So this is my first post on these forums, though I have been a member for some time. Unfortunately, the reason for my post is due to misfortune.

I had scheduled an appointment by email with a provider who advertised a NYC trip. I called and left a v/m to verify my appointment, and I later received a v/m from her with location details… in her hometown. Confused, I called her back and asked what was going on, and was disconnected/hung up on. I called again, and went straight to v/m, so I left a message. I called a third time, and again went straight to v/m.

Here’s the bad part… I paid for the appointment in advance via PayPal. Yes, stupid, I know, and lesson learned. In my defense, I had prepaid for sessions a couple of times in the past with reputable providers with no issues, and this provider had good reviews, so I thought she was legitimate.

I am upset, but realize my own fault in this. I don’t expect to recover my funds, and will chalk it up to an expensive life lesson. But I do feel like I should at least report this, as a warning for others.  Is there a proper etiquette/procedure for this?