Anthony Bates and Eden Machinery Ltd are names being used in a scam which is targeting lawyers in New Zealand and beyond.

In New Zealand the scam references a New Zealand construction company which really exists, but which is totally unconnected to the scammers.

If a lawyer responds the scam is likely to follow the usual course to arrival of a cheque for a large sum. This is banked in the trust account and the scammer (who usually needs the money urgently to complete the purchase) is remitted the appropriate amount after deduction of the lawyer's fee. The cheque then bounces.

Exploratory email

From: Anthony Bates [mailto:btesanthony@gmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, 2 August 2016 8:29 a.m.
To: [New Zealand lawyer]
Subject: PSA

Please respond if you  handle business transaction matters.

Anthony Bates

If the lawyer responds, the following email is received

From: Anthony Bates [mailto:btesanthony@gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, 3 August 2016 7:48 a.m.
To: [New Zealand lawyer]
Subject: Re: PSA

How are you today ?  . I need an asset sales agreement and bill of sale drafted for a Trencher we want to dispose. I have attached to this email specification details of the equipment and sale price included too. 

We have already have a buyer - [Name of genuine NZ company]- [Street address of company]  and also concluded on price which you will find in the attached data sheet. I 'd like to know more about your firm.

How many years of experience do you have and how often have you handled matters like this. ?

How Long will take to prepare documents for perusal ?

 Please do respond with cost of  representation and also let me know if you have further question regarding this transaction .

 I will be happy to furnish you with terms of sale once i have had a chance to go through your fee structure.

 I will appreciate a swift response if this is what you can handle .

 Regards,

Anthony Bates
Business Manager
Eden Machinery  Ltd
Roxton Road, Great Barford,
Bedfordshire. England. MK55 3LR

Direct:+441163263067
Fax:+443256200345

Email: