This is a reminder that when you receive an email such as the one below in bold, to at minimum ignore it. Better you should notify the person (if you actually know them) that their email address has possibly been hacked or compromised. Even if the email address appears to match the sender, the situation here is a fake one that was made up to try to get you to send money. There are many variations but understand the message is the same. I can’t take a phone call, I need money and you should send it fast. The bottom line is that this is fraud.
I really hope you get this fast. I could not inform anyone about my trip, because it was impromptu. i had to be in Manila, Philippines for a program. The program was successful, but my journey has turned sour. i misplaced my wallet and cell phone on my way back to the hotel i lodge in after i went for sight seeing. The wallet contained all the valuables i had. Now, my passport is in custody of the hotel management pending when i make payment.
I am sorry if i am inconveniencing you, but i have only very few people to run to now. i will be indeed very grateful if i can get a loan of $1,980 from you. this will enable me sort my hotel bills and get my sorry self back home. I will really appreciate whatever you can afford in assisting me with. I promise to refund it in full as soon as I return. let me know if you can be of any assistance. Please, let me know soonest. Thanks so much.
Jane Doe (Name is changed)
Senior Director
ABC Company (company changed)
773-404-7400 (phone number changes)
janedoe@detectiveservices.com (email changed)
How do I know this was a fake?
- I have received several like this over the years.
- The sender’s address was different than one on the signature line.
- The person wanted funds sent quickly. Always a red flag.
- You could not call the person requesting the money.
- Grammar is usually bad as it is often sent from a foreign country.
There are more clues but suffice it to say, never send the money! Be careful out there.
Perry
