The web development industry is a lucrative field, attracting both genuine clients and scammers. Recently, I encountered a well-orchestrated scam attempt that I’d like to share to help fellow developers and businesses stay alert.
The Initial Contact
On January 6, 2025, at 09:30 AM, I received an inquiry from Gloria Anderson (Email: gloriaanderson002@outlook.com, Phone: 732-567-0366). The message appeared to be from a potential client needing a website for their business:
“I need your help in creating a website for our company.”
As a web development professional, I responded professionally, inquiring about their requirements, features, and expectations.
The Red Flags Start Appearing
Shortly after, “Gloria Anderson” responded with detailed requirements for an Irish restaurant website in San Antonio, Texas. They referenced an existing website, https://www.longstoryirishpub.com/, and asked for a better version. Some key aspects of their request:
A shopping cart on the reservation page
Website ready by early March
Domain preference: GREVITHIRISHRESTAURANT.NET
Super flexible budget
Required quarterly or yearly updates
They requested an estimate including hosting, which I provided.
The Payment Trap
After receiving the quote, “Gloria Anderson” quickly replied with approval to proceed. However, instead of using standard payment methods like online transfers or credit cards, they insisted on mailing a check to a US-based contact:
“Please give me your payment information so that I can issue your deposit payment in the form of a check payment mailed and addressed to your US-based individual/company/entity.”
They requested:
Full name on the check
US mailing address
Direct cell phone number
90% deposit amount (or full payment)
Another major red flag: they claimed to be traveling in Asia and unavailable for calls.
Confirming the Scam
Suspicious, I searched for “Gloria Anderson’s” email online and found multiple scam reports from web development companies warning about this exact fraudulent pattern:
How This Scam Works
This scam typically follows these steps:
Fake inquiry: The scammer pretends to be a business owner needing a website.
Too-good-to-be-true budget: They claim to have a flexible or high budget.
Fake payment method: Instead of a legitimate transaction, they offer a mailed check.
Overpayment Scam: If you deposit the check, it will bounce after a few days, but by then, they might have tricked you into refunding the “excess” amount.
How to Protect Yourself from Web Design Scams
Verify the client’s identity – Search their email, phone number, and business details online.
Use secure payment methods – Avoid mailed checks; insist on online payments via trusted platforms.
Look for red flags – Vague details, urgent deadlines, unusual payment requests.
Speak directly – Scammers avoid phone or video calls.
Check online scam reports – If in doubt, search their details and see if others have reported similar scams.
Final Thoughts
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, but by staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. If you receive a similar inquiry, do not proceed and report the scam to protect others.
Have you encountered a similar scam? Share your experience in the comments below to raise awareness!
