Saturday, May 16, 2015

Beware of this impatient, highly agreeable client. Can you say... scam?

A very common scam targeting items for sale on Craigslist, etc., has evolved. Watch how this unfolds. I immediately recognized this as a scam, but cautiously played along to allow the scheme to play out.

I received this text message on May 5th, from a phone number I did not recognize:
"I'm Tom, How are you ? I'll like to know your available date in June  for my family reunion (5 hours coverage). Also i want the family portraits done for the all the families coming together for the reunion. I want you to get back to me with your availability dates and do you accept credit card payment? I'll be looking forward to read from you with your full name."

The grammar is an immediate sign you're not dealing with someone that is being straight with you. My responses are in italics.

What date(s) is your reunion, and in what location?

This came back very quickly:
"Thank you for the swift response. I want you to check if you have available weekends between June 28th- July 11th. If you have a date open i want you to work on the estimate cost for the 5 hours photo coverage from 11am-4pm, and 6-16x20 prints family photo portraits because we have 6 families coming together for the reunion event. The event will be held locally here in the state about an hour or two drive from your location, i will cover the travel expenses. I got your information on the internet and i hope you can handle this event. I will like you to know that i am ready to make the full payment with my credit card so you will be able to make my booking confirmed also i will forward you the event venue once the event planner book the hall, so can you go ahead and give me the estimate now."