Scam Goddess Podcast Episode Summary Episode: Fraud Friday: The 90 Day Fake Fiancé w/ Clark Moore
Release Date: May 9, 2025
Hosts: Laci Mosley (Scam Goddess) & Clark Moore

Introduction

In this episode of Scam Goddess, host Laci Mosley, affectionately known as the Scam Goddess, is joined by special guest Clark Moore. Together, they delve into the intricacies of modern fraud schemes, sharing personal experiences and dissecting listener-submitted cases to shed light on the deceptive tactics employed by scammers today.

Personal Anecdotes and Insights

Laci and Clark kick off the discussion by sharing their own encounters with scams, emphasizing the importance of skepticism and vigilance. Laci humorously recounts her ordeal of being locked out of her new place, highlighting how even everyday frustrations can intersect with fraud risks.

Notable Quote:

• Laci Mosley at [02:30]: "Thanks for being here. You have such good energy."

Listener Case Study: The Fake Fiancé Scam

The core of this episode revolves around a detailed listener-submitted story involving a sophisticated fake fiancé scam orchestrated by individuals masquerading under multiple aliases.

The Scam Unveiled

A listener named Baxter reaches out to share his harrowing experience with a scammer posing as Johnny Strauss, also known as Ringwalk John and Jonathan Lear. This scam targeted Baxter’s former friend, James, who fell victim to a multi-layered deception spanning over five years.

Notable Quotes:

• Clark Moore at [03:24]: "I was just thinking about this the other day. I'm very gullible. I just sort of, like, believe anything you tell me."
• Laci Mosley at [10:49]: "Baxter says, 'I'm a new member of the congregation. Oh, welcome. Amen.'"

Steps of the Scam

1. Initial Contact and Trust Building: James, a charity worker from the UK, met Irina through a translator named Julia. They began dating despite a significant age gap, encouraged by Julia’s constant involvement.

2. Financial Manipulation: James transferred substantial funds ($200,000) for apartment purchases and wedding expenses, which were deceitfully inflated or misallocated. Laci humorously critiques the authenticity of the expensive apartment purchase.

   Notable Quote:

   • Laci Mosley at [47:14]: "Christina's hair is so damn big. Cuz it's full of secrets and lies."

3. Emotional Manipulation and Isolation: Irina and Christina, accomplices in the scam, manipulated James emotionally, leading him to believe in a genuine future together while funneling his money into fraudulent schemes.

   Notable Quote:

   • Laci Mosley at [57:04]: "James had been scammed for over $250,000. And it wasn't until one of his homeboys from the Ukraine was like, bro, they're running a scam."

4. Failed Recovery Attempts: James’s attempts to reclaim his money were thwarted by systemic corruption in Odessa police, leaving him with ownership of a devalued apartment and significant financial loss.

   Notable Quote:

   • Clark Moore at [56:19]: " If anyone tells you that they're going to give you money, but all you got to do is pay the taxes and fees, like, immediately. You should remember the Nigerian police."

Analysis and Lessons Learned

Laci and Clark dissect the scam, highlighting red flags such as inconsistent narratives, inflated expenses, and the use of multiple aliases. They emphasize the psychological tactics scammers use to exploit victims' emotions and desperation.

Notable Quotes:

• Clark Moore at [04:02]: "I was very easily scammable in a way."
• Laci Mosley at [15:10]: "You never say it's because my friend got in a car accident. You always have to come up with something that's benign."

Scammer of the Week: Mackenzie Scott Impersonation

Transitioning to their regular segment, Laci and Clark discuss a recent scam where fraudsters impersonated Mackenzie Scott, Jeff Bezos’s ex-wife. These scammers sent out fraudulent emails to charities, leveraging the real Mackenzie Scott's reputation to deceive vulnerable individuals into parting with their money.

Notable Quotes:

• Laci Mosley at [60:23]: "People are just believing them. Cause, like, why not?"
• Clark Moore at [61:07]: "Mackenzie Scott's team sent out hundreds of emails out of the blue to charities, notifying them of her large contribution."

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, Laci and Clark reiterate the importance of due diligence and skepticism in interactions that involve financial transactions or emotionally charged commitments. They encourage listeners to stay informed and cautious, emphasizing that awareness is the first step in preventing fraud.

Notable Quote:

• Laci Mosley at [70:24]: "Congregation, stay scamming. Scam Goddess."

Key Takeaways

• Vigilance is Crucial: Always verify the authenticity of individuals and organizations before engaging in financial transactions.
• Recognize Red Flags: Inconsistent stories, inflated expenses, and pressure to act quickly are common signs of fraudulent schemes.
• Understand Psychological Tactics: Scammers often exploit emotions and desperation to manipulate victims into compliance.
• Seek Support: If you suspect a scam, reach out to trusted friends or professionals rather than handling it alone.

Stay tuned for more insightful and humorous discussions on fraud and scams with the Scam Goddess. Remember, as Laci always says, "Stay schemin'!"