Chapter 1: Encountering Scammers

Have you ever had an interaction with a scammer through fake websites, unsolicited phone calls, or dubious emails and texts? This is a surprisingly frequent occurrence for many.

About a year ago, during a conversation on LinkedIn, I was engaged with a charming young woman from China—though it turned out she was actually a scammer's creation. She praised my work in graphic novels and expressed interest in self-publishing. After some friendly exchanges, she turned flirtatious and inquired about my thoughts on cryptocurrency, claiming to have a trustworthy source that could promise incredible returns with minimal risk. This was clearly a ploy to extract personal information and money by directing me to a fraudulent website to enter my details. The mention of crypto served as my cue to exit the conversation.

Similar tactics are employed by scammers on dating platforms, who build rapport through compliments and flirtation to gain your trust. Eventually, their narratives shift to tales of misfortune—like a sick mother needing urgent care or a cousin struggling to pay school fees. Once you've established a bond, they will ask for financial help.

Now, whenever I receive a message from a scammer, I enjoy turning the tables on them.

Recently, I got a text from a scammer. They often initiate contact by claiming they mistakenly dialed my number. What are the odds? They typically express regret and introduce themselves. The script involves a series of exchanges designed to build trust before they make their pitch.

Yesterday, while at work, I kept my response brief. Take a look at the messaging exchange:

Predictably, I received no reply from "Mina."

This serves as a reminder that it’s quite simple to steer clear of scams.

Here are some practical tips:

1. Avoid answering calls from unfamiliar numbers, especially those from unknown area codes. If it’s significant, they’ll leave a voicemail. If no message is left, feel free to block the number.
2. Block any unsolicited text messages, including those similar to the one in my story.
3. I once received a voicemail purportedly from my auto insurance provider, instructing me to return the call to a toll-free number. However, the source number was absent from the insurance company’s official website. I blocked that call and refrained from responding.
4. Always verify the sender's email address for any suspicious emails, as they typically lack any reference to the company they claim to represent.

What experiences have you encountered with scammers?

It's essential to remember that scammers are simply greedy criminals who have no regard for your well-being. Don’t feel guilty about ignoring them. Refrain from answering, replying, or clicking on anything suspicious. Block any dubious calls and texts. Stay safe out there, and remember to have a little fun while navigating these encounters!

Chapter 2: Lighthearted Encounters with Scammers

The first video showcases humorous interactions with scam callers, highlighting the absurdity of their tactics.

In the second video, the creator shares funny moments with scammers, using jokes to counter their schemes.