Hey everyone, just a heads-up for anyone new here. If you post on this forum, there’s a chance scammers might DM you saying they know someone who can help recover your money, for a fee. We call these recovery scammers. Keep all advice public in the comments so the community can help. If you follow advice in private messages, you’re on your own. \n\nRemember the forum rules: No sharing contact info like full names or phone numbers. Be civil (no insults). Don’t ask others to scam or retaliate, and no uncensored personal photos. Full rules are on the sidebar or in the rules section. Use the report button for scammers or other violations. Questions? Message the mods.\n\nThis comment was automatically added. Contact the mods if you have questions.
That 52% fee on the transaction is the real scam, if you ask me.
Steele said:
That 52% fee on the transaction is the real scam, if you ask me.
Totally agree. It’s ridiculous.
Steele said:
That 52% fee on the transaction is the real scam, if you ask me.
Honestly, that Twitch payment setup is just as bad.
It’s a weird situation, but it might not be shady. Some people are super into online drama or fandom stories, and those types of videos do get traction on YouTube.\n\n> I don’t think I ever shared this PayPal account online. How did they find it?\n\nThey likely found a donation link you set up somewhere. Sending $1 through PayPal reveals your info, so that’s probably how they reached out.\n\n> Should I respond to them?\n\nIf you’re curious or want to do an interview, go ahead. Just tread carefully.
@JacobDavis3
That makes sense. I’m not super familiar with PayPal mechanics, but it’s been years since I set it up. So having a name on the account is because I added it myself?
FraudPhantom said:
@JacobDavis3
That makes sense. I’m not super familiar with PayPal mechanics, but it’s been years since I set it up. So having a name on the account is because I added it myself?
Yeah, if you set up a donation button or link, you’d see it in your account settings. Here’s the link to check: https://www.paypal.com/donate/buttons/
@JacobDavis3
Sounds like a twist on those scams where someone offers money to paint your portrait or something. I’d stay cautious.
Meech said:
@JacobDavis3
Sounds like a twist on those scams where someone offers money to paint your portrait or something. I’d stay cautious.
Let me explain the muse scam. Scammers often pretend to be artists and say they want to pay you for your photo or likeness. Then they ask for money for ‘materials’ upfront. It’s just another fake check scam. Avoid sending any money. If in doubt, ignore them and move on.
Is there anything unique or notable about your posts online?
StellarSage said:
Is there anything unique or notable about your posts online?
Yeah, why would someone go to all this effort instead of just emailing you? Are you well-known in any circles?
StellarSage said:
Is there anything unique or notable about your posts online?
Not really. I used to be active in a few fandoms and had a decent following (about 5k), but I wasn’t famous or anything. My wife thinks it’s odd they didn’t just message me on Tumblr if they know me from there. Also, their profile picture is a character from a game I play. Weird coincidence?
@FraudPhantom
If they really knew your Tumblr, wouldn’t it make more sense to contact you there? Something feels off.
@FraudPhantom
Maybe they couldn’t message you because of your privacy settings?
JacobDavis3 said:
@FraudPhantom
Maybe they couldn’t message you because of your privacy settings?
Nope, my inbox is open to everyone.
Here’s one thought: If they just emailed you, it might’ve gone to spam. Sending $1 probably ensured you’d notice them. Maybe they’re genuine and really want to talk about your experience on Tumblr?
Hey, just a heads-up: I think your real name is visible in the screenshot you shared. That’s against forum rules. You should blur it or remove the post.
DavisH said:
Hey, just a heads-up: I think your real name is visible in the screenshot you shared. That’s against forum rules. You should blur it or remove the post.
I was already talking to a mod about this since my first submission was rejected. They didn’t mention the name being an issue.
@FraudPhantom
Alright, maybe I misread the screenshot. It’s been a while since I’ve used PayPal.