As a website development company, we often receive inquiries from potential clients looking to build websites for their businesses. However, not all inquiries are legitimate—some are cleverly crafted scams. In this blog post, we will share a recent experience with a scam attempt and how you can identify and avoid such fraudulent schemes.

The Initial Contact

On January 6, 2025, we received a message from an individual named Gloria Anderson via our website contact form. The message stated that she needed help creating a website for her company. The provided details were as follows:

The Red Flags Begin

After responding with our standard inquiry email, asking for more details about the project, we received the following response:

  • She claimed to have recently opened an Irish restaurant in San Antonio, Texas.

  • She provided a reference website (https://www.longstoryirishpub.com/) and wanted something similar but “more perfect.”

  • She insisted on receiving a price estimate, including hosting.

  • She mentioned a “private project consultant” who would provide content, logos, and images.

  • She emphasized having a “SUPER FLEXIBLE” budget.

  • She requested a shopping cart in the reservation page.

  • The domain name she preferred was GREVITHIRISHRESTAURANT.NET.

  • The deadline for completion was early March.

At first glance, this seemed like a legitimate inquiry, so we prepared a quotation and sent it back. However, the next email raised major red flags.

The Payment Scam Attempt

After reviewing our quotation, “Gloria Anderson” responded with an email that included:

  • Confirmation to proceed with the project.

  • A request for payment details to send a deposit via check.

  • The insistence that payment could only be made via a mailed check to a U.S.-based entity or individual.

  • A claim that she was currently in Asia and could not take phone calls.

  • A statement that her consultant would provide content after a payment agreement.

  • A willingness to pay 90% or even 100% upfront.

Confirming the Scam

At this point, we became suspicious and conducted a quick online search of the email address gloriaanderson002@outlook.com. Multiple website development companies had already flagged this email as a scam attempt. The scam follows a common pattern:

  1. Fake Inquiry – The scammer pretends to be a business owner needing a website.

  2. Too Good to Be True Offer – They claim to have a flexible budget and agree to all terms without negotiation.

  3. Suspicious Payment Request – Instead of paying via standard online methods, they insist on mailing a check.

  4. Overpayment Scam – If a check is received, it’s often fake or fraudulent. The scammer may later request a refund or redirect funds elsewhere.

  5. No Real Business – The so-called business does not exist, and the provided reference website is unrelated to them.

How to Protect Yourself

  1. Verify the Client’s Identity – Search their email and phone number online. Scammers often use the same details repeatedly.

  2. Check for Red Flags – Unusual payment methods, lack of direct communication, and unrealistic offers are common warning signs.

  3. Insist on Secure Payment Methods – Only accept payments through verified online gateways (PayPal, Stripe, bank transfers, etc.).

  4. Never Share Personal or Banking Information – Scammers aim to collect sensitive details to commit fraud.

  5. Trust Your Instincts – If something feels off, investigate further before proceeding.

Final Thoughts

Scammers are getting more sophisticated, but by staying vigilant and following best practices, you can protect your business from fraud. If you ever receive similar inquiries, take the time to verify the authenticity of the request before investing your time and resources.

Have you encountered similar scams? Share your experience in the comments below to help others stay informed!