regards.
(831)706-9100
I got this same exact email as well. Thank you for posting it, definitely saving me from a big headache.
Yup, got exactly the same email from the same guy Gregory Erlikhman ([email protected]) couple of days ago.
This guy seem to target only designers based in US. He ghosted me once he found out that I’m based in Europe.
He attacked me on two different accounts, being really impatient that I do not reply to him on Sunday😉
I’ll paste underneath the brief he sent me:
Thank you for your interest in this project. These illustrations are to
be used for a presentation in a Workshop coming up soon. The title of
the workshop is PANDEMIC : PRECAUTION AND PREVENTION.
The attendees are students between the ages of 15-17. I require your
service to illustrate the under-listed scenarios. Please make it horizontal
(Landscape) presentation, Cartoon styled, colored images but plain
background. The illustrations should fit on a standard letter size –
(8.5 x 11″) and delivered in PDF format. I want exclusive
right/perpetuity to the images. Also note that these illustrations
will be handed out to the participants in a printed form. I just want
the illustrations to paint the vivid picture of the theme of the
workshop. The delivery date for the submission of the illustrations is
8 weeks starting from 09-13-2021. This is the outline of the
scenarios to illustrate:
* A group (not more than 5) of young and old people in a queue and social distance.
* A group (not more than 5) of male and female health workers wearing a mask.
* The cemetery with tombstones and a caption that says ” Died of Disbelief”
* An elderly woman taking the vaccine sitting on a chair.
* A sick female patient on a hospital bed in a hospital setting.
My budget for the job is $650 per piece. Let me know if that’s fine.
If it’s not please get back to me with the price quote and what would
be your preferred mode of payment? I’m proposing a certified bank
draft, a cashier’s check or bank certified check considering the
amount involved. I look forward to reading from you soon.
I received this exact email (I am an illustrator) but the writer was using the name David Morgan. It seemed fishy to me since he wanted to pay via cashier’s check and not any of the numerous electronic payment methods available to us.
Thanks for posting this, it is SO helpful to have this as a resource and not need to waste any more time emailing scammers!
I’m glad people are posting about this stuff. I got this exact same thing on Sept 26, 2021, but as a Behance message. I did some searching and found this post. Now I know not to waste my time.
Funny enough, his Behance profile was created on Sept 10, 2021. So I guess we’re expanding from email out to the various design/illustration/art social networks now too.
I got it, too, and I’m not even a designer! Thank you and to everyone else who added to this thread for posting these warnings.
Thanks for posting this. I just got something like this and I was in the middle of responding back.
Here’s the email that was sent to me:
Good Morning,
My name is Gregory, I am an academic event organizer and an Apraxia patient.
I got your contact details online through SCBWI.ORG…. I need the service of an artist or illustrator / cartoonist to work on a project for an upcoming workshop, I’ll give the idea of what I need to be illustrated/drawn and you can get back to me with the price to get it done, I’ll pay your fees up front if you want.
Please get back to me for more details.
Warm regards
I just got this too!! Definitely seemed really fishy. Im glad I trusted my instincts and looked it up. Warning my fellow illustrators about this now.
Thank god I look this up. I thought it was a strange email. Especially saying he got my contact on a specific website. I got both this one and the other email on the details exact same down to the letter. Blocked his email immediately. Saved me a headache. But still infuriates me to no end on people who do this.
I think I got the same scam this morning. I started researching before I replied. Thank you so much everyone for posting these. I had no idea there were people scamming designers! Rude.
Hello,
My name is Gregory, I am an academic event organizer and an Apraxia
patient. I got your contact details online. I need the service of an artist or
illustrator/cartoonist to work on a project for an upcoming workshop.
I will give the idea of what I need to be illustrated/drawn and you can get
back to me with the price to get it done. I will pay your fees up front if you want.
Please get back to me for more details.
Warm regards.
(831)706-9100
I got the same scam today. The email was to a [email protected]
My name is Kevin Martindale, I am an academic event organizer and an Apraxia
patient. I got your contact details online. I need the service of an artist or
illustrator/cartoonist to work on a project for an upcoming workshop.
I will give the idea of what I need to be illustrated/drawn and you can get
back to me with the price to get it done. I will pay your fees up front if you want.
Please get back to me for more details.
Warm regards.
(831) 288-7652
He’s still running the exact same scam. I received it December 14, 2021 under the same name, Kevin Martindale.
Just got this same email today from “Kevin.” Thanks for posting.
ditto – got it this week
Got a text from Paul Tickle same formula.
The email:
[email protected]
“SIGNITIVE” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This powerful-sounding business name sounds like it is a dictionary word – and it is; although only in obscure dictionaries that collect words used in historical philosophical works. You don’t need a dictionary to ‘read’ the potential meanings of the name though. The name Signitive follows the form and structure of the words significant, signify, sign, or signature. So it could refer to things that are important, to signs and directions, or to the written word. It’s a great example of bold, contemporary adjective-style business names that is both unique and timeless.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
Tagline: “modern home design elements”
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK: https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-03.html
IKEA CATALOG LINK: https://www.ikea.com/ext/us/ikeacatalog/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
Maxwell Thomas from Stamford Spar checking in!
I was cautious about the whole thing, and sent an ironclad contract. The second he asked me to wire money, I was like “yeah…I’m out.”
Sept 2021 and I see he’s still going strong.
I am pleased with all of the information that I was able to gleen from this scam. I have just received a similar request for a company named Adornium.
Keep an eye out folks:
Name:
chris
Email Address:
[email protected]
Message:
Hello, I’m Chris, I’ll like to know if you offer design services,Do let me know?
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.
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 the customer is just the name. Classic yet modern with a 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 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 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.
Also, big “red flag” is capitalizing every word, haha! Oy vey.
This is my fourth scam email (the three are posted above). What’s funny about this one is that the scammer claimed to be “hard of hearing”. Well, guess what? My business partner and I are deaf. We had to chuckle at the irony.
After getting details from the scammer, I asked him for a VP number (government-sanctioned videophone number for deaf people) so that we can use sign language face-to-face. He never responded. Hah!
It p1sses me off that he would take advantage of pretending to be deaf. Like how some scammers take advantage of pretending to have Apraxia disease.
So if you get a similar email, ask for a VP number. If it’s a scam, they’ll ghost you like they did me. A real deaf person will give you a phone number that uses a relay service (sign-language interpreter) in order to communicate with you over the phone.
Anyway, here’s the info:
Date of contact: 9/16/2021 and 9/17/2021
Subject: Booklet and Logo Design Inquiry – Brian
Name: Brian Weeks
Email: [email protected]
Phone #: n/a, claims to be “hard of hearing”
“Business” name: BW Furniture
Design request: Booklet and logo design
=====================
Email #1:
Hi there,
I’m Brian, I came across your profile on GRAPHC ARTIST GUILD so, I decided to reach out to you. I’m looking for a graphic designer to work on the logo and booklet design for my new furniture company that will be launched in December. Kindly revert to me if you would love to help so I can share with you the full scope of the project.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best,
Brian
=====================
Email #2, after I asked for details:
Thank you for your reply. I only have a few ideas for this project, so I would appreciate if you could make a better and unique one; I want a colour black background and a gold lettering(letters BW FURNITURE) or imagery.. I want an attractive, matured and modern design and my budget for this project is $5000, printing inclusive.
For the booklet, I need a 12-page 5.5 width x 8.5 height booklet (2000 copies) and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant currently who is awaiting payment which is being delayed for a few reasons but hopefully soon it will all be sorted, meanwhile you have to start with the logo design first, I will be able to send the booklet content afterwards. The due date for the project is 20th of December. The company name is BW FURNITURE and we deal with all kinds of home and office furniture. The company website is still under construction and would be launched soon.
That is all I can provide from my end for now; I need a more perfect Job. Kindly let me know the total cost of the Brochure and Logo Design so we can proceed.
I would have loved to call you and discuss the project with you on the phone but I am hard of hearing so I do not hear clearly on the phone which is why I communicate via email, texts and lips reading, I hope this is not a problem for you? I will be glad if you can handle this for me; I would also like meet you in person after this project; I’m presently on a business trip.
By the way, I found out about you via your page on Facebook. I look forward to hear from you soon.
Regards,
Brian
=====================
I received the same Brian Weeks email. The first time in May and the second time in October. Two different addresses. One @hotmail, the other @outlook.
So glad my gut said to do a tad more research. Luckily I’ve only wasted my time on a couple of emails so far. Brain Weeks emailed me as well. Said he found me on Facebook. Pretty much word for word email as this one. Just different dates. Bummer.
I just got this one….last week.
Word for word after the initial email asking for assistance.
I sent a quote, he accepted and said he could pay 50% up front and rest at completion. Red flags were…no website, no socials at all for this name, business has similar name in the UK, and the words “kindly and revert”…
After the quote was sent-
He then asked for my name(which he would have had), email (again has since that’s how we were corresponding), phone number and bank name….and that was the last red flag. And I did even more research with his name and email..found this.
Thank you.
Do you all reply at all or just file it away and move on?
Rachel: As soon as I figure out it’s a scam, I just file the email away and move on without responding. I’ve been sorely tempted to just play along, such as give them fake bank information and all. String them along for as long as I could. But in the end, I decided they’re not worth the time and effort. I’m hoping one of these days, karma will chomp down on their butts hard. Lol.
I just got it last night and something about it seemed off. Sure enough, five minutes of google searching proved my gut feeling was correct. WTF? I never would have given him my bank information of course but I would have wasted time writing up a quote.
Just got this one today – word for word. The broken english and finding me on my very outdated FB page is what tipped me off to google it so luckily I found this before I waste anymore of my time.
Bummer too because I could have really used a client with that big of a budget lol.
I just got this one too — he doesn’t say he’s hard of hearing which is maybe thanks to you. I am thinking of replying to his email and saying that for all new clients I require a bank routing number. : )
I got this one a couple of days ago! What is funny is bwfurniture.com already exists so that was a red flag there! Thank goodness for this thread! I might string him on for a little to have some fun : )
Lol just got my messages from “Brian” today. Didn’t even bother changing the wording or anything. Really sucks because I could have used that work.
I received the same EXACT emails as the previous poster.. Hate that people do this.
Subject: Booklet and Logo Design Inquiry – Brian
Name: Brian Weeks
Email: [email protected]
Phone #: n/a, claims to be “hard of hearing”
“Business” name: BW Furniture
Design request: Booklet and logo design
=====================
Email #1:
Hi there,
I’m Brian, I came across your profile on GRAPHC ARTIST GUILD so, I decided to reach out to you. I’m looking for a graphic designer to work on the logo and booklet design for my new furniture company that will be launched in December. Kindly revert to me if you would love to help so I can share with you the full scope of the project.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best,
Brian
=====================
Email #2, after I asked for details:
Thank you for your reply. I only have a few ideas for this project, so I would appreciate if you could make a better and unique one; I want a colour black background and a gold lettering(letters BW FURNITURE) or imagery.. I want an attractive, matured and modern design and my budget for this project is $5000, printing inclusive.
For the booklet, I need a 12-page 5.5 width x 8.5 height booklet (2000 copies) and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant currently who is awaiting payment which is being delayed for a few reasons but hopefully soon it will all be sorted, meanwhile you have to start with the logo design first, I will be able to send the booklet content afterwards. The due date for the project is 20th of December. The company name is BW FURNITURE and we deal with all kinds of home and office furniture. The company website is still under construction and would be launched soon.
That is all I can provide from my end for now; I need a more perfect Job. Kindly let me know the total cost of the Brochure and Logo Design so we can proceed.
I would have loved to call you and discuss the project with you on the phone but I am hard of hearing so I do not hear clearly on the phone which is why I communicate via email, texts and lips reading, I hope this is not a problem for you? I will be glad if you can handle this for me; I would also like meet you in person after this project; I’m presently on a business trip.
By the way, I found out about you via your page on Facebook. I look forward to hear from you soon.
Regards,
Brian
Here’s yet another scammer:
Date of contact: 10/18/2021
Subject: NEW LOGO DESIGN IRO ROADCHEF RESTAURANT
Name: Michael Smith
Email: [email protected]
Phone #: n/a
“Business” name: Road Chef
Design request: Logo design
=====================
Email (verbatim):
Hello,
Trust this email meets you well.Kindly let me know if you are available for a new logo design project .
Find project description below for your perusal :
I don’t know much about logo designs, so I can only give you detailed information of what is needed for the design. So with your creativity you should be able to come up with a design then you can also decide on colors that fit the design. I need you to make 5 LOGOs writing “Road Chef” in the logo with tagline together – “Taste with a difference( One final version to be selected).
The logo is intended to be used on our apparels,vinyl wrap for our trucks as it’s a start up small scale business I plan expanding.
NOTE: Budget $2000
Regards,
Michael
=====================
I have the same Scam coming my way. Text my Google voice number, didn’t accept a phone call to talk about the project, and emailed these details to me. Went by Paul Tracy “[email protected]”
Hope this saves someone some time.
—
“SIGNITIVE” is the Big name.
ABOUT:
This powerful-sounding business name sounds like it is a dictionary word – and it is; although only in obscure dictionaries that collect words used in historical philosophical works. You don’t need a dictionary to ‘read’ the potential meanings of the name though. The name Signitive follows the form and structure of the words significant, signify, sign, or signature. So it could refer to things that are important, to signs and directions, or to the written word. It’s a great example of bold, contemporary adjective-style business names that is both unique and timeless.
All our products are shipped from Germany unlike IKEA, West Elm. Their products comes 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: Alexandro Furniture & Mattress https://www.alexandrofurniture.com/
Direct Home Furniture https://www.directhomefurniturenj.com/
TARGETS: I have a wide target Age range 25-56, I would like to target their income demographics.
We are focused on indoor furniture and Decor. We should be launching as soon as branding and other materials are completed so I’ ll be needing brand Visuals (i.e. Logo & brand identity)
My website is under fabrication which would be registered soon.
Read the below details for the LOGO.
COLORS:
My competitors love red. Teal and Brown should be fine.
Tagline: “modern home design elements”
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/
CATALOG DETAILS:
The catalog should be 32 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.
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.
See below are few samples
WEST ELM CATALOG LINK: https://www.westelm.com/pages/we-catalog/2020-03.html
IKEA CATALOG LINK: https://www.ikea.com/ext/us/ikeacatalog/
Talk soon, looking forward to getting a response so we can proceed.
Have a great day!
Glad I found this website! I had many conversations with my scammer and when I requested a physical address to put in the contract, he gave me a PO Box in Idaho. When I told him I couldn’t take a PO Box, he gave me a physical address in Georgia (which I Googled and found to be a residence). He also told me to make the contract out to a Nicholas Burton (even though he said his name was Kevin Martindale). When I pressed, he said that the Georgia address was their headquarters and the PO Box in Idaho was for their branch office (note: he never once gave me the name of his “company”). Here’s his original message:
My name is Kevin Martindale, I am an academic event organizer and an Apraxia
patient. I got your contact details online. I need the service of an artist or
illustrator/cartoonist to work on a project for an upcoming workshop.
I will give the idea of what I need to be illustrated/drawn and you can get
back to me with the price to get it done. I will pay your fees up front if you want.
Please get back to me for more details.
Warm regards.
(831) 288-7652
Other info he gave me:
Below is my Contact information:
Name:Nicholas Burton
Address: P.O Box 208
Swan Valley,Idaho 83449
831) 288-7652
My Job dont let me stay in one place most times the first address i gave you is our branch but the Georgia is the Headquarter so you can make it on the Georgia Address and Draft it so i can sign and we get started and my family is in California which i am mostly with them if am not working.
Address 59 Cherokee Road C62 Cedartown GA 30125
I got this SAME email. Decided to google it and found this thread.
Suspect elements of the email are that my full name was all caps, as if he harvested my name somewhere and was just populating mass emails. Second, the reference to a disability. And third, no website noted for his organization.
Spammed by the same number, using the e-mail address [email protected] and the company name STAMFORD SPAR.
Full details from e-mail:
1.Company Name: STAMFORD SPAR
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
Cell Phone Number: 862-312-2098
More scams by Brian
Sent by [email protected]
Thank you for your reply. I only have a few ideas for this project, so I would appreciate if you could make a better and unique one; I want a colour black background and a gold lettering(letters BW FURNITURE) or imagery.. I want an attractive, matured and modern design and my budget for this project is $5000, printing inclusive.
For the booklet, I need a 16-page 5.5 width x 8.5 height booklet (12 pages inside, 4 pages for the cover; 2000 copies) and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant currently who is awaiting payment which is being delayed for a few reasons but hopefully soon it will all be sorted, meanwhile you have to start with the logo design first, I will be able to send the booklet content afterwards. The due date for the project is 31st of January, 2022. The company name is BW FURNITURE and we deal with all kinds of home and office furniture.
Our website isn’t up available yet because my web developer is waiting for the logo so he could build something that matches it and the scope.
That is all I can provide from my end for now; I need a perfect Job. Kindly let me know the total cost of the Brochure and Logo Design so we can proceed.
I would have loved to call you and discuss the project with you on the phone but I am hard of hearing so I do not hear clearly on the phone which is why I communicate via email, texts and lips reading, I hope this is not a problem for you? I will be glad if you can handle this for me; I am based out of Rapid City, SD.
By the way, I found out about you via your page on Facebook. I look forward to hear from you soon.
Regards,
Brian
I am so glad I found this website. I received the same exact email from “Brian Weeks” as the above. Unfortunately, as a new freelancer who is eager for finding jobs, I emailed back and forth with Brian for a few weeks.
I had sent him a contact & an invoice for a deposit of the amount that could all be taken care of electronically. He said he had signed the contract (which was a lie, I use Bonsai and you get an email notifying you that someone has signed your contract) and proceeded to email this:
“I just signed the contract and I am willing to make a full payment upfront by mailing you a check and I hope that works for you. If yes, please revert to me with the following information so the payment check could be processed immediately and we can get started on the project as soon as possible.
Required Information
Full Name
Mailing Address
Bank Name
Phone Number
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best,
Brian”
Red flag number one was that he does not need my bank name for mailing a check. I did provide my address & phone number for communication purposes. I then responded to his email and he replied back:
” I hope you are well. Apologies for the late reply as I have been very busy with work. I confirm receipt of your information and will be forwarding to my payroll department immediately for processing. I will let you know when the payment check is being mailed out.
Also, I will send you a text soon so you could lock my number in.
I look forward to working with you soon.
Best,
Brian”
I then received a text message from him at this number: +1 (657) 234-3683
Red flag number two, that phone number isn’t even a South Dakota area code, after looking it up its actually a California area code. His text was:
“Hi, Brian here, how are you today? I would like to inform you that I just received the confirmation that the payment check has just been mailed out to you today and I will revert back to you with the tracking information soon. Have a great day!”
I responded, and then on a Saturday he texted just: “Good morning, how are you today” I didn’t respond because it was SATURDAY morning, around 5pm later that day I get a text from him that said “Are you there, ma’m?” That was my red flag #3. His text almost sounded like a hacker or an automated message.
I just found this thread today (Monday) and have not received further communication with him, but I am terminating the contract and blocking him.
Brian Weeks is at it again:
Hi there,
I’m looking for a graphic designer to work on the logo and booklet design for my new furniture company that will be launched at the end of January 2022. Kindly revert to me if you would love to help so I can share with you the full scope of the project.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best,
Brian
This set off my scam radar so I searched and found the same scam here. Responded with “Sorry I dont have time in my schedule to work with scammers”
Just got this same email word for word! Thanks for sharing!!!
Brian Weeks is still at it with a now much shorter version. Got one today.
Same scam, different name. Googled a chunk of the email text and it led right here. Red flags included an address (I asked for one for my estimate) which had no house at it when viewed in Maps; and immediately approving a much larger budget range because their “2,000-$3,000” was absurdly low for a comprehensive brand project in this sector, plus a catalog! He even said he was ok with payment by check but I am sure he would back out and ask for PayPal with the same cash back scam when it got to that point.
Just got a similar email from Kyle George! Here is what he sent
[email protected]
“1.Company Name: STAMFORD SPAR
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest. “
Thanks so much for listing this and providing a place for all of this info to be tracked! Yep, this scam is alive and well; yesterday (Nov. 15) from “Maxwell Todd” Stamford SPAR (223 645 3356), same M.O., same procession of email contact; got to the point of suggesting I put together a proposal/contract and my “Spidey Sense” was already a bit suspicious, which is how I wound up here.
Thanks again for saving me more wasted time!
Just got this inquiry today. Something about it seemed odd. Glad I checked – thanks for posting this!
Hi there,
I’m looking for a graphic designer to work on the logo and booklet design for my new furniture company that will be launched at the end of February 2022. Kindly revert to me if you would love to help so I can share with you the full scope of the project.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best,
Brian
I just got an email today. (Dec 2) from Brian Weeks
Hi there,
I’m looking for a graphic designer to work on the logo and booklet design for my new furniture company that will be launched at the end of February 2022. Kindly revert to me if you would love to help so I can share with you the full scope of the project.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best,
Brian
Brian Weeks contacted me as well, stated he found me on Facebook because after the first email I was suspicious due to weird English use in initial email. Glad I googled!
Initial Email Nov 10th 2021
Hi there,
I’m looking for a graphic designer to work on the logo and booklet design for my new furniture company that will be launched at the end of January 2022. Kindly revert to me if you would love to help so I can share with you the full scope of the project.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best,
Brian
Second email Dec 2nd 2021
Hi Kelsey,
Thank you for your reply. I only have a few ideas for this project, so I would appreciate if you could make a better and unique one; I want a colour black background and a gold lettering(letters BW FURNITURE) or imagery.. I want an attractive, matured and modern design and my budget for this project is $5000, printing inclusive.
For the booklet, I need a 16-page 5.5 width x 8.5 height booklet (12 pages inside, 4 pages for the cover; 2000 copies) and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant currently who is awaiting payment which is being delayed for a few reasons but hopefully soon it will all be sorted, meanwhile you have to start with the logo design first, I will be able to send the booklet content afterwards. The due date for the project is 25th February, 2022. The company name is BW FURNITURE and we deal with all kinds of home and office furniture.
Our website isn’t up available yet because my web developer is waiting for the logo so he could build something that matches it and the scope.
That is all I can provide from my end for now; I need a perfect Job. Kindly let me know the total cost of the Brochure and Logo Design so we can proceed.
I would have loved to call you and discuss the project with you on the phone but I am hard of hearing so I do not hear clearly on the phone which is why I communicate via email, texts and lips reading, I hope this is not a problem for you? I will be glad if you can handle this for me; I am based out of Rapid City, SD.
By the way, I found out about you via your page on Facebook. I look forward to hear from you soon.
Regards,
Brian
In my experience, I offered him a contract and insisted that we both sign and agree to that contract before I accept any kind of payment. Also, he insisted that his bank won’t allow him to make payments via PayPal (because when he overpays, PayPal handles a simple reversal rather than converting what is probably a stolen credit card into cash).
What is dangerous about this scam is the human interaction. He provided me with everything regarding his “business” other than an EIN number. The one common denominator seems to be their refusal to pay by cash, check, or other secure methods, such as PayPal. He kept trying to get me to use paysimple.com. Still haven’t verified if that’s even a legitimate site but, I suspect it’s just simpler for them to exploit somehow.
They tried to get me last week ! Thank goodness I checked out before start of work 😉
My name is George Williams, I am an academic event organizer and an Apraxia patient.
Please get back to me for more details.
[email protected]
or (920) 403-5484
On Wed, Dec 15, 2021 at 10:37 AM APT apartment wrote:
Thank you for your interest in this project.
These illustrations are to be used for a presentation in a Workshop coming up soon, the title of the workshop is
PANDEMIC: PRECAUTION AND PREVENTION.
The attendees are students between the ages of 15-17, I require your service to illustrate the under-listed scenarios and please make it horizontal (Landscape) presentation, Cartoon styled, coloured images but plain background.
The illustrations should fit on a standard letter size – (8.5 x 11″) and delivered in PDF format and I want exclusive right/perpetuity to the images, also note that these illustrations will be handed out to the participants in a printed form, also want the illustrations to paint the vivid picture of the theme of the workshop.
The delivery date for the submission of the illustrations is 8 weeks starting from 11/03/2021.
Below is the outline of the scenarios to illustrate.
* A group (not more than 7) of young and old people in a queue and social distance.
* A group (not more than 7) of male and female health workers wearing a mask.
* A group (not more than 7) Maintain a safe distance from others (at least 1 metre)
* A group (not more than 7) Washing their hands using soap and water.
* A group (not more than 7) Getting vaccine
* The cemetery with tombstones and a caption that says ” Died of Disbelief”
* An elderly woman taking the vaccine sitting on a chair.
* A sick female patient on a hospital bed in a hospital setting.
My budget for the job is $850 per piece, let me know if that’s fine.
If it’s not please get back to me with the price quote and what would be your preferred mode of payment? I’m proposing a certified bank draft, a cashier’s check or bank certified check considering the amount involved. I look forward to reading from you soon.
Warm regards.
George
On Tue, Dec 14, 2021 at 11:27 PM APT apartment wrote:
Good day,
My name is George Williams, I am an academic event organizer and an Apraxia patient.
I got your contact details online, I need the service of an artist or illustrator/cartoonist to work on a project for an upcoming workshop, I’ll give the idea of what I need to be illustrated/drawn and you can get back to me with the price to get it done, I’ll pay your fees up front if you want.
Please get back to me for more details.
[email protected]
or (920) 403-5484
Warm regards.
I received this and have responded to it, which I should not have. I will ignore future correspondence. Thank you for posting these scam letters!
Hello Robert,
Thank you for your interest in this project. These illustrations are to
be used for a presentation in a Workshop coming up soon. The title of
the workshop is PANDEMIC : PRECAUTION AND PREVENTION. The attendees are
students between the ages of 15-20. I require your service to
illustrate the under-listed scenarios. Please make it horizontal
(Landscape) presentation, Cartoon styled, colored images but plain
background. The illustrations should fit on a standard letter size –
(8.5 x 11″) and delivered in PDF format. I want exclusive
right/perpetuity to the images. Also note that these illustrations
will be handed out to the participants in a printed form. I just want
the illustrations to paint the vivid picture of the theme of the
workshop. The delivery date for the submission of the illustrations is
8 weeks starting from 1-4-2022. This is the outline of the
scenarios to illustrate:
* A group (not more than 5) of young and old people in a queue and social distance.
* A group (not more than 5) of male and female health workers wearing a mask.
* The cemetery with tombstones and a caption that says ” Died of Disbelief”
* An elderly woman taking the vaccine sitting on a chair.
* A sick female patient on a hospital bed in a hospital setting.
My budget for the job is $650 per piece. Let me know if that’s fine.
If it’s not please get back to me with the price quote and what would
be your preferred mode of payment? I’m proposing a certified bank
draft, a cashier’s check or bank certified check considering the
amount involved. I look forward to reading from you soon.
Warm regards.
Darren
I just got the same email, nearly word for word with only minor changes from someone claiming to be Tribal Russell.
I too have received this email correspondence. Mine was from a Robert Evans: ([email protected])
Email 1:
I’ll like to know if I got the right contact to a graphic designer. Kindly let me know.
Email 2:
Thanks for your response, I need help with catalogue and logo design kindly let me know if you can handle it, so I can send you the details.
Email 3:
1. Company Name: STAMFORD SPAR
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
I was apprehensive from the start as each time I asked about his location, he dodged the question. So glad i found these posts. Thanks everyone for sharing.
Correction to scammer email – [email protected]
Just got hit with the “corona workshop” scam.
named used: SHANNON WHEELER.
using a name that pulls up a known cartoonist is a nice touch, makes it harder to find threads like this.
I also received an email from “Shannon Wheeler” at 5 AM today!
I’ve pasted it and her contact details she sent below so any one else searching for this will find this thread.
Similar to what OP said, she also explained having a disability as a means to avoid phone contact.
Her email address is a proton mail address which was a bit of a red flag for me:
[email protected]
Shannon’s Email:
“Hello,
My name is Shannon. I am a consultant and event planner. I got your contact details online. I need the service of artist or illustrator/ cartoonist to work on a project for an upcoming workshop. I will give the idea of what I need to be illustrated/drawn and you can get back to me with the price to get it done. Please note that I suffer from Apraxia and would prefer communication via email or text msgs. Get back to me for more details.
Warm regards.
717-323-2994”
Just wanted to also comment that I got a fishy inquiry…. details below:
Bash Koli
Jan 10, 2022, 7:41 AM (1 day ago)
Hello I would like to make an inquiry if you can handle Brochure and Logo Design for my personal company? Kindly get back to me for more details regarding the full scope of the project Thanks.
Regards
Bash Koli Gregory
—
I replied:
Good Afternoon –
Logo design and brochure design are certainly in my wheelhouse.
Can you tell me a little more about the project, as well as what your timeline is?
What will the logo/brochure be used for?
Do you have a company name already?
Do you have colors in mind you wish to use?
How large of a brochure do you need (overall size, pages, etc).
Will it be direct mailed or just passed out?
Do you have a brochure printer or do you need assistance with that as well?
Those are just a few questions to get started. Let me know and then I can give you a better idea of the pricing and my own timeline.
Thanks,
SLR
—
Their reply:
Thank you for your reply. I only have a few Ideas which I would appreciate if you can make a better and unique; I want a color black background and pink image of maybe a dress , or a lady with shopping bags I want an attractive, matured and presentable design and my budget for this project is $2000-$3000.
For the booklet, I want an 8-page 5.5 width x 8.5 height booklet and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant currently who is awaiting payment which is being delayed for a few reasons but hopefully soon it will all be sorted, meanwhile you have to start with the logo design first, I will be able to send the booklet content afterwards. The due date for the project is 25th March 2022. The company name is Rose Gregory Clothing INC, we sew, and sell ready-made designer wears. And our website is still under construction.
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.
I would have loved to call you and discuss the project with you on the phone but I am hard of hearing so I do not hear clearly on the phone which is why I communicate via email, texts and lips reading, I hope this is not a problem for you? I will be glad if you can handle this for me and I will meet you in person after this design is done because I am presently on a business trip.
Please let me know how much it would cost to execute the project even if it exceeds my budget . I am willing to make a 50% deposit by credit card or mailing you a cashier’s check. I hope that is okay with you.
I look forward to hear from you soon.
Warm regards,
Bash Koli Gregory
—
THEY ALSO TEXT MY CELL AT THIS TIME, TO WHICH I BECAME SUSPICIOUS AND DID NOT REPLY VIA TEXT… ONLY EMAIL:
Hi Bash –
Thanks for reaching out. I’m not sure that I have the bandwidth for this type of project at the time at that price point. I’m taking a sabbatical currently and don’t plan to start any new client projects until the end of February, and I feel like that may be too short of a timeline.
Thanks for following up. If you need referred to someone, let me know.
SLR
—
Their reply:
Like i said in that email i said The due date for the project is 25th March 2022 but am not sure if you go through the second email i sent to you
—
My reply:
Hi, yes I did get it.
A month is a pretty short turnaround for branding and a booklet of that size.
Can I also ask how you heard of me or who referred you to me? Also, do you have any other business entities or other projects you’ve been working on so I can see your style so that I might be able to refer you to someone who can take on the job?
—
Their reply:
I got your information on social media
****************
I scoured my socials and no one with that name or anything similar follows or is connected to me. I didn’t want to come across as rude, however my gut initially said it was a scam and clearly I was right. It blows my mind that someone would go through all of this trouble… we are self-employed designers and marketers… sniffing out bogus money and jobs is 2nd nature LOL. At least it should be.
I’m trying to track down anyone who has had these issues and copy/paste this exchange. Glad others are doing the same!
STAMFORD SPAR
This was the scammer’s contact:
Jackson Russell
[email protected]
1-858-461-8033
This is the first time this has happened to me and I’m so glad I decided to search up the company. I had sent them an agreement contract to sign before I would send an invoice and they simply replied with keeping them posted about the invoice instead of signing my agreement contract which immediately raised multiple red flags. The scammer’s emails were practically identical to the emails in this post, along with other’s comments.
*
*
*
Email 1:
1. Company Name: STAMFORD SPAR
2. My website is under constructions which would be registered soon.
3. I Don’t have a logo yet but would need one to be made by you
4. Full text content and all images for the e-brochure will be submitted to you by the project consultant. You just have to handle the layout.
5. The e-brochure should be 24 in pages (Including front and back cover. I have lot of information already approved. The text and images have also been crosschecked)
6. The size of the e-brochure should be 8.5 X 11.5
7. I want you to add our core values, mission and vision (This information will be provided by the consultant)
8. My budget is not more than $4000
9. I want this delivered in 5-6 weeks to the latest.
Email 2:
My Goals about the project:
STAMFORD SPAR is pet project and same time a business avenue for me. I will be 10 years a vegan in June and I hope to launch the business (and unveil the logo with e-brochure then)to my customers.
STAMFORD SPAR . should be able to provide over 500 plant-derived minerals that can improve the value of foods, liquids, nutritional formulations and cosmiceuticals. That way also improving value of life.Whoever purchase our products would have a guarantee of good living and relish.
Our uniqueness will be privilege of our 5 locations around Texas and online store. Our products are also 100 percent plant based produce under strict standards from International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM). Our brand and style would also stand us out.
Other project essentials:
1. I want you to know that this is the first time I will be doing a Logo design so I can only give you little details then you can decide on designs but I want the color to consist of Green, Red and Brown (let me know what you think about that) with an image of some mixed fruits. I want a very mature and presentable design and my budget for this project is not more than $4000.
2. For logo inspirations you can look at logo from this samples site belomw
https://www.sprouts.com/
*
*
*
Thank you again for posting this!
I’m so glad I found you guys!
I received a notification from LinkedIn that Gregory Ehrlikhman needed an illustrator.
His LinkedIn profile also states that he’s an Apraxia patient.
After I contacted him, this is the reply I got:
Thank you for your interest in this project.
These illustrations are to be used for a presentation in a Workshop coming up soon, the title of the workshop is
PANDEMIC: PRECAUTION AND PREVENTION.
The attendees are students between the ages of 15-17, I require your service to illustrate the under-listed scenarios and please make it horizontal (Landscape) presentation, Cartoon styled, coloured images but plain background.
The illustrations should fit on a standard letter size – (8.5 x 11″) and delivered in PDF format and I want exclusive right/perpetuity to the images, also note that these illustrations will be handed out to the participants in a printed form, also want the illustrations to paint the vivid picture of the theme of the workshop.
Below is the outline of the scenarios to illustrate.
* A group (not more than 7) of young and old people in a queue and social distance.
* A group (not more than 7) of male and female health workers wearing a mask.
* A group (not more than 7) Maintain a safe distance from others (at least 1 metre)
* A group (not more than 7) Washing their hands using soap and water.
* A group (not more than 7) Getting vaccine
* The cemetery with tombstones and a caption that says ” Died of Disbelief”
* An elderly woman taking the vaccine sitting on a chair.
* A sick female patient on a hospital bed in a hospital setting.
My budget for the job is $850 per piece, let me know if that’s fine.
If it’s not please get back to me with the price quote and what would be your preferred mode of payment? I’m proposing a certified bank draft, a cashier’s check or bank certified check considering the amount involved. I look forward to reading from you soon.
Warm regards
I responded by sending him a signed W9 with my employer ID number on it.
Today, I received this message:
How are you doing today, I am happy to inform you that your payment has been mailed out to you by my sponsor and will deliver to your provided address by USPS here is USPS tracking # (number removed by myself, Jerry).
The illustration project is a two phase project, therefore, we are considering you to work on phase 2 of this project, I have complete faith in your ability to do a good job and I am impressed
with your level of professionalism so far, hence the need to have you execute the next phase of the project.
The additional fee for the next phase of the project was added to this payment. We’ve calculated the next phase with the same rate as this first project, so the first phase and phase 2 will cost us $13,600 and that is the amount on the check. We don’t have much time now and here is the information.
Amount on check $13,600
Kindly confirm with me as soon as you receive the payment and you can start immediately. We have barely 8 weeks to finish the project now.
Many Thanks
As you can see, the original email didn’t mention a larger scope to the project, and me, being an avid Judge Judy fan, smelled a rat.
When it comes to deadlines, they never expand. That’s what made me suspicious.
So I contacted Clark Howard’s Consumer Action Center, and they are investigating. I will tell them about what I learned here, and hopefully we can keep some poor artist from taking this bait!
Take care all!
Jerry
Fooksie.com
I got a similar email today from “Brian Weeks” ([email protected])
“Thank you for your reply. I only have a few ideas for this project, so I would appreciate if you could make a better and unique one; I want a color black background and a gold lettering(letters BW FURNITURE) or imagery.. I want an attractive, matured and modern design and my budget for this project is $5000, printing inclusive.
For the booklet, I need a 16-page 5.5 width x 8.5 height booklet (12 pages inside, 4 pages for the cover; 2000 copies) and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant currently who is awaiting payment which is being delayed for a few reasons but hopefully soon it will all be sorted, meanwhile you have to start with the logo design first, I will be able to send the booklet content afterwards. The due date for the project has been postponed to 5th April, 2022. The company name is BW FURNITURE and we deal with all kinds of home and office furniture.
Our website isn’t up available yet because my web developer is waiting for the logo so he could build something that matches it and the scope.
That is all I can provide from my end for now; I need a perfect Job. Kindly let me know the total cost of the Brochure and Logo Design so we can proceed.
I would have loved to call you and discuss the project with you on the phone but I am hard of hearing so I do not hear clearly on the phone which is why I communicate via email, texts and lips reading, I hope this is not a problem for you? I will be glad if you can handle this for me; I am based out of Rapid City, SD.
By the way, I found out about you via your page on Facebook. I look forward to hear from you soon.
Regards,
Brian”
Watch out guys!!!
I just received this yesterday and decided to google the name Bash Koli Gregory. Here is what they asked on the second email when I asked for more details:
Bash Koli
Jan 17, 2022, 1:38 PM (16 hours ago)
to me
Thank you for your reply. I only have a few Ideas which I would appreciate if you can make a better and unique; I want a color black background and pink image of maybe a dress , or a lady with shopping bags I want an attractive, matured and presentable design and my budget for this project is $2000-$3000.
For the booklet, I want an 8-page 5.5 width x 8.5 height booklet and I can only supply the text content and photos but all are with my project consultant currently who is awaiting payment which is being delayed for a few reasons but hopefully soon it will all be sorted, meanwhile you have to start with the logo design first, I will be able to send the booklet content afterwards. The due date for the project is 25th March 2022. The company name is Rose Gregory Clothing INC, we sew, and sell ready-made designer wears. And our website is still under construction.
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.
I would have loved to call you and discuss the project with you on the phone but I am hard of hearing so I do not hear clearly on the phone which is why I communicate via email, texts and lips reading, I hope this is not a problem for you? I will be glad if you can handle this for me and I will meet you in person after this design is done because I am presently on a business trip.
Please let me know how much it would cost to execute the project even if it exceeds my budget . I am willing to make a 50% deposit by credit card or mailing you a cashier’s check. I hope that is okay with you.
I look forward to hear from you soon.
Warm regards,
Bash Koli Gregory
Looks just like the older emails in this running scam. I’m responding with, ” I’d love to do your work, but the Modesto Police Department just gave me a huge project to work on so I won’t have the time.”