Scamming

The Federal Trade Commission of the United States: The number one rule of avoiding crowdfunding (GoFundMe for example) scams: “research the creator’s (ex: Brian Kolfage) background and reviews beforehand.”…”Has the creator engaged in previous campaigns? How did these campaigns turn out?”-consumer.ftc.gov. 5/6/19.

Lying is at the heart of every scam. “Often gut instincts lets us know when something is untrue.”…”sometimes they’ll change their answers, give vague replies or totally sidestep the issue.”….Such as when Brian Kolfage will automatically block you, unless the question is: “Where do I donate?”….Scammers become exasperated, sarcastic, or even aggressive if you challenge their statements or claims.”…”The use of downright lies passed off as genuine stories.”-scambusters.org.

“One of the most universal components of any scam is that the results are “guaranteed, or your money back.”-moneytalknews.com. 4/11/18. …As you recall, Brian Kolfage originally stated: “If the $1 Billion goal isn’t reached, everyone will be refunded every penny.”-GoFundMe/WeBuildTheWall/ Original claim.

“Avoiding being scammed is simple, but not easy. It’s simple because simple logic reveals most scams. But it’s not easy, because humans are programmed to trust people and to hope for the best.”-moneytalknews.com. 4/11/18.

Investopedia, 6/25/19: Rule #1 : “Listen to your suspicions.” Professional con artists are very good at what they do…many people get sucked in. “Whatever you do, don’t put any more money into something you’ve come to regard with suspicion. Remember, these guys are masters of persuasion.”

Rule #5 : “Don’t blame yourself.” Even though you missed red flags, you aren’t the first and won’t be the last. “It’s truly difficult in the moment to know that you’re being scammed, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember: You aren’t the criminal. The criminal is the criminal. / Done