Photo courtesy of cottonbro
Internet Scammers
Today an internet scammer contacted me via Messenger. This person was pretending to be one of my cousins. I was suspicious to begin with, because this cousin has never contacted me on Messenger. But I wasn’t sure at first.
Scammer: How are you doing today
Me: Good, how are you?
Scammer: I’m doing pretty cool and also I have a vital information for you??
First red flag “doing pretty cool” ? Second red flag poor grammar and question marks at the end of a statement. I let the person go on.
Scammer: I’m just wondering if you have heard about the ongoing federal government covid-19 compensation program?
A few weeks back, when I was slightly more gullible a different cousin had contacted me with this same spiel. I figured out after a little research, that he had been hacked.
The scammer goes on, blah, blah, blah. In the meantime, I let my cousin know that she had been hacked.
Me: Nice try, I had another friend try to give me this deal a couple of weeks ago. I’m on to you.
The scammer continued on for two long paragraphs finishing with , “I was so happy when I got the money my doorstep it going to be a great blessing for you as well.
Again the poor grammar, missing words, etc.
Me: Do you mean the money you get from scamming people?
Scammer: No, I got it deliver to me by the Federal Government.
I decided to try a different tact.
Me: Well, let’s talk about Jesus first okay? J., I know you love Jesus and would love to talk about him for hours.
The gall of this one, check it out!
Scammer: Yes, the lord is our strength and I keep believing in him And I know he will do and undo. May the Lord be with you and your family in Jesus Name Amen. (followed by praying hands!)
Me: How was church today? Who did you get to sit next to?
Finally, crickets! It is unfortunate that we have to always be on guard against these people. Why don’t they go out and get a real job and stop stealing our time?