SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/trav-scam-stranger

State warns: never send money to someone abroad if you have...

Never wire money to someone you have not met in person.

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  1. Not met them in person ✔
  2. Met them at a hotel
  3. Spoken to them once

Why: State says never send money to someone abroad you have not met in person, especially if you met them online. Do not share personal details over phone or online.

Huh, didn't know that: State also warns of shell and cup games in tourist spots, where tourists often lose hundreds of dollars.

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I never send money to strangers abroad. My wallet has trust issues!
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References

Answer: Not met them in person. State says never send money to someone abroad you have not met in person, especially if you met them online. Do not share personal details over phone or online.

  1. State Dept: International Financial Scams travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/emergencies/international-financial-scams.html
    Never send money to someone abroad if you have not met them in person
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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