E-mail scams

I once read that you can't scam an honest person. And, to a large extent, that is true: scams tend to prey upon someone trying to get ''something, for nothing''.

Or the very slow-witted, I suppose. But generally, dishonest people.


As an example, the so-called ''Nigerian'' scams, in which you are e-mailed by some foreign government offical, saying ''I'm not supposed to be doing this, but...'' Right there: If it's illegal in his country, maybe you shouldn't be getting involved -- perhaps?


Just a few days ago, I recieved this e-mail, which I've excerpted here:

TINUBU SQUARE, VICTORIA ISLAND,LAGOS-NIGERIA
FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA
TINUBU SQUARE, LAGOS

From the Desk Of: Mr. Igweson Andy
Executive Secretary Governor (CBN)

IMMEDIATE PAYMENT OF FUND

From the records of outstanding Clients/next of kin inheritancebeneficiaries due for payment with the Federal Government of Nigeria,your name as next on the list of the outstanding Clients whohave not received there last installment payments.

First of all, I know I don't have any relatives living in Nigeria. So, as an honest person, I would realize immediately that this message is mis-directed. (And, by the way, through what source did they [in error] recieve my e-mail address?) So an honest person would e-mail back, saying ''I'm sorry, but you have the wrong person.''


I wish to inform you that your payment is being processed and will be released to you as soon as you respond to this letter. Also note that from the record, your last installment balance credit is US$10.million dollars (Ten Million United States Dollars).

Now that's odd: What account would have a balance of exactly US$10,000,000? Particularly as it is in a foreign currency. Wouldn't it be -- at the very least -- plus or minus a few thousand? This seems... artificial.


Please re-confirm to me if this is inline with what we have in your record. Also re-confirm the followings:
1) your full name.
2) Phone, fax and mobile #.
3) Company name, position and address.
4) Profession, age and marital status.
5) Scanned copy of int'l passport.
6) Bank Details.

As soon as the information is received, your payment will be processed and effected to your nominated bank account or by cash depending on your preference.

If they have managed to contact me, shouldn't they have my full name?

Why should an estate settlement be concerned with my occupational information?

What relevance does a passport have with an estate settlement?

And, why should they need my bank details -- particularly if they also offer to send me the money in cash? Should they not just offer to send me a bank cheque?


Again: Only the dishonest, and/or dim.


--TG