Was I going to be scammed, kidnapped or robbed in the US? [closed]

Was I going to be scammed, kidnapped or robbed in the US? [closed] - Blue and Red Labeled Book

I’m living in Cambridge, Massachusetts. One night a man approached me on my way out of a restaurant in Inman Square. It was around 9:30 pm of a weekday, the streets were starting to get lonely but weren’t deserted, and I was alone. In case this is relevant: I’m a male (burglars and scammers target males and females differently) and a foreigner who speaks with some accent. This man tried to engage in conversation with me, asking if the pizza place I’ve just left was any good. I was caught off guard and answered his entry question and he proceeded to tell me about his friends, his family and stuff people you just met wouldn’t be interested in. Then, I realized the man seemed nervous and fidgeted with his hands. At that moment I sensed something sketchy was happening and started walking, seeking shelter in an open store. No matter I was walking at a fast pace, he followed me by my side. Meanwhile, I keep the conversation going with plain yeses, noes and other evasive answers. I assumed he may have gotten angry if I stopped replying, but wanted to make clear I wasn’t interested in talking.

I was unlucky and couldn’t find any place to hide, so I had to walk with him for more than two streets. Finally, he said “Hey! That’s my car. Do you need a ride?” I politely said “No, thanks anyway” and kept walking (No way I was getting into his car). He got into his car and drove away and I was left like “What the F* just happened?”. I checked my pockets, luckily everything was in there, and made the rest of my way home unscratched. So, my question is, was I going to be subject of crime? Is this any sort of scam scheme, or am simply being paranoid about friendly Americans in the street?



Best Answer

I doubt anyone can really answer this question to be honest, and I doubt answering it can help you in any way. More valuable seems to be a way to get out of the situation next time. I don't have a great answer to that question but I would like to share an experience I had myself.

A couple of week ago me and my partner were eating in a restaurant and shortly after paying a man started talking to us. He was making comments about the food prices, food and weather and was clearly trying to stall us. I felt a little uncomfortable and urged my partner to leave. At that moment, the man started to tell about how his wife had passed away a couple of months ago and that he now had to do these kinds of things alone as he didn't have many friends.

Turns out the guy was just extremely lonely and sad, had a couple of beers and wanted someone to talk to.

So yes, it could have been a robber or scammer. But it could also just been a little bit of an awkward individual. Maybe a drug addict or a drunk guy, who knows. In any case, I would suggest going back to the restaurant if you don't find a way out. Call for a cab or explain the situation to a staff member and wait it out for a little bit.




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How many people get scammed in USA?

Almost 2.8 million consumers filed a fraud report to the agency in 2021 \u2014 the highest number on record dating back to 2001, according to the FTC. About 25% of those scams led to a financial loss, with the typical person losing $500.

How can you identify a scammer?

Four Signs That It's a Scam
  • Scammers PRETEND to be from an organization you know. Scammers often pretend to be contacting you on behalf of the government. ...
  • Scammers say there's a PROBLEM or a PRIZE. ...
  • Scammers PRESSURE you to act immediately. ...
  • Scammers tell you to PAY in a specific way.


  • How can I recover money from a scammer in USA?

    Contact your bank and report the fraudulent transfer. Ask if they can reverse the wire transfer and give you your money back. Did you send money through a money transfer app? Report the fraudulent transaction to the company behind the money transfer app and ask if they can reverse the payment.

    What happens if you get caught scamming?

    The maximum possible sentence is 20 years in prison. You could also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim or victims of the scam. This could amount to thousands or even millions of dollars. You could also be fined up to $250,000.



    Almost Kidnapped By Tuk-Tuk Driver! 🇪🇬




    Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

    Images: Suzy Hazelwood, Diego Rodriguez, Kerde Severin, PhotoMIX Company