Lessons from the 20/20 vision post.
Thought: "now, that's weird, but overlooked it because.....yada, yada....then I got scammed"
WebPress understands there is one very busy detective:
A "driver agent" has nearly ruined the ability of five race teams to enter NASCAR this 2009 season, by promising sponsorship dollars. In 60 days, he cost race teams at least 100K in building cars, the dreams of some young racers and 5 "employees" a month's worth of salaries ranging from 60-83K. He also got 6-10 (and perhaps more) women's personal information and social security numbers promising them PR and Branding jobs in the sport and a free ride to the Superbowl... to create viability he put them in contact with the race teams and racers.
Most interestingly, this guy scammed about 30 people all at the same time, alone. They all believed the same lie....yet EVERYONE felt stupid, ashamed, angry, revengeful and untrusting of everyone, within the circle, after the fact. Yet, there were too many people connected through Facebook, text messages and relationships created. They all got together and now a detective has quite the job on his hands. You call it, internet fraud identity theft or one sick-puppy?
EVERYONE experienced the same emotions. Some are still dealing with certain stages of it, perhaps limiting their ability to move forward with new opportunities. First of all, this dude needs to be caught and put in a straight-jacket, secondly Webpress would like to help anyone out there about to get involved in this kind of scam see the light.
We know that there are some huge internet fraud scams going on, whether its this guy or someone else, here's some tips to make rules of engagement:
1. Avoid all one-liner craigslist job openings including sports marketing and travel
2. Do not make excuses for your gut instinct when reading someone's eyes in a picture
3. Make an attempt to meet the person or video chat, if they evade you consistently, try to ditch them - if they get angry, cut ties.
4. Sign contracts over gTalk or a video platform, watch the fax/scan go through
5. Don't think you're nuts when something goes wrong.
6. Don't hide in shame because someone conned you...get it out- tell someone - it's likely they have the same story.
7. Listen to your instincts regardless of the cost.
8. Share information with others outside the middle man.
9. Keep your contacts close.
10. Don't fall for the guilt trips.
This kind of fraud exists, it's real. These people use their talents for good or bad, we'd like to know your experience with one or the other.
Webpress Media
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