It definitely looks and seems real you open a plain white envelope and see a REAL check for over four thousand dollars. And it just gets better when you read the letter saying that somehow you've won a Government Grant" for thirty eight thousand. It isn't very clear HOW you've been so lucky--something about stores you may have frequented and forms you may have filled out---but there it is all you have to do is call the number and cash the check.

Later, after you've called a few times and weren't even able to leave a message you begin to feel a bit nervous. But finally you get to speak to a "real" human being. Unfortunately he speaks in such a thick accent that it's hard to understand him but don't interrupt him with any questions 'cause he gets angry and senses your lack of gratitude. When you finally get him again on the third try he talks to you like you're a moron as he tells you how to get the rest of your $38, 000:

1. After you deposit the check---immediately after, he says----buy a moneygram, use the RED FORM, that actually will be CASH for $2900.
2. send it to a gal in Brooklyn whereupon your grant will be delivered to you in a matter of days.
3.If you fail to get the cash to them you will be prosecuted by the FTC.. He re-emphasizes that you are LIABLE for that money in his best broken English!!! and with that threat Eric hangs up.

My guess is that once they hurriedly get their cash the check somehow falters. The elderly and others may be suckered in by what looks authentic and there would be no way to retrieve their cash.