virus-based scam
Oct. 10th, 2009 02:25 amSome scammers have hijacked my aunt F's email account and have been sending emails using her name (with a slight misspelling), saying she was robbed and stranded in London. For a couple of minutes, I was worried about her. I wonder if it's a virus, or simply some database with names and email addresses...
I wonder who picks up if you call the number... and is UK police getting involved? Is an address enough information for a Western Union transfer?
I replied to the message, and the bot replied back, quoting what I wrote, and saying:
Since I use GMail, I doubt I can be infected, but OTOH the bad guys now know my name and email address... but they probably already did.
Sorry I didn't inform you about my travel to London for a Program, am presently in UK , I am stranded here because I was robbed in my hotel where I lodged. I would like you to assist me urgently with a soft loan of $2600 to sort-out my hotel bills and get myself back home. I will appreciate whatever you can afford.
Kindly look for any Western Union Money Transfer outlet and send me the money with this information’s below please.
Name/ [INFECTED PERSON'S NAME]
Address: [SOME NUMBER] Kensington High St
Zip code:
State: London
Country: England
Please email me the Western Union Money Transfer details as soon as you send the money. I will pay you back as soon as i am back . I wait to read from you soon, You can call me through this number. Hotel Manager;s phone number +447031959403
Regards,
[INFECTED PERSON'S NAME]
I wonder who picks up if you call the number... and is UK police getting involved? Is an address enough information for a Western Union transfer?
I replied to the message, and the bot replied back, quoting what I wrote, and saying:
Please help me out i need your help at this time ok
Since I use GMail, I doubt I can be infected, but OTOH the bad guys now know my name and email address... but they probably already did.