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The Ups and Downs of Being a Twitter Fraudster

Posted by samzenpus on from the one-of-these-things-is-not-like-the-other dept.

Barence writes "PC Pro has a feature examining the psychology and motivation of people who create fake or parody Twitter accounts. The feature reveals how people behind some of the most popular parodies — such as @MrsStephenFry — have gone on to earn commercial success, while others are altogether more sinister. The man behind @Lord_Credo managed to convince many that he was a personal adviser to British Prime Minister, David Cameron, and wormed his way into political circles. He allegedly conned some out of money, took advantage of the hospitality of others, and left the professional reputation of at least one 'in tatters.' He even fabricated a malignant brain tumor, leaving one young member of the group 'utterly distraught.'"

5 of 101 comments (clear)

  1. Fraudsters? by Talence · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Uhm, it doesn't seem very fair to lump actual fraudsters in the same group as relatively innocent parodists. Once you start making people part with their money, it's a completely different situation.

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    I plan to plan / Dutch course in The Hague
    1. Re:Fraudsters? by Ihmhi · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Mind you, it's very much possible to be a parodist and make someone part with their money (such as by buying your wonderful book on a certain noodly heavenly father). It's really a matter of whether or not you do it ethically.

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      Random Thoughts From A Diseased Mind (Not For Dummies)
    2. Re:Fraudsters? by Pf0tzenpfritz · · Score: 3, Insightful

      Fuck 'em if they can't take a joke.
      Church Of SubGenius

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      Oh, the beautiful gloss of greality!
  2. Re:Its disgusting by Nidi62 · · Score: 1, Insightful

    Why can't they behave like us on slashdot, where everyone is exactly who they say they are?

    Would have been a lot funnier if you had posted this AC

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    The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for it to be pitted against a slightly greater evil
  3. Re:Its disgusting by PPH · · Score: 1, Insightful

    You forgot to check the AC box.

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    Have gnu, will travel.