Online dating scams are one of the easiest cons to fall for. Recently, a friend of mine named Frank sent me copies of emails he’d exchanged with someone who called “herself” Teri. Thank goodness Frank recognized what was going on before he followed through.
It all began when Frank responded to Teri’s online dating profile. He received a reply that began:
“Thanks so much for the interest! you sound really like a nice man with a good and loving heart of kind, care and honesty..I am so sorry for the late reply… open attachment for my pictures…Distance is not a problem for me….. because i am ready to relocate with my right man…….”
The email, which included photos of a stunning blonde, went on to describe Teri’s background, the fact that she was on a business trip in China, her desire to find an honest man, her desire to establish a friendship before a serious relationship—oh, and did I mention her desire to find an honest man? Indeed, she hit that button three times.
It appeared that Frank had struck relationship gold and replied immediately. “Absolutely a pleasure hearing back from you. Kinda gratifying. I appreciate your position regarding pain, and loneliness. I will do my best to never inflict any type of pain. I will always be straight and forthright. I certainly am not perfect, but I always try to do my best . . .”
Frank went on to tell Teri more about himself and closed with an offer to get together once she returned from her China trip. The following day, Frank had another email from Teri, but this time the tone was different. “Thanks for your respond……Well i have bad trip in China right now.. …..This is my first time i will be visit China….I have a check of $86,000 here with me.. i try to get it cash….. but the bank here told me that, they don’t accept that,…But when i ask them why they did not accept that…”
Teri also asked Frank for $900 to get her out of China and promised, twice, to pay him back when he picked her up at the airport. Sorry, Teri, not happening. Frank wised up. Hope you’re not still at LAX waiting.
Do you have a good scam story you’d be wiling to share? If so, contact me and let’s talk about sharing it.
