Money scams raise thoughts of real woes

By Catherine Hamm, Los Angeles Times

September 21, 2008

I traveled to London for official purposes. Unfortunately, all my money was stolen at the hotel. I don't know what to do or where to go. I didn't bring my phone, and the hotel telephone line was disconnected during the robbery, so I have access only to e-mails. Please, can you send me 1,500 pounds today so I can return home? As soon as I get home I would refund it immediately. I want you to send it through the Western Union outlet.

And I want you to quit sending these ridiculous letters.

I wouldn't send my own mother 1,500 British pounds - at current exchange rates, about $3,000 - and I've known her my whole life. (No offense, Mom.)

This letter, which showed up in travel.latimes.com, was headed for the deleted-items folder faster than you can say "stupid scam" when it became clear this was an opportunity to remind travelers, including myself, of a couple things:

First, don't send money to people you don't know, whether they're named Karin Millilo or Nelson Eronini of Eco Bank Nigeria, who tells me a long-lost relative left me $7.5 million. I know this letter is a fake because I have no relative who has ever had 7.5 million of anything.

But second and almost as important: What would you do if your wallet disappeared while you were traveling?

Western Union recently conducted a poll on that topic (the company swears it didn't put out the Millilo letter just to juice its poll), and its results were sort of alarming: Eleven percent said they had no idea what they would do. Nope, none. They wouldn't get a cash advance on their credit card, wouldn't ask someone to wire them the money (naturally, Western Union would like you to think about this option), wouldn't ask a friend or relative to have some money express-delivered, wouldn't borrow money from fellow travelers.

These folks probably shouldn't be out traveling. But in case they are, they might want to consider any of those options plus one other: American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, through the State Department. (Go to travel.state.gov.)

This service can help you get in touch with family or friends who can help with money or, if need be, it can float you a small loan to help you regain your footing. You can reach ACS at 888-407-4747 in the United States or, from overseas, at 202-501-4444.

Who knew? You have a rich relative after all. His name is Uncle Sam. And he's there to help. Really.