Marie came to LSNV because she had paid $4,200 to a foreclosure rescue scammer. She had been desperate for help because she was behind on her mortgage and needed assistance applying for a modification. The scammer mailed an advertisement that Marie responded to and a representative from the scammer came to Marie’s residence and accepted money from Marie to help her get a modification with assurances and guarantees. Marie received a couple of more contacts from the scammer but ultimately did not get a modification and it was unclear what, if anything, the scammer actually did on her behalf.  The scammer was likely conducting the unauthorized practice of law and was not licensed under the Virginia Mortgage Broker Act.  The scammer was collecting upfront fees for “foreclosure rescue” in violation of Virginia law. After a demand letter and a complaint to the Bureau of Financial Institutions made by the LSNV attorney, the client got a full refund of $4,200 and a statement from the scammer that they have no other clients in Virginia and will cease any and all marketing campaigns in Virginia.