How can you tell if a private lender is legitimate?

[Bekah Jean]

I got contacted by a private lender, but I haven't heard of him or met him. He's not in my local circles. He seemed to know the language and was full of promises.

Are there specific questions to ask to feel out whether he's legitimate or not? How would I know? The private investors I have used have been known in my circles and of the same training and mindset as me and reputable among other investors, so I don't have experience just meeting someone brand new and going in to business.