A kind friend from an online prayer group asks for money

You met Emeka in a Facebook prayer group three months ago. He messages you every day. You have never met in person.

Brother Emeka online

Sister, God bless you for praying with me all these weeks. You are a true friend.

9:00 pm

Please I have a problem. My business account is frozen. I need ₦150,000 to unfreeze it. I will return it double by Friday. Let’s keep this between us.

9:02 pm

What would you do?

Send it. He is a church brother and has been so kind

Not safe. Months of kindness can be part of the plan. Once you send money, the requests usually grow.

Send half, to show you care

Not safe. Any amount tells the scammer you will pay. They will come back with a new problem.

Don’t send anything. Show the messages to your pastor or a family member

Safe choice. Correct. Asking you to keep it secret is a warning sign. Someone you trust can help you see it clearly.

Remember this

Learn more: Strangers who become “friends” online Next scenario