In a nutshell: car wrap scams are a type of fake check scams.
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I first wrote about this scam back in 2013 and it’s almost 10 years later and still going strong.
This post alone has over 1,000 comments from people I’ve helped and countless more have written to me privately. I’ve saved tens of millions of dollars from falling into scammers hands.
If you aren’t careful, it can cost you thousands of dollars.
In fact, a study by the FTC showed that people reported a median loss of $1,988 in 2019 to fake check scams, including car wrap scams (Source)
Today, I’ll explain what a car wrap scam is, how to spot one, and relay my own personal experience with this scam, complete with photos.
How Do Car Wrap Scams Work?
As I’ve mentioned, car wrap scams are a type of fake check scams.
Generally, here’s how a fake check scam works:
1. Scammers get in contact with you.
Scammers get your information while you’re looking for a legitimate work from home job and reach out with a job offer.
Or maybe you end up contacting them because you saw an ad to “get paid to drive,” “mystery shopper wanted,” or “virtual assistant wanted.”
Others tell you that you’ve won a sweepstakes, even though you don’t remember ever buying a ticket or entering a contest.
2. They send you a fake check.
Once the scammer is talking to you, they send you a genuine-looking check. These checks look genuine enough to fool you and bank tellers.
Car wrap scammers will send you a check for a greater amount than they agreed to pay you. They’ll then tell you to deposit the check and send the graphic designers or car wrap service the rest of the amount so they can come and wrap your car.
Mystery shopping scammers will assign you to evaluate the services of a money transfer service or money order retailers, and sometimes gift card retailers. They’ll then send you a check to deposit it in your personal account and then wire the money to someone else or buy gift cards in that amount and send the codes to them.
Virtual or personal assistant scammers send you a check and then instruct you to buy gift cards for supplies for your clients and then send them the codes.
Sweepstakes scammers send you a huge check and then instruct you to wire them a certain percentage for taxes, handling fees, or processing fees.
3. You deposit the fake check.
When you make a check deposit, banks are legally required to make the funds available for you to withdraw immediately.
So you withdraw the funds and send the money to someone else or buy the gift cards, etc.
It all seems fuss-free and above board, right?
Wrong.
4. The check bounces.
It can take days or even weeks to uncover a fake check.
Once it’s uncovered, the check bounces and the bank takes back the money from your account.
But you’ve already sent thousands of your own dollars to the criminals!
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And they’ve vanished by this time. No way to contact them, no way to get the gift card codes back.
So you’re on the hook for the money, and now you have to explain to your bank why you even deposited a fake check into your account in the first place. You’re out the overdraft fees as well if you don’t have enough to cover the money that the bank took back.
This post was originally published in 2013. This scam is STILL occurring today and it looks like it will continue well into the future.
In fact, car wrap scams are now even more dangerous as the people behind them are coming up with more convincing ways to trick people into losing their hard-earned money.
For instance, some of the brands they claim to work with include ROCKSTAR Energy Drink®, Monster Energy Drink, Aquafina, Pirelli Tyres, McCafe, Dunkin’ Donuts, Langers Juice Company, Dr. Pepper, Marlboro, Purell, and many other big names.
Keep reading to see my experience with this scam and if you have received an email that you think might be sketchy, please post it in the comments below.
Can I cash the fake check?
The very first question I get asked is: “Can’t I just take the fake check to one of those check cashing places and keep the money?”
The answer is a hard no.
Check cashing facilities do not hand out money anonymously. You need to provide them with your identity, proof of residence, proof of employment, phone number, address, and so on. Even if they do manage to cash the check for you, the check will bounce and now they know how to get in contact with you.
They will start off by calling you, then mailing a certified letter, then they will escalate it and get the authorities involved. If you do not respond to their attempts to contact you, you can expect a warrant to be placed for your arrest by the authorities.
How to Spot, Avoid, and Report a Car Wrap Scam
So, knowing all these, what can you do to protect yourself from being scammed?
Take note of the following information:
1. Know how legitimate car wrap companies operate.
Actual car wrap companies do exist, such as Carvertise, Wrapify, Nickelytics, and My Free Car.
The main thing is that normally drivers come to them, not the other way around. They typically evaluate drivers based on how many miles they drive, where they drive, and their driving record.
They typically cover the cost of the wrapping themselves, too.
So if you do receive an email asking if you’re interested in having your car wrapped and getting paid hundreds of dollars a week, and you know you haven’t contacted or applied to a car wrapping company, ignore it. That’s likely a car wrap scam.
Most importantly, the amount on the check they’ll send you is exactly for the agreed amount, if they even pay you by check. Carvertise, for instance, pays you via direct deposit.
2. Never deposit checks from people you don’t know.
Sometimes it can be that simple.
Got a check in the mail from a stranger? Put it down and report it (see how below).
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3. Never use money from a check to buy gift cards, money orders, or wire money to third parties.
This applies even if you were written a check by someone you know.
If you buy gift cards and send the codes, or wire money, that’s like giving someone cash. You’re never going to get that money back.
Plus, what legitimate company wants you to send them digital gift cards? This alone doesn’t pass the sniff test.
4. If you receive a suspicious check, report it immediately.
Help yourself and other potential victims by reporting it to the following:
- Federal Trade Commission
- US Postal Inspection Service (under mail fraud)
- Attorney General
So what should you do when a scammer wants you to cash a fake check?
Here’s my personal experience with these car wrap scammers:
The Car Wrap Scam
In mid-September, I received an email from “David Christian” that originated from the address patriciabarrington@hotmail.com. The email simply said the following: Would You Wrap Your Car in an Ad for $300 Weekly? After I answered “yes,” I received the following email back:
Hello,
Wrap advertising is the marketing practice of completely or partially covering (wrapping) a vehicle in an advertisement or livery, thus turning it into a mobile billboard. This can be achieved by simply painting the vehicle surface, but it is becoming more common today to use large vinyl sheets as decals. These can be removed with relative ease, making it much less expensive to change from one advertisement to another. Vehicles with large, flat surfaces, such as buses and light-rail carriages, are fairly easy to work with, though smaller cars with curved surfaces can also be wrapped in this manner. Wrap advertising is available to anybody irrespective of the vehicle you drive.
We are currently seeking to employ individuals in the United States of America. How would you like to make money by simply driving your car or banner wrapped for ROCKSTAR Energy Drink®
How it works?
Here’s the basic premise of the “paid to drive” concept: ROCKSTAR Energy Drink® seek residents in the United States who are professional drivers to go about their normal routine as they usually do, only with a big advert for “ROCKSTAR Energy Drink®” plastered on your car. The ads are typically vinyl decals, also known as “auto wraps,”that almost seem to be painted on the vehicle, and which will cover any portion of your car’s exterior surface.Don’t Have a Car?
If you don’t have a car, you can also participate if you have a bike.What does the company get out of this type of ad strategy?
Lots of exposure and awareness. The auto wraps tend to be colorful, eye-catching and attract lots of attention. Plus, it’s a form of advertising with a captive audience,meaning people who are stuck in traffic can’t avoid seeing the wrapped car alongside them. This program will last for 3 months and the minimum you can participate is a month.What is the Contract Duration?
Once the wrap has been installed, minimum term is 4 weeks and maximum is 12 weeks.Would the wrap/decal damage the paint of my car?
The decal doesn’t damage the paint of car and will be removed by our representative once the contract expire. We will be responsible for installation and removal of the wrap.You will be compensated with $300.00 per week which is essentially a “rental”payment for letting our company use the space and no fee is required from you. ROCKSTAR Energy Drink® shall provide experts that would handle the advert placing on your car. You will receive an upfront payment of $300.00 in form of a check via courier service for accepting to carry this advert on your car.
It is very easy and simple no application fees required. Get back with the following details if you are interested in this offer.
Applicant information:
Name :
Full Street Address(not PO BOX) :
APT #:
City,State,Zip Code:
Cell Phone Number:
Home Phone Number:
Age:We shall be contacting you as soon as we receive this information.
Best Regards,
David Christian
Hiring Manager,
ROCKSTAR Energy Drink®
I provided my contact information, after which I received the following email:
Thank you for your swift response and your willingness to work with us. To this effect, you are advise to check your email regularly to get updates as to know when your upfront payment will arrive at your address.
1) You will receive a Check as a form of payment. As soon as you get the check, you will cash it for the decal wrapping on your car and deduct $300.00 as your up-front payment. The rest of the funds from that same check should be transferred to the Graphic artist that will wrap the decal on your vehicle. All you need is to confirm the acceptance and understanding of this email.
2) You will make a transfer of the remaining funds to the Graphic artist via wire transfer at an outlet in your area, the Info which you will make the transfer to will be emailed to you soon.
3) We’ll like you to confirm Information about your vehicle as below:
i) Type of Car and Color :
ii) Model/Year :
iii) Present Condition and the Mileage:
Note: Please, confirm that you did receive this message so that we can process funds that would be sent to you for the car advert.
All other instructions will be sent out to you asap.
I…………..Confirm to have received this email and understand the content.
Best Regards,
David Christian
Hiring Manager,
ROCKSTAR Energy Drink®
The Fake Check Arrives
I confirmed my willingness to work with “ROCKSTAR Energy Drink.” About a week later, I started receiving text messages on my phone from David Christian regarding my upcoming “check”.
Sure enough, when I went home and opened my mailbox, I found a check made out to me in the amount of $2,350. Woo hoo!
Interestingly, the check was made to look like it was coming from BOP, LLC, a legitimate clothing store business here in Madison, Wisconsin. The envelope, however, had a copy of a USPS Priority Mail 2-Day slip on it in which Rudy Grado, at 27405 Sutherland Drive, Warren, MI 48088-6078, was noted as the sender. I took pictures of both the fake check and the envelope it came in and have provided these pictures below. The pink stickies were affixed by me to hide my home address.
I called BOP, LLC and told them that I had received a check from them for the amount of $2,350. The business immediately asked me if my check was blue. I said no; it was actually a green color. The store immediately informed me that the check was fake and I should talk with law enforcement.
Meanwhile, I had David Christian texting me at least twice that day and asking me if I’d received my instructions on what to do with the check. I texted “him” back that I had yet to receive any emailed instructions. Naturally, when I later checked my email I found the following message:
Hello Halina,
Kindly proceed and deposit the check into your bank account and funds will be available for withdrawal 24hrs after it has been deposited. I will be waiting for a confirmation message immediately the check is deposited.
As soon as the cash is out you are to deduct $300.00 which is your upfront payment and forward the balance ($2,050.00) to the graphic artist that will be wrapping the decal on your vehicle via Money Gram and they will also be responsible for removing the decal when the program is completed. Please visit www.moneygram.com to check agent location close to you and make transfer through them.
Below is the name of the receiver. Please note that the transfer charges should be deducted from the remaining $2,050. You are to get back to me with the transfer details (Reference Number and the exact amount sent).
Below is the Graphic Artist Money Gram details to send the Money to
Receiver’s Information:
Name: Sandra Fagan
City: Jacksonville
State: FL
Zip Code: 32210Kindly get back with the information below once the transfer has been completed.
Reference Number & Total Amount Sent
FAQ: Why am I sending money to Florida? The head office of the graphic artist is in FL.
As soon as payment is acknowledged by them, a local artist in your area will be sent to your address to install the decal wrap on your car. Let me know as soon as the check is deposited today.
If you require additional information, do not hesitate to email or call me.
Best regards,
David Christian
Hiring Manager.
(702)605-0985
What do you think I should do?
At this point in time, I’m debating about taking several different courses of action. I could do the following:
1. Contact local law enforcement and tell them that Patricia Barrington, Sandra Fagan and Rudy Grado are writing fake checks in a legitimate Madison business’ name.
2. Contact the FBI about the same issue since it spans several states (i.e., Michigan, Wisconsin, Nevada and Florida).
3. Tell the scammers that I’ve deposited the check and am waiting for it to clear. This puts the car wrap scammers in a holding pattern because checks typically take 1-2 weeks to clear.
4. Tell the scammers that their “employment” check has been forwarded to the IRS for cashing because I owe back taxes and all my earnings must first be garnished (That should put them into a panic!).
5. New development! I might have a second car wrap scam check coming to my house very soon. This one is from George Jennings of NOS Energy Drink. Should I tell the ROCKSTAR scam folks that I’ve instead decided to work with the NOS scam folks- or vice versa?
I’ve Tried That readers, what would you do in this situation?
Update as of October 7, 2013:
First off all, thank you everyone for your feedback! I was feeling a little confrontational this morning, so I decided to first text David Christian and say that I’d deposited the check last Friday at my bank. Within seconds, I received a text message back from him, asking if I’d received my email instructions.
Deciding to not play text tag any longer, I called Mr. David Christian at the phone number (702) 605-0985. A guy with a slight English accent picked up the line and actually identified himself as David Christian. I told him that I’d deposited the check I’d been sent last Friday, but the bank had put a hold on it for some reason. He asked me how long the hold was. I answered that the bank wanted to hold it for two weeks.
David didn’t seem too concerned about the hold and said that I could just wait until the check cleared, then write out my own check to the graphic artist.
I then asked David about the Madison business that had been listed on the check (BOP, LLC). I said I was confused about why this business was being listed on the check. David answered that this business was the sponsor.
I then told David that I had contacted this business and they had no idea what I was talking about. BOP had also told me that the check was the wrong color (their checks have a blue background).
At that point, David and I lost connection. I tried calling him back at least two times. No answer. I wonder what happened. I hope he’s OK…
Update as of October 12, 2013:
This past week, I received the following email from a “George Jennings (george.jennings11@outlook.com)” of NOS Energy drink:
Hello Halina,
Information reaching me this morning has it that you will be receiving the check today. The check of $2,330.00 has been sent to you via USPS with tracking number (9405501699320009816575) and it will be delivered to you this morning. Kindly proceed and deposit the check into your bank account and funds will be available for withdrawal 24hrs after it has been deposited.
I will be waiting for a confirmation message immediately the check is deposited. As soon as the cash is out you are to deduct $300.00 which is your upfront payment and forward the balance ($2,030.00) to the graphic artist that will be wrapping the decal on your car via Money Gram.
They also will be responsible in removing the decal when the program is completed.
Below is the name of the receiver. You are to get back to me with the transfer information (8 digits Money Gram Reference) Number and the exact amount sent). You are to deduct the transfer charges ($180.00) from the $2,030.00 you have with you.
Below is the Graphic Artist Money Gram Details to send the Money to in Minutes
PAYMENT INFO
Name: Constance H Lawson
City: Saint Johnsbury
State: Vermont
Zip code: 05819Kindly get back with the information below once the transfer has been completed.
Money Gram Reference Number# & Total Amount Sent
FAQ: Why am I sending money to Vermont? The head office the graphic artist is VT, As soon as payment is acknowledge by them, a local artist will come to your house and install the decal wrap on your car. Let me know as soon as the check is deposited.
If you require additional information, do not hesitate to email me or call me.
Best Regards
George Jennings.
951-234-7388
Hiring Manager.
And here’s the fake check:
I’m seeing at least one common theme between the NOS and ROCKSTAR Energy Drink scammers. First of all, the car wrap “sponsors” are both clothing shops, BOP (of Madison, WI) and Madison et Cie (of Los Angeles, CA). What a clothing shop has to do with an energy drink, I haven’t a clue.
I also think that the NOS scam artists are far more sloppy than the ROCKSTAR Energy Drink scam artists; why would an LA-based shop sponsor a car in Madison? Unless that shop was picked only because it has the name “Madison” in it- did the scammers think I wouldn’t notice the location of this “Madison”-based shop?
Update as of October 15, 2013:
So, apparently, I don’t have to be scammed for $1,850 ($2,030 – $180 for wire transfer charges). I can also be scammed for just…get ready for it…$1,000!
Hello Applicant,
You are receiving this email because you applied for car wrap job. We are please to inform you that your application has been processed. Payment has been sent and delivered which include your 1st week payment and funds for the graphic artist. We will like to have an update from you if you have been able to forward fund to your matched graphic artist head office. If yes, provide the transfer info and If you are yet to receive payment from us, please let us know so we can process your application immediately. We look forward to your swift response.
Regards
George Jennings
My reply (including all broken grammar and misspellings): Thank you for email. My bank deposited the check but tell me I will receive back only one thousand dollars from thsi check. I don’t understand why.
George Jennings: Why is that? What did the bank say?
My reply: The bank is saying that the IRS is going to garnish my check as wages. I’m supposed to send them a W-9 from NOS too. Can you send a W-9 for these wages?
George Jennings: All the necessary document will be presented to you before the installation. Kindly proceed to send the $1000 via Western union to Constance to enable us book the installation appointment and the graphic artist will bring the W-9 with him. I will be expecting the Western union details.
Update as of October 18, 2013:
My saga with George Jennings continues:
Me: What about the $200 wire transfer charge?
GJ: The transfer charges should be deducted from the $1000. Kindly try and get this done today so the appointment can be booked.
Me: I sent a check this afternoon to the graphic artist. Thanks!
GJ: To who? You are to make a western union transfer to the details that was sent to you. Not send a check besides no address was provided to you.
Me: To Constance H. Lawson. She lives on Railroad St. in Saint Johnsburg, VT. It was much cheaper for me to just send a check.
GJ: Call it back.
Me: I already sent the check to her, but I can call her phone number and let her know not to cash the check. Or, should I send payment to the following address: PO Box 4125 Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819-4125
At this point, George stopped answering my emails. Too bad…
The Bottom Line: Avoid Car Wrap Job Offers
At best, responding to these scammers will waste your time. At worst, it could cost you thousands of dollars, financial ruin, and get you in trouble with the authorities.
Avoid any offered car wrap jobs, ignore the people behind them, and always do your research.
However, since you’re here reading this, you’re no doubt interested in finding new ways to make some extra money.
Recommended Resources
- Get Paid to Drive
- Secret Shopper Jobs
- Virtual Assistant Jobs
- Legitimate Work from Home Jobs
- Side Hustles That Make Money
- Online Business Ideas
- 20 Ways to Make Money with Your Phone
I hope this post helped you avoid a scam and find a legitimate opportunity to pursue.
Please leave a comment below if you’ve ever had a run-in with one of these scammers. Every comment helps!
I got one wanting me to do a wrap for Bud light I am also sending the emails to Anheuser bush everyone should send the emails that they have received to the corresponding sponsor these guys of been doing this for years in several different ways I don’t fall for him I will turn the check over to the authorities but I will notify The so-called sponsor
I will get my check today. I new something was fishy. I told them i didn’t have a bank act. He said take it to the check cashing place. I told him to send it to the people who wrapping the car and they can pay me. He never responded on that. I ask him what bank is it written for. I also get this …. Emailed rock star and they have yet to send any info back. Hey they don’t care I see. Maxwell is his name. 512-274-7464 is his number. Fraud Alert. FBI need to shut this scam down.
I answered the e.mail by 1st asking for my check of 300$ nd if it clears then we can start..lol i will scam them for 300$ lolllll
I also got lured into this scam. the person had posted it on a buy/sell local page on facebook. They are slow for sure. I could have told them I was driving a donkey and they would have responded. Cant wait to gfet the check and mess with their emotions
I am the winner I just receive a $12,431.13 check for the same scam.
Everything is wrong in the address names etc.. besides it does not cost 12000 to wrap a car.
Hi, just got the same email. Crap. So I guess it doesn’t work out.
so I received the following email and will be responding w/ bogus info these asshats!
Lianne Bendter
5:32 PM (39 minutes ago)
Dear Applicant
Thanks for your prompt response, It is Very Easy and Simple with No Application fees required. Here’s how It works – The basic premise of the “paid to drive” Viso Energy Drinks seeks people — regular citizens, not professional drivers — to go about their normal routine as they usually do, only with a sticker advert for “Viso Energy Drinks ” plastered on your car. The ads are typically vinyl decals, which will cover one side door of your car’s exterior surface.
What does the company get out of this type of ad strategy? Lots of exposure and awareness.The auto wraps tend to be colorful and eye-catching and attract lots of attention. Plus, it’s a form of advertising with a captive audience,meaning people who are stuck in traffic and can’t avoid seeing the attractive sticker paint car alongside them. This program will last for 6month months and the minimum period you can participate is 1 month. You will be compensated with a $500 Five hundred dollars per Week),which is essentially a “rental” payment for letting our company use the space. Viso Energy Drinks shall provide Experts that would handle the advert placing on your car.You will receive an up front payment of $500 (Five hundred dollars) inform of check for accepting to carry this advert on your car and other weekly payments will also come in the form of checks and delivered at your address weekly.
Respond with the below information as requested.
Full Name:
Age:
Occupation,Make of car/ year,Address:city:State: Zip code:
Do you have a driver’s license:
Phone Number(s) mobile/home :
PAYMENT METHOD BY CHECK.
Do you do online Banking?
We shall be contacting you as soon as we receive these information.
We looks forward to working with you.
Regards
Got a text this morning: “Our sticker on your vehicle drive & earn $300 weekly. Contact us on d.leee2@outlook.com For more info.”
Phone number was 1 (604) 360-9872. Definite scam, don’t fall for it.
I got the same message on the same day as you. So disappointing I was willing to do it if it wasn’t a scam. Not sure what these people get out of this.
Nova Scotia.
Received confirmation today to wrap my car. The company promo name is Eden Water n Coffee and the phone number is an Ontario area code.
Thanks for the heads up.
Scammers are Gravy sucking pigs…..
I got the same one and was gonna do it till i seen this
I received the same one same guy, same company different phone # and email address.
lucky I read this, seemed like a good pitch.
Wow my ex just got one from the Trump campaign office ( yeah I told him it’s bogus) . So he’s taking it to his bank then handing it over to our local Sheriff’s office for prosecution. I’ll let you know how that goes.
How did that scam work out.
Has anyone tried cashing the check at Walmart or a check cashing place?
Yes says it can’t be read
I received a text message telling me briefly about car wrap and $300/week. At this point in time this sounded amazing! So I responded to the text with “yes” and my email.
I then received an email as follows:
Hello,
Thank you for your interest in learning more about this offer. Wrap advertising is the marketing practice of completely or partially covering (wrapping) a vehicle in an advertisement or livery, thus turning it into a mobile billboard. This can be achieved by simply painting the vehicle surface, but it is becoming more common today to use large vinyl sheets as decals. These can be removed with relative ease, making it much less expensive to change from one advertisement to another. Vehicles with large, flat surfaces, such as Truck, SUV, and Sedan are easy to work with, though smaller cars with curved surfaces can also be wrapped in this manner. Wrap advertising is available to anybody irrespective of the vehicle you drive.
We are currently seeking to contract individuals in Canada. How would you like to make money by simply driving your car wrapped for Clearly Canadian Natural Spring Water?
How it works?
Here’s the basic premise of the “paid to drive” concept: Clearly Canadian Natural Spring Water seek residents in Canada who drive while going about their daily lives with an advert for “Clearly Canadian Natural Spring Water” plastered on their cars. The ads are typically vinyl decals, also known as “auto wraps,” that almost seem to be painted on the vehicle, and covers a little portion of
your car’s exterior surface.
Don’t have a Car?
If you don’t have a car, you can also participate if you have a bike.
What does the company get out of this type of ad strategy? Increased exposure, brand awareness and sales. The auto wrap tends to be colorful, eye-catching and attract lots of attention. Plus, it’s a form of advertising with a captive audience, meaning people who are stuck in traffic can’t avoid seeing the wrapped car alongside them. This program will last for 3 months and the minimum you
can participate is a month.
What is the Contract Duration?
Once the wrap has been installed, minimum duration is 4 weeks and maximum is 20 weeks.
Would the wrap/decal damage the paint of my car?
The decal doesn’t damage the paint of car and will be removed by our wrap expert once the contract expires. We will be responsible for installation and removal of the wrap.
You will be paid $300.00 per week which is essentially a “rental” payment for letting our company use the space and no fee of any sort is required from you. Clearly Canadian Natural Spring Water shall provide experts that would handle the advert placing on your car. You will receive an upfront payment of $300.00 in form of a check via courier service.
Upon receipt of your email response to proceed, we shall provide you with our car wrap agreement for your review and signature. Your swift response will be appreciated.
Daniel Lee
Promotion Manager
Clearly Canadian Natural Spring Water
Suite 250, 251 Empire Ave St. John’s, NL A1C 3H9
Tel: +1 289-278-3515 Ext. 3
Email: carad@clearlycanadians.net
So I went to respond and the email does not go through, so we’ll see what happens. Thanks to everybody posting and informing everybody of this scam.
yes, I have received the same one and we deposited the cheque however when I sent the email he had sent the response back:
In response to your previous mail, you are advised to adhere strictly to the instruction given to you. Kindly see below the account details of the car wrap expert. Endeavor to do a cash deposit with the banking information below:
Bank Name: Scotia
Account Name: Catherine A McLaughlin
Account: 0542024
Transit: 50609
Institution Number: 002
Amount: $2,620.00
NOTE: Payment must be made via CASH deposit only as no transfer will be accepted.
Payment expenses description shown below:
Car Wrap Expenses: $2,620.00
First Week Salary: $300.00
Grand Total: $2,920.05
You are required to effect the payment today OR on or before 1PM Thursday 23rd June 2016 to enable us complete the car wrap schedule. You are also required to send us a copy of the deposit receipt. As soon as we receive the said deposit receipt, we shall collate your information and schedule date and time for the car wrap exercise.
Best Regards,
Daniel Lee
Promotion Manager
Clearly Canadian Natural Spring Water
Suite 250, 251 Empire Ave St. John’s, NL A1C 3H9
Tel: +1 289-278-3646 Ext. 3
Email: ads@clearly-canadians.com
Lana Downer 9:41 AM (2 hours ago)
———- Forwarded message ———- From: “Clearly Canadian” <ads@clearly…
Lana Downer
10:16 AM (1 hour ago)
to Clearly
Good morning,
I got your details about the Cash deposit, little unclear to me and frankly little scary as these days fraud is at every corner. So I go to my bank or Scotia Bank to send this cash money your are requesting? Also, you have all my information already, why would you need a copy of the deposit slip, you already are trusting me as you sent me the CHQ that is cleared. I just called and nobody answered, I need to speak with someone to clear the situation and would like to know what is the name of the company that will come to do wrapping. I am very interested but also careful. Please let me know what do you think and how can you make it more understanding for me.
Thank you.
I too got the email from Daniel LEE,from what I’ve read can hardly wait for the cheque to have some fun with them.I love the idea of the Government with holding all moneys that I get.Unbelievable.Thanks for the info.
So I called her out and this is way I got back… this is not a scam Andrew this is a legitimate form of making people earn money while offering services too us. have got lots of emails about the scam issue but lots come back with smiling faces and offering more cars because its legit.
its left for you too decide.
have a nice day
Daniel Lee
I got the exact same one…. Clearly Canadian, almost fell for it but luck my spidey senses told me to google it all first…… Gonna send him back a dog bone…. Well chewed, lol
…was contacted by this Daniel Lee a few days ago on my cell phone with EXACTLY the ad and so I replied asking for the information to look at … got EXACTLY this info above …over the years I have been involved in one only scam that I escaped without financial damage…since then I know that the internet is truly FULL of seemingly crafty folks who think they can steal, commit fraud and otherwise mess with your hopes and dreams … if it’s on the internet it’s usually not anything more than a scam! …I have scammer exposing sites bookmarked so I can always first find out if these “offers” are legit before I go forward with anything … once again I have replied “I am notifying the Provincial Police about this fraud you are trying to perpetrate, have a good day Daniel” shameful people out there …you must beware!
I applied for a car wrap positiin. Received the check over night. It looked suspicious. The Fed ex letter came from California, the check was addressed to a company in Michigan. It was sent by a man signed by a woman. The handwriting was very shaky, barely legible, and appeared to be xeroxed on. I tried go ogling the name Patrick Bridges who was an actor. The company was an outdoor sales store. Contacted local police and reported the scam. Also flagged it on Craigslist. Check was for $2535.67.
Mine is through someone named Johnetta Kirk. I googled that name and the only person that I can find is a nurse in Atlanta. They sent me a check for $1950 and told me to deposit it and wire money to TX. I live in NC. The check has Linden River Financial, LLc and Comerica Bank of California on it I called Comerica and the guy told me that my bank had to verify funds I went to my band, BOA and they told me that they couldn’t do it and wouldn’t even make a phone call. I e-mailed Johnetta back and told her that I would not deposit until the funds were verified. She is insisting that is my banks responsibility and I should deposit the funds. I told her I wasn’t going to do it. I would just like to be able to catch them so that I can turn this check over to whomever it needs to be turned over to.
Hector Sanchez from full throttle scam almost had me! I received the check this morning. I’m glad I decided to look this scam up and avoid it all together. It’s sad that these people take advantage as we are trying to find legit employment.
I got my check today from hector Sanchez. Kind of pisses me off. I am down on my luck. And desperately need money. This sucks.
Hector Sanchez tried it with me too. I got the check yesterday, and decided to look up this scam. Glad I did. Check is with the cops now.
I got the same person name Hector Sanchez
got cashiers check amount 1,950
was to keep 300 and the rest send to graphic arstist
In china
Thanks for the info. Glad I don’t trust anybody and decided to google for scams like this. I can’t afford any B.S like this. I have a check due in the email in the morning. Thanks again
5alive energy drink sent me a 1750.00 check for painter for my car n 400 for my first week. 500 each week after..the remaining 1350.00 was for a painter for a car wrap..5alive stated no paperwork involved just be sure to drive your car…also id recieve a cashiers check each saturday for 500.00…to good to be true rite?… this is a scam…the txt number i was given wouldnt accept voice calls i txtd the number and said…the FBI took the check…they know you…think they are coming for you……….5alive did not reply
Im glad i read all your responses i almost fell for that easy money email also.
Thank you.
Yea Vizo said they would wrap my car for $500 a week. Sound to good to be true. Well in the state of Carolinas you go straight to jail. They text me looking for their money. I told them in this state you go down(jail). They haven’t text or call.. I’m glad I did research first. Dirty Bums
I took things a little bit farther. When received the initial email telling me about this deal I sent an email telling them I wanted to sign up. I gave them a fictitious name and the address and phone number for the FBI office in Washington, DC.
I’ll see if I get any reply.
I got an email saying I could make money by having my car wrapped with a Bernie Sanders campaign logo. I would do that for free! I will actually think of a way to decorate my car myself. But they are sending the check….so I’m wondering what I should tell them to give them a hard time. Thank you for sharing the scam.
My email was from info.berniewrap@gmail.com…….As a delegate in Washington state, I would easily be inclined to do this, but I wanted to use the money to give to the campaign. Some people have no ethics…..Thanks again.
tell them you’ve signed the check but feeling patriotic you hve sent it to the Trump campaign. LOL
OMG. I got the same exact e-mail that you got above!
I was about to reply to it but now I won’t.
Thanks man!
Received a txt from info.phantonmedia@gmail.com
Stating that I can make $400. a week to wrap my car. Think it’s a scam not even going to acknowledge it.
I also fell for this scam. I received the check and I went to deposit.I went back to work and went online.
I figured it was a scam. I immediately contacted my bank. luckly she said as long as I don’t take any of it out. that I would not have to pay of it. Thank God I didn’t do what they said.
It was matgard@outlook.com
I didn’t take any of it out of my account, but Wells Fargo closed my account anyway, and tagged my social security # as me being a fraud. WTH. Now I can’t open a checking account at any bank. Wish I would’ve googled it sooner
I’m getting email about Harley Davidson to wrap my car sent me a check telli g me put I. Bank and send the rest to someone else but something don’t seam right he keep texting me asking did I cash and that I need to send the cash today
Hi, I got this same info and check. I put it in secure account with 2 week hold. Did you go through the process? Can u tell me any further info? Bank warned me and told me they would keep me posted. Thanks, Ashley
Received an email from Rob Alfaro red rain energy to pay me 400 wk for a car wrap, said ok and they’re sending a check. Form letter was exactly like the ones shown except different energy drink co. Did this search on scams and read prior experiences….thank God I didn’t get to dep check yet ….these mother fuckers!
I’ve been directed here from someone receiving this scam. In our experience the scammer often uses the name ‘Peter Palmer’ & ‘Malvern Natural Spring Water’. Which is similar but not identical to our own company Name (Holywell)
It seems to be targeting Canadians using these names. I have tried to report this to both the Canadian fraud department and our country’s (England) department, but have not had any positive response from them.
Hopefully people will either realize early or see this website before they commit to the scam.
Thank you for posting this article.
SCAM, be careful! I got this email, don’t respond to them.
From: Julie Howell
Sent: Fri, Feb 12, 2016 1:17 am
Subject: Wrap Advertising
We offer $550 per week with our advert on your vehicle. Prognoz Corp LLC seeks people — regular citizens, to go about their normal routine as they usually do, only with a big advert for Prognoz Corp LLC. We pay to shrink-wrap your car with an advertisement . Please contact Hari Neupaney on email (harineupaney832@gmail.comm) for more information.
Note: It is very easy and simple no application fees required!!
Regards,
Julie Howell
SCAM: Beware, don’t respond to this.
From: domingopascual
Sent: Sat, Apr 9, 2016 6:07 am
Subject: Car Wrap Advertising.
We offer $500 per week with our advert on your vehicle. Premier Innovations LLC seeks people — regular citizens, to go about their normal routine as they usually do, only with a big advert for Premier Innovations LLC. We pay to shrink-wrap your car with an advertisement . Please contact Leonard Clarkson on email (MrLeonardClarkson@gmail.com) for more information.
Note: It is very easy and simple no application fees required!!
Regards, David Crof
As a response to SCAM/SPAM emails, I send this. Copy & paste your email address into the message. These are valid U.S. Federal Agencies. This appears to stop most repeat scammers from bothering me again. Hope it works for you! kb
UNSUBSCRIBE [your EM address here]now! SPAM-this email+site has been reported to the FBI & IC3 [Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C)]!!
UNSUBSCRIBE [your EM address here]now! SPAM-this email+site has been reported to the FBI & IC3 [Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C)]!
I almost accepted the job from Malvern. I’m glad I decided to Google them to see where they were located and this article popped up. Thank god.
———- Forwarded message ———-
From: Donald Trump
Date: Wed, Jun 22, 2016 at 6:15 PM
Subject: Re: Wrapping my car in Trump campaign symbols
To: “elizao1996@gmail.com”
Hello Jimmie,
The upfront payment check for the Donald Trump’s Presidental Campaign vehicle wrap has been sent to you and USPS confirmed that it will deliver at your residence by Wednesday. Here is its tracking: 9405501699320085345686
The check covers an upfront payment for you and the payment of the graphic artist coming to wrap your vehicle and also materials suitable to wrap your vehicle.
Get the check deposited at the bank, it clears your bank within 24hrs. Take out your upfront payment of $300 and send the remainder to the graphic artist via money gram.
Once the funds have been received by the graphic artist, arrangements will be made immediately on getting your vehicle wrapped. We will contact you to fix a suitable date for the artist to come around, the necessary documents will be brought along.
This is the information of the graphic artist to send the funds.
INFORMATION FOR MONEY GRAM
Name: Mattie Wright
City: Dallas
State: TX
Zip: 75232
You will be charged a transfer fee for sending the funds at the store, you will have to take this out of the money made available to you and send the remainder. Send the funds via money in minutes service and send a pic of the money gram receipt when you get it
sent.
Thanks for your cooperation.
On Thu, Jun 16, 2016 at 2:18 PM, elizao1996@gmail.com wrote:
I’ll carry the advert until election day.
Shortest distance I travel in a day is about 27 miles
Sent from my Verizon Smartphone
—— Original message——
From: Donald Trump
Date: Thu, Jun 16, 2016 7:29 AM
To: elizao1996@gmail.com;
Subject:Re: Wrapping my car in Trump campaign symbols
Hello Jimmie, you have been chosen to advertise for Donald Trump and your information is being processed.
Below are some questions you need to answer before we proceed.;
*How long do you intend to carry the advert on your car?
*The shortest possible distance you cover daily?
The upfront payment will be mailed to you via USPS/FedEx, this will
enable you fix and service any part of the vehicle that requires
maintenance while the rest of the funds should be sent to the graphic
artist to procure the required materials for the vinyl wrap.
On Thu, Jun 16, 2016 at 7:02 AM, elizao1996@gmail.com wrote:
—
Donald Trump Presidential Campaign, 2016.
Make America Great Again!
First Name:
Last Name:
Age:
Occupation:
Make of car/ year:
Mailing Address: city:
State:
Zip code:
Mobile number :
Email Address:
—
Donald Trump Presidential Campaign, 2016.
Make America Great Again!
—
Donald Trump Presidential Campaign, 2016.
Make America Great Again!
—
Donald Trump Presidential Campaign, 2016.
Make America Great Again!
What the hell is “the Canadian fraud department”?
I was given a check by ascammer off ofcraigslist a while ago of over $4000 and it felt weird so i took it to a bank to get it checked out. it was fake, so i told him i cashed it through another persons account and i was running off with the money. He blew up my phone, then what sounded like some middle eastern guys kept calling me. Low and behold, i never cashed the check, got a new number, and have some lazy scammers thinking they got scammed out of $4000!
“thinking they got scammed out of $4000”?
Highly doubt that. They KNOW the check was a fake…written on a fake account. They’re too busy moving along to more “dupes” to be worried about anyone who thinks they’ve “figured them out”! :-)
The first question I asked was, why didn’t you send the check directly to the Graphic designer?
That would be the more sensible thing to do…
no reply.
Exactly, that’s why I thought it was a scam!
I am due a check tomorrow and im gonna mess with this guy as much as I can ill tell him I sent his portion via western union and give him some fake info so he can waste some time trying to get his money joke will be on him lol
I was almost all in with these guys till I looked up ‘monster energy drink car Wrap advertising’ and was super mad to find out it was a scam. So I too had considered pushing the line and trying to get whatever I could from them, so they told me I NEEDED to go online and get a checking account with “radiusbank” and they would direct deposit the first installment of 350 dollars. So at that point I said f@¥# it, and shot them, (joanne) telling them I knew what they was trying to do and to kick rocks. Haven’t heard a peep in 2 days. Good luck
I jus got one from Cricket Wireless. $2400. This type of scam has been used on Craig’s list for at least 5 years I get them weekly. I sell used Equipt there. When you get one of their checks call the bank it’s issued on. They always tell me that their is no such acct in their bank. Most of these scams come out of Nigeria, Africa. This is a new twist on an old scam. Buyer beware!!
Yeah, the “overpayment” scam (which is the concept of “them” sending more than the money ‘you deserve’ and then having you wire the excess somewhere, either back to them or to another confederate) is as old as the hills.
I used to work for a major bank and we’d see people getting screwed over on this frequently, in the purchase/sale of vehicles. The “buyers” would end up with your car (if you were selling)……..AND a couple of grand extra of YOUR money. (Or, conversely if you were buying…..you’d end up with NO car…..but still out several thousand bucks.)
All of these things fall under the “too good to be true” heading and unfortunately, those in the greatest NEED for “easy” money are the ones most blind to the fact that it’s a little TOO easy to be real.
Bottom line: always discuss this kind of thing with your best, “street-smartest buddy”!
Omg I just got my check today!!!! Blue from a bank I never heard of!!!! I told them I put in my account!!!! But I didn’t!!!!!! Sad we have such sick people in the world!!!! This one was a engery drink full throttle ????? Smh!!!!! Thanks for your info!!!!!!
I got the full throttle check yesterday for $1680.00. Too bad I can’t cash it and scam them. Thanks for the information. Bogie.
This is happening RIGHT now on craigslist under gigs. I’m about to play with this scammer
I was just recently asked if I wanted to wrap my car for $500 a week that is to good to be true the guy even wrote up a contract from this company it is a legit company but not for wrapping cars and not the right address- PROGNOZ CORP LLC From Gary A. Rodriguez employer address 410 Pierce St. Ste. 116, Houston, TX 77002 (505)594-8320 and when he signed his name to the contract of employment it is signed Marilyn under his printed name TOTAL SCAM SCAM SCAM I will not sign the contract and email it back to him. Extremely fishy.
I seen today Told him I actually now a place that does car wraps and he said he knows a place that is cheaper.I’m about to have some fun with this SOB..WISH ME LUCK
I just received my email with a tracking number for a $2999.00 check from Vehicle Advert Inc. I knew this was to good to be true. What do I do with it when I get it, rip it up, give to the bank or police. Does anyone know REDBEARD DECAL,is it a drink. I wish I could copy and paste this email on here, but you can’t with a kindle
What happens if you just cash the check?
The bank grants you access to the money immediately; however, the check will be found to be fake within 2-3 days and will be debited from your account. At best, you will get hit with a few fees from your bank and asked why you’re depositing fake checks into your account. If you’ve taken the money out of the account and spent it, you will be responsible for paying it all back.
Got the same $300 car wrap offer and they used a company called ” VALLEY CENTER BEER”. I’m in Pa.
I received same crap n the guys hounding me like crazy n I’m going to let him swear it out lol. But ty for all your posts I might have made the mistake being an injured veteran struggling to make my bills. God bless u all
Well i got an email from a Jack Wang from Full Throttle energy Drink, about making $300, week for advertising to be put on my car.. Wow, I applied a few days later I got a respond saying I been approved. and will get a 300 dollar check for first week..
Now I get an email about a check coming for 1950 via UPS.. I am to cash it and forward $1650 to the graphic designer ( IN CHINA )
the check is on a Citibank check the person I am to send the money to is HUANIXIA DU in Beuing, China.. funny how the person who sent the Priority mail address is Angel Rodrigues Kalco Lighting LTD in Baltimore.. Seriously??? Not even going to respond but going to post all over social media..
Mine is from solar city, $1690 check and a copy of someone’s drivers license “in case I have doubt’s” but they swear it’s legitimate…. Hahahaha
Just got my check in the mail today for $3900. I was like whoa damn they sure are getting better. The signs were everywhere though from the email recipients to the last email with written out steps on how to proceed with the check. I suppose i wanted to believe the whole idea was real of getting paid to drive my car around, seeing outer car-wraps red-bull,monster other logos on the street. Honestly, I’m pissed off that i actually thought this through, but then again no financial loss to me but time “hoping” for something which at one point was probably real.
I also received same scam. I am from Philippines. They are using Apple decal advert. They’ve sent me $8500. My Bank charged me $10 for bounced check. Thank you for posting I saved my $720 for not sending it to someone in Nigeria.
So Glen, how did you manage to get paid? I’m awaiting my check and I think that’s a good punishment for this crook…obviously we are pretty much dealing with one, at most two people. So far all info points to the auttowrap@outlook.com the hiring MGR for SEVERAL corporate entities… MONSTER, NOS, so many after reading all these sites. I’m curious how you were able to get over, someone needs to without paying out the…inbank fees. Share the wealth. Please!
They are doing this same scam to put political ads on your car. Do not ever fall for a check you have to cash and then send part of it to someone else. It is am old scam with a new twist.
This scam is all over Facebook. They are offering the same deal to have a political candidate ad on your car.
I am so glad I googled this and found this site because I was just about to take the check to the bank tomorrow! I knew it sounded fishy, but I also wanted to believe it was true… What should I say to this “Eric Holt” now that he has been texting me?
Spike Energy Drink is at it for me…. I deposited $2220.00 and had to wait 48 hours for it to clear my bank….. a day later I find the check bouncing leaving me $1800 in the hole. I was informed by the scammer that another check is on the way….. Would love to get my money back, but I’m afraid it’s unrecoverable.
I was sent a check yesterday from one of these scammers, and I told them they wouldn’t get any money until it cleared, but before I could deposit it the person messaging me was being too persistent about me getting it in the bank to send them there’s so I contacted the company and the bank on the check and was told it was a fraudulent account.
Got a email from Justin Freimark for Corona Extra Beer car wrap :
Would You Wrap Your Vehicle in an Ad for 300 dollars Weekly? Reply if interested…
Best Regards
IK would play around usually but I have not time right now. >>SCAM SPAM Folder
his email was rushfusl@outlook”dot”com
I got an email from NOS Energy Drink for the vehicle wrap. They are sending me a cashier’s check..LOL What is the bet it will be a check? The whole email screams scam. You can choose to work for them for 1, 2 or 3 months and you are guaranteed to be paid $350 per week. I have played along with it and like I said I am waiting for the cashier check. Oh and they are sending me a tracking number so I will know when it will arrive. What gets to me is I asked for details on how this works and how they can prove I have had the wrap applied or even drive my vehicle for the 3 months so I get paid each week and they couldn’t say anything more than you are guaranteed this money every week. This is going around on Facebook with an obvious fake profile. The hiring manager is Laurence Gibbs with an email of nosenergydrink0@gmail.com
I received an application to fill out for Monster Energy Drink to wrap my car for employment then by text only by a Jack Wang will be texting me or emailing me instructions. Can’t believe people get away with stuff they need to prosecute people like this now. they need to go to prison maybe then they’ll learn they’re lesson especially if they drop their soap in the shower!
I have received the same info from nos energy I talked to a Laurence Gibbs and am waiting on my cashiers check also he said I will get it Friday
Mr. Steve Razinski, have you heard of or know anything about Viso Energy Drinks and a Mr. Tom Lawrence?
This is both my reply and the email itself after I inquired about his ad on Craigslist a few days ago: Viso Energy Drinks Car-Wrap Advertisement!
Karla Dennington
Karla Dennington
29
Currently job hunting in both Palm Coast and St. Augustine Honda Odyssey/1995 Palm Coast, 32137
Yes, I have a valid driver’s license
(386) 627-1143 mobile phone
Yes, I can access my checking account online
Fri 2/12/2016 4:30pm is when I sent this reply to the email below
Tom Lawrence
Fri 2/12/2016 2:22 PM
To:
AlphaWolf_02134@hotmail.com;
Dear Applicant
Thanks for your prompt response, It is Very Easy and Simple with No Application fees required. Here’s how It works – The basic premise of the “paid to drive” Viso Energy Drinks seeks people — regular citizens, not professional drivers — to go about their normal routine as they usually do, only with a sticker advert for “Viso Energy Drinks ” plastered on your car. The ads are typically vinyl decals, which will cover one side door of your car’s exterior surface.
What does the company get out of this type of ad strategy? Lots of exposure and awareness.The auto wraps tend to be colorful and eye-catching and attract lots of attention. Plus, it’s a form of advertising with a captive audience,meaning people who are stuck in traffic and can’t avoid seeing the attractive sticker paint car alongside them. This program will last for 6month months and the minimum period you can participate is 1 month. You will be compensated with a $500 Five hundred dollars per Week),which is essentially a “rental” payment for letting our company use the space. Viso Energy Drinks shall provide Experts that would handle the advert placing on your car.You will receive an up front payment of $500 (Five hundred dollars) inform of check for accepting to carry this advert on your car and other weekly payments will also come in the form of checks and delivered at your address weekly.
Respond with the below information as requested.
Full Name:
Age:
Occupation,Make of car/ year,Address:city:State: Zip code:
Do you have a driver’s license:
Phone Number(s) mobile/home :
PAYMENT METHOD BY CHECK.
Do you do online Banking?
We shall be contacting you as soon as we receive these information.
We looks forward to working with you.
Regards
Tom Lawrence.
Promotion Manager
Viso Energy Drinks®
I didn’t find you and your website, I’ve Tried That, until after I’d replied to the email I just copied and pasted above. Thanks for your help.
What will happen if I cash this check and actually keep the money?
The check will go through, however a week or two later they will find out its fake and chase you for money you dont have anymore
My husband actually fell for this last year he took the check to the bank they verified everything and cashed it and about two weeks later he got a call from the bank that the check was bad and they ended up filing charges on him and he has to repay all the money he cashed or he can end up in state jail for up to two years…he cashed 2000 dollars