My husband got a text from this number...1-209-256-4035 (Patricia Melvin), they said they were a female that just lost their husband in a car accident.  She said she was trying to buy this home...and needed the rest of the $5,000 that her husband didn't pay (to be able to get keys).  She said she was in a wheelchair and was so called deaf.  When I looked up the number..it was listed for Atwater, CA.  We don't even live in CA.  How would she get a number for someone that owns their own business...that isn't even advertised (all word of mouth) and in a small country town???  I also looked up the house.  It was in our state...but the house was a split level with a basement.  Why would she move into a bigger house with stairs???  She also added something about caring for a child.  So this person is just trying to pull someones heartstrings.  Death, handicapped, hearing impaired, and caring fr a small child..uh ok.  She asked for my husband if he took credit cards,,,and by good faith and trust.. if he could in so many words....get the money for her.  She kept texting how money was no object.  My husband responded with "If money is no object, how are you unable to pay the $5,000???  No reply.

Was that the only number you have for him

I can't believe I got sucked into the same scam. In my case it was sneakier because she said she wanted a website built  (I build websites for a living)
Luckily, she only scammed for a few hours of my time.

Patricia Melvin
323-985-3582
patriciamelvin8@gmail.com

the scam...
I have an import/export business that I want to expand. Can you build a website, Do you accept credit cards.
I am deaf and about to get cancer treatment. I want to get started quickly
"Your price is good, I'd like to send you extra so you can deposit an amount for the project coordinator"
Can you make a cash deposit in her account?

I just received a text message from someone identifying themselves as "Patricia Melvin". The text reads, "This is patricia melvin [sic] I am hearing impaired, can you handle website design for new company and do you accept credit card payment?"

Think I'll respond and say that I've read reports of her previous scams, but would be glad to help for payment in advance and upon clearing of the check.

Ha! And.... DONE! Put "Patricia" on notice that the scam is over. Followed by blacklisting the phone number. Thanks for the post.