Scam Alert!

Mary C. | 18 November 2004 |

Scam Alert!!!

Betti Newburn from the Idaho Heritage Inn in Boise, ID e-mailed us regarding a scam she encountered, similar to the Nigerian scam we’ve heard about in the past.

Betti received an e-mail, supposedly from Anna Kornikova, to book a few nights at her Inn. Betti says, “It is not unusual to have such requests, as we have had several celebs and dignitaries stay here. I was suspicious, however, since they rarely do their own bookings.” Responding in a gracious manner, and despite her concerns, the booking was placed. The person posing as Anna explained to Betti that she would get a lump sum amount from her sponsor for her vacation and that a certified cashiers check for the total amount would be sent to Betti. She asked Betti to send the credit balance (the difference in the amount of the cashiers check and the cost of lodging at Betti’s inn) to her therapist. The person posing as Anna Kornikova even spoke of a strained muscle in her left thigh, as if to reinforce the charade.

Betty received the certified check and deposited it, but decided to wait until the check cleared before sending any money by Western Union. Just has she suspected, the cashiers check was a forgery. Betty affirms, “I was not out any money, because of my suspicious nature, but it appears they may be preying on the hospitable, kind people who run B&Bs.”

Thanks Betti for passing this on!