You need to send $350 to the FBI for a Clearance Certificate OR ELSE!
Or else what? Since this is totally a scam, what does that guy in Nigeria (or the Ukraine or wherever the latest scammer is located) going to do about it?
Nothing of course. It's all BULL DROPPINGS!
In all seriousness, this phishing e-mail targets the unwary among us, the elderly, the people who are still naive about the vast kindergarten we call the Internet.
Take a minute and warn your family members, friends and co-workers that this old FBI scam is making the rounds again. There's no need to send any money out, there's no such thing as a Clearance Certificate for us regular folks.
And when you get some madness like this, before you panic, go to www.snopes.com or even to google and check it out.
From the Valejo Times Herald: http://www.timesheraldonline.com/ci_18031033
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Saturday, May 7, 2011
More and More and More
Now I get an e-mail from Michaels, the arts and crafts store, that they've had a security breach.
Again.
I'm starting to wonder if it's really smart to use credit/debit cards or if you should always use cash. Hard to do in today's world.
In the meantime, don't buy into the BULL DROPPINGS. Always, always, always protect your credit card numbers and never, ever give anyone your personal information over the phone, internet or in person unless YOU inticiated the transaction.
Again.
I'm starting to wonder if it's really smart to use credit/debit cards or if you should always use cash. Hard to do in today's world.
In the meantime, don't buy into the BULL DROPPINGS. Always, always, always protect your credit card numbers and never, ever give anyone your personal information over the phone, internet or in person unless YOU inticiated the transaction.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Craigslist Scams
Craigslist rocks! It is the best for locating free, cheap and awesome stuff.
Everything from sofas to cell phones to building materials to cars can be found on www.craigslist.org.
However, there are some serious scammers out there. When you open up the page to view the listings, there are even warnings about the most common scams. In HUGE BOLD LETTERS! Yet people go to the legal forum asking how to find, sue, get their money back from scammers.
Oh
My
Goodness
Don't be a fool! Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
Please READ the darn warnings and remember, if it sounds too good to be true...
Everything from sofas to cell phones to building materials to cars can be found on www.craigslist.org.
However, there are some serious scammers out there. When you open up the page to view the listings, there are even warnings about the most common scams. In HUGE BOLD LETTERS! Yet people go to the legal forum asking how to find, sue, get their money back from scammers.
Oh
My
Goodness
Don't be a fool! Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
Please READ the darn warnings and remember, if it sounds too good to be true...
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
So You Applied For A Job Online...
Please don't tell me that you sent off your Social Security number and personal information to some anonymous online job posting.
Oh my gosh, please don't tell me you did that.
Seriously, if you've found a job listing that you're really, really interested in and it was in an online classified like craigslist.org -- run!
These days, it's really hard to tell the oblivious from the scammers. There are some real job postings out there, but if they want you to submit all your personal information before you even know who they really are, the odds are against you.
With your SSN, name, address, date of birth, and heaven forbid your bank information, a scammer can rob you and you may not even know it.
At least, not until the IRS says, "Hey, you were working two states away and we want the tax from that income!"
Not until the computer company finally contacts you and says, "Hey, we had a heck of a time tracking you down. We want the money for that computer you ordered online. You know, the one you bought with instant credit..."
Or, true story, until the apartment manager looks at you funny after seeing your application and asks for a picture ID. Because you ALREADY LIVE THERE! At least, according to his records...
Identity theft is no joke!
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS. Wait to give your personal information until you've had a real interview. Like, in person even!
Oh my gosh, please don't tell me you did that.
Seriously, if you've found a job listing that you're really, really interested in and it was in an online classified like craigslist.org -- run!
These days, it's really hard to tell the oblivious from the scammers. There are some real job postings out there, but if they want you to submit all your personal information before you even know who they really are, the odds are against you.
With your SSN, name, address, date of birth, and heaven forbid your bank information, a scammer can rob you and you may not even know it.
At least, not until the IRS says, "Hey, you were working two states away and we want the tax from that income!"
Not until the computer company finally contacts you and says, "Hey, we had a heck of a time tracking you down. We want the money for that computer you ordered online. You know, the one you bought with instant credit..."
Or, true story, until the apartment manager looks at you funny after seeing your application and asks for a picture ID. Because you ALREADY LIVE THERE! At least, according to his records...
Identity theft is no joke!
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS. Wait to give your personal information until you've had a real interview. Like, in person even!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
There's A Warrant Out For Your Arrest!
Oh my, the scammers just work and work at trying to separate you from your identity.
Just this week a co-worker sent me an e-mail to verify. Sadly, it's a real one.
Someone calls you on the phone and tells you that they're calling from the courthouse and that you have a warrant out for your arrest because (get this!) you missed JURY DUTY!
"But I didn't miss jury duty, I didn't get a notice."
"Well, I'm going to have to verify this, it will just take a few minutes. I'll look you up. What's your social security number and birth date?"
BING BING BING!
There's the operative word, they want your SSN!
First, the courts and the jury duty staff DO NOT call you! Not going to happen, there's not enough time in the day to call up every person who no-shows for jury duty. (Sad, but true.)
Second, they would NEVER, EVER, EVER ask you for your SSN.
A fool and his money -- and identity -- are soon parted.
Don't be a fool, don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
From www.snopes.com: http://www.snopes.com/fraud/identity/juryduty.asp
Just this week a co-worker sent me an e-mail to verify. Sadly, it's a real one.
Someone calls you on the phone and tells you that they're calling from the courthouse and that you have a warrant out for your arrest because (get this!) you missed JURY DUTY!
"But I didn't miss jury duty, I didn't get a notice."
"Well, I'm going to have to verify this, it will just take a few minutes. I'll look you up. What's your social security number and birth date?"
BING BING BING!
There's the operative word, they want your SSN!
First, the courts and the jury duty staff DO NOT call you! Not going to happen, there's not enough time in the day to call up every person who no-shows for jury duty. (Sad, but true.)
Second, they would NEVER, EVER, EVER ask you for your SSN.
A fool and his money -- and identity -- are soon parted.
Don't be a fool, don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
From www.snopes.com: http://www.snopes.com/fraud/identity/juryduty.asp
Saturday, October 2, 2010
The Political Scene
Oh
My
Goodness!
The political scene is so full of BULL DROPPINGS that it's hard to sort them all out. The mud slinging has commenced and will flow continuously until the election in November. It's going to be a longggggg October.
One thing that you, the voter, should do is research your candidates thoroughly. A good place to start is FactCheck.org http://www.factcheck.org/. While some conservative types think that FactCheck has a liberal bias, I believe that they're fairly well balanced.
In any case, don't buy into the BULL DROPPINGS, don't take anyone's word for anything (not even mine) and remember, the more mud a candidate throws, the bigger the skeleton he/she is trying to hide in his/her own closet. And if you catch a candidate in a lie, it's a sure thing that there are a whole lot more lies -- that's just the one that got caught.
We don't need any more liars in office.
Think about it...
My
Goodness!
The political scene is so full of BULL DROPPINGS that it's hard to sort them all out. The mud slinging has commenced and will flow continuously until the election in November. It's going to be a longggggg October.
One thing that you, the voter, should do is research your candidates thoroughly. A good place to start is FactCheck.org http://www.factcheck.org/. While some conservative types think that FactCheck has a liberal bias, I believe that they're fairly well balanced.
In any case, don't buy into the BULL DROPPINGS, don't take anyone's word for anything (not even mine) and remember, the more mud a candidate throws, the bigger the skeleton he/she is trying to hide in his/her own closet. And if you catch a candidate in a lie, it's a sure thing that there are a whole lot more lies -- that's just the one that got caught.
We don't need any more liars in office.
Think about it...
Friday, June 25, 2010
Watch Out On Freecycle
I recently posted on a freecycle site and received two replies, supposedly from different people.
Funny how both replies included, "I was planning to publish a cost-free offer for it, but I saw your desired post very first, very good timing! I put up a couple pics and my position upon this web site."
Hmmmm, does something seem strange about those posts?
On top of the weird language, in both cases, the name on the e-mail did not match the name at the end of the message.
Look, never, ever, ever click on a link provided by someone who replies to you in such an odd way. Especially when you get two messages that are so similar from two "different" people. Whether the intent is to get your e-mail address (for spam) or to direct you to a dangerous or porn site, just don't do it. Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
(Freecycle groups are found on yahoo. They're all over the country and a wonderful way to find new homes for everything from furniture to pets. They keep perfectly good stuff out of the landfill -- all for free!)
Funny how both replies included, "I was planning to publish a cost-free offer for it, but I saw your desired post very first, very good timing! I put up a couple pics and my position upon this web site."
Hmmmm, does something seem strange about those posts?
On top of the weird language, in both cases, the name on the e-mail did not match the name at the end of the message.
Look, never, ever, ever click on a link provided by someone who replies to you in such an odd way. Especially when you get two messages that are so similar from two "different" people. Whether the intent is to get your e-mail address (for spam) or to direct you to a dangerous or porn site, just don't do it. Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
(Freecycle groups are found on yahoo. They're all over the country and a wonderful way to find new homes for everything from furniture to pets. They keep perfectly good stuff out of the landfill -- all for free!)
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Yolo Officials Warn Of Text Scam - Sacramento News Story - KCRA Sacramento
Yolo Officials Warn Of Text Scam - Sacramento News Story - KCRA Sacramento
Read the article carefully, this scam could be coming to your cell phone next!
Read the article carefully, this scam could be coming to your cell phone next!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
The IRS Sent Me An E-mail -- They Owe Me Money!
IRS Notification: Refund/Stimulus Payment
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
United States Department of the Treasury
Dear Taxpayer,
After the last annual calculations of your fiscal activity we have determined that you are eligible to receive a tax refund of $773.80.
Please submit the tax refund request and allow us 6-9 days in order to process it.
A refund can be delayed for a variety of reasons. For example submitting invalid records or applying after the deadline.
To access your tax refund, use the form attached to this email.
----------------------------------------
I instantly knew it was fake because I OWE the IRS money, because the IRS doesn't send e-mails, AND because it says "Dear Taxpayer". If it was real (if the IRS sent out these kinds of e-mails) it would have my name on it.
This is just a scam to get you to fill out the form with your Social Security number and bank information!
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
When in doubt, check www.snopes.com. In fact, speaking of snopes, here's the link to this phishing e-mail: http://www.snopes.com/fraud/phishing/irsrefund.asp
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
United States Department of the Treasury
Dear Taxpayer,
After the last annual calculations of your fiscal activity we have determined that you are eligible to receive a tax refund of $773.80.
Please submit the tax refund request and allow us 6-9 days in order to process it.
A refund can be delayed for a variety of reasons. For example submitting invalid records or applying after the deadline.
To access your tax refund, use the form attached to this email.
----------------------------------------
I instantly knew it was fake because I OWE the IRS money, because the IRS doesn't send e-mails, AND because it says "Dear Taxpayer". If it was real (if the IRS sent out these kinds of e-mails) it would have my name on it.
This is just a scam to get you to fill out the form with your Social Security number and bank information!
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
When in doubt, check www.snopes.com. In fact, speaking of snopes, here's the link to this phishing e-mail: http://www.snopes.com/fraud/phishing/irsrefund.asp
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Warn Your Family About Check Fraud!
Please do yourself and your family a huge favor and talk to them about the latest check scams going around.
Here's the deal.
Generally, a person is asked to deposit a check into his/her bank account. (Sometimes it's a money order.) The check will be made out to him/her, printed on check stock, it actually looks pretty good.
The victim is to deposit the check, usually through the ATM, and in a few days withdraw the money and give the money to the scammer. The scammer will convince him/her that it's really a good check, that they're hiding money from their ex/the IRS/creditors, or some other BS, so it's all good, no risk at all to the victim.
Yup, it's BS.
The person who deposits the check WILL be charged with a variety of FELONIES!! Even though he/she is a victim of the scammer. No one will believe that he/she is so foolish as to deposit a check and not know that it's fake. District Attorneys are a-holes and will not believe the victim, period!
People are truly naive about the dishonesty of others.
The scammer will throw him/her under the prison bus without a single thought of the long lasting consequences to the victim. Bluntly, no matter how nice, how honest, how caring they seem to be, they're just thieves in the temple and WILL NOT care what happens when they get the stolen money in their hot little hands.
So, talk to your family, your friends, your loved ones and make sure that they know to turn that other cheek and RUN like the wind if anyone approaches them with the idea of depositing checks or money orders into their bank accounts.
It will be bad, very bad, if they get sucked into the scammer's lies.
Trust me.
Please. Just trust me on this one. For your family's sake.
Here's the deal.
Generally, a person is asked to deposit a check into his/her bank account. (Sometimes it's a money order.) The check will be made out to him/her, printed on check stock, it actually looks pretty good.
The victim is to deposit the check, usually through the ATM, and in a few days withdraw the money and give the money to the scammer. The scammer will convince him/her that it's really a good check, that they're hiding money from their ex/the IRS/creditors, or some other BS, so it's all good, no risk at all to the victim.
Yup, it's BS.
The person who deposits the check WILL be charged with a variety of FELONIES!! Even though he/she is a victim of the scammer. No one will believe that he/she is so foolish as to deposit a check and not know that it's fake. District Attorneys are a-holes and will not believe the victim, period!
People are truly naive about the dishonesty of others.
The scammer will throw him/her under the prison bus without a single thought of the long lasting consequences to the victim. Bluntly, no matter how nice, how honest, how caring they seem to be, they're just thieves in the temple and WILL NOT care what happens when they get the stolen money in their hot little hands.
So, talk to your family, your friends, your loved ones and make sure that they know to turn that other cheek and RUN like the wind if anyone approaches them with the idea of depositing checks or money orders into their bank accounts.
It will be bad, very bad, if they get sucked into the scammer's lies.
Trust me.
Please. Just trust me on this one. For your family's sake.
A Despicable Version of the Nigerian Scam
Oh man, just when I thought I'd seen everything, this one popped up in my e-mail!
Can you Assist me!
Monday, January 18, 2010 1:40 PM
From: "Capt.Ruddy Howard"
To: undisclosed-recipients
Hello my friend, I am Capt.Ruddy Howard with the United Nations troop in Afghanistan, on war against terrorism.
Based on the United States legislative and executive decision that we must evacuate Iraq immediately for Afghanistan, Now we are in Afghanistan military base and I will be redeployed back to my country military base soonest, come next year 2010,
Our mission is to help beef up terrorist targeted states, mostly the United States and the European Union on the war against terrorism.
On the other hand, I want to inform you that I have in my possession the sum of 10.2 million USD, which I got from crude oil deal here in Iraq. I deposited this money with a Red Cross Agent informing him that we are making contact for the real owner of the money and it is under my power to approve whoever comes forth for the money.
I want to invest the money in a good business as soon as I am redeploy, anyway you will advice me on that since I am not a businessperson. I am an American and an intelligence officer for that so I have a 100% authentic means of transferring the money through diplomatic courier service .
I just need your acceptance and all is done. Where we are now we can only communicate through our military communication facilities that are secured so nobody can monitor our emails, then I can explain in details to you. I will only reach you through email, because our calls might be monitored, I just have to be sure whom I am dealing with.
If you are interested, please send me your personal mobile number so I can call you for further enquiries when I am out of our military network. I am writing from a fresh email account so if you are not interested do not reply to this email and please delete this message, if no response after 3days I will then search for someone else. I wait for your contact details so we can go into action.
In less than 5days, the money should have been in your position and I will come over for my money. I will give to you 30% of the sum and 70% is for me because I know that nothing goes for nothing I hope I am been fair to you.
Alternative Email Address: ruddyhoward@aol.com
Regards, Capt.Ruddy Howard
Can you Assist me!
Monday, January 18, 2010 1:40 PM
From: "Capt.Ruddy Howard"
To: undisclosed-recipients
Hello my friend, I am Capt.Ruddy Howard with the United Nations troop in Afghanistan, on war against terrorism.
Based on the United States legislative and executive decision that we must evacuate Iraq immediately for Afghanistan, Now we are in Afghanistan military base and I will be redeployed back to my country military base soonest, come next year 2010,
Our mission is to help beef up terrorist targeted states, mostly the United States and the European Union on the war against terrorism.
On the other hand, I want to inform you that I have in my possession the sum of 10.2 million USD, which I got from crude oil deal here in Iraq. I deposited this money with a Red Cross Agent informing him that we are making contact for the real owner of the money and it is under my power to approve whoever comes forth for the money.
I want to invest the money in a good business as soon as I am redeploy, anyway you will advice me on that since I am not a businessperson. I am an American and an intelligence officer for that so I have a 100% authentic means of transferring the money through diplomatic courier service .
I just need your acceptance and all is done. Where we are now we can only communicate through our military communication facilities that are secured so nobody can monitor our emails, then I can explain in details to you. I will only reach you through email, because our calls might be monitored, I just have to be sure whom I am dealing with.
If you are interested, please send me your personal mobile number so I can call you for further enquiries when I am out of our military network. I am writing from a fresh email account so if you are not interested do not reply to this email and please delete this message, if no response after 3days I will then search for someone else. I wait for your contact details so we can go into action.
In less than 5days, the money should have been in your position and I will come over for my money. I will give to you 30% of the sum and 70% is for me because I know that nothing goes for nothing I hope I am been fair to you.
Alternative Email Address: ruddyhoward@aol.com
Regards, Capt.Ruddy Howard
Now, as always I have no fear of publishing this clown's e-mail address. This is a very creative version of the latest Nigerian scam. However, check this out:
- An American military man stealing "10.2 million USD"? OK, first, he'd write it as 10.2 million. No need for USD.
- Next, he's going to contact me via military channels? Are you CRAZY?
- Note the usual assortment of bad grammar and punctuation.
- Why me?
Give him my personal cell phone number? What? THINK NOT!!
What a bunch of BULL DROPPINGS! This is just a despicable version, using the guise of a US military officer to try to scam you out of your hard earned money.
The scammers get more and more creative every day so just keep your eyes open, your mouth shut, and don't believe everything (anything) some stranger tells you. Even if you read it on the Internet.
Even if it was me.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Oh My, This Scam Will Spread Like Wildfire!
Oh, no, I just read this article and realized that this scam is going to spread like wildfire! http://www.hometownsource.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11852:latest-phishing-scam-hooks-businesses-customers&catid=1:latest
It's slightly more complicated for the scammer, but it looks like it will be a very lucrative scam for the ID thieves who are targeting car dealerships and their customers.
Once more, if ANYONE calls you, asking for your credit card numbers, bank information, Social Security number or any other personal or financial information, DON'T fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
The bank has your information, they don't need you to "verify" a darn thing. If it's a store or other retail/Internet source, tell them you have to look it up and call them back. DO NOT use the number they gave you. Either walk in to the store and ask to speak to the manager or look up the correct number and call your credit card directly.
You really, really can't be too careful, the scammers are getting more and more creative every day!
It's slightly more complicated for the scammer, but it looks like it will be a very lucrative scam for the ID thieves who are targeting car dealerships and their customers.
Once more, if ANYONE calls you, asking for your credit card numbers, bank information, Social Security number or any other personal or financial information, DON'T fall for the BULL DROPPINGS!
The bank has your information, they don't need you to "verify" a darn thing. If it's a store or other retail/Internet source, tell them you have to look it up and call them back. DO NOT use the number they gave you. Either walk in to the store and ask to speak to the manager or look up the correct number and call your credit card directly.
You really, really can't be too careful, the scammers are getting more and more creative every day!
Friday, January 1, 2010
Top Ten Scams
My friends, the State of Virginia has kindly provided the top ten scams that are out there right now. http://www.oag.state.va.us/CONSUMER/Top_10.html
The Top Ten:
When in doubt, check it out. And if it seems too good to be true...
The Top Ten:
- Federal Grant Scams
- Telemarketing
- Foreign Lottery
- Identity Theft
- Sweepstakes
- Advance Fee/Nigerian Letters
- Medicare Scams
- Phishing
- Online Shopping
- Home Improvement Fraud
When in doubt, check it out. And if it seems too good to be true...
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Swine Flu Phishing
Oh
My
Gosh
As if we don't think the scammers have sank low enough (see the post I'm writing next over on This Woman I Am), now people are being targeted in a massive phishing scam.
We got this message at work:
Please be aware of a fraudulent phishing program requesting recipients to register with CDC for swine flu vaccination. Upon clicking on the link, a malicious code will download onto the PC. CDC does not require online registration for H1N1 vaccination. Please do not respond to emails with such requests.
Are you kidding me? That is despicable and a bunch of BULL DROPPINGS!
I went to the CDC website and found a sample of the e-mail you may receive:
My friends, don't ever click on links like that. If you're truly concerned, go directly to the website of the CDC and look for that information. Yes, you'll find what you need to know about this e-mail. It's a scam.
When in doubt, look it up on http://www.snopes.com/. Trust me, it's there.
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS. Lord knows there's enough stuff out there in the real world to mess up your life without being scammed here in the virtual world.
Links:
http://www.cdc.gov/hoaxes_rumors.html
http://www.snopes.com/fraud/phishing/cdcvaccination.asp
And for real information on the H1N1 virus, aka the swine flu:
http://cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
My
Gosh
As if we don't think the scammers have sank low enough (see the post I'm writing next over on This Woman I Am), now people are being targeted in a massive phishing scam.
We got this message at work:
Please be aware of a fraudulent phishing program requesting recipients to register with CDC for swine flu vaccination. Upon clicking on the link, a malicious code will download onto the PC. CDC does not require online registration for H1N1 vaccination. Please do not respond to emails with such requests.
Are you kidding me? That is despicable and a bunch of BULL DROPPINGS!
I went to the CDC website and found a sample of the e-mail you may receive:
My friends, don't ever click on links like that. If you're truly concerned, go directly to the website of the CDC and look for that information. Yes, you'll find what you need to know about this e-mail. It's a scam.
When in doubt, look it up on http://www.snopes.com/. Trust me, it's there.
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS. Lord knows there's enough stuff out there in the real world to mess up your life without being scammed here in the virtual world.
Links:
http://www.cdc.gov/hoaxes_rumors.html
http://www.snopes.com/fraud/phishing/cdcvaccination.asp
And for real information on the H1N1 virus, aka the swine flu:
http://cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
A Free Computer!
Oh my goodness, did you know that they're giving away free computers if you just forward this e-mail on to eight of your friends?
Yeah.
Right.
A bunch of BULL DROPPINGS! And I really can't believe one of my own co-workers was forwarding this garbage on - at work even! Fortunately, someone sent it to me, asking if it's true.
Of course it's a fake! Check out http://www.snopes.com/: http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/nothing/ericsson.asp
As my Dad says, "If wishes were horses..."
Horses have their own version of BULL DROPPINGS, you know, they're just more solid and don't splat [much] when they hit the ground.
Think before you forward that e-mail on! And if you have no one to ask, shoot, e-mail it to me and I'll look it up for you. I really, really don't mind.
Yeah.
Right.
A bunch of BULL DROPPINGS! And I really can't believe one of my own co-workers was forwarding this garbage on - at work even! Fortunately, someone sent it to me, asking if it's true.
Of course it's a fake! Check out http://www.snopes.com/: http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/nothing/ericsson.asp
As my Dad says, "If wishes were horses..."
Horses have their own version of BULL DROPPINGS, you know, they're just more solid and don't splat [much] when they hit the ground.
Think before you forward that e-mail on! And if you have no one to ask, shoot, e-mail it to me and I'll look it up for you. I really, really don't mind.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Beware The New Check Scam
Well here we go again!
The latest scams involve checks.
First, the scammers are using craigslist. So you're trying to sell a car, you get an e-mail offering you full price. They send you a check and you're supposed to wire transfer the extra funds to the "shipper". (There are variations on the theme, they're all bad.)
The super bad news is that the check wasn't any good to start with, it was a fake. So your bank account will be minus the check amount AND you'll owe the bank for the money you transferred to the "shipper".
Bad.
Very bad.
The second scam claims that you've won a prize from "NSW International Lotteries" or another sweepstakes. You'll get an initial check in the mail BUT you're supposed to send in a processing fee for the rest of the prize.
Yes, you guessed right. The first check is fake, but no one will know until AFTER you sent off the "processing fee". So you're screwed again.
In both cases, the check will be from "Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co."
In both cases, the check will be fake.
Even if it's not from Nationwide, it'll still be a fake check, trust me!
If someone tries to suck you into one of these scams, call Nationwide at 1-877-On Your Side® (1-877-669-6877) or make an online report immediately.
DO NOT put the fake check in your bank account!
Don't get sucked into the BULL DROPPINGS!
The vile pool of BS is getting deeper by the day and the scammers are using modern technology against you. Don't let them take your money, be a wise consumer!
The latest scams involve checks.
First, the scammers are using craigslist. So you're trying to sell a car, you get an e-mail offering you full price. They send you a check and you're supposed to wire transfer the extra funds to the "shipper". (There are variations on the theme, they're all bad.)
The super bad news is that the check wasn't any good to start with, it was a fake. So your bank account will be minus the check amount AND you'll owe the bank for the money you transferred to the "shipper".
Bad.
Very bad.
The second scam claims that you've won a prize from "NSW International Lotteries" or another sweepstakes. You'll get an initial check in the mail BUT you're supposed to send in a processing fee for the rest of the prize.
Yes, you guessed right. The first check is fake, but no one will know until AFTER you sent off the "processing fee". So you're screwed again.
In both cases, the check will be from "Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co."
In both cases, the check will be fake.
Even if it's not from Nationwide, it'll still be a fake check, trust me!
If someone tries to suck you into one of these scams, call Nationwide at 1-877-On Your Side® (1-877-669-6877) or make an online report immediately.
DO NOT put the fake check in your bank account!
Don't get sucked into the BULL DROPPINGS!
The vile pool of BS is getting deeper by the day and the scammers are using modern technology against you. Don't let them take your money, be a wise consumer!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
AS-IS
Recently there's been a growing trend with people demanding refunds for cars and other items, especially things bought on Craigslist.
Now, Craig Newmark has carefully given many, many warning of the scams out there.
Yet, over in the Legal Forum, there's a continuous stream of posts asking for advice. People buy cars, drive them for a couple of weeks, sometimes a couple of months, and then contact the seller, demanding their money back.
Look, in most states, including California, private party sales are inherently AS-IS. There is no refund if you don't like the deal you got, you found a cheaper car, or the car broke down after you drove the wheels off of it.
There's only a couple of things to remember when selling anything.
First, make sure the buyer does a full inspection of the item. If it's a refrigerator, have it plugged in so it's cold. If it's a stereo, play it. If it's a video game system, show the buyer the whole thing, plug it in, play the game.
If it's a car, tell them whatever you know about it, don't make promises about the condition, do a test drive (bring a friend with you, don't take checks, take payment in cash only, preferably at the DMV so you can transfer the title right then and there).
And remember, in California, you MUST get the vehicle smogged. Plus, if you don't have time to meet at the DMV, you can do the "Release of Liability" form online at www.dmv.ca.gov. Be sure to print out your copy!!
And if a buyer contacts you a week, a month, a year afterward, demanding a refund on a private party sale, tell them the truth, there is NO refund.
As-is is just that, AS-IS -- and that means beware and be aware on both sides of the deal -- buyer and seller!!
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS.
And if they threaten court, tell them, "See you there!" (99 times out of a hundred, they're blowing smoke!)
Now, Craig Newmark has carefully given many, many warning of the scams out there.
Yet, over in the Legal Forum, there's a continuous stream of posts asking for advice. People buy cars, drive them for a couple of weeks, sometimes a couple of months, and then contact the seller, demanding their money back.
Look, in most states, including California, private party sales are inherently AS-IS. There is no refund if you don't like the deal you got, you found a cheaper car, or the car broke down after you drove the wheels off of it.
There's only a couple of things to remember when selling anything.
First, make sure the buyer does a full inspection of the item. If it's a refrigerator, have it plugged in so it's cold. If it's a stereo, play it. If it's a video game system, show the buyer the whole thing, plug it in, play the game.
If it's a car, tell them whatever you know about it, don't make promises about the condition, do a test drive (bring a friend with you, don't take checks, take payment in cash only, preferably at the DMV so you can transfer the title right then and there).
And remember, in California, you MUST get the vehicle smogged. Plus, if you don't have time to meet at the DMV, you can do the "Release of Liability" form online at www.dmv.ca.gov. Be sure to print out your copy!!
And if a buyer contacts you a week, a month, a year afterward, demanding a refund on a private party sale, tell them the truth, there is NO refund.
As-is is just that, AS-IS -- and that means beware and be aware on both sides of the deal -- buyer and seller!!
Don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS.
And if they threaten court, tell them, "See you there!" (99 times out of a hundred, they're blowing smoke!)
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Facing Foreclosure?
Listen, you're going to get a lot of messages via e-mail, phone, mail, radio and TV about modifying your mortgage.
YES, you should try to modify your mortgage.
But listen up, my city newsletter says loan-modification companies CANNOT CHARGE AN ADVANCE FEE FOR THEIR SERVICES if your lender has issued a notice of default against you!!!
So that stuff you're getting from those companies is a bunch of BULL DROPPINGS!
What you need to do is contact your mortgage company and ASK for a loan modification. That generally puts the foreclosure on hold for a couple of months while they go through the process. And trust me, it's well worth it, I did it myself and IT DIDN'T COST ME A PENNY!
Don't be scammed by job loss and foreclosure, you do have options.
And listen carefully, if you do lose your house, it's not the end of the world.
I can personally tell you that three years after the discharge of your bankruptcy, you will qualify as a first time homebuyer and be able to buy again. And now that you've survived the mortgage meltdown, you'll be a better consumer and homeowner.
Remember, there is NO need for drastic measures. If you lose your job and your house, it's only a momentary setback on your road of life.
It's not the end of the world.
I can tell you this because I personally know a few people who are actually on their THIRD house, and I myself lost a house in the 90s. And three years and two months after the discharge of my bankruptcy, I bought another house.
Don't let the scammers and BSers and drama suck you down with BULL DROPPINGS! You will come out of this mess in a way better space, just give it all time to evolve, it's gonna be OK!
YES, you should try to modify your mortgage.
But listen up, my city newsletter says loan-modification companies CANNOT CHARGE AN ADVANCE FEE FOR THEIR SERVICES if your lender has issued a notice of default against you!!!
So that stuff you're getting from those companies is a bunch of BULL DROPPINGS!
What you need to do is contact your mortgage company and ASK for a loan modification. That generally puts the foreclosure on hold for a couple of months while they go through the process. And trust me, it's well worth it, I did it myself and IT DIDN'T COST ME A PENNY!
Don't be scammed by job loss and foreclosure, you do have options.
And listen carefully, if you do lose your house, it's not the end of the world.
I can personally tell you that three years after the discharge of your bankruptcy, you will qualify as a first time homebuyer and be able to buy again. And now that you've survived the mortgage meltdown, you'll be a better consumer and homeowner.
Remember, there is NO need for drastic measures. If you lose your job and your house, it's only a momentary setback on your road of life.
It's not the end of the world.
I can tell you this because I personally know a few people who are actually on their THIRD house, and I myself lost a house in the 90s. And three years and two months after the discharge of my bankruptcy, I bought another house.
Don't let the scammers and BSers and drama suck you down with BULL DROPPINGS! You will come out of this mess in a way better space, just give it all time to evolve, it's gonna be OK!
Friday, February 20, 2009
You Have The Right...
A deep voice on the radio, warm, friendly, "The credit card companies don't want you to know that you have the right to cut your bills in half..."
Or something like that, I'm writing from memory.
Yeah, that warm and fuzzy voice is telling you to use their services to cut your bill in half.
Can't you smell the BULL DROPPINGS just oozing out of the speakers?
I can.
These guys will take your money, claim to negotiate a settlement with the credit card companies, you'll send a check to them every month and maybe they really will pay the bills. Maybe. Late if at all.
It's all a huge scam that will ruin your credit.
And they may not pay any of your bills. Some of these outfits take your money and run, leaving you with huge problems with your creditors. Trust me, collection agencies DO NOT CARE that you were scammed, they just want the money.
If you really are in trouble, call Consumer Credit Counselors. They're a "for real" non-profit that can help you make a payment plan to pay your bills within a set period of time. And if they can't help you, they'll be honest about it and tell you.
Unlike that friendly voice on the radio...
Or something like that, I'm writing from memory.
Yeah, that warm and fuzzy voice is telling you to use their services to cut your bill in half.
Can't you smell the BULL DROPPINGS just oozing out of the speakers?
I can.
These guys will take your money, claim to negotiate a settlement with the credit card companies, you'll send a check to them every month and maybe they really will pay the bills. Maybe. Late if at all.
It's all a huge scam that will ruin your credit.
And they may not pay any of your bills. Some of these outfits take your money and run, leaving you with huge problems with your creditors. Trust me, collection agencies DO NOT CARE that you were scammed, they just want the money.
If you really are in trouble, call Consumer Credit Counselors. They're a "for real" non-profit that can help you make a payment plan to pay your bills within a set period of time. And if they can't help you, they'll be honest about it and tell you.
Unlike that friendly voice on the radio...
The Property Tax Assessment Scam
Did you get a really official looking letter in the mail, telling you that you MUST send in $$ ASAP to have your property taxes lowered?
I sure hope you didn't send in a check, because the whole thing is BULL DROPPINGS.
Yes, it's been on the news and all over the Internet, but my co-worker's mom actually sent in a check. Luckily, she heard on the news that it was all a scam, so she was able to stop payment on the check before it reached the scammers. (Whew!!)
I'm telling you, people can't stay ahead of the scams -- mail, phone, e-mail, Internet, it's just too much. Even knowledgeable people are getting scammed.
Listen, if you want your property to be reassessed, then you should contact your local assessor's office, over at the county building. They'll do it for free.
I sure hope you didn't send in a check, because the whole thing is BULL DROPPINGS.
Yes, it's been on the news and all over the Internet, but my co-worker's mom actually sent in a check. Luckily, she heard on the news that it was all a scam, so she was able to stop payment on the check before it reached the scammers. (Whew!!)
I'm telling you, people can't stay ahead of the scams -- mail, phone, e-mail, Internet, it's just too much. Even knowledgeable people are getting scammed.
Listen, if you want your property to be reassessed, then you should contact your local assessor's office, over at the county building. They'll do it for free.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Got A Text Message From Your Bank?
Oh dear, did you get a text message from your bank, telling you to call an 800 number right away?
Hon, it's just another scam.
My credit union actually has fliers posted, warning customers to NOT respond to these text messages. It's just another variation on the phishing schemes that too many people fall for.
If you get an urgent text message from your bank, do yourself a huge favor. DON'T call that phone number that's so conveniently provided in the body of the text. Don't hit reply either. Instead, call your bank on the regular number and let them know what's happening. They may actually ask you to come in, or may tell you to ignore and delete the message.
In any case, don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS! Never, ever give your personal bank information to anyone. If it really was the bank, they'd have all your info!!
Be smart in the New Year!
Hon, it's just another scam.
My credit union actually has fliers posted, warning customers to NOT respond to these text messages. It's just another variation on the phishing schemes that too many people fall for.
If you get an urgent text message from your bank, do yourself a huge favor. DON'T call that phone number that's so conveniently provided in the body of the text. Don't hit reply either. Instead, call your bank on the regular number and let them know what's happening. They may actually ask you to come in, or may tell you to ignore and delete the message.
In any case, don't fall for the BULL DROPPINGS! Never, ever give your personal bank information to anyone. If it really was the bank, they'd have all your info!!
Be smart in the New Year!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Are We Out Of Tin Foil Yet?
Are we out of tin foil yet?
You know, the stuff people use for those silly tin foil hats?
I am so tired of the conspiracy theorists that I actually wrote about them in my other blog, the one I use for my political rantings, www.wobbling-down-the-middle.blogspot.com.
Did you know that no matter what you tell a conspiracy theorist, no matter how many hard facts you provide, you can't convince them that the rantings of their conspiracy of the month are a bunch of BULL DROPPINGS?
In fact, you'll just be considered a part of the great conspiracy?
Amazing...
Look, when someone you know starts ranting and raving about Obama, about the upcoming riots, about the dissolving of the Second Amendment of the Constitution, just roll your eyes and send them to www.snopes.com.
Yeah, I know, they won't read it. And if they do, they won't believe it.
But at least you tried...
I don't think we'll ever run out of tin foil for those silly hats. Darn it all.
You know, the stuff people use for those silly tin foil hats?
I am so tired of the conspiracy theorists that I actually wrote about them in my other blog, the one I use for my political rantings, www.wobbling-down-the-middle.blogspot.com.
Did you know that no matter what you tell a conspiracy theorist, no matter how many hard facts you provide, you can't convince them that the rantings of their conspiracy of the month are a bunch of BULL DROPPINGS?
In fact, you'll just be considered a part of the great conspiracy?
Amazing...
Look, when someone you know starts ranting and raving about Obama, about the upcoming riots, about the dissolving of the Second Amendment of the Constitution, just roll your eyes and send them to www.snopes.com.
Yeah, I know, they won't read it. And if they do, they won't believe it.
But at least you tried...
I don't think we'll ever run out of tin foil for those silly hats. Darn it all.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Happy New Year!
Yes, 2008 has come and gone.
I have many resolutions for the upcoming year. One is to write more in my blogs, especially pointing out the BULL DROPPINGS that get plopped into my e-mail, mail, voicemail, blogs, forums, etc, etc, etc.
I'll do my best to provide facts to void out those paranoid fantasies that prevail all too often in our media driven society.
I hope you'll be along for the ride, 2009 is going to be an interesting year.
Happy New Year!
I have many resolutions for the upcoming year. One is to write more in my blogs, especially pointing out the BULL DROPPINGS that get plopped into my e-mail, mail, voicemail, blogs, forums, etc, etc, etc.
I'll do my best to provide facts to void out those paranoid fantasies that prevail all too often in our media driven society.
I hope you'll be along for the ride, 2009 is going to be an interesting year.
Happy New Year!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Political Ad Campaigns
Look, I don't have much time today, I'm rushing.
The people who smother us with negative ad campaigns count on it, that you and I are too busy to look up the LIES and BULL DROPPINGS they're trying to put over as the truth.
Take a minute. Don't let your emotions or prejudices get in the way. Take a minute and look at what the ads say, and then use your dang head!!
Anytime an ad tries to wack you over the head with overblown and dramatic tactics, it's pretty much guaranteed to be 75% lies. Minimum.
In fact, the closer the election comes, the more likely the ad campaign is going to be:
1) Negative
and
2) Filled with lies
So slow down, take a deep breath, clear your head.
Don't buy into the BS.
The BULL DROPPINGS will drown you if you do.
The day after the election, the world won't end if gay marriage exists (the current state of marriage is a contract with the gov't, if you want to be "MARRIED" go to your church!!), if a Black man or the McSame is President, if we vote the bastards in or out, trust me, life will go on.
Don't believe the hype.
It's just more bull droppings...
The people who smother us with negative ad campaigns count on it, that you and I are too busy to look up the LIES and BULL DROPPINGS they're trying to put over as the truth.
Take a minute. Don't let your emotions or prejudices get in the way. Take a minute and look at what the ads say, and then use your dang head!!
Anytime an ad tries to wack you over the head with overblown and dramatic tactics, it's pretty much guaranteed to be 75% lies. Minimum.
In fact, the closer the election comes, the more likely the ad campaign is going to be:
1) Negative
and
2) Filled with lies
So slow down, take a deep breath, clear your head.
Don't buy into the BS.
The BULL DROPPINGS will drown you if you do.
The day after the election, the world won't end if gay marriage exists (the current state of marriage is a contract with the gov't, if you want to be "MARRIED" go to your church!!), if a Black man or the McSame is President, if we vote the bastards in or out, trust me, life will go on.
Don't believe the hype.
It's just more bull droppings...
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