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Web Scam Bilks State of Utah Out of $2.5M
KitB sends in a story in the Salt Lake Tribune that tells of a Web-based scam, resembling some used by Nigerian gangs, that snared the state of Utah. $2.5M was sent to a bank account in Texas before the bank raised a question and then froze $1.8M in the account. "Thieves apparently used a Nigerian-based scam to steal $2.5 million from the Utah treasury, covering their tracks by using intermediaries and a church address. A Salt Lake Tribune review of the names listed in a search warrant as receiving or transferring money [found] names of African origin or connections to that continent. Michael Kessler, ... a forensic accounting [investigator] in New York City, said the thieves appear to have used a simple scam that originated in Nigeria about five years ago. The Utah theft is the first time he's seen a government victimized. 'Their IT people should have known better,' Kessler said after reviewing a copy of the search warrant Thursday. 'It sounds like any kid could have done this.'"
I didn't read TFA (of course), so I find it really hard to believe anyone of any kind of intelligence and access to state funds could've fallen for a 419.
It was probably either 1) More elaborate than a simple 419, or 2) if they did fall for it, I'd say odds are that it's an inside job.
I mean, really, people can't be THAT stupid, can they?
If you can read this... 01110101 01110010 00100000 01100001 00100000 01100111 01100101 01100101 01101011
Haha haha haha haha haha haha haha haha ho-hum
Sorry couldn't resist.
Is there a part in this bail-out plan for bailing out dumbass states?
I say don't drink and drive, you might spill your drink. Before you get behind the wheel just stop and think.