So, given the lender is asking for collateral (to cover losses by borrowers defaulting) and is prepared to use an escrow, what is the scam?
They are being deceitful in an attempt to build up a reputation on the forum. That is inherently untrustworthy and a scam does not have to have occurred / be in progress in order for a red trust or flag to be left.
Flag language:
Due largely to the factors mentioned in this topic, I believe that anyone dealing with xxx is at a high risk of losing money, and guests would be well-advised to avoid doing so. This determination is based on concrete red flags which any knowledgeable & reasonable forum user should agree with, and it is not based on the user's opinions.
Red tag language:
You think that trading with this person is high-risk.
Notice the lack of the word "scam" in either instance.