A different kind of predator

PC Tattletale, Detroit MI — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 19:42:10 GMT

Chris, It sounds interesting. It amazes me that the public falls for these scams. If something sounds too good to be true..... well you know the rest. Bryan Fleming PC Tattletale Internet Chatroom Monitoring Software http://www.PCTattletale.com

A different kind of predator

Laura Duck, Glenwood, Alabama — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 19:54:16 GMT

I received one of these emails, from a lady named Mrs. Rabi Aliu. She said she was dying and her late husband deposited money in an account with lloyds tsb bank in london. She made me her benefactor and sent me a copy of the deposit slip. It looked legit. She asked me to contact the bank and provided name and contact numbers for a Colin Scott someone supposedly in the account department. He emailed me saying he represented the bank and to send a copy of the certificate of deposit which Mrs. Aliu sent me and a copy of my id. I did all of this yesterday. I was watching the Today show this morning and saw the segment on Chris Hansen's To Catch a Con Man. I think this may be one of the scammers. I just checked my email. This time he is requesting 850 pounds to be sent so the dormant account can be reopened and also my bank information. I'm really glad I watched the news this morning. I'm not to worried about them having my id. I have the worst credit anyone has ever seen.

A different kind of predator

John Rusfeldt Racine, WI — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 19:55:48 GMT

We really do need public education on this matter. Thanks for putting it on the air. Maybe I will no longer have to take as many complaints.

A different kind of predator

Lupita Aguilar, Attorney at Law, AGUILAR LAW FIRM — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:22:20 GMT

I am an attorney in Corpus Christi, Tx. I heard Chris Hansen's interview this morning. I frequently get messages from people claiming to have millions.... I just received one today from someone calling himself Moses at moseskuk@yahoo.com. I replied and told him to watch your show.

A different kind of predator

Linda, St. Paul, MN — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:23:37 GMT

I was caught in one of these scams. Someone contacted me in response to a "For Sale" ad in the Pioneer Press newspaper, St. Paul, MN. Fortunately I work for a law firm so didn't lose any money. I called our Attorney General who contacted the Mounty Police in Canada who went to the address sent me for sending them money. I'm not sure how it ended.

A different kind of predator

donna pickett, marina, CA — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:39:06 GMT

I know of two people who have been caught up in just such cases. One fell for it, one did not. I too recieved an email of sorts, I fall into the "just delete" category.

A different kind of predator

Patti Deer, Victorville, CAlifornia — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:50:06 GMT

Educate the american people - there is no free lunch

A different kind of predator

jane phillips richmond va — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:55:13 GMT

i need to find out how to these people from nigeria off my computer. I was scammed out of 1500.00 tellin me i had someone in my family had died in an accident. Now they are warning me to pay them retainer fees. How can i get rid of them? please help me.

A different kind of predator

Charley Tiff — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:55:24 GMT

Go baby go.......These e-mails, although very creative and in itself, interesting, are a major pain in the b***. Can't wait to watch you unconfront one!!!

A different kind of predator

Diane Gironda, Richmond, VA — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:56:19 GMT

I can't believe that anyone actually falls for this type of scheme. I would guess that this and other similar schemes have found its way to nearly everyone's email. The "Nigerian" one is STILL making its rounds. Indeed, there certainly has also been many,many caveats via the media to avoid these. Some people never learn that if it appears too good to be true - it definitely is not good.

A different kind of predator

Adrianne Lucke, Clinton, MS — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:56:43 GMT

Someone should also investigate the "romance" scammers who ply the "singles in search of" ads, promising love, marriage along with, in some cases, sharing their inheritance, gold they have mined, the large promised payment for work done in Nigeria, Ghana, etc. These people's stories follow a script as well. But the pain they inflict goes beyond the money sent because they get you where you are the most vulnerable, looking for love. And when they are finished with you (or until you get smart), the emotional scars are more difficult to recover from than the money they scammed you out of, to help them out of a bind and to come to America and marry you. And they know all the tricks to make you feel guilty for not helping them. Trust me, as smart as I am (Mensa), it was a painful and humbling education. I never fell for the blatant type that I have found in my e-mailbox but I've pretty much seen many aspects of the ISO site romance scams.

A different kind of predator

Ellen, Chatsworth, CA — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:57:14 GMT

I have just called my stepdad to watch this tonight. He had a similar thing happen to him a few weeks ago. This was done by Fax. This particular fax came from England giving him 48 hours to contact them or something close to that. I tried to explain to him that if a relative left him money they would not be contacting him by fax. I have just left him a message to watch this progam tonight.

A different kind of predator

anthony, bridgeport ct — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:18:17 GMT

it is greed..pure greed on the part of stupid money hungry americans that continue to make americans guillable to such stupid con game... wanting to get something for nothing... no other nations is susceptible to such blatant stupdidity... how can one win a lottery if one has not played a lottery.. which is the latest scam... why should someone want to share $20 of their money with americans... the love of money is at the root of all evils and will continue to be the reason americans are fleeced of thier hard earned money... they are as guilty as the idiot on the other end of the scam. wise up people.. money isnt all and one nevers gets something for nothing

A different kind of predator

joe gibney davenport fl — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:20:08 GMT

remember george c scott's famous words in the film the flim flam man:"You can't cheat an honest man"

A different kind of predator

Laura Orlando, FL — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:22:48 GMT

I've received many of these emails. I always reply with.. "since there are so many scams on the internet, I need to foward your information on to the US government to confirm it's legitimate." I'm sure they won't email again.

A different kind of predator

Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:38:21 GMT

Whenever I get these emails, I tell them to please give my portion to their country...maybe then they wouldn't be starving.

A different kind of predator

Janice Page Saint Petersburg, FL — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:49:45 GMT

I have received one of those emails myself and quickly hit the delete key. If it sounds too good to be true, then it usually is......

A different kind of predator

Elizabeth Day,MesaArizona — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:57:24 GMT

some of these conmen have way too much time on theyre hands...plus there is a sucker born every minute, we as a people want to believe in the inherent good of doing something special for our fellow man who is hurting.that we lose sight of whats really going on, there really are people out there who make a pretty penny by taking advantage of the generosity of the soft hearted..or the soft headed...so much so that when a real need comes up,we pass by with no recognition.

A different kind of predator

s.j. levickis — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:58:31 GMT

Con schemes like this are and have been a dime a dozen for years! People who fall prey to this are seeing $ signs proving they're greedy in thinking they're going make "lots of money" for literally doing nothing. People are too lazy and gullible to think someone's going to "reward" them with very large sums of money. We get those types of schemes "faxed" to our company frequently. Any type of con game will always offer big monetary rewards to suck you in. If people would just stop, think and "investigate" the source - hey, but that's just too much work - right? If you get sucked in - then you deserve to lose and have no one to blame but yourself.

A different kind of predator

Corinne Bargers Colorado Springs Colorado — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:59:17 GMT

This is a huge problem on our Internet Site, I must recieve at the very least one a day if not more. Maybe they are all orginating from Africa but mine come from all over the world even Iran. Please people if your reading this and I don't care how sad the sob story do NOT REPLY TO THEM.

A different kind of predator

melanie shannon — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 22:05:49 GMT

I have recieved sereral of the e-mails. And yes i deleted them as soon as i read the first couple of sentences. How sad the goverment puts no more concern in to it then they do. What if it is a terrorist ring gathering money to plot against us?

A different kind of predator

James Oliver — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 22:26:05 GMT

I receive several of these which I delete. I wish I know how to stop receiving these EM's

A different kind of predator

john wayne — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 22:26:24 GMT

This one should be good to watch. I have received plenty of crap from these scammers...only fact is, I don't read them or reply to them. It's about time these 419 scammers get what they throw at us. Good work, I am hooked to dateline shows ....

A different kind of predator

kuulei woods, Honolulu, HI — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 22:28:58 GMT

It is sad to see what people now days that are desperate for money would do..To think that there are people out there that try to weasel money out of you. I hope that these people that are doing these thing will get caught and suffer the consequence

A different kind of predator

manny garcia st augustine FL — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 22:29:18 GMT

I get atleast 2or 3 of these attemts a week I lead them on for a while had one even send me a check before i wired any money, of course the check was a forgery.

A different kind of predator

Joe in California — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:26:02 GMT

Dear Chris: I wish I had a dollar for every one of those scam e-mails I have received in the last few years, then I wouldn't need their money!! LOL I have a friend who fell for one of those hustles and they sent him a check (I think it was that Colin Scott dude), my friend took the check to his bank and tried to cash it, wound up getting arrested, spent a couple of days in jail and got in hot water with the Secret Service. Eventually, when everything was straightened out, the charges against him were dropped. This is a huge scam folks, don't go for it! Can anyone say "delete key"? By the way Chris, thank you for being the one to go after these low-lifes and crooks, someone has to. I also wanted to commend you as your fellow citizen for "To Catch A Predator". Keep up the great work and I'll keep on watching!

A different kind of predator

S.Iverson; Mant., MN — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:28:37 GMT

Hey Jane Phillips of Richmond, VA!!! ~ forward all your copies of your scammer's e-mail correspondence to your local fbi office, and make sure to copy the scammers on the forward (so they see exactly what you're doing). The address is richmond@ic.fbi.gov ~ you can also file an official report @ "http://www.fbi.gov/cyberinvest/inetschemes.htm .

A different kind of predator

Judy - Texas — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:31:17 GMT

I receive them daily I even have documents they have faxed me, and they have called me on the phone.. They need many years in prison!!

A different kind of predator

SUe k, Dallas, Texas — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:34:22 GMT

i have received the emails before. never replied them. i know there is alot of con men from Nigeria. originally i came from Africa. Everytime i have to deal with someone from Nigeria am always carefull. Mojority of them are conmen and they are very good at it. thanks for opening they eyes of those who dont know about these con men. sue

A different kind of predator

patti corbin — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:38:49 GMT

My daughter recieved one of these scams for her car she was selling.she was asking 12.000 for her car and he sent her a fake check for 16.000 for the shipping to texas. the check bank check had no address as to where it was located and the signature line on the check had a scribbled name with no street address or state or zip.. I took the check to the bank to have it verified which we knew it was no good. we then turned the check over to our local police dept.my daughter kept getting email and phone calls from this man with the sob story of ill health. the police told her the next phone call , to tell him she has a new phone number and to call it.Little did the scammer know that it was the private line to the detective at the police dept, that was the end of the email and calls.

A different kind of predator

L McLean, North Bay, Ontario Canada — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:39:19 GMT

I have received many of these e-mails offering me part of an inheritance and have normally hit the delete button. Lately it seems that there are many more of these scammers that will e-mail again saying that the time is running out and if I do not e-mail them the information they can not claim the money and I will not get any either! I now just tell them that my lawyer is looking after it now that I have forwarded the information to him, since it is such a big sum of money that they are offering I do not want to mess it up! LOL amazingly I never hear from them again! I think the amount of time that these people are using to send these e-mails can be better spent in jail making licence plates!

A different kind of predator

Bill Slapwell Louisville Ky — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:46:44 GMT

When people get greedy they get stupid, and if you are that greedy and stupid, then you deserve what ever you get.

A different kind of predator

MARIA L. — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:53:41 GMT

IT IS CRAZY THAT ANYONE IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD FALL FOR SUCH A THING. WHY WOULD A COMPLETE STRANGER WANT TO JUST GIVE YOU A LARGE AMOUNT OF MONEY AND IF THEY WANT TO GIVE YOU MONEY WHY WOULD THEY BE ASKING YOU TO SEND THEM MONEY. PEOPLE REALLY NEED TO USE THEIR BRAINS SO THEY DON'T ALLOW SUCH CRIMINAL TO TAKE THEIR MONEY. IT IS YOUR OWN FAULT IF YOU GET SCAMMED NOTHING IN LIFE IS FREE AND NEVER FORGET THAT

A different kind of predator

Boca Raton, Florida — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 23:59:48 GMT

My friend has an MBA; she took courses at Harvard; she has been administrators all over the world; she did some consulting work for UNICEF. Guess what? She forwarded one these kinds of emails to me and ask me to proceed before it's late -- the one Bill Gates was giving money away. I quickly call her and told to stop that nonsense. I thought someone who has been Harvard should have been smart, right?

A different kind of predator

Tien Schneider, Cherry Hills Village, Colorado — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:01:39 GMT

An acquaintance of mine fell for another scam: He got a letter saying that he won US$600,000. He contacted them and was told to pay US$2000.00 for taxes before the money would belong to them. He wired them the money, a week later they called and asked for more, my friend sent them another $2000 against my advice, and then another telephone call for more money for different reasons. Finally, my friend gave up hope of collecting the lottery winning. I'm so glad to see you're doing the public a good service because friends don't always listen to friend's advice. It may take a few show like these to wake people to the idea that "If it's too good to be true, then it's too good to be true!" There's no such thing that someone would give you 2 million dollars for doing almost nothing!

A different kind of predator

Katie, Cleveland, Ohio — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:11:03 GMT

Unfortunately because of the state of the economy today, people are desperate to believe in things they normally know sound too good to be true. I have received many of these e-mails and have just deleted them. Just try to remember the old saying "If it sounds too good to be true, it must not be true."

A different kind of predator

Colin Wolfson, Virginia Beach, VA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:13:45 GMT

If we receive emails from people trying to do scams like this, can we somehow turn you onto them so you can investigate specific people? I'd like to stop these guys from making money off unsuspecting people.

A different kind of predator

John Jankowski — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:15:00 GMT

Dear Datline: I have gotten 4 of these in the last month,I have answered thes with a laugh.I am an ex Operations Banker and put people in jail...they can't get anthing right even the Amt of winning # or ticket # you can check on National Lottery.sincerly ut nice try...letters

A different kind of predator

Becky R., Lancaster, PA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:16:12 GMT

I can't' believe this. As I was checking my email and watching dateline I recieved an email jsut as Chris talked about. A women claiming to have cancer and her husband died and left a large sum of money. What a crock.

A different kind of predator

Marissa Stangl, Miami, FL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:19:32 GMT

I was almost a victim of this type of con. We were selling our Mercedes and received an email from a guy in NY who offered us $7500 more than our asking price. The deal was that we would give his broker the overage as his fee before the car was picked up. We got a cashiers check from the guy for $22K and since the envelope arrived with no return address, I called Wachovia to confirm funds and they said they did not feel comfortable with the document I had. I then googled the owner of the account and found them in NC. I spoke to the owner of the bank account and she confirmed it was fraud. I feel sad for those who just don't know better.

A different kind of predator

Chrisse Hull M — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:24:09 GMT

First....KUDOS... TO MR HANSEN 4 his Predator series....thank you...u should do a lot more in the Massachusetts area on this...PLEASE.... 2nd I recd a weird email fm a guy claiming to be fm Geneva....I need to find this email in my archives.... I have NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO $$$$$$ but the minute I mentione what I am willing to pay monthly for rent I guess the wolves come out....see I live in MA....where rents per month are apprx 1300-2000/mo so youll get every a....... alive attracted to yr email addy

A different kind of predator

Dee Ginikos, Nashport, Ohio — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:25:22 GMT

I receive at least one of this type of e-mails every week. I just got one today from "the Bank of Scotland." Why would anybody fall for this?

A different kind of predator

Butch Hazzard, Fultonville, NY — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:26:21 GMT

I am only 20 minutes into the program and this is great. It is about time someone gets to these people. These people need to be stopped and this is agreat way to stop these people from taking advantage of unsuspecting people. Great job on this!

A different kind of predator

Roby Wilson, Arlington, VA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:27:13 GMT

I am watching this show now! I applaud Dateline! I work as a fraud investigator for a large bank and see this happening to clients on a regular basis. After years of working these cases I am still surprised how many people fall for this. I hope to see further shows. Especially the ones that lure people into "work at home payment processing scams". These scams are bilking more money out of unsuspecting persons more than the fraud you aired tonight. It all stems from phishing emails people are opening in their email boxes! Most of the funds go to Russiaor an ex-soviet block country.

A different kind of predator

Rev. Bill Crane, Chatsworth, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:30:00 GMT

Chris, Why didn't you get law enforcement involved and have the scammers arrested?

A different kind of predator

mike Cincinnati, Ohio — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:31:34 GMT

Im in Cincinnati and WLWT isnt playing this. What is up with that. They were playing the most boring interviewer ever so I switched channels.

A different kind of predator

John Williams, Hanahan, SC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:33:51 GMT

Excellent feature. I get these scam emails all the time and know how to hit delete very quickly. I was the intended target of a sales scam last July. I was mailed $4000 in American Express Gift Checques for art prints I had agreed to sell for $2400. When contacted about the overpayment, the purchaser wanted me to bank the GC's and wire him the difference via Western Union. My bank and American Express both confirmed that I had $4000 in counterfiets. They were turned over to American Express's Fraud Investigations Office and copies were sent to various law enforcement agencies along with prints of all emails and chat logs. Don't know if they ever caught the guy. And his accent sounds a lot like what I heard during your report.

A different kind of predator

Dave G. , Michigan — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:35:41 GMT

If you can arrest the sexual predators as soon as you're "done" with them, why can't you do the same thing to these 419ers? They've both committed crimes, you have them at your location ... why not have them busted in the same way? I'd love to see that.

A different kind of predator

tim winking — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:35:42 GMT

This scam is oh-so last century. If you do a google on HYIP you will get over 2.5 million hits. These are sites where you earn between 10% interest per month to over 100% per day. First you set up an account in an offshoe bank, typically either E-Gold or E-Bullion. You then transfer money to the HYIP site and start earning your money. There are a large number of monitoring sites. These sites tell you how long the HYIP has been paying out and whether they pay on time. And they have message boards where others give their experience. The sites tend to be well done. They make fun of the other HYIPs and explain why theirs is not an HYIP and is legit. CHRIS HANSON - This is your next gig. There are literally millions of people playing in these pyramid schemes

A different kind of predator

Roger Folland, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:35:57 GMT

I have absolutely no sympathy for folks who fall for the "Nigerian Scam". Those who fall for it, were it legitamate, don't seem to have a problem with abetting illegal international fund transfers and money laundering. If the scams were real offers, how would they explain the transfer of millions of dollars through their bank accounts to the Dept of the Treasury and the IRS? Greed is the operating factor and loss of money is a just outcome.

A different kind of predator

Martha Picarriello — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:37:03 GMT

I am very glad you are doing this to educate the public. I hope you consider doing an investigation on Romance scams, the scamers also follows a script, he/she would tell you that is a widowed, does not have any family, is on a business trip in Ghana or Nigeria, mostly self employed,they use pictures of other victims to post on the Online dating services like Perfectmatch.com and Match.com, their spelling is terrible, they use i in stead of I. The victims are smart men and women, and the emotional damage is worst than loosing money.

A different kind of predator

Joe A Musselwhite — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:39:02 GMT

Catch-um and imprison them. I havent had many, but I normally ask for them to send money and I.D. No takers yet!

A different kind of predator

Molly, Omaha, NE — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:40:24 GMT

The e-mail I recieved was a little different. I sent e-mails to the local pet shops looking for a specefic pet. A man from Africa sent me pictures of the dog I wanted and promised to send it to me for half of what I would have paid in the US. Luckily I watched your show. If you had not aired this information I probably would have fallen for it. The man in Africa was very angry when I mentioned Dateline. Thank you for your dedication.

A different kind of predator

Howard Harvey, Oklahoma City Okla — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:42:39 GMT

I have recieved the same things on the internet. I e mailed them back, and told them that this is fake, no one gives free money, for nothing. The emails have stopped.

A different kind of predator

Chris Montaya — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:42:41 GMT

I got this similar kind of email and i was emailing with this guy from africa for a few weeks but I knew from the start that it was a scam and finally I told him that I also have a similar situation as him and that if he can lend me a few million then his return will be double. He stopped emailing me after that.

A different kind of predator

Jack Binkley,Wapakoneta,Ohio — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:43:10 GMT

We commend Chris Hansen and the NBC dateline crew in exposing the internet scam and have to say that Chris Hansen has to be the top of the scammers in pulling these guys out of the wood work.

A different kind of predator

Donna McInnis Chester NH — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:44:00 GMT

I recieved one of these emails from Lady Rita Mosley she said she is suffring from cancerous ailments. She was married to Sir Davis Mosley an Englishman who Died. When her late husband was alive he deposited the sum of Twenty Million Pounds which were derived from his vast estate and investments in capital market with his bank in the UK. Her doctor told her that she has limited days to live due to the cancerous problems she suffers from. Then she goes on to say " Though what bothers me most is the stroke that I have in addition to the cancer. With this hard reality that has befallen my family, and me I have decided to donate this fund to you and want you to use this gift which comes from my husbands effort to fund the upkeep of lesspriviledged and richnior and destituted. This decision was because I do not have any children that will inherit this money and my husbands relatives are bourgeois and ver wealthy persons and I do not want this hard earned money to be misused or invested into ill perceived ventures". She says I can contact her at ritmley2007_uk14@yahoo.co.uk Keep up the good work I love these shows

A different kind of predator

Autumn Pinto, Fairfax, VA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:44:36 GMT

People should be aware that these men also prey on the dating websites. I was enrolled in yahoo and msn personals. Even after I was in a relationship, I never took down my profile. On both sites I was sent messages from very handsome men that claimed to be businessmen years after I started using it. After exchanging a few emails, they would then tell me they really needed me to do them a favor. One that involved getting some money from people who owed them money in the US. I could collect the money, keep a portion and send him the rest. I have a Masters in Criminal Justice and am no stranger to this scam. I tried to complain to both personals websites and nothing was done. I decided to just deal with it myself and call these guys on it. I emailed them back and told them I knew what they were up to, and that I was turning them into the authorities here in the US. For some reason, they never contacted me again. I just feel sorry for the lonely and unsuspecting women out there who dont know better. The funny thing is, my profile clearly stated that I an criminal investigator!!

A different kind of predator

Sarah Regan, Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:45:37 GMT

I work as a Western Union agent and have seen several customers fall prey to these scams. The incredible thing is, that even though I tell them they are being scammed, they refuse to believe it. It boggles my mind!

A different kind of predator

Dennis , Austin Texas — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:47:04 GMT

It's amazing how many people have responded to this. Just shows the con's keep on coming, mutating from one scam to another. And gullible people keep falling for them. We need more shows like this to help expose them. Good job man!! keep it up and I'll watch more Dateline NBC.

A different kind of predator

Carmine Iantosca, Boston, MA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:47:05 GMT

Nice job Chris, I wish I could retire and scam these scammers...looks like fun!

A different kind of predator

Omo Naija, Washington DC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:47:06 GMT

I find it appalling that you would compare internet scammers to child predators. You undermine the roles of the so called "victims" in this issue. They themselves are criminals, pure GREEDY criminals. Has it ever occurred to you that if these "victims" were not as greedy, the scammers would not have a job??? I'm very disappointed Mr. Hansen that you would partake in such a one sided investigation after doing something as great as To Catch a Predator. Furthermore, you are now contributing to a sterotype that upstanding, honest NIGERIANS have to deal with every day. Every country has its criminals. In this instance, you are using a small population of criminals to paint a negative of all Nigerians as a whole.

A different kind of predator

Daniel, New Mexico — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:48:54 GMT

You gotta be some kinda moron to fall for something like this. Paging Common Sense. Please come to the courtesy desk.

A different kind of predator

Joseph D Richardson, Gainesville, Florida — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:49:49 GMT

Hi Chris: I get these scams from ladies alot who wish to come to the USA. I talk to them and when they mention Money I END all Conversations.

A different kind of predator

Charles Westmoreland — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:49:58 GMT

Before the internet people were getting scammed all the same. Suckers were getting hustled in ancient Rome, losing their wives, camels, rugs-whatever. Good luck with that, Chris.

A different kind of predator

Donna Darnley — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:50:28 GMT

This is also happening over the phone. My 84 year old mother almost fell for it. Local law inforcement wasn't interested in trying to catch these people

A different kind of predator

Gene Scala, New Castle, PA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:51:00 GMT

I don't see the value of this program. You show the scammers, tell them who you are and they walk out the door and go back to business. Poorly done. Catching the predators is constructive and gets these guys off the streets and into the police system. These email scammers will go on and on until the various countries work to rid them from the internet. Go back to what you do best...........

A different kind of predator

Joseph — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:51:02 GMT

Thank you so much for pursuing these perpetrators. I get a tone of emails from these scammers.

A different kind of predator

L.S., West Texas — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:52:51 GMT

I am currently involved in a "scam" that I hoped wasn't true...a romance "scam", my "boyfriend" is currently in Nigeria, needing to come "home" and has asked me for money to help him come back so we can get "married", and I closed by eyes and did not use my "commen sense" and have sent him money.It is very hard to not keep talking to him, but I realize the "scam" now and will not talk to him anymore.He as called me on the phone and has the accent from Nigeria, though he is supposed to be a "Texan".If you need any info as to how they con you I have all the instant messages I have been getting from him for the last two months. I have also received the other internet scam letters but have deleted those first thing. Wish I had done the same to this "romance scam"

A different kind of predator

zed flynn los angeles, california — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:53:24 GMT

I have little sympathy for those who fall prey to these types of con. They wouldn't be victims if they were guided more by thoughtful reason and less by greed. Their greed is so strong it obscures any chance of rational thought. What they're really victims of is their own greed and the con men and women know this and prey on it. The saying "You can't cheat an honest man" has a great deal of truth to it.

A different kind of predator

Deege, Indianapolis, IN — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:53:28 GMT

I agree that GREED is the root of the scam on both parts, the scammer and the scamed. But I also feel that one should use COMMON SENCE. I too receive these e-mails, phone calls, and land mail, stating that if you submit a certain amount of cash you will receive a certain amount of cash. I always reply the same " deduct whatever monies that I have comming to me from the total sum and send the remainder". LOL of course I do not hear from these scammers again. I was shocked that there are numerous business men/women whom has fallen for this scam. It is so outrageous that there are video's in NIGERIA that mock fun of the so-called dumb AMERICAN whom has been scammed. Enough is Enough, it's time to start using plain ole common sence.

A different kind of predator

Cheryl Lansdale PA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:56:22 GMT

Chris, I have received so many of these emails I also am shocked that people fall for these. Also, I often wondered why these have not been investigated prior to this. The show was a joy to watch! But, I think you should investigate local camera shops in your back yard. I was recently in New York and looking for a new camera. What a fool I was. I had no idea what goes on there. I, very naively went into a shop and looked at what they had. I made a statement that opened the door for the scam. I said I had not had time to check online for the product he was showing me. He sold me a camera valued at 200.00 + - for 600.00. If it wasn't for my brother who was twice the size of the owner threatening to call the police and me calling American Express they would have gotten away with it. On the bottom of the receipt it was shown to me norefunds. Yes, all one word. I think you should travel a bit closer to home, walk down the street and see what they are doing at places like 57th St. Camera in Times Square! You will have a field day. How many tourists are unaware of this?? After an hour of fighting with them they did take if off my charge. Buyer Beware in New York!!

A different kind of predator

Jacqui A., Sanford, NC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:57:20 GMT

I've received these too and it allegedly came from a pretty high-up bank official. I contacted the bank's website and said somebody was using their name to do these phony scams. I got a reply back but it seemed like even the bank official was in on the whole scam because he wasn't too concerned and didn't say he was contacting the authorities or anything. I did notify the FBI but received no response.

A different kind of predator

Lynne, NH — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:58:01 GMT

I receive these types of emails daily. But worse than these are the men going into personals sites, signing up as members and luring women into giving them their money. I had no money to give however I agreed to accept delivery of merchandise he purchased and have it sent either by UPS or Fedex to Ghana. I received this long story from him about himself and his life. He promised me the moon and I fell for it hook, line and sinker. The upshot of accepting these packages was a police investigation as all these items were purchased with stolen credit cards. Of course I cooperated and there were no charges brought against me. But this guy gets off scott free because he is in Africa. It infuriates me that these people can get away with these types of activities. Dateline...if you are interested in talking to me about this i would be glad to do so.

A different kind of predator

Pam Emmert Jefferson City MO — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:58:08 GMT

THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!! I have just gotten 2 contacts on my Yahoo account from scammers. 1 from Africa and 1 from London...I can give you their yahoo address if you like. At least i was a smart 51 year old gal who knew what a scammer was....

A different kind of predator

Mika, Washington, DC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:58:08 GMT

Thank you soo much dateline for this series!!!Everyone I know have received many of these emails. I hope this will spark much conversation, so the numbers of people frauded will not increase.

A different kind of predator

Mary Lawrenceville, GA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:01:32 GMT

Thank you for putting this on the air. When I first received these con e-mails, I printed three out all on the same day and brought them to our county police department. Then, I came home and pushed the delete key! One question, how do they get our e-mail address? That concerns me a tad bit! Thanks Dateline.......

A different kind of predator

M P Forbes — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:02:34 GMT

This is CNBC crap ... why don't they concentrate on the USA con people ???? Easy prey to go off shore ... You lost me on this (and won't read this post anyway)

A different kind of predator

John, Washington, DC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:03:05 GMT

Hi - I just finished watching your Dateline special about internet e-mail scams. It was a very compelling program and I'm glad it was so well produced. I'm very concerned about the safety that NBC investigative journalists and producers take when meeting these people. I know reporters always take an extra step to get the story, but you have no idea what these con men could have had -- they could have had a gun, knife or could hurt someone. I really hope that NBC puts safety concerns of its personnel instead of putting their safety at jeopardy just for a few ratings points. Otherwise--story well done. Thanks. John, Washington, DC

A different kind of predator

Roby Wilson, Arlington, VA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:03:13 GMT

Second email! This show only represents a small portion of the scams out there! Read the responses. West Africa, Russia, England, China and even the united States has scammers. These scammers do feed off of greed and easy money. Remember that the old saying is still true: If it is true to good to be true, then it isn't!!!! These scammers are sad, tehy prey on peoples greed and trust. Most often the old are victims or less financially stable. I in know way saw the show picking on Nigerians. This is a global problem as Chris stated in his report.

A different kind of predator

Darin T., Delray Bch, FL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:03:40 GMT

I did recieve a couple of these emails from conman. They said that there was 20 million US dollars unclaimed from someone with my last name who had died that I could claim. I did respond giving them my name and adress. After a couple of days I got another email this time I told the sender that he is out of his mine and that I would not be part of his scam and that was the end of the emails.

A different kind of predator

Kingston, NY — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:03:58 GMT

As a law enforcement officer who has to deal with victims of these slim bags, I'm glad to see your show spotlight them. However I am saddened that I didn't get to see law enforcement waiting on the other side of the door, ready to pounce on them and body slam them to the pavement, like your sex predators. Please contact and work with law enforcement, so we can arrest and bring to justice these thieving scumbags.

A different kind of predator

Stewart Evans, Brentwood, Tn. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:04:09 GMT

I am not sure what the point was of your "interviewing" scammers. Not one of them was arrested. The FBI's reasoning seems to be that "there are bigger fish than these people that you met". You have to start somewhere, so why not arrest the ones you "interviewed". They could have been cousins or other relatives of the "kingpins". What a waste of resources.

A different kind of predator

velma mendez lubbock texas — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:04:28 GMT

hi my name is velma mendez i also had some email me that they needed my help he said at first that he wanted to be my friend sent me some pitchers of him and his baby and said he want to me me and my sons so we r=talked for a while then he said he wanted to ask me something so then he said that he wanted to send me some money so i could go buy my son so shoes then he said the rest of it for me to send it back to him so that he could come back to the states to meet me and my sons so for a few months he didnt say anything about the money then all of the sudden i get 3 money orders for 770dallers so i went to the money stop here where i live and the lady said they were no good and she called the police and they said that the money orders were already cashed sometime in august of 2006 and they were only for 27dallers so now they are charge me for this i have got a layers to help me but i need more help to clear my name or i am going to lose my gob and i cant not lose that because i have one son that needs me please help me with this thank you

A different kind of predator

Rebecca — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:05:06 GMT

Chris...I REALLY ENJOYED this report because as I have posted I have just received this week 2 of such SCAMS and I've been on the internet for YEARS and have NEVER gotten any such things. Therefore, I looked up a SCAM PAGE and saw there were SO many of these out there, it's unbelievable. Also,I'd like to say that I'm GLAD YOU did the show on the INTERNET CHILD PREDITOR AND WOULD LOVE TO SEE MORE OF THOSE CAUGHT AND WOULD OFFER TO POSE AS A TEEN TO CATCH MORE OF THEM. KEEP THE GREAT WORK UP.

A different kind of predator

Shawn, Kingston, NY — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:05:14 GMT

A different kind of predator

Colleen Wyman Milwaukee Wisconsin — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:05:17 GMT

I too fell victem to this scam of email scams, fortunatly it didnt cost me anything, except my time and my embarassment at my banks. I recieved three money orders from someone named Lind Say and they were found to be not legal and one cashiers check for 4800.00 that i deposited and it came to be counterfit from a Mike Shyllon from West Africa so i will be deleteing all these emails from now on, mine came thru as a job offer and they were not ligit at all.

A different kind of predator

Heather, Killeen TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:05:38 GMT

I receive e-mails like this all the time. Isnt there any law that can be passed to lock these criminals up or any e-mail address that you can send a copy to to have them investigated and thrown in the slammer? You think they would sense we're dealing with terrorism and these "con artists" could be funding terrorism. Isnt it time that we cut off there financial ties?

A different kind of predator

Stacey, Dallas, TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:05:57 GMT

It's great what you're doing Chris...but our children are far more inportant than greedy gullible grown-ups that fall for something soooo stupid. Please go back to catching the thousands of predators out there preying on our kids!

A different kind of predator

dc — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:06:08 GMT

Chris: Two great series, con man and ID theft. I learned alot. Thanks. dc

A different kind of predator

David J. Smith Shawnee, Ks. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:06:09 GMT

Great job Chris! I love the show and can't wait for next week's show. Keep on exposing the scammers and the crooks. This is "reality" at it's best. If it sounds too good to be true, always walk away.

A different kind of predator

Patrick, Sterrett, AL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:06:28 GMT

Chris, Your "To Catch a Predator" series is just what the nation needed to open up their eyes. I really enjoyed your story on "To Catch a Con Man." I too have received a bogus email asking for money. Thanks for all you do for America.

A different kind of predator

Lauren, Brooklyn, New York — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:06:34 GMT

I was just recently scammed by applying for a loan online and the gentleman took me $1800. I need to know how can I track these people in this company. If there's anyway to do so please let me know.

A different kind of predator

Regina , Round Rock, Tx. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:06:40 GMT

Please could you do something on the romance scams. They are just as bad. Not a fun experience and I used to think I was smart.

A different kind of predator

Ian — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:06:40 GMT

How Ironic thaht Chris hansen should go to England: the "mother empress" to trap some Africans running small time scams - however global those scams are. The frivolous nature of these scams is so obvious that only greed and sheer stupidity caused people to pursue them; nevertheless, they've been some onsuspecting people taken in. But if Chris Hansen can do it, so can other government agency worldwide. Africa has been raped and pillaged for a good long time now, there are big oil companies and so-called diamond companies currently in Africa making deals with tribal lords and puppet presidents, all the while their population is living in abject poverty. Why not look into the roots of the problem, the world is getting to smart now for us to keep doing the "blame game".

A different kind of predator

Phil – Arlington, TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:07:00 GMT

Just finished watching To Catch a Con Man! Good stuff. Too bad those guys couldn't get arrested. I've definitely seen those emails in my inbox before. I don't know how anyone could fall for them, but apparently there are people out there who do. As a former victim of identity theft, I'll be tuning in next Tuesday to see what you all at Dateline have in store for us with regards to that topic.

A different kind of predator

Kyle Kirchhevel, Jacksonville, FL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:07:16 GMT

Great show Chris! Loved watching you rope-a-dope these guys. Just one thing... if you do another one of these, come up with pseudonyms that aren't such obvious bad puns. Jim E. Dimoni?? Rich Greenback??? Puh-leeze. Try something like Neil Carpenter or Archie McKinnon that doesn't immediately scream "phony!!".

A different kind of predator

Bruce Ferguson, Lakeview, AR — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:08:57 GMT

Mr. Hansen: Having received similar scam offers by mail and by email, like you I began to bait the scammers. I exchanged correspondence and phone calls with more than 80 scammers over a year period. My book, Shmoozing the Nigerians (check Google for title) details my experiences and how I strung them along. Contact me and I'll send you a copy. Bruce Ferguson

A different kind of predator

James Curran — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:09:06 GMT

I have been back and forth for weeks with a potential rela estate investor. When I finally asked him how much he is willing to spend, I was asked to invest 42,500 of my own my in a joint partner ship! Just amazes me that I saw the clip on the TODAY show this morning and it finally came to ahead. WOW!!!!

A different kind of predator

Victor Colon, Pensacola,FL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:09:10 GMT

I think the program would have been more effective if law enforcement (FBI) would have been involved from the start so that they could have apprehended the criminals. However, the program did alot to warn people about these scam artists. The laws relating to these offenses need to be more harsh. I am sure that the FBI does not have the resources to track down these global scammers. Overall, I enjoyed watching the show and would like to see additional episodes on this subject.

A different kind of predator

Karen, Dublin Pennsylvania — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:09:23 GMT

I got an e-mail from England telling me that I was contacted because they could not find a blood relative for this man who died in England and that because I had the same last name that if I kept it confidential where I got the e-mail from they would split with the this person's multi millon bank account. I still have all of the documents and e-mails they sent me if the FBI wants them to look into the con artist. Actually there were two individuals involved both claiming to be lawyers and one bank. I have everything phone numbers address, e-mail addresses everything.

A different kind of predator

LC, Columbia, SC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:09:26 GMT

Chris, you may want to look into the internet dating scams as well. Not only do they entice folks through the use of popular dating sites like Match.com, but they steal other people's photos/identities to do it! The more you educate the public, the more people will be able to identify them! Check out yahoo groups/romance scams for more info.

A different kind of predator

Dave C Las Vegas, NV — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:13:32 GMT

Come on Chris, "a fool and his money will soon be parted" isn't that the old cliche`. Or even better "a sucker is born every minute" thanks P.T. But lets face it "people believe what they want to believe and hear what they want to hear". If they don't lose their money on these scams then they will lose it on the next. One last cliche "you don't get somethin' for nothin', so I say SMARTIN UP AMERICA. There that should solve it!

A different kind of predator

Don, DuBios, Pa. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:13:48 GMT

There should be more a person can do other then hit the delete button to be rid of these scammers, I like the comment of the attorney above that replied and told the scammer to watch your show. Also liked the man who gave up his idenity but that was ok, he has terrible credit

A different kind of predator

Henry Jordan, Itta Bena, Miss. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:13:59 GMT

I'm glad this show aired because I received several e-mails from these people, maybe 5 different e-mails every month. Claming they owed me money. Once again thanks Dateline for doing this investigation you just saved thousands of people from fallen victim to the scams.

A different kind of predator

Steve, Nashville TN — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:14:02 GMT

While the FBI says that they don't have the resources to address this issue due to homeland security issues, I have heard that many Nigerians are devout Muslims, many who divert some of these stolen funds to extremists. If this in fact is true, then law enforcement certainly needs to step in. The big question is, how reliable is the Nigerian government??

A different kind of predator

Tricia Dyer Saint Petersburg, FL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:15:20 GMT

I also got caught up in this kind of scam but it was from London. There was even a Barrister involved and then a man from the bank in another country. It was all very weird. I received an affidavit from them which they wanted me to sign my name too but it was not possible to do that. It would not print. They would not give me their address even to mail it anyway which was the way I was going to get it to them if I could get it printed. Then they sent me something for me to put my account number on and I refused to do that so they said to go to the bank and get another account. Yeah right. I took all the stuff to the bank and they knew right away it was a scam and they sent it to their people who check these things. I dont know what happened but I do know that had told the barrister right in the beginning that I thought it was a scam and he acted like I had said something really bad about him and he was very angry about it. But since I took it to the bank I have not heard one more word from them. I know better than to give any type of account number or a psssport number or anything like that to anyone on the internet. Im smater than that. But I just wanted to see how far they would go with this so I kept it up til I went to the bank.

A different kind of predator

charlotte birmingham.alabama — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:15:26 GMT

i have receive a lots of email scammer one of them lie to me but i did not fall for it i think all scammer should pay for the crime

A different kind of predator

Jeff White, Franklin, PA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:15:46 GMT

I'm still amazed at how many people fall for these types of scams, to me they seem so obviously fake. What about doing a story on job cons, as in those "work at home" jobs that require you to oay a start up fee. I and others I know have been scammed by a company called "Vector Marketing" that find college age people with the promise of making alot of money on your own schedule

A different kind of predator

Jerry And Candace Williams — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:19:29 GMT

Chris, My wife and I have received several e-mails in the past two weeks from scammers such as the ones you've reported on tonight. MAny have e-mail addresses from the UK, or they claim to be a lottery agent from the UK stating we have won a "promo" random lottery. One such e-mail just a few days ago we actually followed up on and we've kept their replies to us, we printed them out. The one I am speaking about that we followed up on was a "supposed" Mastercard Lottery from the UK. They took our address and said they would send us a Mastercard with 6 mil. on it if we sent 1100 dollars for postage. Really now, 1100 dollars for postage of a weightless credit card? We aren't that ignorant. We have also received junk like that from supposed dead loved ones who died in a plane crash in Nigeria and the UK.

A different kind of predator

Angela A., Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:20:32 GMT

I am SO GLAD you are doing THIS SHOW. I have received atleast 10 of these scam emails with exactly this kind of provocation...a dying spouse who wants to share her millions with me. Often they have used names with titles such as "Dame", "Lady" or "Sister" implying they are titled or even nuns. In the end, it turns out to be some lowlife scumbag operating out of Nigeria. I have even received a few in the mail from Spain, saying I won the lottery and to provide personal contact info including my banking info so they can wire the funds to me. It's disgusting. I hope you do this kind of show as often as you do the child molester shows. People need to be educated!

A different kind of predator

Miss Red, Chicago, Il — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:21:15 GMT

Somebody please email Jane Phillips in Richmond, VA (see her post) that their threats are baseless and she should ignore any further emails. Just hit delete or do as others have done and threaten them with a report to law enforcement. These scams run the gamut from: need to move money out of their country and will pay you if you pay a fee; to picking up people from the personals (this is really popular with the Nigerian and Polish scam artists); to paying for someone to find you a job and giving up your social security number to do so (authentic employers do not request money for jobs, nor do they request your social security number over the internet oh and wedding consultants are being hit with scams where the person overpays them for wedding consulting services and wants some of the money back.. All variations on the same scheme. The scam has gone beyond Nigerians to other groups, they some from England, Poland and I believe I saw one from an Asian one time. I do financial crimes investigation for a Fortune 500 company and we see them all. Unfortunately the only reason they work is because someone is trying to get something for nothing.

A different kind of predator

Julia — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:27:15 GMT

They have changed their ways now, in terms of the scams or ways they use to scam people, I'm not sure how they do it, but now they get to a person , through a person's resume on line, they claim to offer jobs overseas, but you have to give them your bank details so that they can forward you money for relocation or something..they are succeeding in countries like South Africa since work there is scarce and people are eager to go overseas for work.....they have been sending me job offers, BUT I HAVE TO HAVE A VALID BANK ACCOUNT , WITH ENOUGH MONEY.....it is really frustrating for people who are really looking for jobs and so vulnerable to post their resume on line for potential legit job offers, but what do we get this false offers from greedy people and crooks. There was an article about a woman in South Africa who was scammed this way...the article is in : "theherald.co.za".........they are not only scamming foreign people, but their own people or people from poor countries. My question to Chris you had 3 people right there, why couldn't the police or Interpol arrest them right there..or place their pictures in most wanted or just place their pictures everywhere to be identified. Overall you are doing a great job!

A different kind of predator

Phil – Arlington, TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:28:00 GMT

A gold star to all you who mentioned the internet dating scams. This would be a great thing for Hansen and Dateline to investigate that would be of interest to a lot of people. Who knows, maybe it's already been planned for a future episode of To Catch a Con Man. They tape all of these shows well in advance, you know.

A different kind of predator

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:29:09 GMT

Chris – I loved the segment to catch a con man this eve but wonder what good it will accomplish. They can’t even be brought to justice! In your own words, “They were able to disappear in thin air”. This type of spamming has been going on for years, will continue to do so and Internet morons will always fall for it. I feel the to catch a predator series has more meaning for the average American than stories from Nigeria (or England) concerning these type of ridiculous, get rich emails. No matter how entertaining it was – to catch a predator is much more beneficial than worrying about idiots that fall for these scams!

A different kind of predator

Shamil B — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:29:14 GMT

Chris Hansen thank you for your outstanding show. People in general became selfish, arrogant with individual ego and careless about others issues. I consider only a few countries that have some kind of accountability for their own people and laws. Most countries and their leadership corrupt and people there live in chaos type environment. I know that myself I am from former Soviet Union Republic. Thank you again. G-D Bless USA

A different kind of predator

Dan Sloan, Greenville, SC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:29:34 GMT

I received an invitation to be a "sales rep" in the US for a UK painter. He would have someone send me a money order and I would deposit it in my bank and western union him 90% of the money and keep 10% for my trouble. I played along and emailed him back. I didn't think much more about it, but less than a month later I received 5 international money orders for $950.00 each made out to me. I'm sure they are bad or fake. I'm sure he would love me to send him money and they money orders get returned.... I still have the money orders and envelop post marked from Africa if you would like a photo copy

A different kind of predator

Kyle Moss, Austin, Texas — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:29:59 GMT

Interesting story, i too find it hard to believe people fall for this. Chris, I want to see you do this same story as the "Con man" role and confront the people falling for this.

A different kind of predator

Eric Haase Dade City, Fl — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:31:13 GMT

Chris - Great research into those email scams - about time somebody did something - just hope you lifted the prints off those glasses for future referrence of those con artists

A different kind of predator

nancy m, nicholasville, ky. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:31:22 GMT

I have received several of these scams and always laugh at them. One came fronm a Mr. James Willams, whom is the director of international Relations and Access Bank of nigeria Limited. He claims that he got my nameand E-Mail address from the Chamber of Commerce. The story is about needing to find someone to stand in for the next of kin for a millionaire whom died back in 2003. Claims that I'll get half of the 52 million U.S. dollars the man is worth. The other is a man named Mr. Hafeez Al Siddiqui. He claims to be aPrincipal Accountant with Al-Bayji oil refinery about 125 miles north of Baghdad. He siys that he needs to move 22.5 million U.S. dollars to a security/finance company (DABI SADEARAT) based in tehran, Iran for safe keeping He claims that he'll get 72% of the money and I'll get 28% if I help but my cut is negotiable. These people need to be stopped

A different kind of predator

Julia Epps, Houston, TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:31:22 GMT

Fantastic!!!!!!! Bravo!!!!!! Finally something besides those poor pathetic child predators)))))))))) *****This "investigation" is a lot more productive and beneficial for the entire World!!!!! Even our Federal Investigators agree that CHRIS HANSON and his NBC crew can expose more than our Government ever thought of!!! I am so excited.... NBC taking the initiative to confront something that our Government will never put a dent in ... this is the 1st email I have ever taken the time to write to a TV program. Please continue exposing the issues that our justice system fails miserably. I did not know the FBI was wasting our money on lame investigations like this. Sounds a lot like our FBI failures with the DEA Crap!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A different kind of predator

jose cisneros san antonio, tx — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:31:49 GMT

chris, i am one of the so many to be emailed by this thing of emailed scams to try to induce me to receive money for a sick women and her dying husband. i knew it from the spot it was a scam so i just never relayed back any of her emails and she quit emailing me. thanks to your show tonight, i have learned alot more about this going on scam artists. thank you. joe

A different kind of predator

Edwin Marquez, Miami Florida — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:32:05 GMT

dEAR MR. Chris Hansen I just finished watching your show on how to catch a con man. After your show i went on my computer to check my e mails when i came across an e mail of a woman trying to con me. She was saying that she was personal secretary of a recently arrested Russian CEO. Here is the e mail they sent me. Thanks for the great shows you do. Great Job Dear friend, My name is mrs. Larisa Sosnitskaya, personal secretary to mr. Boris Mikhail Hodorkovsky, the arrested chairman/ceo of Yukos oil and Bank Menatep SPB in Russia who is presently in jail. I have the documents of a large amount of funds which he handed over to me before he was detained and tried in Russia for financing political parties and not paying taxes(the union of right forces,led by Boris Nemtsov and Yabloko a Liberal/Social Social Democratic Party led by Gregor Yavlinsky)opposed to the Government of mr.Vladmir Putin the president which consequently led to the freezing of his finances and assets. After searching through the books of your country's chambers of commerce and industries here in Russia, i am contacting you to assist me to re-profile the funds and equally invest same on his behahalf.The total amount of funds to be re-profiled is forty six million dollars (usd$46,000,000.00) and you will be paid 20% for your management services. As soon as i receive your acceptance in my personal e-mail address Thus: larisasosnitskaya_07@yahoo.es i will send you the necessary details and my identification. Yours sincerely, Mrs. Larisa Sosnitskaya Note that any response to this email will not be appreciated or answered please write me via my personal email address as given above for future correspondence. NB:You can read more of this deal from: http://newsfromrussia.com/main/2005/03/29/58914.html http://www.interfax.ru/e/B/politics/28.html?id_issue261041 http://www.supportmbk.com http://www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/Mikhail-Khodorkovsky Yukos Oil from Russia. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Walla! Mail - get your free 3G mail today

A different kind of predator

John Jankowski — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:32:13 GMT

Chris loved the show,even your paper trails...etc....just what I said love those Officers fascimile signatures-what a Mess that needs straightening again thanks

A different kind of predator

Veronica Griffin — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:32:17 GMT

I consider myself a very cautious buyer and I've tried to relay this same cautiousness to my children now ages 23 and 25 years. This past weekend my son received a check (a very ligitimate looking check) in the amount of $1,900.00, along with a letter indicating that he has won $28,000 and in order for him to obtain his winnings of $28,000., he would need to cash the $1,900.00 check as a "fee". On Monday, March 19, my son took this $1,900.00 check to the credit union that we belong to, deposited it. The teller informed him that there would be a "15 day hold" placed on the check until it clears. Out of curiosity, he contacted the credit union today to check on the status and the teller informed him that the check would not be clearing, nor will they be returning it to him. As it turns out, this was part of some very elaborate, deceptive scam. The envelope that the check and letter arrived in was postmarked as being sent from Canada, but the check itself was written on a bank in Pennsylvania. There was no name or return address on the envelope. BUYER BEWARE!!! And a HUGE THANKS TO Chris Hanson and Dateline NBC for all of the investigative stories that they bring to us. KEEP IT UP!

A different kind of predator

celeste felice — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:33:03 GMT

i receive on average about 3-5 of these out-of-country money scam emails DAILY; not to mention the 10-20 foreign lotto wining mails as well(per week). Being a pre-law student,I never knew i could win big in a lottery that i never bought a ticket from-esp. from a foreign country I have never been to :^).. It is interesting to note, that the scammers agreed to meet you in countries where they would not get arrested nor flagged at the airport by security after you flushed them out later. i would have liked to see some follow up as to where they left to-ie. the airline,country,etc.... I guess they are not that stupid after all? But they have us greedy americans pegged!

A different kind of predator

Alma Cromer, Greenwood SC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:33:25 GMT

I became disable last year and my insurance ran out, so I looked on the net to see what was available out there. I looked at several sites and desided to complete on line forms. I recived a call from United Health Benefits, so they suckered me out of $239 for "insurance". I called 2 days after that to cancel and they said I could cancel but would just be double covered for the month of March, when I got my package, on the first page of the booklet it said insurance about 10 times, on the so called insurance card it said THIS IS NOT INSURANCE. It was a discount card. The gentelman that I talked to rick, said NOTHING about it being a discount card, I ask by name all my doctors and he replied yes they take us...I called my good friend at the NBC station in Greenville SC, Tim Waller WYFF.com check it out, go to buyer beware and you should see the segment that we did, they did not return his phone calls, and I turned them over to the BBB of CA. I wish I could get my money back since I am disabled and I need that money.

A different kind of predator

Jineane La Bate, Freehold, NJ — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:34:57 GMT

I get a lot of emails from the UK. One was actually from Coca Cola saying that I won an email address lottery and when I went further with it they wanted me to wire $1,295 so FedEX could be the courier to deliver the check to me. One in Benin said that they were dying and her husband left a will and I could say I was a relative to get the money.

A different kind of predator

Sue J. Magers, McCutchenville, Ohio — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:35:00 GMT

This scam is also used in Yahoo Messenger. I can't tell you how many men send me instant messages telling me they want to get to know me. Then as time goes by they tell you they love you. Then the bomb is dropped. He is short on money except for Money Orders that he can't cash in Afarica. Most of them are contractors or they sell electronics or computers things like that. They are always in Africa and get caught short on money. They want you to cash the Money Orders. Well I don't know what happens because the minute they start about the Money Orders i'm gone. I but them on ingnore and report them as spam. You should look into this.

A different kind of predator

Rick Hubbard St. louis Missouri — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:35:18 GMT

Chris Hansen, I just watched your story on "To Catch A Con Man". Great job. But what about our own american companys? My wife was a paralegal for the Bank of America. Her job consist of checking, morage loans, and high dollar envistments to make sure everything was done by state and fedral law. Everybody on her floor plus other of thousands employes of Bank of America were also layedoff. The top CEO transfered all the informational documents to over seas companies to do the same type of work. I believe some time in 2006 the top CEO recieved a ovever a millon dollar bonus for this type of "con job". We are so scared about identy theft and our owen american companies are sending our very personal information over seas to get themselves million dollar bounses while the american people loose their jobs and their identies to forgin perditors.

A different kind of predator

Janice, Omaha, NE — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:35:36 GMT

THANK YOU DATELINE & Chris for revealing these African scam artist. My friend was communicating quite reguarly with these criminals promissing to deliver the money in a number of ways. But you have to wire $$$ up front to cover transaction fees etc. I tried to tell my friend that if you send someone money that you don't even know, why would they send you $$$ back. So, I gave my friend my debit card after several hours of pressure to wire $900.00 to someone in African. That was the end of that communication. They found someone stupid enough to wire cash. Big ups to the scammers. My friend did not stop after that scam. He has received counterfeit checks, US Postal Money Orders, and what broke the Camels back was my friend allowing someone to deposit a check into my checking account. I was told this was an advance on an internet part-time job. We had $3000. wired to my local account to take care of bills. After 7 days the bank notified me that this check was counterfeit. Gues who ended up paying this back? Instead of me putting money away for retirement, I get to pay back $3000. to my bank. This is a friend that I almost married. Thank God I finally see him for who he really is. Watch out ladies! Thanks Again, DateLine for doing uncovering this type of scam. When emails come in, I hit delete with ease. Chris you are awesome, I was cheering for you tonight while you busted these scam artist. Let's get them arrested next time. They will slow down on scamming people if they knew they would get arrested and go to jail. Put them in jail and throw away the key!

A different kind of predator

Mohammed Q. Islam New York. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:36:10 GMT

Hi, I am from New York. I would like to start of by congratulating Chris Hansen and dateline NBC for their excellent reporting on these pathetic criminals. I too have been a victim of these sort of criminals, about two years ago a man approached me with a too good to be true business deal; He at the time appeared to be a legitimate businessman from India. I invested 11,000 USD in his fraudulent company. He vanished into thin air after a few payments. He presented all these tell tail signs of a con man presenting paper work that seemed to be authentic and other business documents, but in the end it was all a scam. I am not the only one he has conned; other businessmen in the United States and Europe (particularly Germany) have been victims as well. His name is Kaleem Anwar Khan and he is an Indian national. Let me warn all those reading, this man Mr. Kaleem A. Khan is a very cunning and devious individual who has stolen thousands if not millions of dollars from businessmen by promising them outrageous profits. Beware of him and individuals such as him. I would love for this man and others like him to be put to justice. Thank you for reading, and good luck capturing the bad guys. I’m a big fan of the show. Sincerely, Mohammed Q. Islam

A different kind of predator

Paola — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:36:17 GMT

I wish i had seen this report sooner, about 2 months sooner. I was selling furniture online and got this offer, it wasn't a large amount of money and emails were back and forth since November. By January she told me her PA had made out the check for the wrong amount and that if i could just give the rest of the money to her shipper who picking up some more stuff in the area. I then got the check and called the bank to verify it it was real, i got the number from the banks online info so i thought it was real. I went to the bank and made the deposit, waited for the time on the deposit slip as "adequate" to withdraw. I consider myself a smart person, but i have no idea how they convinced me to wire 2000 to the "shipper" in Africa. By the time the bank realized the check was fake, the bank took the money back from my account, closed my account and treated me so wrong, arguing "the bank doesn't want to deal with a fraudulent person". Those were the most painful words i ever had to hear about me.

A different kind of predator

bill — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:36:37 GMT

THAT WAS A GREAT SHOW I CAN'T Believe HOW DUMB SOME PEOPLE ARE. PLEASE DO a show ON THE RUSSIAN BRIDE SCAM NEXT I PROMISE I WILL WATCH,and provide all the emails you need to do the show. Please send me money I need a passport lol.

A different kind of predator

Joni Barrett, Dallas, Georgia — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:38:00 GMT

I was the victim of an African scam. I was online looking for a pet for my family when I saw an ad for a Yorkie. The puppy was free but, I needed to pay for shipping from Cameroon. This person was a missionary from North Carolina. They sent me a picture of their drivers license! So I trusted them..They received $700 from me before I realized that I had been taken. I have gone to that site numerous times trying to warn others of this scam.

A different kind of predator

Diane, St. Louis, MO — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:39:58 GMT

Mr. Hanson, I watched your program on internet scams with great interest since we have suddenly started receiving 2-4 e-mails a day that offer us winnings from a British lottery. I delete them unopened but find it very disturbing that someone has our new e-mail address that is only 4 months old. We had to change our last e-mail address due to the mountain of spam and similiar offers we received EACH DAY. My question to you is how to STOP these repeated intrusions??? Thank you for exposing these scams!

A different kind of predator

Kevin — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:42:06 GMT

Chris, we don't want to see this. Stick to the predators its a lot more funnier than these con guys. I feel your oneliners weren't that good. BRING BACK THE PREDATORS!!!

A different kind of predator

Michael Curley, Chicago, Ill. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:42:44 GMT

I received an email from Harry Coy, Esq., a barrister who informed me a relative of mine had died in a car crash and left millions just waiting for me. I replied and told Harry if he was going to pass himself off as a British lawyer he needed to clean up his grammar, a service I woule gladly provide. He need only send me a credit card number and we could start right away. I'm still waiting.

A different kind of predator

Tameka, Fairburn, GA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:44:32 GMT

Good work, Chris! You are not contributing to stereotypes of Nigerians. The fact is many are shady fellows who WILLINGLY contribute to negative images of and attitudes about their country and attempt to attempt to steal via pervasive 419 schemes. Now, that's BLACK ON BLACK CRIME OF THE HIGHEST ORDER! The email schemes are out of control and you are exposing the perpetrators for the losers they are. The whole continent is f----- up, and in recent years this is mostly due to the fault of African nationals (under corrupt leadership and warring tribes/religious groups). I tell the scammers as much when they email me. It goes without saying there are good Nigerians, of course, and I am proud to be married to one of them. The victims who pursue offers for free money are doing no crime, but the scammers should be banished to the wilderness in the remotest desert on the hottest day of the dryest season.

A different kind of predator

JR, North Texas — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:45:11 GMT

Please, Dateline, look into a similar scam for women like me -- Instant Messages, not e-mails. I started to fall for the first one, and once I figured out the game, I kept getting more and more IMs from men using the same scam. This is what is happening -- I believe these people look at Yahoo personals and look for unattractive women to hit on, for the purpose of asking for money. These men contact me on Yahoo IMs and claim to be from America somewhere, but on temporary assignment for various reasons in Africa. The first guy, after flirting and pouring on charm for maybe a week, told me his son was in a bind and IR (the Internet Romeo) needed me to send his son $3,000 overnight. IR would send me a check immediately, with an extra $1,000 for my effort. I cut him off immediately. The various men doing this often make serious grammatical errors that cue me they are not Americans. I can recognise them quickly. I get these IMs about 10 or more times a week. I assume it is because in my profile, I am honest and say that I am overweight, and I post a very honest photo. I want to tell you about this to save other less-than-attractive women who are lonelier and more vulnerable than I am from losing not only their money, but also their hearts.

A different kind of predator

Ron Mann, Pacific Palisades, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:45:23 GMT

Chris, I just reported a new email scam to the FBI from Nigeria. I am a sport psychologist and run a golf school. I am contacted by a Robert Smiths who says he wants to send 3 students to my golf school. After a few emails, all of which seem very fishy to me, he changes the deal and wants to send 2 men to the U.S. to check out my school. He want visa requests and paypal information. After I don't go for that, he sends me $4500 counterfeit American Express Casher Checks, saying there is some confusion with his funders from Europe and I should keep $1000.00 and refund the rest via Paypal. The checks were sent from a hotel in Israel. This was a new scam for me. It was not sure if it was a visa scam or just a finanical scam. The American Express checks did not look that real. Bank of America would not have cashed them. If you want all the emails, let me know.

A different kind of predator

Gill Roseberry, Salem, Virginia — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:45:35 GMT

I am a security/compliance officer for a small bank. Is it possible to get a coipy of this report to use for training purposes?

A different kind of predator

Joyce Wilson — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:45:37 GMT

Thank you, for airing that show "To Catch A Con Man" these West African people are hurting Americans. The FBI isn't doing anythin to stop it!

A different kind of predator

Ron, chicago Il — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:47:58 GMT

Chris, I work in the fraud area of a large computer company and I am so glad when ever any of these fraud operations are brought to the publics attention. The preview for next weeks show looks like it will be targeting the exact type of fraud I deal with daily at my job.....I hope you also bring up how the credit card companies take NO RESPONSIBILITY what so ever on those frauds - The card holders might not take the hit but the merchants sure do...Even when the credit card company issues the fraud cards or authorizes the purchases. It's a huge crock and our only defense is honest citizens and the freight carriers (Who generally dont care). The re-route schemes are HUGE and take new turns every week. It's hard to keep up!

A different kind of predator

SEB , Houston, TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:50:57 GMT

Chris, I loved your segment this evening. You need to look into internet dating scams as well. I have recieved e-mails from 3 males claiming that they are on job assignments in Africa. They write very romantic e-mail alway professing their love for me even though they have never met me. They seemed to always have a son whom is interested/excited about possibility of having a new mom. I even had one ask for money to pay for his sons hospital bills ( son he brought with him to Africa). I couldn't help but laugh. Unforntanely too many women fall for these scams. Dateline really needs to educate the public and alert dating sites this most recent and popular internet scams.

A different kind of predator

Sean, Belle Center, Ohio — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:51:07 GMT

I love this! "Jim Dimoni"? How did they even fall for that? Man, I would've killed to be a part of this when you guys were filiming the phone calls.

A different kind of predator

joe stasolla bayville Ny — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:53:24 GMT

well people today i got a check in the mail for 2,960 and a letter with it also , the letter said this cash the check and send 2,890 to a lottery company in London i knew this was a scam . and being that you are going to send the 2,890 dollars it will make you win 2 million dollars but it also said that i should keep this highly a secret so the public wont make me lose a chance of a life time . So now i laughed my Butt off i have a check here from them with a company name on it i called the company and they said well you are the 5th person to call about this and the company would like to meet up with me , But i will not go to knoxville but i also called the bank in Tennesse and they said that the FBI are on the case and that i should send them the check i said no way it got my name and address on it so people becareful these people are jerks . And by the way if you would like to e mail me at joestazz@verizon.net and i hope dateline would contact me i would like to sit down with you guys and work with you to catch these scamers . I hate scamers and i will put a stop to most of them .

A different kind of predator

Alvin Kulas — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:53:55 GMT

Chris,I get anywhere from two to five e-mails per day from the UK,Canada and Africa. If all the mony I won from Lottery, Sweepstakes and these type of scams I would have more then enought to buy Microsoft.

A different kind of predator

SUSAN BANKS, ELK GROVE, CALIFORNIA. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:53:56 GMT

MY SON RECIEVED AN EMAIL FROM A GUY IN MALAYSIA SAYING THAT HE IS A LAWYER AND ONE OF HIS CLIENTS JUST DIED OWING HIM MILLIONS OF DOLLARS. HE SAID MY SON HAS THE SAME SURNAME AS HIS CLIENT AND MY SON IS THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN GET THE MONEY OUT AND THEY WOULD SPLT IT AT THAT POINT. I COPIED THE EMAILS AND THEN I LOOKED UP HIS NAME AND LAW FIRM, WHAT CAME UP WAS A LIST OF ALKIDA (I SPELLED THAT WRONG) MEMBERS WITH HUNDREDS OF NAMES. PRETTY SCARY STUFF..... MY SON IS 21 AND LUCKILY HE IS SMART ENOUGH TO TELL ME AND NOT FALL FOR THE SCAMMERS.

A different kind of predator

Anna 'Boo' Carroll — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:54:47 GMT

Last year I received an e-mail from 'one of the sons of Seku Toure, a former dictator in Africa. Perhaps I didnt spell his name correctly, but you have certainly heard of him. I was in one of my silly moods and immediately e-mailed back saying: I cannot believe this! I met your father in the 1960s on a visit to your country! I am delighted to meet you, too! Well, you can imagine the reaction that got! He emailed me back to say his father had kindly left he and his other brothers and sisters a legacy of money but they were unable to get their hands on it. Would I kindly help since I had known 'Dad.' Well, you betcha! I led this guy on for weeks and finally said; Not all Americans are idiots, you know. You got some 'splainin' to do! I eventually blocked his emails and the fun was over. He's the only person who ever used a famous person's name. Oh, by the way, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Albert Einstein's daughter, Nina. And did I also mention dad left me a fortune in a bank in---

A different kind of predator

verlande antoine new york — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:54:51 GMT

keep it up Chris Dateline is my favorite show. Good luck.

A different kind of predator

Bonnie Fields, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878-1800 — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:56:20 GMT

Dear Chris, How very interesting that while we were watching your piece on the "Con Man", we received a fax on our home fax about $55.5 million in the Nedbank South Africa, part of which could be ours just for helping to assist in getting the money out of the country. I would like to forward this letter to you if you are interested. I can forward by fax or mail if you wish. I really couldn't believe the timing of its arrival! I would never respond to anything like this and cannot believe that there are those who would. Bonnie

A different kind of predator

AH Orlando, FL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:57:10 GMT

Thank you so much for your "To Catch a Con Man" story. My parents were recently involved in a similar type story and were taken for a lot of money. The only difference was the person whom they gave the money to lives locally. When my parents contacted the police, the couple whom they gave the money to said they were the ones who were scammed by one of these internet stories. The only catch was the couple kept some of the money before wiring the rest overseas. More people need to be aware of these sob stories and these criminals need to be brought to justice.

A different kind of predator

dementia, tulsa ok — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 01:58:54 GMT

jane phillips richmond va - the only way to 'get rid' of the scammers emailing you is to change your email address and NEVER post your email address anywhere on the internet. @all - it's best to never reply to the scammers, cause then they know that the email address is a valid address and they put it in their list to continue scam attempts on. (and sometimes sell it to other scammers for them to attempt scams on) @velma mendez lubbock texas - so sorry to hear about you getting arrested. hopefully your attorney will do a good job in getting charges dismissed or at least get you a deferred sentence (deferred means that youre never officially found guilty, end up on probation for a period of time, and can eventually get your record totally expunged -- in okla it's 10 years after date of conviction that you can get all records expunged, but that varies from state to state). give all copies of emails to attorney. best of luck! hope it works out okay for you.

A different kind of predator

Randy A. Robinson, Hampton, VA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:01:40 GMT

Chris, I really hope you or someone on your staff reads this blog. I was almost scammed by a female claiming to be interested in a serious relationship from Ghana. I met this person through an on-line dating service and everything appeared to be normal until she asked me for money to by a cell phone to talk to me whenever she wanted to. Then she wanted money for a used laptop to chat with me anytime. I thought it was strange so I did some investigating on my own and sure enough, there is a message from the U.S. State Department that Ghana has a huge scam which involves luring people (especially men)into giving them money for plane tickets, family emergencies and other things. As soon as I emailed the scammer a copy of the State Department's report, I stopped getting messages from this person. If I was still young and naive, I'm sure I would have lost quite a bit. And since this encounter, I've noticed personal ads popping up on several different dating websites claiming to be from Ghana. By the way, love your show!!!

A different kind of predator

Tom Hines, Ohio — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:03:20 GMT

What I think is so funny is how many people actually open these e-mails and read them in the first place! When I get a e-mail from anyone that I dont recognize I dont even open it, I delete it!

A different kind of predator

anonymous USA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:04:26 GMT

The Code 419 and Love Scams are worse than ever. I am glad you and Dr. Phil did something about it. A lot of work needs be done. A good number of deaf and hearing friends got scammed. Several lost homes. I avoid dating sites because they are practically all over. I have learned some tricks to detect when confronted. To my surprise recently, they even know sign language and is pretty fluent. I have conversed with one of them through a cam in some chatroom. They use relay service for the deaf to scam corporations. They eventually hold up 90% of deaf phone relay service, hurting the deaf community. I have a cashier's check of several thousand dollars from one of the scammers and never cashed it. They contact me every single day through Yahoo messenger. There are several who knows how to wiggle out of the blocked list and bother me again. I do feel fearful for my safety.

A different kind of predator

Rick Patterson — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:04:35 GMT

Great job Chris, I have received a bunch of these email scams in the past 2 weeks. 1 from Greece, about 5 from the UK, 2 from Africa, and 1 from Hong Kong. I played along with one of them and they wanted me to send $7000 US to their lawyer in Europe to claim my share, which I did not do. Alot of them cannot even spell correctly !!

A different kind of predator

sandy kessell, Charleston, WV — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:06:15 GMT

I R O N I C A L L Y !!!!! 10 MIN into watching the 1st episode of the internet predator -- I went to my computer to look for an expected email -- only to find an identical email Chris Hansen was describing email from: Arrington H. Mixon arrigntonmixon@yahoo.co.uk could I email this to anyone to investigate?

A different kind of predator

Frank DeRosa — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:06:29 GMT

The more you contact these scammers the more scam you get. When I have time I try to keep them busy by having tnem send more info, proof that yhey are not lowlifes or terrorist seeking funds. Keeping them busy It may slow them up from defraud someone else.. There seems to be no end of them. I like to have these scammers explain how they are going to help their countrymen. They are criminals but The foolish American figuring on a free windfall is in a way a "stupid" criminal in helping to keep this game going

A different kind of predator

W. A. Reyes — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:08:03 GMT

I too have received three of those email in the last two months. From now on I'll tell the email scammers that I am forwarding the email to Chris Hansen of dateline/msnbc. Hopefully they'll delete my address from their mailing list.

A different kind of predator

Marcy Eppler, Santa Fe, New Mexico — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:10:45 GMT

Dear Chris, What is so aggravating to me is these scammers won't be arrested as soon as they walk away! I was scammed when I posted an ad on Craigslist for a roommate. The person who responded said that she was coming to the US from England to make a fresh start after a break-up. After several correspondences, I realized it was a scam but played along, I even had her send me cashier checks in which I was going to deposit into my account (Her instructions) and send her back the remaining money that wasn't used as a "security deposit". When I received the envelope it had a Republic of Africa postmark, I wrote Stella Ford back to say that I had no intension of cashing foreign currency. I NEVER HEARD FROM HER AGAIN.

A different kind of predator

Kathy — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:10:57 GMT

Great job on exposing some of these scams. They also prey on people job hunting. My husband posted his resume on two of the more popular websites. He received an e-mail from a guy claiming to be in England. He offered my husband a job with his company, working from home, for $60K + bonuses. All he had to do was process invoices and transfer funds from his account into their bank. There were promises to meet the investors and "executive team" on an all expenses paid trip to England. They were (supposedly) sending a FedEx package with all the company background information (which never arrived) and also gave a website that, when accessed, came up "The site you requested has been disabled." When asked about this, the guy stated they were updating their site with their new catalog. The last e-mail received gave instruction that an order was placed and a check will be arriving at our house in my husband's name. He was instructed to deposit the check into his account, keeping 10% and transferrring the remaining balance of the check in an account that would be supplied in another e-mail. Needless to say, we were on to this from the start. A friend in England checked out the address (which didn't exist). When my husband didn't jump as quickly as expected at this oppoortunity, the guy from England became a little pushy and almost aggressive. My husband sent a final e-mail to the guy stating he's not interested and then blocked his address. Sometimes the scam isn't the promise of a lot of money - sometimes it starts with a "simple job offer that's too good to be true."

A different kind of predator

E.B — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:13:32 GMT

'To catch a Con', this was a great piece Chris. I heard of these scams on the Dr.Phil show, the dating scam, and the news. I myself did some research on these scams by surfing the web. I wanted to know who these people were and thanks to Chris, I've finally got some closure by seeing some of these con men faces. I really like how Chris nailed these guys by making them sweat beads. I mean their scams were utterly ridiculous. I agree with a previous writers, I can't believe people fall for these petty scams. Kudos to Chris Hansen for investigating this story and keep up the excellent work. The only down fall to this story is the con men were not arrested and sadly they will pull this scam off on another naive person.

A different kind of predator

Winston D. Terry — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:24:07 GMT

Chris: I have been hit with a doz. or more different ones. I try to kept them going as long as I can until they give up and ingore me. I try to scam them back trying to get them to wire me money to travel on or to open a bank account to move money in. They have called me names, told me I was a crazy man, told me to just forget it and quit e-mailing them. I keep e-mailing them after they stop responding, I keep asking when did they wire money, tell yhem I've made several trips to Western Union, anything I can to try and keep them going. I have given them different major airport information for them to fly here to meet me. I have never meet anyone in person or gave out anything except time spent exchanging e=mails. Winston

A different kind of predator

T.S. AZ — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:25:49 GMT

It's amazing this still happens, but the world is full of gullible people! If it's too good to be true, it's not true. I have received my second get rich quick letter in a month. This one came from a Joseph Burke in Newport, RI. (Why does he think he's my friend, I know no one in Rhode Island.) He and five others seem to think they will be receiving millions of dollars if everyone sends them a dollar and moves their names to the top of the list and mails the same lame letter to 200 friends. Sounds like a scam to me! Sorry chump, I won't be sending you anything! Wake up there are no legal get rich ways out there. Get a job and work like the rest of us.

A different kind of predator

AG, Chicago IL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:26:50 GMT

Thank you so much for doing these shows. Perhaps you can do a show on the lottery scams. I constantly receive e-mails from different countries claiming that I have won the lottery.

A different kind of predator

Christine, Chicago, IL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:31:59 GMT

I can't believe there are people who fall for this. I have received quite a few scam emails like these but knew they were too good to be true. It's great that you are doing a special about this to educate the public.

A different kind of predator

Eric, Washington, DC — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:31:59 GMT

Watching this story, I wonder what happens to these men when they return home. If they are, as you suggest, only mules serving the ringleader, what does this broadcast cost them? In the drug trade, dealers are frequently held personally accountable for lost drugs. Are these men held responsible for the lost con? For the exposure? If so, are they facing more than financial risks? Certainly no confidence artist deserves sympathy, but it is worth asking what is at stake for the people involved in the con. Money is the obvious factor, but my sense is that it is more than pure greed motivating them. Understanding that may be an important step in curbing this exploding blight.

A different kind of predator

Elvi Kaukinen, Horseheads, New York — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:43:20 GMT

I've received these type of scam emails for the past month and a half. Each day I dread actually reading my email for fear of seeing three or more "Please help" or Lottery scams. Isn't it up to the government/FCC to be responsible in doing something about this? Or, at least the Internet Service Provider. Afterall, I'm sure they know what's going on, but are turning a blind eye to it.

A different kind of predator

MKM, Melbourne FL — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:45:29 GMT

I remember when we used to get unsolicited FAXES from "Nigeria" with the same or similar scam (before email was ubiquitous). As P.T. Barnham said, "there is a sucker born every minute". Hard to believe people are still falling for it.

A different kind of predator

Eck, Denver, CO — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:47:45 GMT

I can't believe how stupid all you people are. I've been on the Internet since 1988 and I first saw these "fake check" scams in 1997. I thought about it for about 15 seconds minutes and then laughed my butt off. Here we are 10 years later and ignorant knobs are still sending them money. Grow a brain!

A different kind of predator

Beth — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:49:30 GMT

I get those emails all the time..one time I did reply and they sent me an email asking for my full name, address, telephone, mobile, bank account, drivers license and social security numbers. Gee, my big chance to make a million! I just wasn't comfortable sending out that info lol. I can't wait to see Chris Hanson confront them. You go Chris!

A different kind of predator

Loren McCarty Logan,Utah — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 02:50:27 GMT

Chris,thank you for running your news on email scam.I had just talked to 3 girls in 2 days,from nigera africa after only five minutes of conversation on my space.com they all were in love and wanted to marry me.Then the question of money came up everything from helping there sick daddy,helping them with bills and getting them to america.I sent a blog on myspace to all the men.A lady contacted me and said the same scam is used on women she said they get models from focushawaii.com so i looked it up and sure enough there were the girls with the same pics they had sent me under different names.Again thank you for running this imporant info.Keep up the good work.Thank you for your time and help.Loren McCarty Utah

A different kind of predator

ST, Somersworth, NH — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:07:22 GMT

I have recieved 2 (two) such emails and replied by telling them that I would be reporting them to our Attorney General. I'm sure that they really don't care since they normally seem to get away with these email scams. Why is that? Why can't they be stopped from invading our emails? Thank you, Dateline for all that you are doing to educate everyone to these internet scammers.

A different kind of predator

Paula Moors Vacaville, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:08:38 GMT

I get these all the time. I have never considered them as legitimate. What's up with people?

A different kind of predator

A Nigerian who is sick of the stereotype — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:11:02 GMT

I believe this type of scam would stop when the western governments and its agencies starts to persecute the so-called "victims" who are nothing but thieves themselves. They participate freely in the scam and out of their own greed. How can you expect to get money from somebody you don't know for nothing? The so-called “victims” are also GUILT AND ARE THIEVES - THEY ARE NOT BETTER THAN THE SO CALLED SCAMMERS. WHAT A DOUBLE STANDARD – I wonder if Chris or Dateline would be doing a story if the so-called “victims” were Africans.

A different kind of predator

Betty N. in Mesa AZ — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:11:19 GMT

This network is to be commended for their outstanding work on this subject. We need more of this kind of TV programming. I wish everyone could see the potential dangers pointed out in this program. Thanks for the information. I have a scam program which filters out such emails so they never get to my inbox and there's not a temptation t open them.

A different kind of predator

Todd Allen, Vancouver, WA and Vancouver, BC, Canada — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:25:24 GMT

Hey, Chris: ALWAYS LOVE your reports! I can relate especially to the latest on the African con men. I received such a letter about five years ago, but enjoyed stringing him along, as I already suspected it all from day one. I had him jumping through a couple of locations and even set up a savings account for him to put money in, and my bank friend monitored it all. Eventually, we passed it all along to the FBI. Hey, if you guys ever need help in a story, let me know, I'ld love to nail some of these bozos, and I'm currently unemployed. Go get 'em!

A different kind of predator

Susan, Atlanta, Georgia — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:29:05 GMT

I am trying to find homes for my two dogs and listed them on Petfinders myself, not through a pet adoption agency. From there I received countless emails from people in other states who eished to give loving homes to my pets. I just needed to contact such and such shipping company and they would take care of everything. It all sounded very bizarre and from ehat I can gather youa re asked to pay them the shipping cosats up front and they will reimburse you. So you get to keep your pets and they get to keep your money. My first thought was how bizarre the email was. It didn't feel right and the second was there has to be an awful lot of pets looking for homes in yor home town Nothing so special about my dogs. Than I asked around. Really bizarre.

A different kind of predator

Ranee Arizona — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:49:46 GMT

Ther are too many of these emails scams to mention. I'm glad you are making the public aware keep up the good work

A different kind of predator

DM — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:50:55 GMT

Wow! I am holding one of these "Suspicious" checks in my hand right now! It just came in the mail today. Wow, how wierd that this Dateline special is on tv at the sametime. I have every intention of giving this to my local police when this guy first started to contact me about two weeks ago. I am selling an item online and check is for a much larger amount than sale price. It's supposed to be forwarded to a sipper minus an extra fee for me I hope they do something with it. It is the exact kind of check that others have descibed. NO bank address or number. Buyers name on check has no address and all the other not credible info. This is definately wierd.

A different kind of predator

Lauren S., Altadena, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:53:51 GMT

THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN, CHRIS HANSEN!!!! First to catch a predator, and now to catch a con man!! I have been getting those stupid emails and "sob stories." And I get them at least 3-6 times A DAY from what seems like all over the world, but have just simply started to delete. But NOT tonight, as I watched "To Catch A Con Man" I went back to check my email again and sure enough I got another scam-mail. Instead of deleting, I replied back a blunt warning that who ever sent it has been exposed, and people all over America are now totally aware of EVERYTHING. I also reccomended they watch Dateline on NBC. :) I plan to continue to reply back similar messages and to report them. Thank you, again!

A different kind of predator

xavier pilsudski — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 03:55:49 GMT

Thanks for educating people. Just wished the show would have been on 2 years ago when I sold a $800 bike to a stranger in London. He sent me a $5,000 cashiers' check so I could pay for the shipment of the bike. I then had to send keep the difference ($800) for the bike and send him the balance via Western Union... I cashed the check, kept my share ($800) and sent the $4,200.... But the check I received bounced 2 weeks later... I just lost $5,000!!!!

A different kind of predator

Dina Mitchell, Albany, Oregon — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:03:39 GMT

I have several I have received in the last few weeks in my email I wanted to send them to someone but I do not know who? Is there a place I can send these to so they can stop them some how? This past summer I recieved several emails from men tried to scam me by trying to start a relationship with me through myspace. There are so many scams out there it is ridiculous.

A different kind of predator

Nitin Chopra, Mill Creek, WA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:03:43 GMT

Chris, I would like applaud the effort you and your team of reporters put in to make the public aware of all the predators, con men and thieves out there who try take advantage of unsuspecting, innocent, hard working men and women. I just love your show. Keep up the good work. Once again Thank You for all your efforts

A different kind of predator

Tanya Niwa, Rancho Mirage, Ca — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:06:09 GMT

Hi Chris, I just put a ad in Craigslist to rent out our condo. Within minutes, I received an email from a what seemed to be nice young man from the U.K wanting to rent my condo. He said that he was going to do work out here and that he needed to know the exact rent and deposit so he could discuss it with his supporters. I emailed him the info. He then emailed me back saying that after a long discussion his supporters agreed to give me a cashiers check for the first month's rent, deposit and then extra money so I could give that to him when he got here for travel expenses. Meanwhile, I recieved 2 more emails with the same type of information. They are all from the U.K. They are all coming to the USA to work. They all want to give me extra money and they all need it immediately. Have you heard any other emails of this sort?

A different kind of predator

Bert Bogden — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:09:56 GMT

YES!!!!!!! AWESOME JOB!!!!!! I have never fallen for a scam, BUT these guys have cost me thousand of dollars (here is how): I own a company of 15 people- each person deletes ~5 scam emails per day (5 seconds per email). This is 75 seconds per day or 8 minutes and 45 seconds per week or ~7.6 hours per year. I just wish you would have offered the local English police a chance to arrest them....

A different kind of predator

Ben Miller 264 J St. Lathrop, Ca. 95330 — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:10:17 GMT

Not supprissed on how many comments you get, Some of these scams are suspected fronts for terrorists. One of the biggest scams is they send you 4 to 5 thousand dollars in a cashier check for something you are asking less then a thousand sometimes even just 200 dollars. They say they will supply transportation of what ever you are selling IE:aninmals or mercahdise then tell you to cash it and send the extra money to someplace else. The buyers lets says they in Georgia the seller is no another state California. The cashier check is drawn on a Florida Bank and surplus money is to be wired to Some country in Africa. This is one of the most common scams on the net those of what you did are so obvious it issupprising who falls for them. Maybe you can get them to send you a bunch of these bogus cashier checks and then have the banks check to see if they are even valid. My brother did this and found out the check was not worth the paper it was on. He took it to the local police who at first did not want to do anything but sent it to the Federal office in charge of them. He got a letter from homeland security saying it was one of many suspected frauds used by terrorists to get money. The more the public is made aware of these scams the better .THANKS !!!!

A different kind of predator

shelly blumenthal - los angeles, ca — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:11:17 GMT

Dear Mr. Hansen - My partner and I put a business plan on VFinance and received many emails from these scammers - we were smart enough not to bite - and I sent emails to the fraud alert people in London - never got a response though - they tried many tricks - their phone numbers - emails and addresses were all phony - they should be stopped - You really do a great job reporting - I also watched your "to catch a predator" - I think you have just begun - there are so many different kinds of crooks out there - keep up the good work...

A different kind of predator

Jay Gardner West Palm Beach Florida — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:15:38 GMT

Keep up the great work! I would suggest this become a weekly program, maybe titled 'To Catch a Moron' :-)

A different kind of predator

Paul Wright Holley New York — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:19:06 GMT

IV been getting Emails like this I have gotten three of them who said they where godly people like I would fall for that I'M a godly person but I no that a godly person wouldn't go around scamming people

A different kind of predator

The Spamhaus Project, London — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:20:09 GMT

Nice work Dateline, from those who know all too well about the 419 spam/scam plague.

A different kind of predator

Fort Smith, AR — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:23:24 GMT

I am glad to see topics like this is being aired. I really feel badly for the individuals who fall for these scams... young and old alike. I do not feel they are stupid just not educated and eager to fall into the trap. Most Americans work hard for the money we receive and individuals like this just sicken me. Keep up the good work on all series like this and to catch a predator series. Thanks and God bless.

A different kind of predator

mandy sanchez, Elko, Nevada — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:26:02 GMT

I have only had the internet for a month and I have gotten about 2-3 emails a day, I'm sure there all scams. Some have been help me get this money and you will get a cut of it but mostly I get the lottery ones, everyday. One said I had won 1 million so out of curiosity I emailed back asking how to get the money they said I needed to send something like $900.00 us dollars by western union and then my check would be sent, and they also said not to call the number to validate the response of the email. and I wrote back telling them that I looked up the curior service and couldnt find it on the web and said I suspected it fraud and have never heard from that company since, It was the freelotto. all were numbers from the uk and london. I still recieve emails from people like this everyday.

A different kind of predator

JuLie Prior Las Vegas, Nevada — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:32:51 GMT

I just saw you show and I can realy top this one. They come to me thru Personals Dating.First they make a date with me. Then there on buisness in Africa. Humm?? Then they run out of money to get home and they really want to see me and want to marry me. Plus on my profile it states Im a Widow. Umm good target.The first guy I fell for, but then 5 more guys were all stuck in Africa?? I told them all to get to gether and build a boat and start rowing. Also there a gentleman who wrote a coment earlier John Williams. this is the name they use and they say there from Virginia?

A different kind of predator

James Robinson — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:33:02 GMT

Hi Chris. You have no idea how glad I am to see someone finally take notice on this scam. I use to work at a call center where I kid you not, we would receive thousands of these scammer calls each day. These people would call our center via the internet placing multiply calls to business and private homes. From the email, to the romance chats, I've seen them all. I've lost countless hours of sleep over the guilt of processing these calls. I'm sure many people watched tonight's showing wondering how it's possible for someone to fall for such an obvious scam. Well if it didn't work, these people wouldn't keep trying. If anyone wants more info on this, I suggest you google 419 scam. It's time to educate the public about this. Thanks for the show!!

A different kind of predator

Tyson Wolff, Dallas TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:34:45 GMT

Just got a letter in the mail with a real looking check enclosed. If I cash it I will get $120,000 after I send them the $2600 they sent me. Thanks for showing us the potential scammers and keeping us informed.

A different kind of predator

TT from Seattle — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:35:45 GMT

after this show chris...you should next investigate about eBay fraud and also Paypal. I too received the same email that wanted money in return for millions. But i know it sounds convincing but that is just to easy than winning the lotto jackpot. so i just deleted it. I hope eBay fraud shall soon be the next show on nbc since alot of people loses their money by scammers like this one. Man i wish that london police would arrest them into their miseralbe life instead of letting them go freely. Thanks again for bringing this show up and exposing it to let everyone know.

A different kind of predator

MOC, Denver, Colorado — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:36:22 GMT

BRAVO, CHRIS HANSEN and NBC ! ! ! ! ! I get at least two or more of these emails a week consisting of the ones you mentioned on Dateline tonight to winning the London Lottery. Another con everyone should know about is the one offering you a job as transfer manager. Receiving 10% for handling the checks and money orders. You cash the checks and money orders keeping 10% for yourself and sending 90% back to them. The con is that the checks and money orders are not good! I hope you catch them all!

A different kind of predator

Barbara Dixon, Laurel MD — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:37:29 GMT

People on the blog say how can people be stupid and send money to a complete stranger to get more money. My husband was trying to start a homebased business. These scammers take honest circumstances inorder to con them. Here is our story they first sent a $49,000 dollars check we did not cash it because we saw that the check was not right. Correct it was a counterfeit check. So he ask them that they would have to send him a money order. So when we took to deposited the money orders they were also counterfeit too. We are glad we did not cash the money order but we will get in contact with the postal inspectors in order to report these scammers. Thank you dateline for exposing these nigerian, they need to be stop and lockup. At least the truth is getting out their for they need to be stop.

A different kind of predator

Noyal Counteek Wildomar, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:39:43 GMT

I have been given information on investing in Japan Real Estate via IRAs through Ever Bank with up to 16% potential. To get started I can open a checking acount with a #1,500 minimum deposit and will be guaranteed 6% interest on the acount, free checks. I am to transfer the account to an IRA when the Japan Real Estate program is ready (sometime in April) when I will then have the IRA with the above 16% potential? I have not applied for the aplication as I am leary even though the claim is all investments are FDIC protected up to $100,000.00 Dollars. I am still trying to investigate the program becaust that old adage has kicked in that if it seems to good to be true, it just may be a scam. WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THIS???? Thanks !

A different kind of predator

Dee Saville, Muskegon, MI — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:41:07 GMT

Thank you for having such informative shows. Your in-depth research and reporting is refreshing. Our law enforcement have their hands tied due to the international nature of the crimes committed and the country of origin actually protecting the criminals. These scammers are applauded by their governments because they make so much money that they can bribe the officials. There are the kinds you covered on your show, romance scams, reshipping scams, moneygram scams..and the list goes on. There are many websites to find this information if only we'd look before answering these emails or instant messages. http://ic3.gov/faq/#item4 for some eye opening information. Educating the public is one tact but educating law enforcement is also needed. There are MANY kinds of scams coming from Ghana & Nigeria and other countries. They don't just targe Americans either. I was caught in a romance scam. I'm far from stupid and "he" was quite skilled. Luckily I didn't loose any money. I have none! I lost my pride and a few weeks though. There is no recourse for the crimes committed and these people know it.

A different kind of predator

Craig Stevenson, Olympia, Wa. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:43:59 GMT

Chris, no sooner did I hear your show about these scammers did I receive an email about a South African and his dead farmer father and 6M cash, Blah, Blah Blah. I busted out laughing and erased the email without reading it further. Thanks for the headsup! My only suggestion to you is to take a firearm along and shoot these SOB's in the head when you come across them. If you need some help call me, I'd be glad to drop the whole lot of 'em!!

A different kind of predator

Glenn Roth, Great Meadows, NJ — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:46:29 GMT

Excellent show tonight Chris! For those of you who thought you heard it all: "Big International," a "free" lottery ticket, DON'T BUY INTO IT! iT'S A SCAM!

A different kind of predator

Linda Ann, Garden Grove, CA. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:47:27 GMT

Hi Chris, I really injoyed your show tonight. It's such a shame that the internet is not being used for the good things in life anymore. So much is going on now that it makes you not trust anyone. I'm excited to watch your show next Tues. night. The Credit Card identy theft. But, I waiting for the show about "Loan Scams" I was scammed in Jan. 2007 in the amount of $5,286.01 from "Charma Wells Financial Group" Long story short, about 15 of us Victims have been staying in touch through E-Mail. We have presented our stories to the FBI & many, many others that we all thought we would get some kind of feed back from. No one from here to the East Coast will listen. This scam is still going on with Charma Wells Financial Group as I write this to you, thousands of dollars a day taken from hard working people that just needed a loan.

A different kind of predator

Jeff Las Vegas NV — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:51:32 GMT

Lets see more, and have the arrested!!!!

A different kind of predator

Richard T. Wisconsin — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 04:57:36 GMT

My E-Mail Box gets flooded with them daily by all difrent types from Doctors and lawyers claiming the same scam. along with You have won millions of Euro's in a random U.K. Lottery that your computer's IP address has matched. I won this so many times in the last year I would challenge Bill Gates in wealth....

A different kind of predator

Nora Keating, Stockton, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 05:09:11 GMT

Thanks,Chrism fir a great and informative program on scammers. I receive several each week, but I enjoy reading teir imaginative stories nd wonder if I could get them to write a script for my theater productions. The other day I received the first one from a woman who needed someone to invest her inheritance until she turned of age. I just can't understand how folks can believe these stories. Hopefully, your pro9gram will reach a lot of folks' brains.

A different kind of predator

John Lee, St. Louis, MO — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 05:18:02 GMT

Dear Chris, Enjoyed the show tonight and all the internet shows-very intertaining and informative. My scammer experiences are mostly from a singles site I belong to and visit regularily, AmericanSingles.com. I have run across countless scam artists with fake profiles posted with pictures that look like models to entice men into contacting these "women". A common scammer story is the poor woman is stranded in Nigeria, left by a jilted lover, stuck at a hotel there with an unpaid hotel bill and the hotel has seized their passport, etc. until the bill is paid. Of course there is a promise of meeting this damsel in distress. I've also had people attempt to send me checks they say they cannot cash in their country. I had one send me one for $6500. It was supposedly drawn on a bank in St.Cloud, MN. So I contacted the bank. They said it was fake-it looked like it was done on someone's computer. I was supposed to cash it and keep $1000 for myself and send the rest back. I contacted this individual and told them the bank cashed it with no problem-and I was keeping all their money and going to Hawaii-they went crazy trying to contact me. It's fun to play with them and go along with their scams like the one guy they featured on the show. Thanks again Chris and NBC!!!!

A different kind of predator

Chad Binsfield,Duluth MN. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 05:23:52 GMT

Chris,I think that your are making more progress than our law officers.Police and higher, I think that Congress needs to get involed to stop these people. I currently have been trying to sell my boat and I have gotten more response from con`s than potential buyers.The first time I had track a man by the name of Smith Cartley@yahoo.com to Queens NY who sounded like a potential buyer.Then he had said that the cashiers check that he was sending me was for more than what I was asking for.Well I have two other YAHOO`s(bruce4walter @yahoo.com,Tim Mcgrall,tmcgrall@yahoo.com) doing the same thing and I`m Trying to get them to pick up the boat in person so with any luck I can have the authorities get them.If you would like some help I would be more than happy to assist. Also,THANK YOU FOR YOUR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE AS A REPORTER AND A HUMAN BEING.

A different kind of predator

Mike Knutson, Ofallon, Missouri — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 05:41:55 GMT

Good work Chris. I have contacted twice by these con-men.I own a small videography business in St.Louis MO.Back in Nov,06 I got an e-mail from a rev. paul Jones from the east african mission. He stated that he wanted to hire my company for a video shoot for a upcoming 3 day visit to St.Louis.He asked for and got a quote of 1800.00 for my services. He naturally excepted.He then stated that a money order would be sent promply and that all details would be finalized when he arived.The next day he sent an e-mail stating that he was senting the 1800.00 + an aditional 3000.00 in the form of a money order. He said after cashing the M.O. he needed me to sent him back the overage to finace moving his ontourage to the United States.I sent him a message saying that we would not send any money out of the country for any reason, and if he still wanted our services we would only take a major cedit card as payment in full no later than 2 week prior to his visit. I never hear from Rev. Paul again.I had one other scam I didnt responed too. All I can say is "People beware, DONT BE FOOLED!!!"

A different kind of predator

Martin McArthur ,Bay ST. Louis,MS. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 05:44:15 GMT

I guess they still have this one.The con goes like this: Get this right and win Big money, Who was George Washington? Or something like that. Send 2.00 and win 2,000.00 Send 3.00 and win 3,00.00 Or send 5.00 and win 5,000. You send the money they reply,you are in the semi-finals. Send another$5.00 get this one right and win.They reply you are still one of the semi-finals.Then it gets harder,and they ask for more money.It never ends.

A different kind of predator

Garry, Las Vegas, Nv — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 05:44:28 GMT

I get these type emails almost everyday. They try every approach imaginable, even posing as religious persons and using Gods name to scam you. There is also another style that contacs you through singles sites pretending to be young women seeking older men for marriage.

A different kind of predator

Jeanne, Spring, TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 18:51:45 GMT

This show was great! There should be more! Y'all should always make sure you have shows like this on when elderly folks are still up and even kids etc... It is important to all to watch! These scammers are sick and should be caught! And I too am amazed at people who do fall for this! I get them on one of my email accounts. I will try and send any that maybe y'all have not seen. Some I have replied back to with, "you make me sick!" Your are taking advantage of people. If you think the USA has not hear dbaout your scam you are crazy! And then I end with I do report you as Spam! But Dateline keep up the great work!

A different kind of predator

Maggie Clark St. Louis, MO — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 18:56:51 GMT

Just this afternoon I got one of those emails this one said I won a Euro-Afro Internet Lottery from Madrid Spain. I was almost a victum of this type of fraud but caught myself. Being that I have three small children to take care of the chance that I could of won a couple millon dollars sounded great. Though the other problem that almost seemed believable was that I was doing all sorts of surveys that would enter me in to drawings so when I first got those emails I thought they had come from that. Not so. Any way thanks for doing this piece.

A different kind of predator

Rudi Alcott, Greeley, CO — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:00:53 GMT

Chris, This is absolutely unbelievable that folks actually fall for this stuff. I watch intently all of the predator shows that you have done. Keep the eyes in the back of your head on this one, though. It seems like you could find yourself in awkward and presumably incredible danger with this group of people. You pointed out that there is considerable money to be made in this endeavor and these slugs may determine that your investigative skills are not needed on this planet.

A different kind of predator

David, Canton, Michigan — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:04:39 GMT

I'm sorry and it may sound cruel but i really don't feel sorry for these people who fall for this scamming crap. It also makes me laugh when some of these people are college educated who fall for scams. (too bad college does not offer common sense 101).

A different kind of predator

Christina M. Pierce Imperial, MO — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:17:54 GMT

Chris after watching you show last night, I thought that the info. that I have printed but I have deleted the messages, would be helpful?? Back in Feb. 16 2007 I was contacted by dr_obadiahmailafia20022@yahoo.es Deputy Governor Central Bank of Nigeria, He said that my funds have been programmed for immediate release into my nominated bank account, because they were having problems with International Monetary Fund (IMF) their method of payment will be by a Diplomatic Courier Service, for me to note that my funds have been packaged like a consignment. Note that the Diplomatic Agency has to move down to your country in order to deliver the consignment to my doorstep. As soon as the diplomatc arrive in your country they will give me a call immediately to enable you help them to get (Yellow Tag Paper) so that the customs immigration will not stop them in airport, for security reason, you are advice to follow the rules and regulation of the diplomats for easy collection of the consignment, you have to welcome the diplomatic agent. I was suppose to immediately send my direct mobile phone and my home address to him. So when the diplomat finally arrives, after his transit in London and finally arrive at our country he would call me immediately. This message to me was scary, I suppose I would of been the one to meet a stranger at the airport to get him through customs immigration, Get this Yellow Tag Paper for him, and he already would of known my address, cell phone #, etc. What would he done to me? If I would of been stupid enough to fall for this one! I have several more of these con messages printed. If you would like them sent to you please e-mail me. Christina M. Pierce

A different kind of predator

Nicholas, USA4SALE Networks — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:17:58 GMT

Thank you for running this piece. It is great to see network news coverage on this widespread problem. Raising public awareness is the only thing that will hinder these scammers. The overpayment scam is perpetrated daily not on greedy Americans, but honest people trying to sell their stuff through eBay or online classified sites like ours. We offer a checklist for identifying several different types of scammers, called "You Might Be a Scammer If..."

A different kind of predator

Lee , Germantown, Wisconsin — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:42:53 GMT

My question is, how do they get our email address and how can we stop from getting these scams sent to us? When is the United States government going to step in and do something about this. They did something about the international online gambling problem.

A different kind of predator

monti wade, triangle, va — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:56:25 GMT

I was almost caught up in one of these scams. I would love to get NBC to help me catch this guy face to face. it was exactly like the scam you reported. I have saved all the documents and letters that I was ever sent. AND now all kinds of these people send me letters asking for help to release funds overseas.

A different kind of predator

Donna Smith — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 20:31:26 GMT

I was so glad Dateline tackled this story on those internet scammers! I have been getting those emails every week for a few years and was absolutely feed up with the foreign emails. So are these guys going to be arrested for sending the emails? I don't think they should get away with it. What do the officials in Africa have to say about the email scams originating from there?

A different kind of predator

Josh. DALLAS — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 20:51:08 GMT

Thank you for the job well done, but unlike the sex predators story the victims here are also creminals themselvs who want to reap where they did not sow. The suckers(mugus)here are not watching the show as it conflicts with American Idol another way for sukers.

A different kind of predator

Michele, Denver — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 20:54:29 GMT

My husband gets these type of emails ALL of the time. The latest is one from the UK saying he won money from some contest for Coca Cola. I told him that it was garbage (after reminding him how he lost $100 a few years back on another scam), but he wanted to play along and sent them his name and address. Then he got an email saying he needed to send them money. Like I tell him...there is no such thing as free money dear.....SCAM....i am amazed that people fall for this stuff! I work too hard for my paycheck, I'll be darned if I am going to just send it to some stranger because they told me I won a million dollars! People need to wise up! (hubby included, haha)

A different kind of predator

A. Moses, Langhorne Pa — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:03:10 GMT

There are a group of us who spend our time and money answering these scammers just to keep them busy and away from potential victims. We try nto educate people around the world to the dangers of scammers. Don't be fooled, contact banks,FBI local police anyone. The governments all around the world should get involved.

A different kind of predator

Rocco, Europe — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:07:28 GMT

There is only one way to stop the scammers: giving to them a little of their own medicine. I know some good places for it, but this one is my favourite: 419eaters dot com You would learn all about these criminals there.

A different kind of predator

Jon Robb Indianapolis IN — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:13:19 GMT

Chris, I urgently want to tell you about a different kind of scammer. They solicit thier victims with pictures of beautiful women. I have been solicited by them for money on dating sites time and time again. They are all women that claim to be from the former Soviet Union. If anyone can expose this it is you Chris. Keep up the good work!!!

A different kind of predator

Irma Moreno Valley, California — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:16:40 GMT

Chris, I don't know what's going on but this week, the same week your show aired, I've received 3 of these scam messages. One was from the "staatslotterij", the Dutch lottery, saying I had won a million Euro's and to call this number. The prefix seems to be from Holland. I am Dutch and emailed my cousin, he says it's a cell phone number (grin). Sound familiar? The other 2 were like the African Scams, I reported them as Spam. Once (about a year ago), I received on saying they were looking for relatives of (my last name) for inheritance purposes. I replied "where did you get my name and email?" and never heard back (of course). It's too bad there is not an international police that can put a stop to these people and put them in jail. You know that old people and other vunerable people get ripped off by them on a daily basis. Keep up the good work: You provide needed education to the public and keep the light on people who belong in jail.

A different kind of predator

mike dickey — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:26:30 GMT

we got a fax with the same deal we live in alaska i think they will work all angles of i would like to fax what i received to you thank you

A different kind of predator

benquo — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:33:17 GMT

I smiled throughout the entire show. I have recievd a couple of these "help me" emails, but luckily I have The good sense to know right away that its bogus. I mean it was really obvious.... why would someone want me involved in a multi-million dollar tansaction. They said they "read [my] profile", and decided i "could help".... what profile?! Im sue the very desparate are vulnerable to such scams, but also those not savvy with the internet and dont know that email solititations of this sort just arent legitimate

A different kind of predator

ED, Rhode Island — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:40:23 GMT

If the FBI is so busy tracking terrorists as Dateline explained more than once in the episode, how come the DOJ found the time to confiscate millions of US Dollars from a internet wire transfer company (Neteller.com). There are thousands of people with money being held by the DOJ.

A different kind of predator

lindsay waters,greely, colo. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:50:15 GMT

i find this very scary, we all want to make money but why lie and cheat to get it. now i find it hard to trust any e-mails i get promising me money, so how do you know if it's a scam?

A different kind of predator

luis roman — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 21:54:10 GMT

sir, Is there a FBI or FCC website that we could forward this scam letters to be trace ?

A different kind of predator

Marilyn, Yorba Linda, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 22:27:36 GMT

Chris, you are my HERO!!! Keep up the good work....I am cheering you on during every show!!

A different kind of predator

Michael, Panama City, Fl. — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 22:27:56 GMT

Chris, Loved the show, but I think you fell short of really helping people. You could have touched on how to shut some of these scam artists down. Perhaps in a future broadcast, you could advise your views to report the emails to the service provider where the email originated. You know, I get at least 3 or 4 such emails per day, often sent by one email address, with a reply email address totally different. Forwarding these emails with full header to the service providers, from both the sent and reply to ISP's can get the account shut down, making the scammers efforts a complete waste of time, and perhaps saving not so knowlegeable people heartache and grief. You could be doing much better.

A different kind of predator

bobcarp, Sacramento, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 22:33:42 GMT

don't be stupid people. No stranger is gonna just e-mail you out of the blue and present you with a legitimate way of making millions of $$$$$. "Stupid is as stupid does" -Forrest Gump

A different kind of predator

karl strauch middletown nj — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 22:36:45 GMT

A different kind of predator

Betty Rose, Arlington, Washington — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 22:59:15 GMT

You did it Chris! I had almost the same scam 2 or 3 years ago from a scammer in Nigeria. There was this big chunk of money that was held in trust by the Government, and he needed someone in this Country to help him get it. I played along as far as I could without sending anything. I wanted to expose him in person as you did, but it got to the point of having to send gifts, and he wanted Rolex Watches and Men's business suits! He thought he knew how to pull your heart strings. He said his daughter was killed in the Nigeria blast. Remember that one that drowned a lot of women and children in the canal? It was so much pleasure watching you expose these guys! Thank you!! You deserve a medal!

A different kind of predator

DM San Diego, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 23:02:34 GMT

My little update to DM post. I have contacted my local police and FBI about the check I received for an item I am selling online. Check was for much more than sale price and all the scam stuff is plain as day. When the potential buyers check showed up yesterday I knew this was fraud. I called the customer service number to the Bank the check is drawn from and they were NOT interested. I was told thank you for calling and we are aware of the situation and that some checks had been stolen. I tried to tell the girl over the phone that I had names,addresses, check number, emails and shipping info, She was not interested, Suntrust Bank said this. Wow! I am a little speechless to this. Anyways not much being done to try and get a potential bad guy. Nobody wants to do anything about it.

A different kind of predator

Brenda, Humble, TX — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 23:41:25 GMT

Mr. Hansen, It is so funny that I watched your program on Dateline last night and when I checked my emails today - I had three potential scams - for employment oppoturnities. The ads wanted me to deposit funds into my account from payors here in the US - and then send a money order or bank checques to the scammer. I am so greatful for you insightfullness to show America what is out there when in todays society everywhere you look there is an offer to make a quick easy buck. Thanks again and keep up the good work.

A different kind of predator

Deborah Perez, Oakley, CA — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 23:42:14 GMT

Chris, I was scammed by similar representatives that you disclosed on your show last night on Tuesday. Although my case was in the thousands of dollars, it does not compare to the millions you disclosed last night. We are a middle class american family and this has caused a hardship on our family. The thieves in our case still have not paid us our money and do not care about what they have caused our family in hardship. Thanks for letting the rest of our Nation of these type of thieves. dp

A different kind of predator

Mary B Nanaimo BC Canada — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 01:17:50 GMT

I just wanted to let you know that they are using the dating sites as well to get the attention of women and hoping they are desperate enough to fall for their charade. I was approached by a 47yr old caucasion from Port Angeles only to find out he was a 37yr old from Nigeria. His accent tipped me off and his style of writing. I nagged him for the truth and finally he told me he had been reported two other times to the dating site and was banned. Well I did the same thing and am warning women from all over to be careful. This individual had somehow stolen someone's photos and was posing as a widow. Banning them doesn't help as they create new hotmail addresses and sign up once again at the dating sites. Surely there must be a way to stop them!!

A different kind of predator

Chris Baker Lubbock Tx. — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 01:27:34 GMT

Chris, I watched tonight. I just almost got in on one of these scams from Africa related to buying Macaws. They wanted money to send me birds. Gave me phone #'s and addresses here. I crossed these numbers and these people here had no knowledge of this deal. The birds were to be at my house in Tx. from Camroon in 6 hours! I have locations in NC, NY,CA,WA and OR. Thanks for doing these many stories. You are Great. CB Lubbock, TX.

A different kind of predator

Amy Reynolds, Henderson, NV — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 02:02:16 GMT

Hi Chris, I am sick of receiving emails from people who are looking to steal money. Today I receive an email from someone offing me a "Second Chance" on an Ebay auction. This was not from the seller. If you could catch this person, I will provide info on what I know. In the meantime, I received an email from one of my buyers who had their identity stolem on Ebay. Please contact me if you are interested.

A different kind of predator

BHumphry Moncton NB — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 02:06:39 GMT

I had a man a barrister from London England tell me i was the last survivor of a man who died in a plane crash his name Washington Hank. I knew it was a scam but responded as it was a relative name he used. Of course it was for millions. I am going to email him back right now and tell him i am reporting him to a fraud investigation and deleting his info. Be aware of these conmen! they sound so real. I also noticed his grammar was terrible and he is British so he should be able to use the english language better. Bh

A different kind of predator

Steven, Savannah, GA — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 02:21:46 GMT

Hello everyone at dateline NBC. Just want to let you know that im an Army Ranger and have been for about 5 years now. Ive been on 6 deployments and proud of it. Im also proud of you guys and the work that you all are doing. While the soldiers are fighting the war on terror you guys are fighting the war on crime at home. Can you guys come to other towns/cities and set up other stings ops to catch Sexual Predators.

A different kind of predator

FigureS8rgurl, Canada — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 02:52:10 GMT

Great Job Chris!! Love the shows, first to Catch a Predator now to Catch a Con Man. I get e-mails like this all the time, I usually delete them but I'm really glad to see a story like this, educating people about these kinds of scams. Can't wait to see the next show, Keep it up!!

A different kind of predator

Rancho Palos Verdes, CA — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 02:54:52 GMT

Chris, you're awesome!!! I'm so glad you're doing this kind of shows!!! My stories are these...1)About a year ago, my boyfriend was looking to buy the phone Palm Treo 650 on ebay. The same day he recv'd an email from this gal who said that she had the phones he was looking for in stock and she could actually sell him 2 for $400.00. The gal was from England, and she was requesting the money to be wired through Western Union. There were several emails back and forth because my boyfriend was a little hesitant about releasing the money. So, she told him that if he wasn't serious about buying the phones, then she would go find someone "honest" that "really needs and wants the phones". So, my boyfriend believed her, went and wired the money, then emailed her with the Western Union transaction and confirmation numbers. The girl got the money literally 30 mins. later and my boyfriend never heard from her again. 2) I have received several emails from the "UK online Lottery" letting me know that my email address was attached to a ticket number that drew the lucky numbers and I had won thousands in pounds sterling. I was being asked to fill out a form and forward back to them immediately. I have received this type of emails so many times that I actually like to reply back and play along. After a while, I let them know how stupid they are for thinking I would fall for it. Chris, you're awesome and thank you so much for putting it on the air and educating us! People out there, be careful if you ever buy anything on ebay, or if you ever get any emails telling you they have the product you were looking for on ebay!!! Heidi

A different kind of predator

Ken, San Diego, Ca. — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 03:16:06 GMT

Chris, I created and managed a fraud department for a major brokerage house from 10/99-1/2005. I spoke with the "ethically and morally challenged" over the phone directly from Nigeria. I got real good at liar's poker. Although, I never received any e-mails, I had the pleasure of retrieving $120,000 from a Nigerian Bank for a customer that was stolen from his account with us in the U.S.. On the morning of 9/11/2001, they called and I told them "Game over, you lose" we got the $$$ back. WOW!! that felt great!! Six months later, a different West African had the account information. These schemes are also rampant as "Advance fee Canadian Lottery schemes". One customer was taken for $125,000 (over 9 months through Western Union) I broke that case (along with investigators)in Canada from wiring an additional $250,000 against his brokerage account. Keep up the great work.

A different kind of predator

Pamela Willems Houston, Tx — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 03:43:05 GMT

Thank you from Houston, I was scammed myself a couple of years ago and all I was looking for was a roommate. Roommates.com has scammers on their site. They want to send you money and wwant you to keep some and send some back to them. I admit I was stupid once, they got me but their is another website called save me sites .com . It is a website for people asking for dontions to help them for whatevver reason. Some poeple are desperate.They are also in that site too. They claim to be ministers and want your help to send other people money, even stupid me didn't fall for that one. Another one is someone claiming to work for a small oil and gas company and wanting to donate, and they do lead you on as you said, I would love to have a job busting these people mainly because their seems to be a target on my head, they find me no matter what , but I have learned the hard way. Heck, I was even threatened that I would get intto trouble with the FBI if I didn't send them the money, I have fun with them, I playing a game of my own and for some reason they don't like it. I wonder why heehee. Thanks again, I'm lovin' it

A different kind of predator

Jack S., council bluffs, ia — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 05:38:59 GMT

I sincerely hope that you are making sure of your personal safety while doing this story. It doesn't seem to me that all of these people will just sit there and allow you to question them without reacting to you in a violent manner. Please continue to do the excellent job that you are doing, but at the same time, please be careful.

A different kind of predator

DorothyCicero,Buffalo,NewYork — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 05:53:56 GMT

Chris, Thanks for the going that extra mile, enjoyed the show last night as I too have had 3-4 email scams from London (British Lottery), from Asia which I just mark as spam & didn't open; the one from West Africa & the Philippines were both connected to each other as the one from the Philippines said that the 9 million was in a trunk @ a courrier co. (Eaglevault). The woman send everything to try to make a believer out of me (passport, cert. of health, photo, & even a document saying that there was a trunk with persoal family document enclosed - serial numbers, phone, fax, etc.) which made it really look good. But as they say, "if it's to good to be true than it's NOT!" the woman claimed to be married to the late ambassador of the Ameriacan embassy. I too have all her information & tied her up for 4 months now writing back & forth just to mess with them as they try to mess with us Americans & other people of the world. Why I saved her stuff was because she really claimed to be a born again Christian! Which has made me very angry because I truly am born again, & to use the Lord in the manner is blasphemy, which I even gave her the opportunity to stop there if she is using the lord because she will have to answer for that one day. But no she continued to speak verses & played on the Lord's name, so I continue to play with her with the hopes that the SPIRIT will fill her soul & she will stop doing what she is doing. I feel if I keep her going for a long period of time she may fianlly stop replying? I do this to keep her from preying on others who may not be so lucky in knowing a scam, & I only do this for spare fun time. If you were to post a couple of websites called scammers beware, fight identity theft, & there are others, but the public can @ least be able to log onto them to see one of the many who have been or are trying to be scammed. Do not hesitiate to ask me for all the information this woman has sent me. Again Chris Thank You for doing everyone a wonderful job on exposing these idiots!

A different kind of predator

Marisa Aguilar, Oakley, CA — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 17:03:49 GMT

Hello Chris, we have been victims of a ponzi scam there are around 800 victims and still counting. The sad part of these is that FBI is not taking part of this since is a organized crime and known for the past 2 years. We lost everything we owned including our primary residence almost everybody is in the process of foreclosure. We are a big group of people and I believe no one alerted the media so far... we would like your help.

A different kind of predator

Barbara Rector Hill Lakeview, Arkansas — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 17:31:01 GMT

In 1998 I received a phone call from a major Department store asking if my social security number was such and such and I replied yes, Did you just purchase a large screen TV. No. That was the beginning of the person buying with my social security. I got calls from other companies, missed work because of this and worked with two different police departments. I leaned the name of the individual who was unknown to me, the fact that he had been released from prison convicted for identity theft. I got a copy of my credit report and read it to the detetive I was working with and lo and behold, the report from the large department store that called me is where the person got my social security number. THat was some time before idenity theft was well know.

A different kind of predator

Scott D Brown, Trabuco Canyon, Ca — Sat, 31 Mar 2007 04:49:55 GMT

I just a found out a day ago that the literary agency I signed on with a few months ago is a scam! Needless to say I was devastated. They asked for me to pay a third party editing service to critiqued my manuscript. It ended up around $79. Come to find out, that after a few months they wanted another $79 or so for some special program to help pitch my book to publishers. Something that should be free! I was a fool and fell for it. The agency is called, New York Literary Agency and I've met others online who have been scammed by them. A good agent does not ask for any money and only gets paid when you do. The better business bureau seems to be looking into the agency and will hopefully have a report finished soon. Please spread the word about this false agency.

A different kind of predator

Gerald Slaby, Jackson, MI — Sat, 31 Mar 2007 16:21:38 GMT

Dear Mr. Hanson-I received an e-mail today from a Lt.Gen.ALIYU MOHAMMED(that's how it was written), National Security Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo Federal Republic of Nigeria, informing me of their 'plan to send your fund to you via cash delivery' of a 'part payment of US$10.Million....via diplomatic courier service', etc. and asking me for my 'full house address', letting me know that he would 'let (me)know when the special Grace of God will airlift the boxes.' I have received many messages like this, in the past. How can these people be stopped? I can only have sympathy for those who fall for this scam, that didn't watch your report. Is there any way to report this 'Lt.Gen' to the government, or be able to shut down their operation? I hope that your show can help. Thank you for your wonderful report! sincerely, Gerald Slaby

A different kind of predator

Steve Naples, Lake Elsinore, California — Sat, 31 Mar 2007 22:45:56 GMT

Chris, After watching last week about scams over seas, I have been communicating with one person who claims that they are in Amsterdam or Germany and that they want me to travel there to share in a family inheritance. He just sent me another email today (3/31/07) to join a Mr. Roberts in Amsterdam or Germany to finalize the transaction. I really think that this one would be a good one to follow up on. Please let me know because I'm really wondering what it is all about. I also have several other emails that deal with other frauds and I would really like to submit them to you to see what you think about them. Thank you Steve Naples

A different kind of predator

David Knowles, Lake Forest, CA — Sat, 31 Mar 2007 23:01:28 GMT

I couldn't believe that people actually fell for these scams. I figured those scammers were just wasting their time, so I guess it's true there is a sucker born every minute. I thought they were identity thieves trying to get my personal info to use at best. The only way to stop this is to do what you did: Make the public aware of the problem. I saved every scam I have received in a special Con Artist folder. I have about 75. If you are interested I can sent them to you.

A different kind of predator

Lane — Sun, 01 Apr 2007 03:26:06 GMT

I have received many of these emails. Normally I send back an acidic reply, and sometimes even criticisms of various misspellings and inaccuracies which they then attempt to correct in their subsequent emails. The latest one I received (I keep them all in a folder) claimed that "the account of MR DAVID ANGELL, who was one of my branch depositor, should be declared dormant and confisticated and the depositor's fund sent to the Bank Treasury" and an offer that I could assist in the transaction along with a website that listed all of the victims of September 11, 2001. Upon viewing David Angell's individual website, it turns out he was the creator and executive producer of "Frasier". I thought you would find it interesting.

A different kind of predator

Jessica Daniels, Honesdale, PA — Sat, 23 Jun 2007 21:06:50 GMT

Anyone there at Dateline NBC want my email address? I get HUNDREDS of these scams, from sick people who need help, bankers who need help, and many many so called european lotteries I have won where I have to send a few thousand dollars to a "courier company" so they can deliver my winning check. I tell them to mail it to me by postal mail, but of course they won't. If you are going to continue the series the way that you continue "To Catch a Predator" I am willing to forward all of the scam emails that I get. I don't get as many as I used to because I started marking them as spam, but I still get some every single day.

A different kind of predator

Mo, Elmont, NY — Sat, 23 Jun 2007 22:22:20 GMT

while it is true that many of these people are from Nigeria, it is not fair to assume that ALL scammers come from that particular region, or the African continent for that matter. If people stop soliciting these e-mails then there would be no problem. Just hit "Delete". its just like saying "no" to people who want to sell you illegal drugs. Its sad, that people generalize all Nigerians into scammers. Out of a country of about 140 million people, just 10% of that population is enough to tarnish our image. Im saddened about the whole thing. But then again, my country is young. we will celebrate the 47th year since independence. Rome wasnt built in a day. We will progress and prove everyone wrong.As soon as we solve this poverty thing...

A different kind of predator

Jennifer Ratza Saginaw Michigan — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:25:18 GMT

I am currenlty registered on many employement sites and I have found that I received about 2 or more e-mails a week from overseas asking me to work from home and collect money for them. I always delete these e-mails because well it's for 1 way too good to be true and secondly they want to transfer money into my account and have my account number to be able to do this with. I hate to imagine all the people that have falling for this sort of thing. I keep thinking of the idenity theif program I seen and people overseas were having things shipped to peoples homes here in the states.

A different kind of predator

Krystal Burt , Niagara Falls, Ontario , Canada — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 13:52:50 GMT

I just got one of those email scams today and I replied "Sorry buddy I watched Dateline NBC. Im not falling for your scam." I bet it got a lot harder for them to pull these scams since your show. Keep up the good work Chris!

A different kind of predator

Sudheendra Kashi, Mysore, Karnataka, India — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 07:59:26 GMT

I HAVE BEEN SCAMMED BY MR.BEN JOHNSON WHO IS SUPPOSEDLY HEAD OF RECRUITMENT OF OLMERT RECRUITMENT SERVICES FOR ZENITH BANK IN NIGERIA, WHO HAD SENT ME THE OFFER LETTER AND APPOINTMENT LETTER WITH A SALARY OF US$15000 PER MONTH AFTER TAX, HE HAD PROVIDED THE MANAGING DIRECTORS NAME AND NUMBER, CHEIF CONSULTANT OFFICERS NAME AND NUMBER, WHEN I CONFIRMED FROM THE WEBSITE OF THE ZENITH BANK, CCO'S NAME WAS THE SAME AS THAT OF THE OFFER LETTER. I ALSO RECEIVED MAIL FROM THE NIGERIAN IMMIGRATION SERVICES HEAD OF VISA PERMITS TO TRANSFER $1450 THRU SWIFT ACCOUNT. BUT WHEN I CONFIRMED FROM THE EMBASSY IN INDIA ABOUT THE AUTHENTICITY OF THE LETTER, THEY SIMPLY SAID ITS FRAUD.

A different kind of predator

Shar, Punte Hills, California — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 19:57:08 GMT

In addition to receiving my share of the scam emails, i received a hard copy of a letter through the mail, addressed to me (my name and address) on letterhead, from a bank in London, telling me I inherited a large sum of $ from so & so. Nicely written with plenty of details. I check the country code on the internet - it was Nigera! I contacted the real bank via email to let them know they were being named in this scam and they responded telling me they get used a lot. I was surprised they got my full name and address. I scanned the letter if anyone wants a copy.

A different kind of predator

Steffanie Dueringer Mount Vernon New York 10553 — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 20:24:03 GMT

Hi Chris Steffanie here i would like to say i enjoy your piece on 8-12-07 to catch a con man.I too received several letters like the one u received telling me about this fortune and how they need my help well i had it in my mind to really respond to these ppl so im so glad that i watch you an realized that this is really a scam.I save a few of the letters if u want to take a look at them.These letters or so convincing one of these letter that i have tell me how this women husband is the step-brother of the sultan of Brunei an she is dying of cancer an she want me to take all this money an her one son and care for him when she die.Chris u should see this letter so heart renching Any way keep up the good work i will be watching I wish i could meet these ppl face to face to tell them how evil they are.

A different kind of predator

Shawna Luce, Fremont, CA — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 20:34:35 GMT

I really enjoyed your show last night...for me it really hit home. Sure I've gotten those emails too and have deleted them. But I did get scammed out of $5000.00 by a man who claimed to be from LA, CA. a widower who was stuck in Nigeria, on a business trip. I finally agreed to and I thought that since money orders are pre-purchased, I would be ok. I had the bank check the money orders and they said that they were all ok. Then they cashed them for me, come to find out that the money orders were fake. I didn't find that out until I had wired the $5000.00 to his "travel agent" in the UK. I went to the Local Police and filed reports, then filed a report with the FBI and of course, no one has helped me... not one bit. Bank of America is charging me and I have to pay back the $5000.00.
Just thought I'd share my story!

A different kind of predator

william white springhill,fla.34610 — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 21:01:08 GMT

i have been talking to the love of a lifetime i thought but family and this site have made me see the lite.we talk for hours 2 to 3 times aday family pics hers ect.have sent 500 dollers in past week and wants 5400 dollors to come. i have never met anyone that makes me feel this way and i know i never will,i am scared i will go off the deep end when i delegte her from yahoo.but i know i must. i am a retired merchant seaman and have seen this before,but not me right. they should stop all dating sites...i am more mad at myself than whever is doing this. thanks for saving me dollors and sanity.

A different kind of predator

Ronnie Barnes Colorado Springs, CO. — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 21:27:07 GMT

Hi
Not only do I have phone numbers contact information and local address from which some of these people come from and prey. I actually have money orders and checks sent from them to me to pay for my troubles. Letters and emails I kept and the education on this matter is there isn't any. I am on interpol because of this but I think it is based solely on the fact that I am a black male...I usually don't play the race card but I have already been put in jail arrested in public based on the fact that none of the companies that are involved by namesake. However in my investigation of trying to find a way to stop them one of my moms clients has sent several thousands of dollars cashed their checks and never once has he seen a jail or even have bad credit with his bank. Me on the other hand have completely lost everything and am in the process of losing my home because I can't get a bank account, or travel out of the country or rebuild my credit without running into serious issue with the government. Call me if you want everything and including response of the F.B.I. and C.B.I. email me for my number.
Ronnie

A different kind of predator

Steve E, Albuquerque, New Mexico — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 23:24:34 GMT

Chris, Loved the report I just happened to watch last night ( Albuquerque , NM ) and it was great. I just got another one of those emails. Besides blocking it and deleting it, I sent a copy of the report to them.. just for laughs. Take care

A different kind of predator

Sharon Bradley, Fort Myers, Florida — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 23:37:13 GMT

Dear Mr. Hansen, First let me say GOOD JOB!!! Not only are you taking on sex offenders, but finally someone is takin on the con artists. I must get a dozen e mails each week offering all kinds of financial rewards from lottery winnings in the UK to being a representitive for some Asian company to process their transactions. I put them in my spam file, its a travesty. I realize the government is overloaded with Terrorist activities, but, how do they know that in some way the money these scumbags do manage to scam people out of isnt being used in some sort of Terrorist activities? From what Ive read and seen on the news, the terrorists use any means necessary to get their money. Thank you for standing up for the people of this country who cant go after these rats themselves. You are to be commended for all your efforts with sex offenders as well as these con men who pray on the hopes of innocent people. Thank you, and God Bless and protect you in your future investigations.

A different kind of predator

Donald Gundy, Sterling Heights, Michigan — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 23:55:47 GMT

Chris Hansen:
Thank you for exposing the TRUTH about several things. The FBI is useless; there is no one to stop these people and they have been operating for years! You went overseas to meet these people and I bet at times you were scared of what might happen. Your story finished short and disappointing. Don't you know there are people in this country that would have went with you to go "farther" than you. Instead of letting them walk away they could have gotten plenty of information from these scammers "their way" and then your finish would be to expose the big fish in these organizations. Our society is too easy for these scammers to pick on and thieves need to be taught a lesson. Don Gundy

A different kind of predator

lois bevins 30122 cross hill canyon lake CA 92587 — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 02:08:59 GMT

I have received dozens of these scam offers/ then dozens of "we are happy to inform you that you have won the Irish sweepstakes" or English lottery or Microsoft lottery. Now letters from on line banks telling that I must update my banking info. I don't have an on line account. So glad you are warning people to watch out.

A different kind of predator

Stephanie Meeks, Lees Summit, MO — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 16:09:16 GMT

Chris, I received one of these e-mails yesterday. This ladies father was in charge of oil producing in their area which caused pollution problems that effected fishing and agriculture (the main source of revenue) She inherited a considerable amount of money and will make me her beneficiary to invest in real estate. Once I insure her of my assistance she will then initiate steps towards transferring funds to me.
Not that I would have fallen for this but I wanted to thank you for the work you do. You help a lot of people see how awful people can be.
Thanks and Keep Up the Good Work,
Stephanie

A different kind of predator

Tamee Weaver, Fromberg Montana — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 21:21:33 GMT

I was watching your show, checked my email today after two weeks of vacation and ironically have recieved an email from someone wishing me to use some of my money to help them get their money out of a US account. I thought it was interesting after seeing your episode on TV last night and am wondering what is the best way to handle turning this person in??

A different kind of predator

Gary Diamond, Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 22:20:04 GMT

Hello Mr. Hansen:

My wife & I received the following email that is directly related to your excellent show. Before deleting we wanted to forward it here and find out where to report these people!!!

Here it is:

"Her" address is: "MONIEK AHMED" <sismoneik_ahmed3@hotmail.com>

From: Miss Marry Ahmed,
Cotonou Benin.

Dearest,

I am sending you this proposal with deep concerned as to seek for your help out of my present situation.

I am Miss Marry Ahmed, the only daughter of (Late) Mr. & Mrs Vivian Ahmed, my mother died when I was only six years old of age then my father been a caring man took very good care of me till Friday, December 26, 2003 that all my joy turn to sorrow on one of his business trip to Dubai, they got a plane crash which cost his life
in Benin plane crash.

There is this amount of (US $5 .7M) (Five Million Seven Hundred Thousand United State Dollars) which my father deposited in the Bank here in Cotonou before his untimely death. My father was a highly reputable businessman; he deals in Caf� and Cocoa seeds. He died on the Friday, December 26, 2003 in a plane crash on his way to Dubai. See the BBCNEWS website of the crash. http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/africa/12/26/benin.crash/index.html.

Now I have decided to invest this money in your country or anywhere safe enough outside Cotonou to political crisis here in my country. I want you to help me transfer and invest this money in any lucrative business in your country considering my age and not having any experience about investment-especially of the magnitude this will require.

I want immediately the money is transferred to you I will come over to your country to continue my education under your care. If you can be of a sincere assistance to me, please do get back to me for more details. I await your immediate response.

Thanks and God bless you,
Miss Marry Ahmed.

A different kind of predator

Gary Diamond, Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 22:21:38 GMT

I realized we shouldn't have sent the text of the email. Please ignore that in my first post.

A different kind of predator

JEANNINE WATTS, JESUP, GEORGIA — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 16:39:10 GMT

I WAS ONE OF THE DUMB ONES THAT ACTUALLY FELL FOR THE SCAM. WE ARE IN DESPERATE NEED FOR MORE INCOME SO I ANSWERED ONE OF THE EMAILS THAT ASK FOR A BOOKKEEPER FOR COMPANY THAT WAS BASED IN THE UK AND NEEDED TO HAVE SOMEONE COLLECT MONEY IN US AND THEN WIRE THEM THE MONEY MINUS 10%. SO I RECEIVED A CHECK IN THE MAIL FOR $6500.00. I DEPOSITED IT IN MY BANK ACCOUNT. THE BANK TOLD ME IT WOULD BE HELD FOR 10 DAYS AND I SAID FINE. I FELT FUNNY ABOUT THE WHOLE THING I COULD SENSE SOMETHING WAS NOT RIGHT. THE ONLY WAY I COULD CONTACT ANYONE WAS EMAIL. AFTER A WHILE THE MAN EMAILED ME AND INSISTED THAT I WIRE HIM HIS MONEY, BUT IT WAS TO A MAN IN NEW YORK. I ACTUALLY GOT A LITTLE SCARED SO WITHDREW THE MONEY AND WIRE HIM THE MONEY. ABOUT A WEEK OR TWO LATER MY BANK INFORMED ME THAT THE CHECK WAS STOLEN AND I OWED THEM $6500.00. I WAS DEVASTATED. WE HAD TO REFINANCE OUR LAND AND OUR MOBILE HOME TO COME UP WITH THE MONEY AND WE STILL WERE NOT ABLE TO PAY THE BANK ALL OF IT. WE REPORTED IT TO THE LOCAL POLICE BUT THE JUST SAID THERE WAS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. I KNOW WHEN YOU PICK UP MONEY FROM WESTERN UNION YOU HAVE TO SHOW YOUR ID SO WHY CAN'T THEY ARREST WHOEVER PICKED UP THE MONEY IN NY. WE STILL HAVE NOT RECOVERED OUR BANK ACCOUNT AND STRUGGLE EVERY MONTH TO PAY OUR LOAN WE HAD TO TAKE OUT. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY THE POLICE ARE NOT DOING MORE TO STOP THESE PEOPLE. I KNOW WHAT I DID WAS DUMB. I HAVE SINCE RECEIVED SOME MORE CHECKS. THIS TIME THEY WERE SENT UPS AND THEY ARE VISA TRAVELERS CHECKS.

A different kind of predator

bryan burns — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 17:23:36 GMT

I've read alot info concerning these obvious scams, but what about the millions of americans being scammed by phony credit repair and restoration places. Is there anything that can be done to stop these people as well?

A different kind of predator

donna broom scottsdale az — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 07:42:17 GMT

I must be on the scamers list as i receive many many e-mails from lotteries, next of kin, dying people,attorneys who need help getting money out of africa,supposed winnings from microsoft and toyota(false of course) also from supposed governor and bankers and employers and from military men who say they found sudam husseims money. at first i almost fell for one.now i play with their minds to see how far they will go when i tell them i have no money. some want to loan me the amount of the processing etc. i even got an e-mail from a suppossed ambassador to africa. i have tried several law enforcement people and media but no one is interested in trying to prosecute anyone. I have saved about 20 of these to help anyone interested in them. i am glad you dateline are doing a story on these scams. some are so legit sounding.

A different kind of predator

Debra, South Easton, MA — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 12:53:21 GMT

I am currently seeking a new job and have posted my resume on career websites. Ever since my resume has been public, I receive about 5 of these emails a day.
After watching the show I can't believe how many scammers are out there. I can see how someone out of work and desperate for money to pay the bills can fall for such a thing. Thanks to you...no way!!!

A different kind of predator

Tom Lewenz, Walnut Creek, CA — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:13:50 GMT

Chris, This was an amazing story. I have to tell you I am so impressed with you and your investigative team's work. I'm not sure the US Justice Dept could get as far as you guys do to find these guys. I do have one question though. Don't some of these stories put you at risk? I mean how do you know some of these guys aren't armed with a gun?
Keep on doing what you're doing Chris. You are one of the few real journalists on TV right now that does understand what that means.

A different kind of predator

Dan Eriksen, DeLand, Florida — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 02:29:17 GMT

Thanks to Dateline's program about these scams, I know not to fall for anything like this. I just received an email from someone calling himself Mr. Frank William who claims to be a bank officer in Africa. Is there someone I should forward it to so that there can be some follow-up in case it's linked to a case that's being worked on or should I just delete it and forget it?

A different kind of predator

A. Graham, Key Largo, FL — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 16:37:29 GMT

I guess too many people have caught on to the email scams; we just received a very respectable looking letter in the mail from a very generous Mr. Stephen Roberts in the UK. It seems the unfortunate Russian gentleman who died from radiation poisoning last year left behind $45,500,000.00 and for some reason Mr. Roberts wants to share it with us. We're not hurting for groceries, but if someone on your staff at NBC would like to collect this unexpected windfall, Mr. Roberts says he can be contacted at steverob12@yahoo.co.uk or by phone at 011 44 7624155293.
Cheers!

A different kind of predator

B Simpson, Gahanna, Ohio — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 17:42:29 GMT

i just received an email from a gentleman in Hong Kong if you would like to pursue this one. He has promised me 19.5 million USD. im thinking about having him meet a co worker in Hong Kong( my company has n office there) to have him go straight to the bank and get the money.

A different kind of predator

Margie Novak, Houston, TX — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 04:08:40 GMT

I have a situation with a customer trying the cashier's check scam and I cannot seem to get anyone to help ot try and catch him. I have had him hanging on now for weeks waiting to find help. I recieved a $2000 cashier's check (counterfeit) for products he wanted to purchase from me. The check was written from a bank in IL. It had someone else's name on it,(not the customer) and was shipped from North Carolina with a UPS label and account number from CA. The guy has a Michigan address. He writes to me almost daily. I have phone numbers, addresses, emails. Why can't I get anyone to help put this guy away?

A different kind of predator

Derrick R. E.Orange NJ — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 03:50:14 GMT

Everyday I get emails from the uk with different people saying I won the lottery or someone left me millions of dollars. Not knowing one day I wrote back and 2 days later they sent me counterfeit travelers chex. But I didnt cash them because to me it didnt seem real so I called some one who knows checks and they turned out to be fake. Today alone I received 5 emails from the uk about the lottery.

A different kind of predator

Mike Budd, Richmond, VA — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 16:29:40 GMT

Thanks for the investigation into e-mail scams. Can you do an investigative series into the threats we face on our own soil. I have seen a series on Kevin Trudeau before but they did not do him justice. This sick SOB needs to be looked at more closely. In addition, what about all of these phony televangelists and info-mercials? These people make me sick! People like Kevin Trudeau are preying upon those in desperate need of help.

A different kind of predator

Annette Cupps, Columbus, Ohio — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 04:03:04 GMT

Ok I'm sitting here watching your program. I'm a 44 year old woman. My prb is you are not actually catching these guys in the act. You are just taking them in because they came to visit. So what do we do with the characters that are at the mall, and where ever else, when they talk to our girls who are really under age and no just putting on a screen?

A different kind of predator

A cupps , Columbus, Ohio — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 04:07:43 GMT

Do you realize that you repeated the same film twice on t.v.?

A different kind of predator

A. Cupps, Columbus, Ohio — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 04:11:15 GMT

of course you are only going to put messages on you blog that appreciate what you're doing. I throughly believe that what is happening if right! However, I have a problem with the fact you're not catching them in the actual act. Most police usually have to have proof that the act has actually happened, even before they will prosecute for rape, etc.

A different kind of predator

A.Cupps, Columbus, Ohio — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 04:15:12 GMT

I believe that these so called lyers should be arested just like the sexual preditors are. Since no one has been arested by just sending the emails, that tends to put an "ok" signal out there for these freaks.

A different kind of predator

Cynthia Hassett-King, Belleair Beach, FL 33786 — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 19:55:49 GMT

I have received 2 emails this past week stating I have won big money (a lottery) and one that askes if I will accept shipments to my house. These are both from over seas. I thought Chris Hansen might be interested, if so, I can emailthem to you. Let me know as I hae saved them for the time being. Cynthia Hassett 727-430-1443

A different kind of predator

Marki Leonard — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 22:27:28 GMT

WE are very familiar with this email, but were shocked today to actually receive on via mail. It was mailed from Madrid directly to our company. They are definitely evolving with their scheme.

A different kind of predator

Lynn Hall, Mount Holly, NC — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 14:34:01 GMT

I was scammed by a man who had claimed to be from the USA on the dating website. He claimed to be in the gold business and left the country to do a project. He called telling me his electronics had been stolen at the airport. Asked me to buy and ship specific electronic equipment. Next he ran short of money for airline ticket back to the USA and needed money for that. The final trick was a call I received from a chief inspector in customs at the Accra Ghana airport that this gentlemen had been arrested for trying to bring gold jewelry out of their country and because he was a foreigner that was illegal. If I would send money his arraignment would be sped up and his release would come sooner. He had 2 internatinal phone numbers and 1 phone number in the USA. I spoke to him on all 3 phone lines over the course of 1 month. He also had flowers sent to me on 2 occasions. They were wired here in the USA.

A different kind of predator

Amanda, Simi Valley, CA — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 23:01:15 GMT

I recently plassed a classified add in a local paper to sell a dryer and came across one of these scammers. Does anyone know of whoe I can contact and forward their emails to? I don't want to just ignore it and have them scam another person. I want to report these people.

A different kind of predator

Nita V., Thousand Oaks, CA — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 03:44:36 GMT

Dating website scam: I fell part way for one and then told him to take a hike when he asked for money. I have since seen other email on the dating site with similar characteristics and I delete them immediately. The photo on the profile is usually of a tall and handsome man who claims to be a widower and/or single father. He is usually working in West Africa in construction or engineering. He will return to the states in a month or two and wishes to correspond and get to know you. He is charming and romantic. He can't wait to get back to the states to meet you. Then, after a few weeks of writing back and forth he claims that someone has mugged him and taken all of his money and his passport. He needs you to send him money to get back to the states. He promises love and repayment upon his return to the states.
It's difficult enough to meet a nice guy these days without these jerks trying to scam decent women.
Go after these guys Mr. Hansen!

A different kind of predator

Anonymous, Miami FL — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 02:46:26 GMT

great job!
although you think that those things only happen to other people, you can always be trapped. we were sold copied TV series DVDs for 250 usd. no one answered our complaints. the DVDs were shipped from canada and bought on www.dvdavenue.tv

A different kind of predator

Victoria Kelly, Baltimore, Maryland — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 21:05:35 GMT

Dear Chris,
I received am email from a banker in Ghana from the Standard Chartered Bank in Ghana today telling me that he wants me to help him with over 6 million dollars- UNBELIEVABLE- I saw your show on dateline and I could not believe when I received the email today- The man's email was martinsakugh_21@hotmail.com
You may want to continue your investigations!!!!

A different kind of predator

Linda Allen Mills, Wyoming — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 18:16:29 GMT

Chris: I have some emails I think you should see. They are from Nigeria too.
Only deal these guys picked the wrong gal. I can`t afford to do the things they want.
Could I send some of them to you? I also have some fake money orders.

A different kind of predator

Linda Allen Mills, Wyoming — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 18:19:11 GMT

I watched your show today about guys in Nigeria. & phony emails. I have some you might like to see. I also had some money orders sent to me to cash & wire them.

A different kind of predator

henry blackman — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 21:19:27 GMT

hey chris,i have been getting emails from a couple of wierd sources.all asking for help to secretly wire money.i know it's a scam,but i can't figure out what kind.can you help me catch these clowns?

A different kind of predator

becky hall olney, texas — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 19:01:50 GMT

i have recently joined singles.net to meet singles in my area many men from nigeria started emailing me and then asking for money i delete them but they still have my email address. they are finding new ways to conpeople. now they are doing it through online dating. i had to resign my account.

A different kind of predator

rene riddle waupun wisconsin — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:59:33 GMT

I think dateline should investagate emails saying you have won the uk national lottery my husband and i have gotten several of these emails I almost fell for the scam

A different kind of predator

WARREN, PA — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 16:08:34 GMT

I WANT TO GET A HOLD OF YOU! I HAVE $100'000.00 IN SCAM MONEY NOW! THAT I AM SUPOSE TO PASS ON TO THE NEXT LEVEL. DO YOU WANT TO POSUE IT? PLEASE CONTACT ME FAST!!!!!!!!

A different kind of predator

Paula Terry-Locke — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 23:16:49 GMT

Please consider reporting on the Guiding Eyes for the Blind Con Artist. He is still out there operating, collecting Social Security and Medicaid, romancing and stealing from women, marrying in one state, taking all the assets, then moving on and marrying in another state.

A different kind of predator

JoAnna Prueter Farmington Hills, MI — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:20:43 GMT

Please help me I have been scammed and then my bank made the mistake (after they knew it was fraud) of cashing the Travellers checks and now they are charging me double the money which I never received! I am stuck between a rock and a hard place and I do not know what to do! Please help!!

A different kind of predator

J Baum — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:37:36 GMT

I think I just came across a new scam. While scouring the ads online through my local paper, I emailed someone who had a bulldog puppy for sale for $400. I got a reply that the dog was in Africa and he would ship her to me if I would give him my personal information. Well, I didn't! I also answered another ad that also said the dog was out of the country, but could be expressed-shipped to me. Takes all kinds!

A different kind of predator

steve hunter discovery bay,Ca. — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 23:50:06 GMT

hi chris my name is steve i think i have a scammer online from ghana im supposed to send a playstation and games to ghana using paypal they sent me their name address and phone # and said payment was approved but i didnt send the product cause ive watched your show on scammers in ghana paypal told me it was probably a scam and they didnt have records of the confirmation # so if u need the name of the scammers and address and phone # ill send it to u i would like to catch these dumb people b4 they scam anyone else thanku steve hunter

A different kind of predator

Luz, Kissimmee, Florida — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 02:51:29 GMT

I receive these kinds of email for some time now. In the beginning I didn't pay attention, but more and more stated coming to my email. I contacted the police department and they told me to call the FBI, which I did. The response was they could not do anything. Suggested me to answer these emails back telling them I contacte the law enforcement and that we are aware of their scam. Only one dared to answer me and called me I was a "profound idiot" to think that he wanted to scam me. I'm glad you are getting these people. Hopefully they will realize that we are not such idiots after all!!

A different kind of predator

Katrina Wheeler West palm Beach , FL — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 02:55:38 GMT

I saved some emails from a man who claims to be Max Sisulu from Capetown , South Africa who needs help transferring millions to the state. I can also forward those to you as I just caught your show.

A different kind of predator

Terri, Cincinnati OH — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 20:16:28 GMT

The 'romance scams' DO need more publicity. There realy are easy ways to tell if someone is worth questioning.
Broken English
Failure to understand our 'slang' terms
Puts adjectives AFTER nouns
TELLS you they are a US citizen who is out of the country
They try to immediately get you off the dating site and onto yahoo chat

The easiest way to check out a romance scammer is to say..."hey, great, let's get off the 'net' and MEET in person"...then you will hear how they are magically out of the country.

Best advise - keep your romance contacts local...if you have to go several states away to find romance...then something is wrong.

A different kind of predator

Frankie Benefiel, Drummonds, Tennessee — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 14:51:35 GMT

I have been contacted by someone who you named on your show about scammers promising millions to help get cash out of Zimbabway to them while they are in South Africa. Could someone please call me and see if we could catch this person in the act

A different kind of predator

Marlene — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 17:35:11 GMT

I have one on the hook right now.
they are also opperating out of Ghana. oh boy they want to send me a check/draft for 850K and they don't even know me LOL this should be fun
heres the addy they sent to me
NO 15 Spintex Cresent Newtown Accua Ghana
and a tele# 23224681949
this was sent in my second email by a person calling themselves Rose brown I'm retired and have no funds but I sure can send them on a few chases looking to collect on their scams.

A different kind of predator

Sharise E. Waterbury, CT — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:59:29 GMT

Hi Chris, I live in Waterbury Connecticut and my 76yr. old grandmother has received two of these promising letters of thousands of dollars. Luckily she asked me to check it out and I immediately knew it was a scam. I've seen your show too many times.
I think it's disgusting what they are doing and it's got to stop. I've played along with these people and called the number they give which is in Canada and a man with an accent of African decent told me to cash the check and give him a call back when I do so. When I tried to ask him what to do after that he told me to just cash the check and call him back and hung up on me. It is SHAMEFUL what they are doing.

A different kind of predator

Aaron Freedman — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 14:53:43 GMT

Today I recieved a fax from a 513 area code asking to recieve funds from South Africa and fax numbers overseas, e-mail addresses and overseas phone number. Why would this be faxed from Ohio? I know it's a scam but have they connections here?

A different kind of predator

Tony B. — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 18:53:11 GMT

Hello Chris I just received a fax from this guy name Max Sisulu and his phone number is +27-82-695-0850 and fax # +27-11-507-5409 and his email addr is maxsisulu10@yahoo.com. He is asking me to be his silent foreign partner and to transfer the sum of Twenty Six Million Five Hundred Thousand U.S. dollars to America. He said once this is done my cut would be %15 percent and the rest goes to him and his colleagues. Is there any way we can catch this con man and put him away. He must think im a fool. Please let me know what to do.

A different kind of predator

N. Lozano, Virginia — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 02:02:54 GMT

I used to work in bank fraud with clients who fell victim to these scams. Most of the time, depending on the efficiency of your bank's customer service and prevention systems, these incidences can be eliminated before the check is even deposited. For those that cannot be prevented, the bank's customer will end up on the short end of the stick. There are definite targets who seem to continuously fall victim and others you would not believe. (seniors, students, stay-at-home moms, police officers, FBI workers). Government agencies have task forces set up to prevent and monitor activity, so please educate everyone you know and forward their links to sites such as ic3.gov, secretservice.gov, ftc.gov. I think "Catch a Con Man" series is great. It exploits these individuals and educates Americans. More words of wisdom...You should never have to 'pay' for something that is 'free' and the only thing in this world that is free is love.

A different kind of predator

Wylie Mobile, Alabama — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 12:50:48 GMT

After watching your program, and laughing at these con-artist you can imagine my suprise when at my work fax machine there it is the letter.

Dear, Request for Confidential Business Relationship
It goes on to say that he need's my confidence in this transaction he is a high placed official working with the Department Of Finance & Economic Affairs in Johannesburg South Africa ( long story short anyone who help's him will get a piece of his eighteen million five hundred thousand U.S. dollar's etc. etc. etc. his email address frau_helenz@yahoo.dk
corporate # + 27-112197049 direct# +871-762-922925 fax#+871-762-922926

Yours Faithfully
Chief DR & MRS. M. Hlahane

A different kind of predator

Lynette Seegraves, Riverside, CA — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 17:27:55 GMT

Its not to amazing that people fall for these. When they pray on your religious background and your trusting spirit anyone can fall for this. I was personaly taken for 4800.00 The problem is I never saw these episodes on Dateline. I didn't know that these were common scams. I fell victim to my own trusting nature. My problem is the investigators won't check into your reports. The "say" it is a Nigerian scam BUT what if is it is all local and local theives are pretending to be part of the Nigerian scams, then what ? The Police put your report in a drawer and so oh well! I have a recording of the dectevie saying he is not going to help or investigate. So how do we really know?

A different kind of predator

Cess Wynn — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 17:42:21 GMT

Where do you report these things? I just received a fax, and of course I am not going to believe it, but I want to call someone and give them the fax number to shut them down.

A different kind of predator

Rick Dunn Nancy Ky. 42544 — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 20:56:35 GMT

Hello my name is Rick Dunn i have a scam letter in my email, i didn't know how to get it to you.

A different kind of predator

Walter G. Caffrey sr. Dallas Pa. — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 22:14:54 GMT

Mr. Hansen :
i have been E- Mailing with a Lady that calls her self Mcumba Hayden, about a large sum of money 10,000,000.00 pounds Sterling that she is willing to give to me for ( the Lords Work ) . I have her believeing that i am a reverend W. G. Caffrey the pastor of a small Church in the city where i live ... Now she has turn me over to a Barrister Robinson esq Eversheds LLP. He has given me a reference # and wants me to travel to europe if i can , he wants my Name address, occupation, martial status an how many children i have ..an amy nominated account details .. i am not a reverend i just want to see what would happen I'm sure this is a scam .Would you care to take this over for an investagation .. I still have all the E-mails from them if you need
Thank You

Walter G. Caffrey SR.

A different kind of predator

Tara Walling, Panama City Beach, FL — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 01:52:40 GMT

I just received this email and it definately sounds like a scam to me!!! Wanted to forward it on to you in case others have come across it... don't know how this person found me?

> Dear Friend,
>
>
> I am Mrs. Larisa Sosnitskaya, personal treasurer to Mr. Mikhail
> Khordokovsky Former C.E.O of Yukos Oil Company and Bank Menatep here in
> Russia . I have a very sensitive business proposal for your partnership,
> with documents of a large amount of funds over US$46(forty six) million
> which Mr.Mikhail Khordokovsky, handed over to me before he was detained and
> jailed in Russia for Tax Invasion, thereby leading to the freezing of his
> finances and assets. Already the funds have left the shore of Russia to a
> European Bank where the final crediting is expected to be carried out.
>
> While I was on the process, My Boss got arrested for his Involvement in
> politics by financing the leading and opposing political parties (the Union
> of Right Forces, led by Boris Nemtsov, and Yabloko, a liberal/social
> democratic party Led by Gregor Yavlinsky) which poses treat to President
> Vladimir Putin Second Tenure as Russian president and he is presently in
> Jail now.
>
>
> But in summary, the funds come in via Bank Menatep to a more secured Bank in
> Europe . This is a
> legitimate transaction. You will be paid 20% for your "management fees".
> All I need from you is to stand as the beneficiary of the above quoted Sum
> and I will re-profile the funds with your name, which will enable the
> European bank transfer the sum to you. I have decided to use this Sum to
> relocate to another continent on investment programs with you if possible.
> As Soon as I confirm your readiness to partner and assist me on the
> transaction, I will provide you with the full details contain therein and my
> identification. Email:mlariskaya62@yahoo.com.hk
>
> NB: I advice you read more of this ordeal from
>
> http://newsfromrussia.com/main/2003/11/13/51215.html
> http://www.supportmbk.com/mbk/mbk_bio.cfm
> http://mikhail_khodorkovsky_society.blogspot.com/
>
>
> Thank you in anticipation for your reply.
>
> Yours Faithfully,
>
>
> Mrs. Larisa Sosnitskaya

A different kind of predator

Darla "DOE", Redlands, CA — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 07:28:24 GMT

I think I may have been "matched" with a CON MAN on eHarmony!!! I'm still trying to figure out how to investigate it!!!

A different kind of predator

Amanda K-S — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:48:44 GMT

I just received a FAX not an e-mail scam at work, yesterday, with a very similiar storyline as the one featured on dateline. The first words are bold "Private/Confidential" from the "Department of Finance & Economic Affairs, Johannesburg, South Africa. The letter has 3 phone numbers listed as business and direct numbers. The email name is helenmabo@yahoo.com.hk, and the FAX# that I actually received it from has a Cincinnati area code. The letters basis is a Request for Confidential Business Relationship requesting your account number to help them get an 18.5 million transfer with a 15% commission. Signed by Chief Dr & Mrs M. Hlahane.

A different kind of predator

Kris Bromm, Olney, IL — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:48:58 GMT

Are you still interested in receiving copies of the solitations regarding the subject of assisting overseas "companies" or "people" with banking millions?

A different kind of predator

claudia, orem utah — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 11:36:01 GMT

i just received one of those scam email offering me money if i would hand out my personal information. i am just glad that i have seen your show. is there anyway we can report these scams or warn others that are more trusting?

A different kind of predator

Dodie Cline, Pulaski, Tennessee — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 16:56:34 GMT

Hi I was im from someone through myspace and we were talking for months and even decided that we were going to get married. He lived in California but he and his son were in Africa where he was working building bridges. Anyway he said his boss was going to send me his money which were travelors checks for me to cash them and then send the money through western union to him so he could pay his workers and then come home. Well ups delivered an enevope to me which contained 5 travelors checks I immediately took them to the bank to see if they were good cause I didnt believe they were. Sure enough they were counterfeit. I turned them in and gave what information I knew and thanked the good Lord for giving me the good sence to follow my mind not my heart. It has made me where I trust no one anymore.

A different kind of predator

Mike Paczkowski, Chicago, Il — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 22:57:45 GMT

Funny thing happened on the way to my mailbox.. I too, received" winning notification" from Swiss lottery..Imagine this! My wife, an Operation Banker, decided to do some investigative work..she checked routing number which indeed existed. We knew we were dealing with a very good scam. Boy, they did a terrific job on the check, hologram et al.
My wife called Excel Bank in Minnestota , reported the fraud and gave them the amount of the check that was written for and the check number for their file.
Apparently, there was a lot of "lucky winners"!!! Who knows how many of them were taken to the cleaners?
I hope everybody watched dateline's program on scams..I truly do! But..the price of greed is going up every day...

A different kind of predator

Donna Suter, Dadeville, Alabama — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 18:50:51 GMT

I think I have a "Con Man" predator emailing me through eharmony. I have a friend in Denmark that picked up on it immediately. I sent her the correspondence from this person. She said she had a similar incident a few years back. The similarities are striking. I am appalled that this person would use eharmony, pay for the service and take the time to fill out the questionaires. All to con vulnerable women looking for their true love.

A different kind of predator

Ramon,San German,Puerto Rico(U.S commonwealth) — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 15:08:20 GMT

HI!I just recently met this girl on tagged.com her name allegedly is Wendy Collins from SD,age 27 who apparently anart dealer.I'm summiting her e-mail for you to check it out.the short story is right now she claims she can't leave Africa cause she needs 850 dollars.here is the info she just send me about the ticket agent;
name:Adebayo Martins
address: 21a Airport Rd
City: Ikeja state:lagos
zipcode:23401
Country:Nigeria
also she is asking to send a MTCN(10 digit control number) she also told me a text question & answer
favorite color? answer blue.
essentially this is not a comment but since I don't know how to fwd your her e-mails I'm putting them here.

A different kind of predator

Lisa West, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 18:14:23 GMT

Mr. Hansen, I believe my grandmother is a victim of the same scam just new scammers. These people have managed to swindle a susbstantial amount of money from an 86 year old lady. I've managed to get a hold of the receipts from the moneygrams she has sent. They have been sent to a person in Boston, MA named Max Jean Jacques and a Jerdy Pearson and Elizabeth Finney in Quebec, Canada. Please let me know if there is something else I can do to stop this. I have already reported it to my local authorities and have had her phone traced for all the calls from these monsters.
Thank you

A different kind of predator

BRANDON ESPARZA SAN BERNARDINO, CA. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 19:00:42 GMT

THIS IS FOR CHRIS HANSON I HAVE AND GET THESE E-MAIL'S EVERYDAY ON WINNING OR RECIEVING MONEY... I ANSWERED ONE AND NOW HAVE A GUY SENDING ME A CHECK FOR $81,000 DOLLARS.. IT WILL BE HERE IN 3-5 DAYS.. IF YOU ARE INTERSTEAD IN GETTING THE CHECK AND TAKING OVER PLEASE CALL OR E-MAIL ME... AND LET'S BUST THESE CON-MEN... THANK YOU, BRANDON

A different kind of predator

Michael Waldron — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 20:07:46 GMT

I received an e-mail from Gerald Thomson,saying a man was killed in an airplane crash and that there was 14 million dollars in his account.He even sent me a link to view the list of people who died in the crash.the deceased who "suposedly"had this account was the pilot and not the c"consultant-contractor"that he was suposed to be.
This Gerald Thomson must think that I am a complete idiot to think that I would not check that out.HE EVEN GAVE ME THE LINK!
To anyone considering anything that these types of e-mail are asking them to do,DON'T!
These are just scams.

A different kind of predator

Fitchburg, ma 01420 — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 06:02:39 GMT

I was a victim of a scam back in June for $3,550. They sent me a bad check which I cashed against my bank. The idea is that I could take out 10% as a comission and send them the rest. Then the check bounced. The check was actually stolen tuition from students going to a fake medical school called Caribbean Medical University. The "chief operating officer" named Radek Lewkowski was diverting these funds in checks to the US where American dupes like myself cashed it against our banks and wired it to someone here. I'm not shy about naming names as you can see. This Radke Lewkowski is a thief and has stolen hundreds of thousands of dollars. His school is a sham. If anyone knows anything about this feel free to email me at superduperfabrics@gmail.com. This is a silly name but I prefer not to use my normal email when dealing with this. But anyone who has any knowledge or experience with this or knows about this guy and this fake school are welcome to write me.

A different kind of predator

Fitchburg, Ma 01420 — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 06:07:08 GMT

I too was the victim of a scam. Turns out the person behind it was a man named Radek Lewkowski running a fake medical school called the Caribbean Medical University. Superduperfabrics@gmai.com. Anyone who has had such experiences if free to write me about it. I've been there, I understand.

A different kind of predator

Cheryl Collins, Voluntown, CT — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 23:37:20 GMT

I have just got this email from a Mister Kenneth Drury, he wants me to respond to a huge amount left in the bank by someone in a plane crash. The money is in West Africa. Thanks to Dateline I know this is a scam.

A different kind of predator

Laura Bencosme — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 14:01:42 GMT

Chris, I think that what you are doing is great. So many of us have the attitude that this will never happen to us however it does. I watched your program and found it very interesting. Two weeks later my husband get a letter from a Paul Cole saying and doing the samething you addressed in your program. Needless to say that if I had not watched your program the chances of my husband believing this would have put us in a bind... Thank you for teaching us how gullible we can be especially in the internet.

A different kind of predator

Oriana, Rochester NY — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 16:49:35 GMT

I recieved an e-mail from a guy in south africa who wanted me to recive 26 million dollars and keep 15% and forward the rest to him in an overseas bank account. I saved the e-mail i was wondering if I should report it and how I would go about doing that.....any suggestions?

A different kind of predator

Rocella, Prattville, AL — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 05:11:35 GMT

Right know I friend I think is being scam. He was ask to send $895.00 to someone and they were going to send him an loan for $6000.00. The lady then told him because of some other bill that he owes he would have to send an addition amount of money in order to get the loan. We are trying to move in to our house this weekend and not sure that he is going to get his money which will hurt his checking account because he is retired, and only gets money once a month, and has paid out bills, know when he calls there is no answer. What can we do? And what information do you need to catch this person? This was sent to him through a web site. The last commit to him was that he would have to wait 5 business days after he had waited for a week to get his money, because it was coming from out of Canada.

A different kind of predator

Sherri Milstead at Kid Finders Network — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 20:56:48 GMT

Hi Chris, I always watch on Dateline & I love it when you catch these scammers. Here's one you might be interested in. My husband & I are Founders of a non-profit organization and a got an email from a guy
calling himself, Rick Brown, a Philantropic kind of man. He said he wanted to donate to our organization so I decided I would play his game. I told him about us and he wrote back saying he wanted to send $5,000.00, oh but by the way, he could only send it in a cashiers check. Which is always good, right? Wrong! But he said when I recieve it I was to cash it right away and keep $2,000.00 for our organization and I should send the $3,000.00 back to another organization he was donating to in the UK. So I gave him our P.O. Box to send the check. Of course I know it's a scam so if you want to take it and run with it, let me know. I will tell you when the check arrives. They are stooping to a new low, scamming non-profit organizations. I really wish we could stop them. Sherri Milstead, Kid Finders Network

A different kind of predator

JOHN D. FREEMAN 4028 37th ave north Robbinsdale,mn 55422 apt#204 — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 14:23:32 GMT

Hi CRIS this John D.Freeman from minneapolis,minneasota.I keep receiving these e-mail about how people want too make me reach,i know these are scammers,the reasons i know that is beside watching your show that i admire very much,im from LIBERIA.so i know about it very much,but im keep these e-mail when i get in contact with you ,i will like you to read them,the scammers even told me he going too sent me a socall check today.

A different kind of predator

Mark Harless, San Antonio, Texas — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 19:16:36 GMT

Is there an address that we can forward you some of these ridiculous emails so that you can use them in your investigations? Thanks

A different kind of predator

Dave Zimmerman, Fulton, IL — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:07:32 GMT

Watch out for the new scam. I put an ad in the local newspaper to sell a woodworking machine. I got a internet call (they type a message to a operator who reads it to you, you respond and she types your message to them)from someone in Canada interested in buying it. They ask me to e-mail the info, so I did, we setteled on a price of $900.00. Then told me they would send a certified check for $2050.00. They want me to cash the check, keep $900.00 and send a Western Union check for $1150.00 to some agent in the U.S. I found out that the are counterfeiting certified checks. So by time the bank finds out the check is bad you have already sent the money off to their agent and your out the money. The check is in the mail!

A different kind of predator

Elizabeth Arriaga-Rice, Bloomington, Indiana — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 20:10:24 GMT

I am currently dealing with a predator I believe. The person posted a at home job on our town online paper. After I responded to the add it ended up being the oposite of what the person posted and now says they need someone to collect checks from clients in this area cash them then send the rest of the money to him. I really would like to get people like this out of circulation, but what can a person like me do to help?

A different kind of predator

Bridget Horgan, Magnolia, NJ — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:18:48 GMT

I have seen the "To Catch a Con Man" show, and I have never fallen trap to it. I feel badly for people who do (to an extent-can't they tell that offshore accounts aren't okay?!). If everyone knew about IP Addresses, then they probably wouldn't get scammed. I receive these emails daily, and I finally e-mailed one back. It was someone using an IP Address in Sunnyvale, CA pretending to be a Russian Oil tycoon's former secretary. If you go to a search engine, and type in "IP Addresss Locator", you can type in the set of numbers on the bottom of the screen that you see (they're attached in every e-mail), and find out exactly where people are e-mailing you from. Great show, and great job!

A different kind of predator

Nolan Reilly — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 21:15:39 GMT

I have a new scam: Selling Jet Skiis on Craigslist.com. Brian Wall contacts me and sends a JPMorgan/Chase Chicago bank check for $2000 over the amount of the skiis and wants me to send $2000 via western union to the Julianan Smith in the UK. Deposited the check on 10-04-2007 and on 10-08-2007 BofA (my bank) says all the funds are available. I have not withdrawn or sent any money, so on 10-11-2007 my available balance goes down to my original balance before the deposit. My bank now says the funds will be available on 10-17-2007 9:00am, if I would have used that money then I would have a negative balance.

A different kind of predator

Kim Hernandez, Buffalo, NY — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 19:50:03 GMT

Certified Lending in Mankato, MN Larry only wants a drivers licence, paystubs, and SS card faxed to refi my mortgage. I told him I did not work only my husband. He said don't worry about the checks. How do I catch this person?

A different kind of predator

S L, Chicago, IL — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 11:11:51 GMT

I just got an Email from a Ghana scammer so they're still at it. "...I am DESMOND EYADEMA, The Ex late PRESIDENT SON OF TOGO, I call you in respect of my consignment boxes in NEW YORK, which I want you to assist me and stand as my foreign beneficiary to receive my fund over there in NEW YORK, this fund am writing you about is $38.5million U.S. Dollars which my late father deposited under GHANA HIGH COMMISSION for I and my mother..."

A different kind of predator

connie whitener, hayti mo. — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 03:58:24 GMT

What about the attorney who claims to have okayed th eBill Gates scam -you give email adresses in exchange for $245.30 per name in return those who pass it on even more promised $ Is this not taking liberty with someone ID?

A different kind of predator

Adam Wagner West Hollywood, CA — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 22:05:55 GMT

Hi my name is Adam Wagner. And I've watched the to catch a scammer and Identity thief. I have been receiving bogus email. at least 3 a day telling me I've won a lottery, asking me to deposit companiesmoney in my bank accout. If all these emails were correct, I'd have more money than Bill Gates. If you'd like I probably could send you at least 100 emails I've received in the last few months. I'm not worried, I don't respond to any of them. Just thought you might be interested

A different kind of predator

victor castillo,loves park,il. — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 23:03:51 GMT

Does anyone know anything about Kaplan University being a scam?I think I have been scammed and need information.

A different kind of predator

Katie Kristoffer, New York, NY — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 01:14:17 GMT

I had been on a dating site and was contacted by one of the Nigerian Scammers..of course at the time, it seemed on the up and up....bottom line got scammed for $900 and tried for more - didn't continue....I called the dating site to inform them and they said he had been taken off due to fraud...

A different kind of predator

Erica Hay, Ocala, Florida — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 17:20:45 GMT

**Romance Scam**My very good friend Jennifer just had me check on this guy she met on MySpace. His name is Gary Witters and he said he is 35, from NY, and he is a Doctor living in England. He is a smooth talker saying he is coming home soon, and that he can't wait to meet her son. He says everything she wants to hear. There were other emails to him from other women, so Jen emailed the other girls. The first one she got a hold of had sent "Gary" a laptop, and $2000 in cash because he had gotten stuck in Nigeria after he went to visit his sick Grandfather and lost his passport and could not leave the country. This girl had good intentions. Now she has had a $10,000 charge on her American Express account, which she gave him the number to so she could help him. These women are not stupid, they are vulnerable, and are looking for love with the wrong people. Jennifer is smart and knows now what to expect from this man. She is still telking to him to see what he is going to request from her! The federal agencies are not interested in investigaing these crimes, but maybe Chris Hansen will. Good luck all!

A different kind of predator

Jan Dilbeck Bluffton, Sc — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 21:05:29 GMT

I just got one of those emails from a Rose Roberts, do they really believe I am stupid enough to act on this. I have a few choice words for people like this, but I will watch my typing. I love you shows and Chris and Dateline crew, keep up the great work.

A different kind of predator

Honey DD O'Neill — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 21:33:37 GMT

Good Day I to have been scammed bye some that was on the internet could you please help me recover some of my money which is in the sum of 3,000.00.

A different kind of predator

TERRY BROWN — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 21:36:48 GMT

Thank you so much for your program. I just opened by e-mail and I have 8 of these on my computer just for today. I sent a reply and told them "Your Scam is on National TV - Nice Try. Thank you for letting your fans in on this.

A different kind of predator

Honey DD O'Neill Newark,Deleware — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 21:38:47 GMT

I am watching your show with no help since this has started for me. I to have been scammed bye someone that was on Yahoo which this person is still doing busy and I want to catch this person. This was in the sum of 3,000.00. Could you please help me.

A different kind of predator

Ruth Mercado, Orlando, FL. — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:18:05 GMT

Hi I just got through watching your show to catch a con man and remembered an e-mail sent to me from a certain "Mr. Patrick K.W. Chan" regarding a business proposition similar to everything you had on your show. He's wanting me to respond by giving him full names, age, address and private phone # and I just remember laughing while I read it. It's unreal that there are people outthere that actually fall for such scams. Just wanted to share his so called "private" e-mail...patrickhk_009@yahoo.com and I will respond to him only to tell him to watch your show!!!

A different kind of predator

Peggy Ebbitt, Phoenix, AZ — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 03:12:14 GMT

Here is some advice from the FBI if, or rather when, you get one of those emails saying you have an inheritance waiting or someone offering you lots of money to help them out with something. This is not a hoax. I did the research and wanted to let you all know. I also added links to the bottom to check out more info. You can forward emails to the Federal Trade Comission for investigation.

Peggy

The following is straight from the FBI site. Links are below.
*************************************************************************
Some Tips To Help You Avoid These Frauds:

1. If you receive a letter from Nigeria asking you to send personal or banking information, do not reply in any manner. Send the letter to the U.S. Secret Service or the FBI.
2. If you know someone who is corresponding in one of these schemes, encourage that person to contact the FBI or the U.S. Secret Service as soon as possible.
****************************************************

US Secret Service http://www.secretservice.gov/fraud_email_advisory.shtml
Read about forwarding those emails to the Federal Trade Comission http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/spam/report.html
To find your local FBI office http://www.fbi.gov/contact/fo/focities.htm#p Click on the link of your local office. Find the Fraud Alert link to read about this and other online frauds.

************************************************************************************

A different kind of predator

Richard, Glen Ridge, NJ — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:06:08 GMT

I think the scams are getting more sophisticated as the scammers realize that the American media are at least onto their tactics. I received an e-mail with the subject: "The FBI is wriretapping internet communication". Of course most would open it out of curiosity at least as I did. Interestingly enough, the e-mail lays out a wide blanket of why I should be dealing with the "Official Bank of Nigeria" in order for me to receive my "funds", while cautioning me against other "scamming" banks that may contact me; signed Robert Muller at the bottom from Washington D.C. Thought I'd share this little piece of info with everyone. Beware, they'r still out there. They're thinking up new ways to appear as legitimate as possible.

A different kind of predator

Boise, Id — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 22:39:05 GMT

I was ALMOST conned into something similar as a previous poster stated with the Visa travelers checks. I was seeking new employment in the data entry field and ran into a job posting for a data entry position from home. Everything seemed very legit and I was paid with what seemed to be legitimate Visa traveler’s checks. Since they were supposed to be a Canadian company I assumed that this was better then paying the extra charges that some banks charge for out of Country checks. They had overpaid me and when questioned about it they said that the only travelers checks available are the $500 and that I could send the remaining back to them via Western Union. I immediately got suspicious and decided not to deposit the money into my bank, but instead cash them out at a local company. Just as I expected they were counterfeit. This was before I had ever even heard of any scam even similar to this and just goes to show that you should trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right. Be aware that not all these scams are the same; I thought I was doing work for a legitimate company.

A different kind of predator

Dale from Labelle, Florida — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 13:01:13 GMT

Has anyone heard of a scam from a Southafrican lottery for 2 million dollars. I received a email from a Paul Morgan lottery proceessing director for Eagle tresure SA, and a James Camron director of information. I was given a phone number and a yahoo email address and hotmail address. I just wanted to warn everyone out there about this scam if it is one. Or if Chris wanted to check this one out I'll send you the rest of the info.Just email me.

A different kind of predator

Joe Blair, Kalama, Wash — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 16:58:04 GMT

Mr Hansen-
First off, I give you props on getting a job done that our Government should be doing- As for the Internet cons- I too like the general population get emails in regards to winning the UK Lottery or an airport luggage claim to be picked up labeled Photography Equipment from a person in Ghana which has 8million in it, oh and I get to keep 20%- Sad to be true but I believe because of the state of the economy today statistics will always prove that we, that fall in a lower income bracket we will fall for things such as this- Thanks to your correspondents on Dateline, I am more aware and have made others and family aware of the cons to the internet and so forth. You are a brave man to take charge of such a risky and dangerous feat and I thank you for your risk in opening our eyes and allowing awareness to reach out. Keep up the good work and Thank you again.

A different kind of predator

Jay Espisito, Baltimore MD — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 03:45:13 GMT

Chris, love your stories and you are so fearless so it seems in your investigations. i love it when you surprise them and the dirty thieves and perverts get busted!! anyway, i get these emails constantly from foreign countries stating my email address out of millions..(go figure)..was selected for a UK LOTTERY..and by gosh!! i won 1 million pounds!! what is this crap?!! of course i flag it as spam..but it still doesn't work! and of course, now i am so special that someone wants to send me a "cheque" and can't spell or either speak proper english. is this legal that they think they can do? one time i received an email from (who the sender claimed) to be a U.S soldier that managed to tuck some of Saddam's riches away and wanted to send it to me for safe keeping until he arrived back in the states and i would get a nice cut of that! LOLOLOL!! told him how much i appreciate his loyalty to our country but i'd rather not take any of his so called new found riches and prefer not to receive his emails anymore. HOW DO I STOP THEM PERMANENTLY?

A different kind of predator

Stephanie Cuevas, Jacksonville, North Carolina — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 14:08:56 GMT

I got an email today from a Mickleson Simmons. It really makes me mad that they put that God led them to me for this opportunity and blah blah blah...I replied to the email and told them that I knew it was a scam and that God didn't lead them to me and that God doesn't approve of what they are doing. Thank goodness for the 'To Catch a Con Man' specials because I am very gullable.

A different kind of predator

James, San Diego, CA — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 04:03:06 GMT

I tried selling my car on "corvettetrader.com" and in no time at all got this bizarre email from someone explaining that although I was only asking $32,000 for my car... they had already gotten a cashier's check for $48,000 made up because they were going to buy another car for that amount, but the deal fell through... and they ask if they could come bring me the cashier's check for $48k, take my corvette from me, if I would in return give them $10k back... so that I would be getting more money than I was even asking... $38k instead of $32k. What's interesting was... I actually forwarded their email to the FBI's tip address, and got a call from an FBI agent a couple minutes later explaining that it definitely sounded like a scam, but that they did not have time to investigate it because the scam occurs so frequently. I tried saying, "but you have the email? can't you trace the IP address? aren't you interested in finding out who has the ability to make fake cashier's checks?" The FBI agent's reply was, "no... we just don't have the manpower... the crime is just too prevalent to try investigating each one..." This reaction... or rather lack of one... left me thinking this is the reason the crime is so prevalent... the freakin FBI is not interested in discovering who is making fraudulent cashier's checks and attempting to commit grand theft auto when a tip is sent to them?@? So I sincerely commend your work Chris, and your dedication for doing what no one in U.S. law enforcement seems interested in...

A different kind of predator

John K., Virginia Beach, VA — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 04:55:03 GMT

I have received 1 or 2 "scam" emails, at first I was interested until I read the part about sending money or using my bank account to transfer the money. Kind of like the middle man. I just deleted the emails, but not before reporting them. I was SO glad to see Dateline doing a show about this.

A different kind of predator

F. T., Bloomington, IL — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 05:26:56 GMT

I am glad an in-depth investigation was done in regards to these internet scams. It was great to see the faces and reactions of these individuals. However, when it is all said and done, i think it says a lot about the character of the individuals who believe they can get amounts in the millions of dollars without having earned it. These people are being portrayed as victims however, if they weren't relatively greedy to begin with, why would you think you could give up thousands of dollars to get millions in return. This just befuddles me...

A different kind of predator

Craig,Phoenix,AZ — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 03:00:15 GMT

I have an E-Mail Scam from Barclays Bank along with a copy of his Passport & Barclays ID Card. I almost fell for it. I saved this scam if interested.

A different kind of predator

E melson , georgia — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 23:04:20 GMT

I watched to catch a com man on monday Oct, 29th, well on tuesday I had a email from Mr.Mensah Bouteng claiming to have a suit case at the airport containig 8 million US dollars and 30% would be mine for claiming it. And that I should contact him @
boutengmoo8@hotmail.com, with my personal information
and to receive instruction.

A different kind of predator

Sue Revis — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 18:19:27 GMT

The email I just received sounds like a scam, BUT IT DOESN'T ASK FOR, OR EVEN MENTION ANY MONEY! It came from someone who claims to be a government official in Nigeria, and says he wants help in finding a home to buy in the US. I am a Realtor, so nothing is obviuosly suspicious about that, but after having watched you expose another Nigerian in a scam, I'm not comfortable with this. I'm not sure if there is anything about this message that would allow the FBI to investigate. Could it be that scammers have become extremely wary and don't bring up money until later? I'm not sure how to proceed. I would like to prevent this from becoming a new variation that targets real estate agents, if that's what it is.

A different kind of predator

Kathy Joseph, Telluride Co — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 15:17:04 GMT

I saw the show on Monday or Tuesday night of this week and discussed with my teenage on and nephew. To my amazement, between Yesterday and today I have recieved a total of 19 of these e-mails. It is almost as if these people are are being defiant. 13 yesterday and 6 today. Are there any ideas on how to STOP them ???

A different kind of predator

ZONAH MODESTO CALIFORNIA — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 02:04:03 GMT

WOW HERE IS THER ONE I JUST GOT

Hello,

It is my pleasure to contact you for a business venture which I and my brother ,intend to establish in your country. Though I have not met with you before but I believe, one has to risk confiding in succeed sometimes in life.

There is this huge amount of ($5,500,000.00) which my late father kept for us with a Finance House in Abidjan before he was assasinated by unknown persons. Now I and my brother decided to invest these money in your country or anywhere safe enough outside Africa for security and political reasons. We want you to help us claim and retrieve these fund from the finance house and transfer it into your personal account in your country for investment purposes,

If you can be of an assistance to us we will be pleased to offer to you 15% Of the total fund.

I await your soonest response.

Respectfully yours,
Jennifer Kossa
jennifer_ko86@yahoo.com

HOW CAN YOU GET SUCKERED INTO THIS, THEY DON'T EVEN HAVE PROPER GRAMMAR. LOL

A different kind of predator

danielle lorenzi — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 02:02:56 GMT

That Del' is so gross. It needs to get a grip on it's androgenous nature and put some decent clothes on. It looks like a bum coming out of a gay bar late at night in those gross t-shirts and backwards baseball caps it wears.

A different kind of predator

Trey Bosch ..Spartanburg SC — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 14:47:30 GMT

In the past week i have received emails for these scammers claiming my email # ?? has been chosen and i have won 30,000 $..then i got a few more saying i won the british international sweepstakes and then the irish sweepstakes...must be my lucky week..Just this morning a bank president in honk kong needs my help and some guy somewere(i lost track) lost his mother in a car accident and needs my help..I kept remembering Mr Hanson saying the emails usually said that it must be done in private,and sure enough most of mine say just that..I wish they had public anouncements on tv and raise awareness of this growing problem .Its sad to think that some american folks will fall for it. GREAT job on the coverage guys and gals..

A different kind of predator

Antonio DaSilva, Orange Park, Florida — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 02:27:02 GMT

Hi Chris,

Just a follow up with your segment on Foreign Fraud Con Men /scammers. This one is another permutation and a sophisticated form of fraud that I've seen so far. Just a few weeks ago I received an email from a so called "Sheikh Saad Mohammend Al-Saad", claims to be the chairman of the National Industries Group Holding in Kuwait and stated that he wish to be an investor to my project and will loan us $150 million. We asked him to send his loan agreement and proposal for participating in the Real Estate Investment Trust of my project -www.AsiaTownUSA.com. He sends us copies of certificate of deposits and transfer of funds to a London holding company. I even received an email from the Managing Director of Saudi Arabia British Bank -a John COverdale. After awhile and researching some resources over the web, some of the info seems to be conflicting and this company looks legit, etc. The red flag started when he ask us to meet with is Financial Advisor in London -a Mr. Williams Brown, even gave me a phone number to reach him, but we were supposed to give Mr. Brown the amount of L16,000 ($32,000) to process a surety bond and a MIGA (Multilateral Investment Guaranty Agreement -a World Bank program) and promised us that the loan process will be completed in 3 days. When I ask them to meet us in the US Embassy in London to register their FDI )Foreign Direct Investment and to comply with a security and anti-money laudering screening, they declined and never contacted us again. I have a complete email transcript and documentations if you wish to make a story on this one. Or if you can add this story in your blog, so many of your viewers may be warned. Thank you.

A different kind of predator

Anna Predka, Chicago, IL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 13:25:31 GMT

I've received email on Nov. 5th, 2007 from Barrister Billy Willings, he claims to be South African cooperating with some kind of Nigerian institution. I think I've seen programme on Dateline about this individual. Looks like this still hasn't stopped. Wished people were more aware of it and not get scamed.

A different kind of predator

John Grammer, Boise ID — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 21:28:12 GMT

On 09/12/07 our brother was killed in a helicopter crash. He was a helicopter pilot instructor & owned a flight school in NV. He had just picked up his brand new refurbished Fairchild Hiller 1100 helicopter and was flying it home the day it crashed. Our brother and this new partner were purchasing the helicopter manufacturing company. Two days following the crash the business partner took Benji’s pilot log book to hide from the FAA. The accident is still under investigation with the NTSB and the FAA. His girlfriend was the secretary at the flight school. Our brother talked of her father and how much he liked him. The father represented himself to us as an attorney, & former CIA intelligence, and said he was launching his own investigation into the crash. He made us feel like he had our best interest at heart. Then things began to take an interesting twist. All the claims he made were false! What we uncovered was this; there was a $ 6,152,182.00 judgment against him. He & his wife are specifically named as responsible parties in addition to others. He had been convicted of wire & mail fraud, and a previous conviction for possession of stolen property & larceny. In 1989, he was sentenced & served 30 months in federal prison. The list goes on! The attorney generals office informed us there is nothing we can do to stop him. Someone living has to file a complaint. Human nature is to believe that people are ultimately good and we tend to give people the benefit of the doubt. Unfortunately this is not always the case. Our brother invested $30,000 with him, someone he trusted. A $400 background check from a P.I. can go a long way. We do not want anyone else to experience what we have gone through. At a time when we are mourning the tragic and suspicious death of our brother and still searching for answers.

A different kind of predator

Debbie Belmonte Niskayuna, NY — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 01:10:44 GMT

I must commend you on the work you have done protecting children and putting criminals like that away!!! Love the show and wish you would expand to the abuse/neglect in the schools. My daughter has special needs and was neglected/abused. You have to report it and have it investigated by the School Board intead of the Police. The red tape is tierdsome and spins you in circles so I audio taped the meetings where the staff admited knowing of it or actually doing it. I still have no response from State board, school board and am still going through red tape. Now I am searching out a lawyer to file a lawsuit for my child.
What happens to children in the mainstream public schools in America is outright scary....Please consider this expansion and a copy of my meeting tapes that will shock you. The school admits removing a child from a cafateria without proper restraint, forcing a child to layer clothes when she has a sensory problem with it, and threatening a mother that if she is not in a facility in 20 minutes that the staff will call the police!! The worst for me was when the district staff, on tape told me that they wanted to lock my child up in an islation room because they kept giving her high sugary foods including chocolate cupcakes with chocolate icing. It interferes with her learning and hyperactivity!
Again, all is on tape and none seem to care but I need help and keep asking for the assistance to expose the people who hurt my baby.

Debie Belmonte
Niskayuna, NY

A different kind of predator

P.J. Rivera, Pascagoula, MS — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 02:27:44 GMT

I was caught up in a scam from Red Back Mining, Inc. Ghana. I sent them money for a visa and they wanted more to transfer money to get a wire transfer. This is related to overseas work. The scam is incredible, the websites fantastic. Unreal. i have all the emails and documents to trail I just don't have the know how or the resources.

A different kind of predator

Kim Watson, Denver, CO — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:57:16 GMT

How do I stop getting emails from these scam artists. I was recieving an scam email like you descibed and told that person to never contact me again now i have over 10 african scam artist email me several times a day. What can I do to make this stop?

A different kind of predator

TAMMY TWOMEY — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 17:49:21 GMT

NEED ADVICE ON SOMETHING,THAT DEALS WITH DIFFEREN TYPES OF SCAMMERS,LIKE NOTIFYING ME OG FUNDS FROM FEDERAL GOVERMENT F NIGERIA,AND IS SAID MY SO CALLED FUNDS BE REGISTERED TO FBI.AND THEY WANT TO COME TO MY HOME TO DILVER FUNDS.CAN SOMBODY GIVE ME ADVICE ON THIS ,THEY GIVE ME 48 HOURS TO COMPLEY.

A different kind of predator

Ward Shute, Ft Walton Beach, Fl — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 06:17:25 GMT

Any one getting emails from young pretty white girls starting on My Space and crossing over to Yahoo.com stating that they are "trapped" in Nigeria and need money to get back to the states. The best part is if you send them the money when they get back to the states they will pay you back and come stay with you. Here are some of the names I have gotten email from: Nancy Butler, Rose Truelove, Rosie Hudson, Susan Morgan, Stacy Brown and Sherry Lang. The amounts of money range from a few hundred to ten thousand (she much be flying first class?)... Stacy Brown's agent is a individual named stacy brown (11/7/2007 4:49:48 PM): NAME... Owoduni Samson
stacy brown (11/7/2007 4:50:03 PM): Adress.. 30 Unity St
stacy brown (11/7/2007 4:50:25 PM): City.. Ikeja
stacy brown (11/7/2007 4:50:35 PM): State... Lagos
stacy brown (11/7/2007 4:50:53 PM): Zio Code... 23401
stacy brown (11/7/2007 4:51:17 PM): Country... Nigeria

Keep a sharp eye out for these "Babes looking for your money" and spread the word on them ...The wiser the public is the bettr off we are ...

A different kind of predator

Gary Luke, Ashtabula, Ohio — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 17:52:38 GMT

Hello Mr.Hanson,
I don't have a "story" of being scammed to relate, but with the increasing regularity of all these e-mail scams I was curious if there is something we as the regular people could do to put a stop to it? Obviously, the best way would be to simply not answer any of the e-mails. But for some people the temptation is too strong for a number of reasons...Some are poor and really need the money, medical bills for loved ones, so on and so forth. What can we do as individuals on a more pro-active scale? Please, e-mail me with any information or thoughts on this, and anyone else that reads this, feel free to do the same.

A different kind of predator

Marcey Miller, South Elgin, Illinois — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 14:54:34 GMT

My name is Marcey Miller I cannot stop those e-mails. I get at least several everyday. I would like to help with getting these people stopped. Can you tell me what to do?

A different kind of predator

Chandra Watson, Virginia — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 01:26:31 GMT

I just want to warn everyone of a different kind of scam. Today I was doing online search for Yorshire Terriers. I responded to an ad and quickly got a response from a Rev. Jim Walcox who said he had 2 teacup yorkies he was giving away for free you just had to pay shipping 300 for one or 600 for both. Saying how he moved to Africa and the puppies weren't adjusting to the heat. He goes on in his email making several references to religion being important than asks for my personal information.

After seeing every dateline, I had red flags. The Yorkie I have cost me $1500.00 and I knew it was just too good to be true. I googled his name and found many responses on an Attorney General Webpage of people who have fallen victim. He has them send a money order then tells him he needs more money.

Dateline might want to do a story on this. I am more than willing to provide copies of the email he sent to me. Needless the response I sent to him wasn't as "GODLY".

A different kind of predator

Diane Blake, Chester, NH — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:00:27 GMT

We have a car for sale and a few days ago received a phone call from an operator stating that she had a call from someone typing on a computer. She would relay the message, we would respond, and she would type in the answer to the sender. At first, we thought it might be someone who is deaf or hard of hearing. Then we get the email that says he'll send us the cashier's check for the car along with funds for the shipper and we are to pay the shipper. That's when we knew it was a fraud. We're kind of playing along at this point, but today we get an email telling us he's sending the check with our money, the money for the shipper, AND money for some farm equipment that he needs. And get this - now he's just been diagnosed with cancer and wants us to pray for him. This could be good. Does Chris want to follow up with this one?

A different kind of predator

Richard Berg, Grand Forks, ND 58201 — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 19:15:53 GMT

I was recently dealing through e-mail with a person who was selling a car on cars.com. This car was a car worth $25,000 roughly and he was selling it for $8,00. At first the deal sounded pretty suspicious but soon the seller assured me that the deal would be backed by eBay Motors buyer protection security. And sure enough I received an e-mail supposedly from ebay motors that looked pretty legit it was also sent along with an actual "legal" protected ebay sales contract. All in all the deal sounded legit. However I just figured it to good to be true and I plan not to do any further action. However, it might be a good idea to do a show on eBay Motors scams. I did little research and I noticed that many people everywhere are being scammed by people from other countries pretending to sell cars that are supposedly back by eBay's protection services. It would be very beneficial to the general US population if they were made more aware of the potential scams out there related to buying cars online. Thank you.

Richard Berg

A different kind of predator

monique smith port royal southcarolina — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 01:17:48 GMT

so if u were scammed what can be done?

A different kind of predator

Connie Shaw Denton, TX — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 01:20:24 GMT

Auto Trader and Truck Trader magazine should be safe. This was not an obvious scam.People should be warned.
After placing an ad, I received an email with an offer to buy my car. A certified check was sent. It was $6000 too much. The "buyer" planned to pick up my car, the title, and the $6000.
When I reported this, I was told that since this scam was probably out of the US, nothing would happen.

A different kind of predator

pat hoover orient ohio — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 03:09:55 GMT

i receive 2 to 3 emails a day from con artists, they are from west africa, great britian etc. another hot bed for scams are on dating sites, i am on singlesnet and several other sites, and all of them has con artist that i have been contacted by. i wouldnt send anyone money or do any type of buisness with anyone from a different country, if they are legite, then they will contact the right people, not the average person.

A different kind of predator

Mary Fowler, Magnolia, AR — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 16:41:06 GMT

I am CEO of a small bank in Arkansas. Several weeks ago, one of our customers was conned into sending a con man a Cashier's Check for $10. From this one incidence, the country has been blanketed with counterfeit cashier's checks on our bank. This is one of the longest lasting cons I've seen, and due to its longevity, it's possible that a good investigation could get to the bottom of it. Banks are still accepting these checks for deposit. This is a very extensive operation, and they haven't been scared off yet.

A different kind of predator

Mike Mendez. Cerritos, CA — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 17:53:08 GMT

LOL I have been sending these guys false hope after I saw your show. I currently have one that is ready for me to fly out to South Africa to do the transfer. This is the most fun I have had with my email in a long time. Thanks for the idea Chris I hope others will join in and run these guys in circles till they just give up.

A different kind of predator

David Sebring — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 09:40:43 GMT

Hello Chris! As i was watching your show; i could'nt help but think that, what if there are women out there you should be targeting as well as men?.I think you would be surprised to find older women seeking young girls and boys as well.

A different kind of predator

juan daru nugraha, semarang, indonesia — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 05:18:58 GMT

maybe I have bad english so I can't write more than this

A different kind of predator

juan daru nugraha, semarang, indonesia — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 05:25:46 GMT

at first I read this programe I have wonderful moments my fell got many experience as so glad

A different kind of predator

R. Davis, Berkeley, Ca — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 03:07:01 GMT

Chris Hansen, you are doing the job of a million angels by preventing many unsuspecting individuals from falling for these scams. I have recieved a few emails promising millions of dollars if I am dumb enough to send them money or give up bank account information first. I don't respond, but I do keep the emails to compare them with others like them. Thank you for doing the job that the US govmt doesn't have time to do.

A different kind of predator

Angelina Estrella, North Carolina — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 01:13:04 GMT

***READER BEWARE! The following is littered with EXTREME sarcasm.

I am trading emails with an "Agent Sam Walker" from South Africa who says I have won over $100,000! I can't wait to receive this money!!! All I have to do is fly to South Africa to collect my "cheque" in person OR I can wire him $450 no, wait $750 to send me my "cheque" via "diplomatic secured courier service". This is so exciting! I told him I will jump on the next plane to South Africa!!!!

A different kind of predator

Leslie Kayser, Ketchikan, Alaska — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 18:17:21 GMT

Mr. Hansen:
Thank you for this story. I didn't see it when it aired but recently I joined an "reputable" online dating site--eHarmony. And incredibly handsome man was "matched" with me--no direct contact is allowed at first, instead the system matches you for compatibility. After being matched, the handsome gentleman (now I understand that the person featured in the pictures is a victim too whose photos, if not identity, has been stolen) "Fast Tracked" me. This bypasses the regular "Guided Communication" of the site, where each party asks & answers questions without direct contact. For six weeks we corresponded, even after he had taken a "business trip to Africa." I was red flagged when he declared his undying love for me even though we had never met. The next email was the one where he asked me to send him a computer, to Accra, Ghana, Africa. Of course, when the declaration of love and then the request I began checking it all out. Ironically, he is also a "contractor" with a website and California contractors license posted.
I looked up the website, and called the 800#. It didn't work in my calling area. Then I researched on 411.com and found a local number for American West. A woman answered, but didn't answer with the business name. She had never heard of his alias, which by the way, was James Barnes. I checked the California contractors license and it is legit. I haven't called the number associated with the contractors license yet. I figured if the scammers can use the Internet to find me, I can do them the same courtesy.
He used Yahoo Messenger, and Windows Live Messenger to talk to me, in addition to an email address from both places.
He gave me an international number to call, which I did. His grammar was terrible and he spoke with an accent all the while claiming to be from Staten Island, NY. Ha! He gave very specific information saying that he was a widower, his dead wife's name, his mother's name etc.
And to top it all off, a friend of mine who I showed his pictures to initially, when I still believed it was legitimate found him on Match.com with a different name and address.
Another friend found your scam story and forwarded it to me. It was like reading a script!

So even with a pay site like eHarmony (and all their success stories) a person is not even remotely safe. The scammers must make enough off of unsuspecting victims to make it profitable to for them to now pay to join sites.

I wouldn't have sent money or computers to someone I hadn't met, but I can imagine how someone might. Especially if something came from a trusted source like eHarmony and/or they weren't experienced in the Internet dating realm. Nor did I give out financial imformation or information other than what you could find out if someone Googled my name. I did however send photos, that I am sure will now be used to lure in other victims. There seems to be now way to address that issue or prevent them from being used, along with my name.

Now, if I could just find the REAL man in the photos that were sent to me, that would be great!

A different kind of predator

Harold Casey,Brockport,New York — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 02:41:13 GMT

Greetings Chris Hansen,
I just have one question for you. Why haven't you explored the possibility that there might be women out there, that are enticing young boys for their pleasure.

A different kind of predator

Lucy Doupe, Amityville NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:26:06 GMT

Dear Chris,
I am currently communicating with a person I believe is con. I subscribed to E-Harmony.com which I thought was the safest on-line match service. I met this person named Alvin Johnson who swept me away with all the IM messages phone calls. He is a mechanical Engineer for Exxon and is currently offshore drilling oil out of Ireland. Things took a turn when he phoned me last Thursday crying on the phone that his 13 year old daughter who lives in Africa with her mother has kidney failure and all his funds are tied up until he gets off the ship and comes home Feb. 10. He is pressuring me to wire $3000 so she can have a dialisis treatment. The phone number he has given me which is a UK cell number does not work. The phone number for the doctor in Africa worked once and I spoke with him. Now Alvin is really pressuring me to send this money or his daughter will die.. I have information on him and e-mails to back this up. I would love to catch this scam before someone else gets taken.

A different kind of predator

Cheryl Zelsman St Louis Mo — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 21:40:57 GMT

It is amazing to me just how gullable people can be. Some get caught up in this Nigeria scamming because they are either desperate for love or money. Your broadcast needs to be played at 8pm every night for several months so the public can be educated about this scam. Obviously there are hundreds of people still falling for this. Keep getting the word out. Love your show!

A different kind of predator

Denny Longwell New Martinsville, West Virginia — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 03:46:33 GMT

Chris,
Have you ever thought about doing a show about a different kind of predator, i.e. younger women who prey on older, lonely, widowed men?? If so, contact me as I have a great place to start. My father is being preyed upon by a women 31 years his junior. Dad is 85.

A different kind of predator

karen swartz, bristol, IN — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 07:41:39 GMT

i just opened some of my spam and found one of these. id like to report it, but am not sure how to go about it. And would it help if i did so.

A different kind of predator

marlo smith — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:32:48 GMT

I was never a victim of a scam before,but here's a new one. I was on craigslist and posted some info about some NSYNC marionette dolls on their and the guy who contacted me wound up being a scammer. The check he sent was very suspicious. It wound up not being legit and it was for 1,700 dollars.

A different kind of predator

Shawe Cassidy, somewhere in southwest Texas — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 23:51:47 GMT

I've had people try to take me for a ride...only wanted $200 all i gave them was a kick in the behind but i get TONS of those emails...I barely make enough to pay my own bills ;p

A different kind of predator

Cynthia Cain — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 17:12:11 GMT

I am having a problem with a company out of Nigeria in which a gentleman by the name of Keliven Brown, Dispatch Director; (234) 8027185405 at this number to contact him as a person by the name of Mr. Vincent has left a federal express package at his offices to be delivered to me. Mr. Brown claims the package contains a check in the amount of $800,000.00 and he only needs for me to pay $200.00 for the security fee and he will then release the tracking number so I can track my package. I have constantly asked that they not contact my email but that isn't working. I will not be sending any money or giving out any of my personal information as I have informed this gentleman before. What can I do to stoop him from contacting me again?

A different kind of predator

J. M. Williams — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 22:20:49 GMT

I was recently scammed by an outfit that said I had won a donation from the Catholic Church Italy. Then in further e-mails they asked for US620 to pay for the legal services of a Barrister called FEM SUMONU & CO from Nigeria. It told me that I was being given a Petroleum certificate and that certain legal papers had to be drawn up by the Barrister. I was to wire the money for his services - which he detailed. Then the certificate would be couriered to me using UPS. I sent the money by wire. Next they told me that the petroleum certificat was being held up by the Nigerian tax office until I paid a further US 3,855. By this time I knew for sure that I had been scammed. I am just glad it was only US620.

A different kind of predator

Jason, Oakwood, GA. — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 10:20:35 GMT

I just received a scam email...March 11, 2008. I have all this guys contact info. lets get em. HELP!!!!!

Mrs. Hyogo Keitaro Sato.
Houphey orth. Hospital,
Marcory Abidja Ivory Coast .
mrs.keitaro_keitaro@yahoo.com

A different kind of predator

Al Abellera, Tukwila, Washington — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 22:14:09 GMT

I just viewed your series on To Catch a con man,
I too have been victimized and I have saved all the information I have received with these scammers, my computer is loaded with information and continues to come in to this day, I would love to help to be a part of bringing down these scammers, may I be of assistence. Al Abellera

A different kind of predator

Bart Mazur, Wayne, NJ — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 22:55:48 GMT

I just watched the special "to cath a con man" and it occurred to me that I haven't seen a program about psychic scams here in the U.S. I have been scammed by a psychic out of $5000. This is embarassing but it really happened and I'm sure it wouldn't be difficult to make a program about something so close to home.

A different kind of predator

Bart Mazur, Wayne, NJ — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 22:55:49 GMT

A different kind of predator

Donna Clay Center, Kansas — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 12:28:36 GMT

Thank you for doing this investigation to make us aware of this kind of crime. I have got alot of emails like this. Mine are not quite like what you reported on but from a banker from Allied Irish Bank. I made a copy of these emails and show them to everyone that I can! I feel that I work legally for the money I get and so should these people! I wish there could be more done about these crimes!

A different kind of predator

Alan, Chicago, IL — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:47:00 GMT

Chris, you doing a phenemonen job.

A different kind of predator

Preston Fassel, Conroe, TX — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 03:51:47 GMT

In 2007, my elderly father's vehicle broke down and he could not afford to pay for the repairs. He needed the vehicle to commute to work, and also to transport my mother to the doctor, as she was suffering from an illness which one month later was diagnosed as leukemia. In the course of looking for loans online, he was contacted by an "agency" which offered him a $5000 loan if he would put up $1000 to purchase "insurance" on the loan. My father did--and it was stolen, the $5000 never provided. The "agency" now has a record with the Better Business Bureau as an advance fee fraud scam. My father, being a senior citizen, is not familiar with this sort of fraud; he was taken advantage of because of his age. Through research I learned that the organization preys on Hispanic immigrants and the elderly. I put my father in contact with the FBI and the RCMP (as the scammers used a Canadian PO Box); the RCMP said that it would be "very hard" to investigate, even after my own research turned up numerous leads. The FBI flatly told me that they refused to investigate because my father had lost less than a million dollars. My father and mother's financial situation has spiraled downward ever since. That $1000 loss was a crippling blow. My mother has been out of work since due to her leukemia, and my father never got his car back. No one will help. My father is a US Army Veteran who was taken advantage of due to his age and desperation. Please, Mr. Hansen, help us when not even the country my father served will.

A different kind of predator

Rayn Brock , Portland , OR — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 21:35:43 GMT

My thanks to NBC and Dateline for exposing this fraud. I almost became a victim with countless others. The one time I missed one of Chris's stories happens to be the one I needed to watch. So now what, these thieves get to go try this on some one else? Isn't there something that can be done to them?

A different kind of predator

Nancy, near San Antonio TX — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 20:45:35 GMT

I have a friend who I believe is being scammed by a "girl" in Afric. He is so hard headed, there's no use talking to him. Is there somewhere to report this to investigate. He's a truck driver and on the road most of the time.

A different kind of predator

Kathy Gennuso, Dry Ridge, KY — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:49:18 GMT

My 91 year old father was scammed out of $500,000.00 by a man who said his name was Richard Bama and also that he was a lawyer in the UK. Dad had "inherited" $15,000,000.00 and of course had to continue paying various fees. Now my dad is borderline broke and very depressed. Dad even went so far as to fly to Canada to pay them $10,000.00 in cash in order to get his money in "3 brown bags." Amazing!

A different kind of predator

Lynn A. Revels, Franklin, VA — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:24:41 GMT

Dear Chris, Thank you for your show about e-mail scammers. though I was gullible, suspicions set in when a good looking 34 y/o male from Washington DC was interested in a 52 y/o grandma from Va. In less then 3 days, he was falling in love with me. I asked questions that he didn't given me answers to. For some one raised in America, his written language was poor. But when telling me about his feeling for me the words flowed eloquently as if copied from a romance novel. When I told him this, he quickly got off line and I haven't heard from him since. Again thank you for alerting single females and males of such activity. Always a fan of Dateline.

A different kind of predator

Jackie Lee — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:25:03 GMT

My mother is on a fixed income, and a man is taking her for everything! He has already taken $40,000+ from her, and says that he loves her. Yet she has never met him, and every time he agrees to meet her he comes up with some ridiculous reason why he can't come. He claims to be a pediatrician in Nigeria, and supposedly can't get to any of his assets. She is 54 years old, and wants to believe all the things he tells her, and wants to feel young again. It has ruined her marriage, she is losing her house, and he is trying to alienate her from her children. Now that she has nothing left, he asked her for her social security check (her only income now that her husband is gone), and if she gives it to him she won't even have money for food. He has her convinced that it all started out as a con, but then he fell in love with her. He wants to use her check to come and visit her on. Yeah, right. I've contacted police, lawyers, etc., and noone will do anything to help her!

A different kind of predator

Marquita phila, pa — Sat, 10 May 2008 20:10:04 GMT

my husband received a letter that he was a winner of a sweepstake of 58,750. They sent a check that looked so real as well for 4685 which was to cover the state clearance fees. I felt as though it might be a scam. I got on the internet and did some research well first its says united rentals and gives their address in florida when i looked it up turns out their one of the biggest rental companies for construction epuip. also the # listed on the net is dis connnected. Also the address they give for bank of nova scotia on the check did not match up either. Lastly the # that the give you to calls says to leave your name # your claim number and an agent will contact you. Well if you win a sweepstakes wy would they pay any fees. also all the numbers and addresses on the check just dont add up

A different kind of predator

doris, pensacola fl — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:42:19 GMT

i watched your story on identy theft, and want to know what companies are out there to protect our credit.

A different kind of predator

Liz Herlong, Albuquerque, NM — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:37:49 GMT

I am transfering to another city and have been looking for a place to rent. Found a decent sounding house on Craigslist. Sent an e-mail asking for more information. I got an e-mail back from "missionairies" in Africa telling me that they didn't care about money, just wanted someone to care for their house. I was to call them in Africa to find out how to get the key as they had it with them. What do you bet that I would have had to send a sizable amount of money to "get the key". I can't believe what people will do to try and scam others.

A different kind of predator

Daniel Cacciatore, Matthews, North Carolina — Mon, 19 May 2008 00:22:46 GMT

I started watching Dateline late tonight. I came in at the story of the alien aircrafts in the sky. I nearly fell out of my couch when I saw this. I can relate to the story. When I was probably in my early twenties my brothers, sister and my parents were out for a ride, and out of the blue we saw a bright light in the sky. It actually got right next to the car, and it hovered there for a few minutes. It was a sight that none of us had ever seen before in our lives, and I have never again seen such a thing. To this day I still believe it was an alien craft.

A different kind of predator

Gary Lester, Cameron Park, Ca — Fri, 23 May 2008 19:13:07 GMT

I too get these scams on my e-mail all the time and it's not just from Nigeria. I get them from the UK too. Or so they claim. I have to wonder... Is'nt there some authority, somewhere, that can put some pressure to these, for lack of a better term, CRIMINALS, Who prey on seemingly honest folks. I appreciate Chris Hanson's efforts to quell this activity and possibly bring to justice those responsible. However, lets not forget what Mark Twain said once, "You cant cheat an honest man".

A different kind of predator

keri wales cardiff — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 22:09:39 GMT

i had a man called john paul & from africa he said his father died & inherited $4.500,000 & wanted my bank details to transfer the money & my 4ne number & i was gonna have 15%in return haha i belived him aswell but thanks2 you guys i didnt (thank god)

A different kind of predator

Jay W. TX — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:55:36 GMT

I have read somewhere that a lot of scamming originates from Russia, have you been able to accomplish your stings there as well?

A different kind of predator

Kim Wyckoff, Newport News, VA — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 17:09:03 GMT

What I find sad is that my company is targeted on a regular basis. I am in the wedding industry. And the Wedding industry is a big target to this scam. I have people from out of the country contacting me wanting to plan a BIG ticket wedding. But of course there will be no such wedding. Luckly I am a memeber of a national organization, AfWPI, and they are doing everything they can to notify members of the current scam.

A different kind of predator

Nicole — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 21:20:50 GMT

I receive 2 or 3 of those emails every week. I'm glad that I never pursued any of them. They really know how to catch your attention. Thanks Chris!!

A different kind of predator

Chris, Rockville, MD — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 04:02:37 GMT

I just got one from someone claiming that someone with my last name had died and he can't find the next of kin so I should give him my phone number to set up where we each get 50 percent. Mine went to the delete bin.. Didn't know there were irish people in Laos or as he said Lagos, lmao!!

A different kind of predator

Mark Miller Chillicothe Ohio — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 03:22:56 GMT

I'm a 49 year old man that gets imd all the time on dating sites. Women anywhere from 18 to 30 years old living in Beverly Hills or NY City, all wanting to start a new life with someone like me. In the end, they all tell me they are from Ghana. The spelling and grammar are terrible. People still for this! WOW!

A different kind of predator

Teryl C, Georgetown, KY — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 21:28:31 GMT

Ok, how about the men on some of these meeting sites, that sound so good and you go meet them and well they sound so wonderful and you meet them and they are still ok then you find out that he is telling 14 other women from the same site the same. we have this man on yearbook who is also on tagged who has done this, he has changed his name numerous times, and some of the women he has done this too he has hurt sexually, what can we do to stop him or out him it amazes me, seriously, he doesn't think he has a problem and when you confront him he is like your a player, hey if you want to talk to me or any of the other women he has done this too would love too.

A different kind of predator

Dan,Brunswick, Maine — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 13:23:43 GMT

Look out for privatedavidadom@yahoo.com.hk aka David Adom. Trying to run a scam needing help wiring 12.5 million to the US..LOL
Heres some info I got on him
zoltar.telenet-ops.be [195.130.132.57]

A different kind of predator

Sue Fegley, Lansdale, Pa. — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 22:05:59 GMT

I'd like to report a scam, that I received on craigslist, while I was looking for a house to rent in the nearby area. The scam is someone in Nigeria, and as of today they do not know that I know they are a scam. They are trying to rent a house that is up for sale in Maple Glen, I called the Realtor, against the spamers wishes just to see if they knew about the scam. They did but said they couldn't do anything about it. Is there anything that can be done, they are at the stage of wanting me to send $200.00 for keys to the house. I have the western union information where to send the money, obviously I'm not going to do so, however, I'd love to have these people caught and arrested for the spam. My friends are in desperate need of a house to rent and almost did as these people wanted, but the way they worded their emails to me made me question their authenticity. They say they are missionaries in West Africa, yet they want the money sent to Nigeria. Is there any way we can catch these people and arrest them???? If so I have all the information you need to do so. Let me know if something can be done. Thank you, Sue

A different kind of predator

EmailRevealer — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 01:11:03 GMT

I trace these emails for a living. They don't all trace back to Nigeria. sometimes the con artists are right here in the states. They like to blend in with the Nigerians so people won;t try to locate them. But it is possible to catch these people. I have some articles up on my blog at www.emailrevealer.com

A different kind of predator

Marcia Diltz Van Wert, Ohio — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 02:58:35 GMT

How do you find out a listing of people that have money coming to them? Thank you for your time.

A different kind of predator

virginia Matkovich, Lansing, Mich. — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 03:27:10 GMT

Dear Chris, my name is Virginia M. and I have been getting e-mail from an att. by the name of Barr Mark Douglas who said that a man has passed and left me a certain amount of money but I am the next of kin and he would like for me to give him some info so the money will be sent to me. He says that this is legal but I would like help to find out if its true. Please help me. He been in contact wit me on a daily base.

A different kind of predator

Young, Pittsburgh PA — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:42:15 GMT

I have been tricked in paying a handyman 50% of deposit and the next day he called in to say that he got into a car accident on route to work site. He took a 2 day rest and called saying he will be back to work the following day. However he never showed up and he never picked up my phone again.

Hundreds of dollars gone.... Is there something we can do about this???

A different kind of predator

Paul, Alexandria, VA — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 21:02:36 GMT

Here is a scam I received today. Thanks for investigating these low lifes and bringting them to justice.

FROM: KOFFI JULIET
COUNTRY: ABIDJAN, IVORYCOAST
EMAILS ( missjuliet_koffi@yahoo.fr )

DEAR,

I GOT YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION THROUGH THIS SITE. AND I DECIDED TO CONTACT YOU,HOPING THAT BY ALMIGHTY GOD GRACE YOU WILL SUCCESSFULLY ASSIST ME OUT FROM MY SITUATION AFTER MY SEVEN GOOD DAYS PRAYERS AND FASTING OVER SEEKING FOR AN OVERSEES GUARDANCE .

I AM KOFFI JULIET (22 YEARS OLD) THE ONLY DAUGHTER OF LATE CHIEF JOSEPH KOFFI WHO WAS A FAMOUS AND WEALTHY COCOA MERCHANT BASED IN ABIDJAN,THE ECONOMIC CAPITAL OF IVORYCOAST. I AM SEEKING FOR YOUR URGENT ATTENTION TO HELP ME TRANSFER THE SUM OF (US$10,500,000.00 )TEN MILLION FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND UNITED STATE OF AMERICAN DOLLARS INTO YOUR NOMINATED BANK ACCOUNT OVERSEAS FOR AN INVESTMENTS PURPOSES,SUCH AS REAL ESTATES MANAGEMENTS AND STOCK MARKERTS. THE FUND WAS DEPOSITED IN FIXED SUSPENCE ACCOUNT

PLEASE , I AM WILLING TO OFFER YOU 20% OUT OF THIS MY TOTAL FUND AS YOUR COMMISSION FOR YOUR URGENT ASSISTANCE TO ME.PLEASE KINDLY WRITE IMMEDIATELY FOR MORE IMPORTANT DETAILS CONCERNING THIS MY MUTUAL TRANSACTION.

YOURS FAITHFULLY,
KOFFI JULIET

NOTE: I HAVE ALL THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS IN RELATION TO THIS MY FUND DEPOSITED BY MY LATE FATHER IN THE BANK. AND ALSO KINDLY REPLY ME ON THIS MY PRIVATE EMAIL ( missjuliet_koffi@yahoo.fr ) FOR CONFIDENTIAL AND SECURITY REASONS OK THANKS.