I'm always paranoid when I rent an apartment or find roommates that its all some elaborate scam designed to steal my money and leave me homeless, so this is the last thing I needed to hear. At least is an advance fee scam. I know full well I'd respond to that by laughing in the person's face. Even over email. I'd probably make a video of me laughing and send it to them.

Or maybe I'd make that video but then tell them they need to put up some funds so I can send them my response.