This afternoon someone in my company decided to perform a helpful public service by sending on a forward from a “reliable” source, warning of a phone scam that could cost the victim thousands of dollars.

Of course, I saw this forward at least 3 years ago and already knew that it was mostly hype. While it is one of the few forwards that has some truth to it, the chances of actually coming in contact with this scam is very, very small. I mean, if this email has been floating around since 2000 and you’re just now hearing about it, I’m guessing it means you’re not in danger of being contacted.

My main point is this: I’d be more careful before I sent out these kinds of emails TO THE ENTIRE COMPANY. Because, one of two things will inevitably happen: you’ll either freak everyone out needlessly; or, more likely, someone will call you on the misinformation and provide you with numerous links to webpages debunking the rumor.

While I do get a certain amount of amusement seeing people worry about a “threat” that is already half a decade old, I find myself shaking my head that people still fall for this stuff. If the story sounds sensational or has a suspicious lack of certain details, it’s probably a hoax. That little girl with cancer is not getting money if you send this to 100 of your closest friends, nor are you getting that free Gap gift certificate or a check from Bill Gates.

But just to be sure, type in a few keywords to any of the myriad urban legend websites before you send it to every member of your company.

Just a thought.

Posted at 3:15 PM |

Yea, wasn’t that GREAT?? :)

I grew out of that phase though. Lots of people go through that—the internet is kinda new to you and you get all these funny emails you just HAVE to pass on. But eventually you outgrow it and you’ve seen all those forwards 800 times before anyway.

But the ones I sent out were “amusing”, not scam warnings or ones making up sad stories about little kids.

BTW, I like that you said you would “look forward” to it. That means you actually liked it! :)

3 | Posted by: Jennifer on March 24, 2005 @ 10:26 AM

LOL do I even want to know how you found out she WASN’T real??

6 | Posted by: Jennifer on March 25, 2005 @ 11:27 AM