Do you watch TED Talks? They are amazing! Topics run from serious to hilarious and everything in between. James Veitch delivers an entertaining look at spam. It’s an oldie, but one of my favorites:
Spam and Scams Evolve
Unless you’re pretty gullible, it’s unlikely you are going to fall for one of these obvious Nigerian scams. However, scams are getting more sophisticated, believable, and closer to home. Recently I posted an offer to sell some unwanted stuff on Craig’s List. I was initially pleased with the replies offering to pay full price for my items – but there were some that wanted to pay me more than my asking price! Easy money, or red flag? A quick Google search for Craig’s List scams and my hopes for extra cash were shattered 😉
So when was the last time you received an email holding the promise of fast cash? Were you ever tempted to engage with the spammer? If you did, how did that work out for you?
Post your experience in the comments section. Let’s see what some other baiting schemes look like.
Kate Benzin says
Do you mean those emails telling me I won the lottery aren’t true???? Ha ha. Can’t believe there are still people who fall for them, but the emails keep coming so they must be having some success. And yes, TED talks are wonderful. Thanks for sharing this one.
Nita says
I love Ted Talks, that was a new one for me. Thanks for sharing. I don’t know if I’ve had any good spam, I generally go through my inbox deleting pretty fast. Maybe I’ll set up an email with my pen name and see what kind of spammer will want to play with me.
Fran Asaro says
This was hysterical. And he’s right, many of us wish we had the time or inclination at some point to give them a taste of their own medicine. This guy was great. Thanks for sharing this.
Janice Dugas says
I love TED TALKS. Had not seen this one before! Thanks for sharing 🙂 Was a good laugh.