I nearly got scammed out of $1,700 because I thought my manager was helping me get a promotion.
It happened on a Tuesday afternoon. I was at work when I received a WhatsApp message from my manager.
Manager: “Congratulations. Your promotion has been approved. I’ll send you the details shortly.”
Me: “Thank you, sir. I really appreciate it.”
A few minutes later, he sent another message.
Manager: “Send me your full name, department, staff ID, and other details. HR needs them to prepare your promotion letter.”
I sent the details he requested.
Then he asked for $1,700.
Manager: “You need to pay the promotion processing fee. Once the payment is confirmed, your letter will be released.”
Me: “Sir, why do I have to pay $1,700 for a promotion?”
Manager: “It's an administrative requirement. The company will reimburse you after your promotion takes effect.”
I wasn't comfortable with the request, but I had been waiting for this promotion for a long time.
Manager: “Please make the payment today. I don't want you to miss this opportunity.”
I started thinking about where to borrow the money. Before doing anything, I decided to call him.
He answered.
Me: “Good afternoon, sir. I received your message about the promotion fee.”
Manager: “What promotion fee?”
Me: “The $1,700 you asked me to pay.”
Manager: “I haven't asked you to pay anything. What are you talking about?”
I explained everything to him.
Manager: “My WhatsApp account has been hacked. Don't send any money to anybody. I haven't sent those messages.”
I couldn't believe what I was hearing.
Someone had hacked my manager's WhatsApp account, collected my personal details, and was trying to take $1,700 from me.
I contacted HR, and they confirmed that promotion processing was free.
I reported the account and blocked it.
I nearly borrowed $1,700 to pay someone who was pretending to be my manager.