I applied for a personal loan online with the National Gateway Financial Services and was informed that I had been approved for a loan of $8000 by a David Watson. However, in order for the loan to be finalized, I had to pay at least 7 months of the monthly payment in advance - the amount was $1313.27 in which I was to pay $1300 of it via Western Union. I made the payment on April 30, 2010 in a total amount of $1425. On May 3, 2010, I was contacted by a Roger Jenkins and was told that the loan agreement was incorrect and I needed to pay at least 14 months of the monthly payment in advance - which required an additional amount of $1300. I made the payment via Western Union on May 17, 2010. I was contacted on May 19, 2010 by Mr. Jenkins informing me that the lender no longer wanted to obligate the loan and had backed out. He said that their legal team was involved and would work on getting my money back. He stated that he had found another company that would loan me $16,000; however, it would require another upfront payment. I informed Mr. Jenkins that I was not interested in the $16,000 loan and wanted my money back. He said that he would work on getting it returned to me.
I would like your assistance in getting my money back from this company. I attempted to call the number (877-838-1495) and its now disconnected.
Flynrider
Phoenix,#2Consumer Suggestion
Thu, May 20, 2010
Sorry to tell you, but the chances of seeing your money again are almost none.
This is called the Advance Fee Loan Scam. You were not dealing with an actual loan company, just a couple of scammers with throwaway cell phones and public Internet access. The names and documents they gave you are made up. By using Western Union, they ensured that the money would not be traceable (like a real bank wire would be). You didn't mention it, but I'm guessing you were also required to send the money to another country, usually Canada. This ensures that no single law enforcement agency will have jurisdiction over the crime. As such, it is unlikely that anything will be done.
Anytime anyone you don't know wants you to send them money via Western Union or Moneygam, you can be sure you're being scammed.
The FTC has a web page dealing with this particular scam at :
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/telemarketing/tel16.shtm
wvgirl
United States of America#3General Comment
Thu, May 20, 2010
REALLY? You did this? Come on now, this was a scam that straight up smaked you in the face and stuck its foot up your rear end. It could not have been any less of a scam in any way shape or form. You will most likely never get your money back. My suggestion, (i know it sucks monkey butt), however, take this as a VERY GOOD (and expensive) lesson learned!
You should NEVER EVER EVER EVVVVEEER have to pay money up front for ANY type of loan. Cars have a down payment but that is different. You never pay money to get a lender to approve a loan. If you are ever asked to pay money before you are approved by a BANK for a loan, GET OUT, its a scam!!!!!