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Obituary Scams: Exploiting Grief for Fraudulent Gain

Scammers like obituaries since very detailed information can be listed, thus allowing them to use it for ill purposes. For example, one can use the deceased’s identity to participate in frauds such as getting loans. It can also provide contacts that the fraudsters can use to send phishing messages. Additionally, fake condolences can be offered to build trust and take advantage of the grieving persons. Also, the information provided in the obituaries can help give information about the deceased assets or line of work and use it to scam unsuspecting friends or relatives.

According to the identified obituary, the deceased, Robert Ernest Cockram, worked at Georgian Peaks Ski Club, and the period he taught at the organization, 25 years, means that the likelihood that most frequent visitors and fellow employees knew him is high (Dignity Memorial, 2019). Therefore, an employee or a person affiliated with the organization can easily be a potential scam victim. Thus, the chosen target is James McCrimmon, and identifying him was made possible through the Georgian Peaks Club Facebook page. The victim’s page shows that he is widowed, and going through his page indicates that the wife was also struggling with cancer (McCrimmon, n.d.). Therefore, an emotional connection with him is possible since Robert died from cancer. The target lives in Ontario, Canada, and has posted an advert about Georgian Peaks Club hiring, indicating that he might be in an excellent position to get or have money (McCrimmon, n.d.).

One needs to create a social media profile that one can easily connect with or enable potential victims to open up. Therefore, it is essential to consider the target’s circumstances and affiliations when making up a social media platform. First, the chosen social media platform is necessary; since he is active on Facebook, it is the preferred account.

Dating profile construction

Opting for Identity: The persona identified is Jennifer Cockram, spouse to the departed (Dignity Memorial, 2019).

Choosing the Right Profile Image: Find a cheerful snapshot of Jennifer Cockram, who has passed away, from the specified obituary website that portrays a joyful instant and reflects an authentic bond with her.

Constructing the Backdrop: The background profile should encompass specifics concerning the day Jennifer transitioned into widowhood. Embed photographs showcasing her departed spouse skiing and executing his duties at Georgian Peaks Club and documentation of his battle against cancer. Visuals are sourced from obituaries for veracity purposes.

Embedding Individual Details: Incorporate data that resonates with the recipient, like mutual enthusiasm for skiing and association under Georgian Peaks Club. Ensure Jennifer’s link to the departed is illuminated in her profile.

Initiating a Friend Connection: When the profile is set, dispatch an invitation to be friends with the recipient. Ensure your profile resonates authentically, mirroring Jennifer’s hobbies and associations.

Forming Connections: Establish a dialogue to create a friendly bond upon the target accepting the friend invitation. Become part of conversations about their shared interests, emphasizing skiing and activities at the Georgian Peaks Club.

Designing a Leeway: One needs an impactful and emotive approach to solicit funds from the intended recipient, and creating an insincere charity event could be the way by constructing a fake platform to provide skiing lessons for toddlers aged five or under, taking inspiration from Robert’s efforts at Georgian Peaks Club and his ongoing struggle against cancer. Highlight that this fundraising endeavor is meant to enhance parents’ knowledge of early cancer detection techniques.

Timeframes and Cut-offs: Highlight the time sensitivity by determining a terminal date for gathering capital for the institution’s inaugural groundwork. This strategy encourages prompt action from intended recipients.

Reason for Absence: To avert an impending meeting, notify the concerned individual that you are presently in Cuba, tending to your nephew, who is also waging war against cancer; this coincides with existing information found within Jennifer’s nephew, Scott’s obituary and Robert’s participation in his Cuban wedding (Dignity Memorial, 2019).

References

Dignity Memorial. (2019). Robert Cockram Obituary. Dignity Memorial. https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/aurora-on/robert-cockram-8855783

McCrimmon, J. (n.d.). James McCrimmon. M.facebook.com. Retrieved October 21, 2023, from https://m.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=669049327&name=xhp_nt_fb_action_open_user

 

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