"SCAM" SPAM

In the past month I have received two e-mails, one very official looking and the other not so, telling me of my winnings. I was unsure how to deal with the first one. I called the Better Business Bureau. I was assured that it was a scam letter. The logo was not official - missed it by one Capital C in coca-cola.


Today the second one arrived. ALMOST had me fooled. It contained the address of the company, the agent's name, e-mail address and direct-line phone number. The cash winnings would be distributed by certified cheque. I was not to tell anyone due to possible bogus claims on the winnings. Also included was a warning against fraudulent offers and an e-mail address to report such attempts. The verification information they requested did not ask my social security number or bank information, only the usual name, address etc. The flashing red light for me - the company was in the Netherlands and my agent was in Nigeria. I again called the Better Business Bureau. This time I was told that IT IS ILLEGAL FOR ANY SUCH OFFERS TO COME INTO THE U.S. So folks, IF IT IS NOT FROM A COMPANY IN THE U.S. - IT IS AN ATTEMPT TO STEAL YOUR IDENTITY.


There have been too many of our neighbors, friends and associates have their bank accounts or credit cards compromised by this modern predator who proliferates during the holiday season. The elderly seem to be the most vulnerable. I was aware, and checked it out BEFORE I clicked on any of their links. ONE CLICK ON ANY OF THEM WOULD HAVE GIVEN THEM ACCESS TO ALL OF MY INFORMATION.


Warn them, warn everyone you know. Please, do it now. Perhaps this seems like a strange act of kindness but it is crucial.