creative new ways to scam unsuspecting people out of their money
Lesson: In any store, don't buy the gift cards displayed on store racks. Ask at the customer service desk whether there are any cards kept behind the counter
Lesson: Be suspicious whenever you're asked for money, even if you have already been paid a larger amount in the form of a check. It can take many weeks for a bank to determine whether a foreign or cashier's check is valid.
Lesson: A con artist might spend months building rapport on-line before asking for a dime. Even if you think you know this person well, consider that you really don't know anyone from your communications over the Internet -- you just know the way he/she chooses to present himself in E-mail.
Lesson: Con men know that making victims fear for their lives is a great way to encourage them to hand over their money. Good con artists learn a few details about their intended victims