Active Rain is an extremely successful social network. That's probably why most of us are involved. However, there is a sinister side to being this popular and visible. We form a ready-made calling and email list for all of the spammers, scammers, and phishers of the world.
I know of a few solicitations that have come through Active Rain with no way to trace them, I receive others very frequently that are untraceable. The favorite approach is the one, usually from some place in Africa, where I have been contacted because I have the same last name as their client (sometimes it is divulged, other times not - it's easier to send this same spam/scam - "spcam" [pronounced "spackum"] - to thousands if it is kept generic). The tip-off is their address. It always includes "MISS" or "Miss" or "Mr." or "MR." or something along these lines. Nobody that understands email ever uses that type of address when referring to themselves.
Notice also that it frequently is in all CAPS - not done in polite company - but that's part of the spcam as well. We're supposed to think that they are desparate and that this plea is urgent. Notice all of the misspellings and incorrect grammar - also a ploy.
Yesterday, I got a phone solicitation because he supposedly had noticed my profile on Active Rain and wanted to get me involved in some MLM or something along those lines. I didn't give him a chance, and I didn't hang up. I just gave him an answer to his lead-in question that wasn't on his script and he had to hang up.
It's frustrating, and slightly time consuming, but for now we'll have to endure a little bad to get the good from Active Rain. Be vigilant.
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For more information on my coaching services or sales tips visit my website stevehoffacker.com or my blog homesalesinsights.com.
