New York Times Travel Writer Scammed in London Rental Fraud

Thanks ever so much for posting this. I have some friends who are planning their trip and they indeed were looking at apts. on Craigslist. You have very likely saved them from this same scam, as I passed along your link to them!

WOW. Thank you! This is so timely for me... I'll be going to London in May, and my husband wants to rent an apartment this time. Thanks again!

I would think if someone was asked for full payment in cash....that you would stop and think twice about that. I would never pay all up front in cash, just doesn't make good sense. Also, Craigslist is well known for having a lot scams.

We should remember that there are many legitimate apartment rentals available in London. But, we need to use our heads.

I have used http://www.vrbo.com twice to rent apartments in England and have had great experiences.

The listing on Craigs List should have been a red flag, along with full price in advance. Mot legitimate apartment owners ask for a cash deposit, but not the whole price. You pay that upon arrival once you have seen the apartment.