And not in a good way . . .
Yesterday, I received a call from 'Fed Ex'.
I put in the quotes because it really wasn't them.
Although it took a moment or two to realize it.
First, a little background . . .
A few months ago, Husby and I were floating about in the Caribbean in a tall ship.
The very best of all the world has to offer.
I accept no other opinions.
Ahem . . .
Two people on board that sailing were noted for their outstanding good sense, good humour, and outright willingness to make our trip the best ever.
Just FYI? They succeeded.
In an effort to try to repay just a little of what they had given us, we asked if we could send to their children (far, far away at home) a couple of my Christmas books.
Our offer was graciously received and addresses duly exchanged.
Move forward a couple of months . . .
I sent off my two little packages of books via my son, who works for Fed-Ex.
The real Fed-Ex.
All was well.
Yesterday, I received a phone call from someone claiming to be from that popular shipping company.
The conversation went something like this:
Her: "Hello, Mez Tolley. I am phoning to tell you that your package sent to xxxxxxxxx was deliverable because the recipient could not afford to pay the import tax and duties."
Me: "Whaaat? Why were there duties? It was a gift."
Her: "I don't know why there were duties."
Me: "How much is the bill?"
Her: "We need the amount of $560.00 East Caribbean Dollars."
Me: "For $15.00 worth of books?! That were a gift in the first place?! That's nuts!"
Her: "So how would you like to make the payment."
Me: "I wouldn't. Just send them back. This is stupid!"
Her: "I'll have someone call you tomorrow to see if we can clear this up."
Me: "Do that."
I'm still waiting for my call . . .
The book tour for my newest book, A House Divided, starts today!
Here is a link to the first reviewer, Minette of Southern Belle Charm.
Thanks so much, Minette!
I'll love you forever!
Southern Belle Charm
This is sure changing, isn't it? Last summer I got a call from someone claiming they were from the tax department and that there was a warrant out for my arrest. For a very brief moment I thought that these guys were the real article but in no time at all I knew it was a scam. But I decided to play it out. Hmmmm, sounds like a story I should put in my own blog...
ReplyDeleteDo it! I got a call a couple of days ago that I needed to call the tax department right away. Or charges would be laid. The call ended with, "If you don't make the call, we wish you good luck." In total stentorian tones. I kept the recording. It was hilarious!
DeleteThe immorality of preying on honest and vulnerable folks is a pet peeve of mine.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you knew it was a scam!
Sigh. And hiss and spit.
ReplyDeletePS: I always ask those callers to put it in writing. Strangely enough I am yet to receive a letter.
DeleteSo ridiculous the scams people try and pull.
ReplyDeleteHave fun on your book tour! Weekends In Maine
The devils.
ReplyDelete$560 East Caribbean dollars?? Those fakers always go for excess. I wonder how many people have been fooled? I hope none.
ReplyDeleteMy husband is still laughing over "East Caribbean dollars". I wonder what the exchange rate is on these. But seriously, one of my co workers received the "your grandson has been arrested because he caused an accident call" and it was so realistically done - it's scary how realistic they can make these calls.
ReplyDelete