September 2006 Archives

A few days ago, I wrote an entry about fake check scams in which I commented on the scammer's use of an apparent third-party Russian domain as a 'prop' for their scam. I've just received a batch of scam emails that quote a reply address of 'afbls@gawab.com' — this scammer seems to like using Gawab, an Egyptian free email service — and contain URLs pointing to two German domains, allianz.de and billit.de.

One of the nastier scams currently promoted by spam is the 'fake check' scam. The spams associated with this scam are fairly easy to recognize, consisting of a pitch for a 'job opportunity' that involves working as a 'receivables clerk' or 'remote manager'. The list of requirements usually include a bank account. The spams explain that the need for a bank account is 'so we can pay you', but what they really mean is 'so we can rob you'.

The most minimalist scam that I've seen to date is an email that reads:

I found a bug in E-bullion system, which allows you to double your e-bullion deposit in seconds! ... Please send me $50 E-bullion currency to my account ______, and write your email in the memo field. I'll send you the instructions by email. What I wrote is true, that really works!!!

The frightening thing is that you know that someone is going to fall for this one. And I really can't bring myself to feel sorry for anyone who does.