Thank you for sharing your story! Scammers will stop at nothing and people are very gullible when it comes to situations like this. They assume your guard is down by making a human error, compelling you to do the “right” thing and give them it back. Manipulation tactics.

Very good points you raise. I have similar thoughts. I could always ask my attorney if the issue persists. They have been blocked and I plan on simply holding that in my Venmo for it a bit.

I know a lot of organizations in the PGH area that could use these funds. I don’t need them, but there are people who could benefit from these stupid scammers.

Short story: my grandpa was on his way to “pick me up from jail” using gift cards he bought from Walmart. Someone called him, impersonating me, and had him buy gift cards to get me out of jail. (I was at work then I got the call from uncle asking if I was locked up). Luckily my uncle was able to stop my Popop from losing hundred of dollars. Scammers suck.

I’m not 100% certain how it works. When sending friends money, I sometimes have to add their last 4 of their phone number. Be it, my phone number is only because of my business so that could be bypassed.

Maybe since it’s a “public” be “private” send that can make the difference.

I’ve been on Reddit long enough to acknowledge red flags. This is huge. Especially the initial request from them for ME to send THEM money. Followed by them sending me money and immediately wanting it back.

Thank you for your help

Thank you. Blocked.

Thanks for the heads up. Appreciate you all who are commenting

I’m sorry to hear that happen to you. I run a business and the last thing I want is an incident. Appreciate the reassuring comment.

Follow up, what do I do with the money though if I’m not sending it back? Would it fall under a “gift”? Shall I leave it in my account and use it via Venmo. I’m sketched to even transfer it to my bank

I figured something was sketchy. Especially with the initial request to pay them? Then retracted. Thank you

At first, they requested me to pay it, under the same description. Then deleted the request and now venmoed me the money, asking for it back. Sketchy.