Recently, a client required bulk dedicated servers with high-end configurations in a DMCA-ignored region. Since we don’t offer such services, we decided to resell from another provider. After approaching several providers, only Calin offered a quote of $22,500 for 3 months.

The client paid in cryptocurrency, which Calin accepted, requesting we send it in parts. He assured us that if anything went wrong, he’d refund the full amount. Payments were completed by July 13, and Calin promised delivery within 14 days.

However, a few days later, Calin claimed the bank blocked the funds when he transferred them to his supplier and requested a declaration of the source of funds. We provided bank statements from the client and a detailed document showing the flow of funds. Despite this, Calin only submitted partial documents and began making excuses.

After a month of delays, we requested a refund. Calin refunded $2,000 via PayPal but claimed the remaining funds could only be refunded to the client’s bank account. When we provided the IBAN, he delayed, saying he was on vacation. Once back, he claimed the IBAN was invalid, but when asked for proof, he sent a screen recording of a domestic transfer attempt.

He then blamed us for providing the wrong information, despite it being clearly outlined in our documents. When asked to visit the bank in person, he refused, claiming to have spoken to them by phone.

It’s now nearly two months, and Calin continues to make excuses, deflect blame, and avoid resolving the issue. Despite warnings from others about his reputation, we moved forward due to limited options, a decision I now regret.

This experience serves as a reminder to thoroughly vet providers before engaging in significant transactions, as not everyone is as trustworthy as they seem.