Scammers never take a holiday – in fact, they often use them to lure victims with fake “bonus” promises. A new scam email making the rounds, titled “The Breaking News Easter Bonus,” is a perfect example of this.
Let’s break it down so you can recognize it, report it, and help others stay safe.
📩 The Scam Email Details
- From: Mrs. Jean Austin
- Subject: The Breaking News Easter bonus
- Alleged Authority: Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), US Department of the Treasury
- Claim: You are owed a $950,000 bonus for past efforts, payable via Western Union
- Condition: Send a $20 Apple or Steam gift card to receive the money
- Contact Email:
[email protected](a clear red flag)
🚩 Why This Is 100% a Scam
Let’s look at the red flags:
- Fake Authority Use
Scammers love name-dropping real government agencies like FinCEN to appear legitimate. But no official department will ever contact you via random email promising cash windfalls — especially from a Gmail address. - Too Good to Be True
A surprise $950,000 payout “as a bonus for your past wasted effort”? No explanation, no paperwork, just a massive sum out of the blue? That’s a textbook scam tactic. - Gift Card Payment Request
No government agency in the world accepts or demands gift cards (Apple, Steam, etc.) for fees or permits. This is a common scam move — they’re untraceable and easy for scammers to resell. - Pressure Tactics
The message creates urgency by claiming the transfer will start today — but only if you act quickly and send a gift card. This rush tactic is meant to stop you from thinking things through.
💬 Sample Text from the Scam
“Your $2000 will be sent today once we confirm a $20 Apple Gift Card or Steam Wallet Gift Card from you today.”
This is a classic trick. The scammer tries to make it sound like a small investment for a big return. But once you send the gift card, you’ll either get ghosted or receive more demands for “processing fees.”
🛡️ What To Do If You Receive This Email
- Do not reply.
- Do not send gift cards or personal information.
- Report it to:
- ReportFraud.ftc.gov (USA)
- Action Fraud (UK)
- Your country’s cybercrime division if elsewhere
- Mark it as spam or phishing in your email service.
🧠 Stay Smart, Stay Skeptical
Scammers prey on hope, trust, and a sense of urgency. Always be cautious of unsolicited messages offering large sums of money — especially if they ask for something in return.
If in doubt, ask yourself: Would a real government agency contact me this way?
Spoiler alert: No. They wouldn’t.
Have you seen this scam or a variation of it? Share your experience in the comments and help others stay safe!