Geeks Undercover

Debit Card Gratis (selain payooner) buat Verifikasi Paypal

2010-01-21T10:01:00.001-08:00

Temporary OFF for Order till Next Month !!!

Ini ada lagi untuk mendapatkan kartu debit Master Card gratis untuk veryfied atau verifikasi paypal Selain dari kartu debit Master Card Payoneer, namanya LimitlessONE™ Access Rewards Card. LimitlessONE™ Banyak manfaatnya salah satu nya ada rewards program , program ini bukan program MLM melainkan suatu program community building , semakin banyak komunitas yang kita bentuk melalui program refferalnya maka semakin banyak juga rewards yang akan kita dapatkan , rewards ini akan di depositkan ke debit card kita sebulan sekali.

Berikut langkah-langkah cara mendapatkan kartu debit/credit Master Card gratis LimitlessONE :

Klik link ini : LimitlessONE

Lalu pilih affiliate> sign up

Pilih wilayah negara anda terus klik Proceed With Sign Up.

Setelah Form Pendaftaran muncul, Isi No ID 7870015045 pada kolomnya.
(Catatan : No ID harus wajib diisi supaya bisa Sign Up)

Isi data diri anda sesuai dengan KTP atau SIM.
Untuk pengisian data diri anda harus sesuai dengan data yang ada pada KTP maupun SIM secara jelas, supaya nanti kartu debit Master Card LimitlessONE di kirim tidak kesasar / tercecer.

Setelah anda selesai melakukan semua petunjuk diatas, kira-kira 3 minggu (perjalanan dari Inggris ke Indonesia dengan pos) kartu debit anda sudah sampai di rumah anda, setelah kartu debit sudah sampai kepada anda.

segeralah lakukan aktivasi, didalam surat juga diikutsertakan petunjuk, ikutilah petunjuk yg ada didalam surat tersebut untuk melakukan aktivasi.
Jika anda telah mengikuti langkah-langkah diatas dengan benar, maka anda telah berhasil dan saya ucapkan “Selamat anda telah berhasil mendapatkan debit card atau kartu debit dari LimitlessONE™”.

Latest Information - Internet Scams - Email Hoaxes - True Stories

2009-12-27T18:00:00.003-08:00

Latest Information - Internet Scams - Email Hoaxes - True Stories

UK National Welfare Christmas Lottery Scam

Email claims that the recipient has won the UK National Welfare Christmas Lottery and should contact a specified agent in order to claim a large cash prize.

Published: 27th December 2009

About Hoax-Slayer

2009-12-27T18:00:00.002-08:00

About Hoax-Slayer

Mission Statement:

The goal of the Hoax-Slayer Website is to help make the Internet a safer, more pleasant and more productive environment by:

©iStockphoto.com/Yanik Chauvin

Debunking email and Internet hoaxes
Thwarting Internet scammers
Combating spam
Educating web users about email and Internet security issues.

About Brett Christensen:

Unless specifically noted, all articles on the Hoax-Slayer website are written by, me, Brett Christensen. Hoax-Slayer is a one person operation that I run from my home office. No staff are employed to help with the website, although I enjoy the ongoing support and encouragement of my family.

I live in Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia with my wife, my two sons and my stepdaughter and stepson. Bundaberg is a small city a few hours drive north of Brisbane and is famous for its rum, ginger beer and sugar cane.

I have now been researching and writing about hoaxes and scams for more than six years. All articles published on Hoax-Slayer are thoroughly researched prior to publication. My findings are based on information available via a variety of credible sources including other reputable websites, news articles, press releases, government or company publications and consumer alerts. If required, I also contact companies, government departments or other relevant entities directly to enquiry about the veracity of a particular message. Most articles include in-text hyperlinks and/or a separate reference list that allow readers to check the information for themselves.

Computing is an important part of my life and I spend a lot of time using computers and the Internet. Through my study, personal and business interests, I have gained a high level of general computing knowledge. Computing is a dynamic and challenging field, and I continue to update my skills and learn more virtually every day.

The Hoax-Slayer website is very important to me and I have put a great deal of time and effort into making it a worthwhile Internet resource.

About Hoax-Slayer's Mission:

Email hoaxes spread misinformation, waste bandwidth, and lessen the effectiveness of email as a communication medium. Hoaxes also circulate via social networking websites, blogs and online forums. Hoax-Slayer helps stop the continued circulation of these hoaxes by publishing information about them. Hoax-Slayer allows Internet users to check the veracity of a large number of common hoaxes. Information about new hoaxes is added on a regular basis.

Around the world, Internet scammers steal millions of dollars per year from unsuspecting Internet users. These criminal activities are successful largely because many Internet users are not aware of the ways in which scammers operate and may not recognize scam attempts if they are targeted. Hoax-Slayer aims to counteract these criminal activities by publishing information about common types of Internet scams and providing examples of scam messages.

Spam is the scourge of the Internet. Hoax-Slayer combats the problem by providing information that can help Internet users reduce spam.

Many users inadvertently compromise their online privacy and the security of their computer equipment because of poor computer security practices. Hoax-Slayer publishes information that makes users aware of email, Internet and computer security issues and what to do about them.

Hoax-Slayer In the News:

In November 2009, Hoax-Slayer was featured in the Sydney Morning Herald:
Hoax slayer puts the bite on vampires of the cyber world

In December 2009, an article discussing the website was published in the Bundaberg News Mail:
Brett Christensen a 'Hoax Slayer'

I have also given several radio interviews in which I discuss hoaxes and scams and the website.

In December 2009, the Hoax-Slayer website was added to PANDORA, Australia's Web Archive. PANDORA is a project operated by The National Library of Australia. PANDORA identifies and archives online publications considered by the Library to have national significance.

Site History:

Work began on the Hoax-Slayer website in August 2003. Earlier in 2003, I created a Yahoo Email discussion group designed to debunk and expose hoaxes and scams. The idea for the Hoax-Slayer website grew out of this Yahoo group. In March 2004, I decided to close the Yahoo group and concentrate on adding information to the website and publishing the Hoax-Slayer Newsletter.

In June 2005, the Hoax-Slayer News blog was created to help keep visitors and newsletter subscribers informed about Hoax-Slayer happenings. In July 2007, the blog was completely revamped and began to focus on a much wider range of topics. Blog Hoax-Slayer provided ongoing information about potential computer security threats including viruses, spyware, scams and spam as well as other Internet related topics.

July 2005 saw the launch of the Hoax-Slayer Forums. The forums provided a place for Hoax-Slayer subscribers and visitors to freely discuss scams, hoaxes and other subjects.

In early 2009, both the Hoax-Slayer Forums and Blog Hoax-Slayer were retired and replaced by Hoax-Slayer Social, a Ning social network that gives Hoax-Slayer visitors even more opportunities to ask questions, interact and exchange information via integrated forums, blogs and chat facilities.

During 2009, an on-page commenting system has been added to many existing articles. New articles published on the site will also include the commenting system. This system allows readers to offer immediate comments or feedback about information published on the website. I now publish site updates via Twitter and have also created a Facebook page for Hoax-Slayer.

Since its launch, Hoax-Slayer has grown from a single home page to a large site with more than a thousand separate web pages. More articles are added to the website every week. The monthly Hoax-Slayer newsletter now has well over thirty thousand subscribers with more people joining every day.

Contact Details:

If you wish to offer feedback, ask questions or submit examples, please contact me via email.

You could also write to
Brett Christensen
PO Box 2063
Bundaberg QLD 4670
Australia

Business Details:

Hoax-Slayer forms part of a registered business that has the Australian Business Number (ABN) 12 992 424 947.
ABN Lookup

Latest Email Hoaxes - Current Internet Scams - Hoax-Slayer

2009-12-27T18:00:00.001-08:00

Latest Email Hoaxes - Current Internet Scams - Hoax-Slayer

Hoax-Slayer is dedicated to debunking email hoaxes, thwarting Internet scammers, combating spam, and educating web users about email and Internet security issues. Hoax-Slayer allows Internet users to check the veracity of common email hoaxes and aims to counteract criminal activity by publishing information about common types of Internet scams. Hoax-Slayer also includes anti-spam tips, computer and email security information, articles about true email forwards, and much more. New articles are added to the Hoax-Slayer website every week.

Article Categories

True Emails	Virus Email Hoaxes	Giveaway Email Hoaxes	Charity Hoaxes
Bogus Warnings	Email Petitions and Protests	Email Chain Letters	Celebrity Email Hoaxes
Prank Emails	Bad Advice Emails	Funny Email Hoaxes	Unsubstantiated Emails
Missing Child Email Hoaxes	Phishing Scams	Nigerian Scams	Payment Transfer Job Scams
Email Lottery Scams	Miscellaneous Scams	Pharming Scams	Internet Dating Scams
Computer Security	Virus Information	Email Security	Spam Control

True Emails

2009-12-27T18:00:00.000-08:00

True Emails

From time to time an email message may arrive in your inbox that has some of the characteristics of a hoax or scam email but in fact contains factual information.

True Emails

2009-12-27T17:47:00.000-08:00

True Emails

From time to time an email message may arrive in your inbox that has some of the characteristics of a hoax or scam email but in fact contains factual information.

True Emails

2009-12-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

True Emails

From time to time an email message may arrive in your inbox that has some of the characteristics of a hoax or scam email but in fact contains factual information.

True Emails

2009-12-27T17:42:00.003-08:00

True Emails

From time to time an email message may arrive in your inbox that has some of the characteristics of a hoax or scam email but in fact contains factual information.

Monetize Word

2009-12-19T04:04:00.000-08:00

best homeowner loans = $68.32
cheapest homeowner loans = $ 62.85
compare secured loans = $ 62.38
criminal attorneys ca $ 57.45
online car insurance quotes $ 56.39
auto insurance comparison quotes $ 56.37
secured loans $ 55.16
auto insurance on line $ 54.91
free auto insurance quote $ 53.69
low cost secured loans $ 52.97
secured loan quote $ 52.53

discount commodities broker $ 51.84
orange county criminal attorney $ 51.77
freecredit report $ 51.62
best refinance mortgage rates $ 51.30
compare secured loan $ 50.96
orange county criminal attorneys $ 50.44
cheap secured loans $ 50.06
donate car tax write off $ 50.02
cheap secured loans $ 49.86
auto insurance specialist $ 49.63
free online auto insurance quote $ 49.63
auto insurance specialist $ 49.63
best secured loans $ 49.25
cheapest secured loan $ 48.72
how to donate your car $ 48.57
auto insurance price quotes $ 48.23
free car insurance quotes $ 47.77
cheapest secured loans $ 47.51
home owner loans secured $ 47.48
Injury accident attorneys $ 47.47
free online auto insurance quotes $ 47.07
Donating old car $ 46.17
refinance options $ 45.67
automobile accident lawyers $ 45.29
where to donate a car $ 44.96
denver accident lawyer $ 44.23
inexpensive car insurance $ 44.15
top criminal defense attorneys $ 43.59
adult industry marketing $ 43.35
auto insurance quote comparisons $ 43.32
home refinance rates $ 42.99
secured homeowner loans $ 42.64
tax attorneys $ 42.60
inexpensive auto insurance $ 42.54
LENDERS secured $ 42.52
compare auto insurance rates $ 42.51
secured homeowner loans $ 42.50
auto insurance comparisons $ 41.83
auto insurance quotes online $ 41.72
auto insurance Qoutes $ 41.53
home mortgage refinance rates $ 41.51
car donations tax deductible $ 41.34
los angeles criminal attorney $ 41.20
free auto insurance quotes $ 41.17
truck accident lawyers $ 41.16
The cheapest car insurance $ 41.01
donate your car $ 40.70
diabetes car donation $ 40.69
Donating your car to charity $ 40.60
company loans secured $ 40.41
cheap loan personal secured $ 40.37
accident injury lawyers $ 40.31
donate cars to charity $ 40.31
donate a car to charity $ 40.23
auto insurance policy online $ 40.16
broker commodity stock $ 40.12
cheapest refinance $ 40.10
purchase auto insurance online $ 40.04
quick auto insurance quote $ 39.75
car insurance quotes $ 39.74
where to donate car $ 39.69
charity donate a car $ 39.56
home loan refinance $ 39.44
home refinance loans $ 39.44
where to donate cars $ 39.43
refinance home equity loans $ 39.42
cheap secured loan $ 39.12
compare auto insurance $ 39.09
best commodity brokers $ 39.06
criminal tax attorney $ 38.99
refinance closing costs $ 38.68
lowest mortgage refinance rates $ 38.65
21 car insurance $ 38.62
home mortgage refinancing $ 38.60
21 insurance $ 38.55
get auto insurance quote $ 38.48
online futures trading $ 38.46
best futures brokers $ 38.46
morgage refinance $ 38.42
buy car insurance online $ 38.34
mortgage refinancing $ 38.28
donate junk cars $ 38.25
home refinancing $ 38.21
homeowner loans $ 38.14
refinance mortgages $ 38.01
where can i donate a car $ 37.96
motorcycle accident lawyers $ 37.95
home refinance rate $ 37.86
compare auto insurance quote $ 37.62
donate car to charity $ 37.23
refinancing $ 37.22
low refinance mortgage rates $ 37.15
dui attorneys $ 37.06
dwi attorney $ 37.03
refinance loan rates $ 36.97
az criminal attorney $ 36.90
on line auto insurance quotes $ 36.77
online commodities brokerage $ 36.77
online automobile insurance quotes $ 36.74
Donating your car $ 36.57
accident lawyer in $ 36.48
best refinance $ 36.35
online car insurance $ 36.28
available domain name $ 36.27
how to donate a car to charity $ 36.27
best homeowner loan $ 36.24
auto insurance quote $ 36.23
get auto insurance quotes $ 36.22
commodity futures gold $ 36.19
donate your car to charity $ 36.16
instant auto insurance quote $ 36.15
donate old car $ 36.14
refinance with cash out $ 36.09
best web hosting $ 35.93
donate your car charity $ 35.92
Donating a car $ 35.81
federal criminal defense attorneys $ 35.78
auto insurance company online $ 35.75
18 wheeler accident lawyer $ 35.73
sr22 car insurance $ 35.62
auto insurance quotes $ 35.53
auto accident injury lawyer $ 35.46
online futures brokers $ 35.38
best web hosting companies $ 35.25
felony attorneys $ 35.22
online auto insurance rate is $ 35.21
auto insurance price quote $ 35.20
car to donate $ 35.18
commodity trading broker $ 35.17
insurance quotes online $ 35.05
bus accident lawyers $ 35.04
auto insurance comparison $ 35.02
buy car insurance $ 35.00
quick auto insurance quotes $ 34.87
discount commodity brokers $ 34.85
refinance mortgage loans $ 34.80
refinance mortgage loans $ 34.80
refinance house $ 34.73
canadian auto insurance online $ 34.69
donate cars charity $ 34.65
auto insurance quote comparison $ 34.62
donate car ct $ 34.60
donate junk car $ 34.58
ca criminal attorney $ 34.56
refinance my home $ 34.55
commodity futures brokers $ 34.52
student loan debt $ 34.43
auto insurence $ 34.37
commodity futures brokers $ 34.31
homeowner loan $ 34.26
Commodity future online trading $ 34.24
auto insurance $ 34.21
compare auto insurance quotes $ 34.18
best auto insurance rates $ 34.14
dwi lawyer $ 34.10
free car insurance quote $ 34.06
dui auto insurance $ 34.02
uk loans secured $ 33.98
online commodities trading $ 33.90
cheap auto insurance $ 33.78
best web hosting solutions $ 33.74
automobile insurance quote $ 33.66
18 wheeler accident lawyers $ 33.63
car charity donate $ 33.58
volunteers of america car donation $ 33.56
dui defense attorney $ 33.53
donate car purple heart $ 33.50
tax attorney $ 33.47
donate car for charity $ 33.39
online auto insurance rates $ 33.36
refinance home $ 33.36
commodity futures brokers $ 33.20
auto insurance rate quote $ 33.14
truck accident attorneys $ 33.13
tractor trailer accident lawyer $ 33.09
auto accident attorneys $ 33.07
instant auto insurance quotes $ 33.03
sr22 auto insurance $ 33.01
criminal attorneys ct $ 33.01
refinance loans $ 32.99
home equity loans $ 32.96
Donating Car $ 32.93
long term alcohol rehab $ 32.85
commodity futures brokers $ 32.83
commodity futures brokers $ 32.83
Donating a car to charity $ 32.81
cars to donate $ 32.75
pc cillian $ 32.75
accident attorneys $ 32.71
work accident lawyer $ 32.67
motorcycle accident lawyer $ 32.66
personal injury attorneys $ 32.63
how to donate my car $ 32.63
automobile insurance quotes $ 32.62
car accident attorney $ 32.59
home mortgage refinance $ 32.47
home mortgage refinance $ 32.47
donate cars $ 32.44
auto accident lawyers $ 32.38
best auto insurance quote $ 32.35
traffic accident lawyers $ 32.35
home mortgage loan refinance $ 32.29
refinancing mortgages $ 32.28
automobile accident attorney $ 32.19
orange county auto accident lawyer $ 32.11
online auto insurance quote $ 32.10
auto insurance quotes for $ 32.03
donate the car $ 32.03
donate old cars $ 32.00
refinance interest rates $ 32.00
21 auto insurance $ 31.97
drug abuse treatment $ 31.93
car you donate $ 31.83
auto insurance online $ 31.80
cheap auto insurance online $ 31.78
refinance mortgage rates $ 31.73
refinance mortgage rates $ 31.73
car donation programs $ 31.72
dui attorney $ 31.66
mortgage refinance $ 31.65
mortgage refinance $ 31.65
injury attorneys $ 31.62
commodity trading brokers $ 31.58
full service commodity broker $ 31.48
secured loan company $ 31.48
secured homeowner loan $ 31.39
car accident lawyers $ 31.38
accident lawyers $ 31.37
online futures broker $ 31.32
online commodity brokers $ 31.31
compare car insurance quotes $ 31.30
mortgage refinance rate $ 31.29
personal injury lawyer attorney $ 31.28
car for donation $ 31.27
low cost secured loan $ 31.26
train accident lawyers $ 31.24
Donating cars $ 31.21
online commodity brokers $ 31.19
online secured loan $ 31.12
full coverage auto insurance $ 31.06
online commodity broker $ 31.05
cheap car insurance rates $ 31.04
global life insurance company $ 31.04
accident injury lawyer $ 30.98
hosted exchange email $ 30.89
car insurance prices $ 30.82
federal criminal attorney $ 30.76
adult industry news $ 30.75
car accident attorneys $ 30.75
low rate auto insurance $ 30.74
find a criminal attorney $ 30.71
georgia accident lawyer $ 30.70
auto insurance estimates $ 30.68
dwi lawyers $ 30.68
statistical consultants $ 30.64
goodwill donate car $ 30.63
online car insurance quote $ 30.60
insurance quotes $ 30.59
construction accident lawyers $ 30.58
alcoholic rehab centers $ 30.58
criminal defense attorney $ 30.57
high yield savings account $ 30.54
car donations for charity $ 30.51
capital one bank's $ 30.45
debt free me $ 30.43
instant online auto insurance quote $ 30.37
Car accidents lawyers $ 30.27
criminal defense attorneys $ 30.27
dui lawyer $ 30.23
best car insurance rates $ 30.21
donate car tax $ 30.21
charitable car donations $ 30.19
injury at work $ 30.18
refinance interest rate $ 30.16
affordable auto insurance quote $ 30.13
registering a domain name $ 30.10
Mortage refinance $ 30.10
car crash lawyers $ 30.07
refinance rates $ 30.07

Exploding Windmill Video

2009-12-14T16:21:00.008-08:00

Exploding Windmill Video

Summary:
"Viral" video shows a giant wind turbine spinning out of control and finally disintegrating (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, June 2008)

Subject: Windmill Exploding....WOW!

Runaway wind turbine.....

Compressed Air Cars

2009-12-14T16:21:00.007-08:00

Compressed Air Cars

Summary:
Email claims that a car being developed in India runs on compressed air and can travel up to 125 miles for only 2 dollars (Full commentary below).

Status:
Prototypes of such vehicles do exist but it is unclear when or if such cars will be available to consumers

Example:(Submitted, June 2008)

Subject: MADE IN INDIA Compressed air car!!

MADE IN INDIA , NOW, THAT'S A SWITCH. IMAGINE RUNNING A CAR ON COMPRESSED AIR @ 125 MILES FOR $2

AMAZING AIR CAR!

The Compressed Air Car developed by Motor Development International (MDI) Founder Guy Negre might be the best thing to have happened to the motor engine in years.

The $12,700 CityCAT, one of the planned Air Car models, can hit 68 mph and has a range of 125 miles. It will take only a few minutes for the CityCAT to refuel at gas stations equipped with custom air compressor uni ts. MDI says it should cost only around $2 to fill the car up with 340 liters of air!

The Air Car will be starting production relatively soon, thanks to India 's TATA Motors. Forget corn! There's fuel, there's renewable fuel, and then there's user-renewable fuel! What can be better than air?

Check it out yourself and see - What A Cool Car! Enjoy! :)

Lightning Storm Meets Volcanic Eruption Photos

2009-12-14T16:21:00.005-08:00

Lightning Storm Meets Volcanic Eruption Photos

Summary:
Email forward claims that attached photographs show a lightning storm meeting a large volcanic eruption in Chile (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, June 2008)

Subject: Fw: Volcanic Eruption Meets Lightning Storm

Two of nature's most spectacular forces produced an incredible brew in the skies of Chile as a volcanic eruption met a lightning storm.

Images attributed to Carlos Gutierrez/UPI

Johan Lorbeer Gravity Defying Street Performance Photographs

2009-12-14T16:21:00.003-08:00

Johan Lorbeer Gravity Defying Street Performance Photographs

Summary:
Email that features photographs of a man apparently defying gravity by holding himself aloft with just one hand against a wall claims that the man is a German street performer named Johan Lorbeer (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, July 2008)

Subject: FW: Unreal!

Maybe we are entering into the new dimensions of reality...

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Johan Lorbeer is a German street performer. He became famous in the past few years because of his 'Still-Life' Performances, which took place in the public area. His installations includes 'Proletarian Mural' and 'Tarzan', which are famous in Germany. Several of these performances feature Lorbeer in an apparently impossible position.

World's Largest Swimming Pool

2009-12-14T16:21:00.001-08:00

World's Largest Swimming Pool

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs show a gigantic swimming pool in Chile that has been classified as the world's largest by Guinness World Records (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, August 2008)

FW: World's Largest Swimming Pool (WOW!)

World largest swimming pool, AMAZING!

It is more than 1,000 yards long, covers 20 acres, has a 115 ft deep end and holds 66 million gallons of water.

Yesterday the Guinness Book of Records named the vast pool beside the sea in Chile as the biggest in the world.

All I can say is WOW!

Google Workplace Photographs - Google's Zurich Office

2009-12-14T16:17:00.005-08:00

Google Workplace Photographs - Google's Zurich Office

Summary:
Email forward claims that attached photographs show an innovative workplace enjoyed by Google employees (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(July, 2008)

Subject: Fwd: I want to work for Google...

Moving around: A slide allows quick access from different floors ... There are also poles available ... they are similar to the ones used in fire stations.

Food.Employees can eat all they want from a vast choice of food and drink.

Work Station: Each employee has at least two large screens. There are 4-6 'Zooglers' per office.

INOVATION:: Large boards are available just about everywhere because 'ideas don't always come when seated in the office' says one of Googles managers.

LEISURE.Pool tables, video games etc. are available in many areas.

Communication... On each floor, there are private cabin areas where employees can attend to personal affairs.

Health: Professional masseurs (euses) available.

REST ...This room provides massage chairs that you control ... while you view relaxing aquariums ...

Ambiance ... There are many books in this library ... even some about programming !!

My questions are ... when do they work? How much do they pay to work there? And where do I send my application?

Dedicated Military Hospital For UK Petition

2009-12-14T16:17:00.003-08:00

Dedicated Military Hospital For UK Petition

Summary:
Email forward asks recipients to sign an online petition calling on the UK government to create a dedicated military and veterans hospital within the UK (Full commentary below).

Status:
This is a valid petition

Example:(Submitted July 2008)

Subject: A Dedicated Military Hospital

A DEDICATED HOSPITAL WITHIN THE UK FOR SERVING MILITARY AND VETERANS

My understanding is that Selly Oak is good but it's just not able to deal with the numbers coming back. Like that outrageous business at Ashford where the NIMBY's tried to stop a Families Hospital near Headley Court , this seems to me to be one that the whole military family should get behind. As you will see below, time is short but it should still be possible to get some real numbers behind this one. If you feel able to help please sign up by visiting the link below, and also please pass it on. I'm not in favour to chain letters but this one really is worth it. They stopped road pricing because of the millions who signed one of these petitions - maybe we can do the same for a military hospital.

Please you will join this petition? Only 5000 people thereabouts have done this so far which is not a significant number when compared to other petitions.

Just some background, 2 Para alone have on this tour sent back over 50 casualties to the UK and from having been to Selly Oak myself I know that many cannot be accommodated so when all of the casualties from other battle groups are added to the figure, how is ONE ward in an NHS hospital going to cope? It cannot cope, the individual troops are sent home to recover relying on NHS visiting services which themselves are over committed.

A lot more than 5000 names are needed for this petition and quite cynically, Downing Street has put a time limit of one month for this to be achieved.

Do what you can.' Please add your name to the petition at :

http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Wounded/

Whipped Ocean - Beach Foam at Yamba New South Wales

2009-12-14T16:17:00.001-08:00

Whipped Ocean - Beach Foam at Yamba New South Wales

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs show a shoreline at Yamba NSW that has been inundated with ocean foam (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, August 2008)

Subject: HERE'S SOMETHING WE'LL NEVER SEE.........WHIPPED OCEAN........AMAZING!

Suddenly the shoreline north of Sydney was transformed into the Cappuccino Coast. Foam swallowed an entire beach and half the nearby buildings, including the local lifeguards' centre, in a freak display of nature at Yamba in New South Wales.

Painted Feather Images

2009-12-14T16:16:00.000-08:00

Painted Feather Images

Summary:
Circulating email contains a series of photographs depicting wonderfully detailed feather paintings (Full commentary below).

Status:
Photographs and the paintings they depict are genuine

Example:(Submitted, October 2008)

Subject: FW: I Wonder How Long It Takes To Paint a Feather"

This is awesome!

Katie Fitch Prayer Request Email

2009-12-13T06:55:00.007-08:00

Katie Fitch Prayer Request Email

Summary:
Email forward requests prayers for three year old Katie Fitch who was diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, a very rare form of cancer (Full commentary below).

Status:
True, but Katie passed away in February 2009

Example:(Submitted, August 2008)

Subject: FW: Prey for Katie Fitch

Please remember me in your prayers...

Photographs of Lions Chewing Car Tyres

2009-12-13T06:55:00.005-08:00

Photographs of Lions Chewing Car Tyres

Summary:
Set of photographs show lions biting at and finally destroying the tyre of a Land Rover while the passengers of the vehicle look on apprehensively (Full commentary below).

Status:
Photographs appear to be genuine

Example:(Submitted, August 2008)

Subject: Africa is no place for sissies

Hyperinflation In Zimbabwe

2009-12-13T06:55:00.003-08:00

Hyperinflation In Zimbabwe

Summary:
Email forward illustrated with photographs describes out of control inflation in the African nation of Zimbabwe where everyday items could cost millions of dollars (Full commentary below).

Status:
True (Currency has now been revalued)

Example:(Submitted, September 2008)

Subject: HYPERINFLATION IN ZIMBABWE..

In this world, everybody is rushing and chasing for the money.... Some people fighting and killing each others just because of money... In Zimbabwe , all the peoples having a lot of money but they're poor.... WHY ??

500 million note, just printed in May 2008.....everybody can have it....maybe just nice for 1 breakfast/lunch (equal to about USD 2)

Everybody is billionaire.........

To buy food in plastic packet.......you have to spend at least 10 million

To buy chicken.....how many million ?

If you want to eat in restaurant, please prepare the money.........

After eat have to drinks..............

After getting montly salary.........you need to rent a taxi or lorry to bring back the money.....

YOUNG KID .....ALREADY BILLIONAIRE

NOBODY WANT TO COUNT THE MONEY JUST WEIGHT IT

Chinese Milk Contamination - Recalled Products Warning Email

2009-12-13T06:55:00.001-08:00

Chinese Milk Contamination - Recalled Products Warning Email

Summary:
Email forward claims that a number of well known snack food products have been recalled in Singapore due to the possibility that they contain contaminated milk from China (Full commentary below).

Status:
True - However, the recall is a precaution and not all products listed may actually be contaminated.

Example:(Submitted, September 2008)

Subject: Items recalled due to China's toxic milk scandal

Not sure how accurate is this list. Somebody from Singapore gave it to me. Just want to err on the safe side.

Items that have been recalled due to China's milk scandal

For your information, the following items have been recalled due to China's milk scandal:

1. M&M

2. Snickers

3. Mento's Yoghurt Bottle

4. Dove Chocolate

5. Oreo Wafer Sticks

6. Dutchlady Sterilised Milk

7. Wall's all natural mango

8. Mini Poppers Ice Cream

9. Magnum Ice Cream

10. Moo Sandwich Ice Cream

11. Mini Cornetto

12. Youcan Ice Cream

Stores have been asked by AVA Singapore to remove them. If u have any of these items at home, don't eat them.

Denmark Whaling Shame Protest Email

2009-12-13T06:44:00.004-08:00

Denmark Whaling Shame Protest Email

Subject: Denmark, What a Shame

DENAMRK: WHAT A SHAME, A SAD SHAME. THIS MAIL HAS TO BE SEEN . THERE IS NO WORST BEAST THAN HUMAN KIND ITSELF!!!!

While it may seem liar even today continues to be made this time of year BRUTAL, Dantesque, bloody slaughter in the Faroe Islands, which belong to Denmark. A country supposedly 'civilization' AND EUROPEAN UNION country. For many people this attack to life is unknown , to sensitivity. IN THIS bloody slaughter to attend Moz to 'show' entering adulthood (!) Is absolutely incredible that no one does ANYTHING to prevent this barbarism that are committed against Calderon, an intelligent dolphin who has the particularity of approaching People out of sheer curiosity. fwd this everywhere, PLEASE.

Pass it on to your friends around the world! It is OUTRAGEOUS!!!!!

Make Denmark STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Two Faced Kitten

2009-12-13T06:44:00.003-08:00

Two Faced Kitten

Summary:
Email claims that an attached photograph shows a kitten with two faces born in Perth, Western Australia (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, December 2008)

Subject: Two-faced kitten

Cool! Two headed kitten

This two-faced kitten was born in Perth, Western Australia...

Door To Hell Gas Fire Photographs

2009-12-13T06:44:00.002-08:00

Door To Hell Gas Fire Photographs

Subject: FW: Door To Hell

Door to hell

This place in Uzbekistan is called by locals "The Door to Hell". It is situated near the small town of Darvaz. The story of this place lasts already for 35 years. Once the geologists were drilling for gas. Then suddenly during the drilling they have found an underground cavern, it was so big that all the drilling site with all the equipment and camps got deep deep under the ground.

None dared to go down there because the cavern was filled with gas. So they ignited it so that no poisonous gas could come out of the hole, and since then, it's burning, already for 35 years without any pause. Nobody knows how many tons of excellent gas has been burned for all those years but it just seems to be infinite there.

Flower And Wine Delivery Credit Card Scam Warning

2009-12-13T06:44:00.001-08:00

Flower And Wine Delivery Credit Card Scam Warning

Subject: Credit card fraud wine and flowers delivery

Hi everyone,

I want to let you all know that Frank and I have been the victims of credit card fraud this week and felt I should warn you all about the clever scam. It works like this:

Last Wednesday I had a phone call late morning from Express Couriers to ask if I was going to be home as he had a delivery for me. He said he would there in roughly an hour. He turned up with a beautiful basket of flowers and wine. I expressed my surprise as I wasn't expecting anything like this and said I was intrigued to know who was sending me such a lovely gift. He said he was only delivering the gift and the card was being sent separately (the card has never arrived). There was a consignment note with the gift.

He went on to explain that because the gift contained alcohol he has to charge the recipient $3.50 as proof that he has actually delivered to an adult, and not left it on a door step if the recipient is out, to be stolen or taken by children. This seemed logical and I offered to get the cash. He then said that the company required the payment to be by Eftpos so he's not handling cash and everything is properly accounted for. Frank was there and got his credit card and "John" swiped the card on this small mobile machine that also had a small screen upon which Frank entered in his pin number. A receipt was printed out and given to us.

Between last Thursday and Monday $4,000 was withdrawn from our credit account at ATM machines in the north shore area. It appears a dummy credit card was made using the details in the machine and of course, they had Frank's pin number.

The Bank has stopped our cards and I've been to the Police this morning, where they confirmed that it is a definite scam and many households were hit during the first 3 days of October.

So PLEASE be wary of accepting a gift you're not expecting especially if the card is not with it. We've all received gifts like this and would never dream that it could be such a despicable act. Please also let other female friends and relatives know. Hopefully, these fraudsters have ceased this activity by now but you never know. I wanted to warn all my friends.

P.S. I don't think I'll ever drink the wine - I'd probably choke on it!

Moving Rocks at Racetrack Playa, Death Valley

2009-12-12T08:35:00.005-08:00

Moving Rocks at Racetrack Playa, Death Valley

©iStockphoto.com/Stephan Hoerold

The mysterious "moving rocks" or "sailing stones" of Racetrack Playa in Death Valley, California are a popular topic for blogs, online communities, and various other websites. Photographs of the moving rocks also circulate via email along with numerous explanations for the phenomenon.

The rocks have generated a great deal of debate. Some commentators claim that photographs of the rocks and their tracks are digital fakes. Some observers put forward super-natural or other-worldly explanations. And others suggest that the moving rocks are part of an elaborate hoax with prankster-power being the real rock mover rather than any natural or supernatural influence.

However, the phenomenon is certainly real and has been well documented over many years. And the circulating photographs of the moving stones are perfectly genuine.

©iStockphoto.com/george jurasek

To date, no one has been present when the rocks have actually moved. However, scientists have studied the sailing stones for decades and clear and compelling evidence indicates that the rocks do indeed move without human or animal interference.

Examination of the tracks left by the moving rocks shows that they are created when the playa's surface is covered with soft mud. Thus it seems highly improbable that human pranksters or animals could shift the rocks without leaving clear signs of their interference along with the rock "trails". Cases of moving rocks have been recorded many times since the 1940's and the phenomenon occurs in other playas in the region as well as the Racetrack, so the "hoax" theory also seems highly improbable.

That said, scientists still are not certain exactly how the rocks move. The general consensus is that wind is the primary factor. This theory is supported by the fact that most of the rock tracks run in the same general direction as the prevailing winds that blow across the playa.

One popular theory is that during wet conditions, strong wind gusts on the playa get the rocks sliding across the soft slippery mud. Experts speculate that, once a rock starts sliding, even more gentle winds may then be enough to keep the rocks moving for considerable distances. An alternative theory is that the rocks become embedded in a thin layer of ice and are subsequently dragged along as the wind propels the enclosing ice sheet across the playa surface.

The ice theory is discussed more thoroughly in the following video:

Famous Violinist Joshua Bell Plays At Metro Station

2009-12-12T08:35:00.004-08:00

Famous Violinist Joshua Bell Plays At Metro Station

Summary:
Email forward claims that virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell performed incognito at a metro station in Washington DC playing on a violin worth millions of dollars but his performance received very little interest from passersby (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, January 2008)

A man sat at a metro station in Washington DC and started to play the violin; it was a cold January morning. He played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time, since it was rush hour, it was calculated that thousands of people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.

Three minutes went by and a middle aged man noticed there was musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried up to meet his schedule.

A minute later, the violinist received his first dollar tip: a woman threw the money in the till and without stopping continued to walk.

A few minutes later, someone leaned against the wall to listen to him, but the man looked at his watch and started to walk again. Clearly he was late for work.

The one who paid the most attention was a 3 year old boy. His mother tagged him along, hurried but the kid stopped to look at the violinist.

Finally the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk turning his head all the time. This action was repeated by several other children. All the parents, without exception, forced them to move on.

In the 45 minutes the musician played, only 6 people stopped and stayed for a while. About 20 gave him money but continued to walk their normal pace. He collected $32. When he finished playing and silence took over, no one noticed it. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.

No one knew this but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the top musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written,with a violin worth 3.5 million dollars.

Two days before his playing in the subway, Joshua Bell sold out at a theater in Boston and the seats average $100.

This is a real story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the metro station

was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste and priorities of people. The outlines were: in a commonplace environment at an inappropriate hour: Do we perceive beauty?

Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize the talent in an unexpected context?

One of the possible conclusions from this experience could be: If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world playing the best music ever written, how many other things are we missing?

Cards and Pennies for Alyssa Bruno

2009-12-12T08:35:00.003-08:00

Cards and Pennies for Alyssa Bruno

Summary:
Email forward requests recipients to send a birthday card with a penny enclosed to Alyssa Bruno, a child who is seriously ill with a brain stem tumor.

Status:
Was True but is now outdated

Example:(Submitted, July 2006)

Subject: Birthday cards for Alyssa Bruno

Hi Friends, Family, Colleagues and Random People who got on my email list!

As many of you are aware, this past school year one of my kindergartners, Alyssa Bruno, was diagnosed with diffuse pontine glioma (stem cell brain tumor). She had a successful year of kindergarten, but took a dramatic turn for the worse at the end of the school year. As of now she has lost all movement in her left side and can't walk or talk. She has been on five different chemotherapy treatments and continues to be a little trooper! Everyone is praying that this upcoming week's dose of chemo will show some signs of improvement.

On August 2nd Alyssa will be celebrating her 6th birthday. I've been thinking for a long time about what to get for her, but she is very limited with what she can do right now. One thing Alyssa LOVES is to get mail. So I thought I'd email everyone on my list and ask for you all to please consider sending Alyssa a birthday card with a penny enclosed for good luck!. I am going to have Alyssa collect them in a jar as a reminder of all the people who are out there praying for her. How neat would that be for Alyssa to receive cards from all over the country and perhaps the world! I'd love it if you all could also forward this message to everyone on your list. (I'm not a fan of chain letters, but this would really make Alyssa's day and brighten her spirits!)

I know how busy everyone is these days, but sending a card to this little girl would give her a little something to look forward to each day when she gets the mail.

I've attached a few pictures so that you can put a face with the name! She's a cutie! Please, forward this along to anyone who you think might send a card.

Thank you so much,
Marcy Mooney - Alyssa's teacher

Address to send cards (removed):

Thank you so much,
Marcy Mooney

PLEASE NOTE
Alyssa Bruno passed away from her illness on 24th August 2006

How Forwarding Emails can Increase Spam

2009-12-12T08:35:00.002-08:00

How Forwarding Emails can Increase Spam

A hidden, but non-trivial side effect of forwarding emails is that your email address is likely to be forwarded along with it and will probably end up in a large number of email in-boxes in diverse regions of the planet. Once the forwarded email begins its journey from your computer, to the Rest Of The World, you have absolutely no control over how many times the email gets forwarded and, of course, how many times your private email address gets forwarded right along with it. Your email address is likely to end up, not only in the private in-boxes of complete strangers, but also on mailing lists, news groups, online forums and the hard copy someone printed off to show Great Uncle Vinny. Sooner or later, it is possible, even probable, that your email address will cross the in-box of your friendly neighbourhood spammer. Spammers must love emails that have been forwarded a number of times. For them, the dozens of valid addresses that such emails have collected upon their journey through cyberspace must seem an enticing bonus. This is certainly not the only way that spammers get hold of email addresses, but I do believe that it is a significant factor.

So, what can you do to minimize the risk of being added to a spammers list via this method?

Well, as a courtesy, you can make sure to remove any existing email addresses from the headers before forwarding the email. However, this will not stop your email address from escaping into the wilds of cyberspace.

You could include a polite note at the top of the email asking that recipients "Help Stop Spam: Please remove email addresses before forwarding". This could be effective, as it would perhaps help to remind and educate people about the issue. Especially if your little reminder stayed intact and legible for subsequent forwardings. On the other hand, you couldn't be sure that people would actually carry out this request.

The method I favor takes a little more time than simply clicking the "Forward" button but is probably the most effective. If I'm sending on an email that I suspect will "keep on keeping on", I copy the body of the email, paste it to a new email and send it using a throw-away "secondary" account. If I'm sending it to multiple recipients, I use the Blind Carbon Copy facility of my email client to further protect their privacy.

The links below lead to other articles and tutorials about protecting the privacy of your email recipients:

Using Blind Carbon Copy (BCC) in Outlook Express
Email Security Tip - Forward Responsibly
How to Remove Previous Email Addresses in Email Forwards
A More Elegant Approach to Blind Carbon Copying

Using Blind Carbon Copy (BCC) in Outlook Express

2009-12-12T08:35:00.001-08:00

Using Blind Carbon Copy (BCC) in Outlook Express

If you send emails to multiple recipients, it is important to use the Blind Carbon Copy (BCC) facility of your email program. Using BCC protects the privacy of your recipients and helps reduce spam. When you send an email to several people using the normal "To:" or "Cc;" fields, all of their email addresses are clearly displayed in the message. If the email is forwarded, the email addresses of all previous recipients may also be forwarded, as illustrated in the screenshot below.

How to Remove Previous Email Addresses in Email Forwards

2009-11-28T22:11:00.011-08:00

How to Remove Previous Email Addresses in Email Forwards

Before you forward an email, it is important to remove all previous email addresses from the message. Otherwise, the email addresses of all previous recipients of the message will be included in the email. If the email is continually forwarded without these addresses being removed, dozens or even hundreds of addresses can accumulate. This list of addresses can eventually be collected and used by unscrupulous people to send spam messages.

However, you can counteract this problem, and help to reduce spam, by simply removing previous email addresses before you forward the message. Removing the addresses is extremely simple and can be completed in just a few seconds.

The short tutorial below explains how.

Step 1:

Click the Forward button:

Jamie Bulger Email Petition

2009-11-28T22:11:00.009-08:00

Jamie Bulger Email Petition

Summary:
Seriously outdated email petition requests that recipients "sign" and send the message to others in an attempt to prevent the release of Jon Venables and Robert Thompson, the boys who murdered toddler Jamie Bulger in 1993(Full commentary below.)

Status:
Pointless - Venables and Thompson were released from custody years ago.

Update (June 2006):
A new rumour claims that the person who raped and murdered a young child in Perth Western Australia is actually one of the boys who killed Jamie Bulger [Read more].

Update (May 2008):
A new version of the message adds on a photograph that supposedly depicts Venables and Thompson happily posing together (Details in commentary below)

Example:(Submitted, March 2006)

Do you remember February 1993 when a young 3 yr old was taken from Liverpool, United Kingdom,by two 10-year-old boys. Jamie Bulger walked away from his mother for only a second and Jon Venables took his hand and led him out of the mall with his friend Robert Thompson.

They took Jamie on a walk for over 2 and a half miles, along the way stopping every now and again to torture the poor little boy who was crying constantly for his mummy.

Finally they stopped at a railway track where they brutally kicked him, threw stones at him, rubbed paint in his eyes and pushed batteries up his anus.

It was actually worse than this . What these two boys did was so horrendous that Jamie's mother was forbidden to identify his body.

They then left his beaten small body on the tracks so a train could run him over to hide the mess they had created. These two boys, even being boys, understood what they did was wrong, hence trying to make it look like an accident.

This week Lady Justice Butler-Slosshas awarded the two boys anonymity for the rest of their lives when they leave custody with new identities.

They will also leave early this year only serving just over half of their sentence. They are being relocated to Australia to live out the rest of their lives. They disgustingly and violently took Jamie's life away in return they each get a new life.

Please ... if you feel, as we do, that this is a grave miscarriage of justice .. copy the entire email ..then add your name at the end, and send it to everyone you can.

If you are the 500th person to sign, please forward this e-mail to:
[address removed] and attention it to Lady Justice Butler-Sloss.

Then start the list over again and send to your friends and family. The Love-Bug virus took less that 72 hours to reach the world. I hope this one does as well.

We need to protect our family and friends from creatures like Robert and Jon. One day they may be living next door to you and your small children, without your knowledge

[391 names and area addresses removed]

Email Security Tip - Forward Responsibly

2009-11-28T22:11:00.007-08:00

Email Security Tip - Forward Responsibly

Along with the junk mail that arrives in our inboxes, there may be quite a few gems that just beg to be forwarded. These may be jokes, funny photos or videos, useful information, interesting web links or just juicy bits of gossip. The "forward" function of our email program enables us to fire off these missives to one, a few, or all of the email addresses in our address book with just a few mouse clicks. As easy as pie!

In fact, email forwarding is almost too easy! While the ability to forward messages is a very valuable aid to effective email communication, the forward function should be used responsibly. Before you forward an email to multiple recipients, there are important factors that need to be considered:

Willingness to receive:
There is a fundamental question that is very frequently overlooked by the forwarding fraternity. The question is, "Does the recipient actually want to be sent all these forwarded emails?"

If you are on a slow dial-up Internet connection, it can be very irritating to continually receive large emails that take a considerable time to download. Furthermore, your recipient's opinions about what is funny, intriguing, or important might diverge rather sharply from your own.

More importantly, the recipient might be rightly concerned about the privacy and security risks inherent in multiple forwarded emails (see below).

In short, if you forward a lot of emails to a lot of people, it is simply good etiquette to give your recipients the chance to "opt out" of future mailings. In other words, take the time to ask the recipient if he or she wants to receive your forwarded emails. The truth is that some of your recipients may prefer that you did not forward emails to them, but are too polite to tell you.
Privacy and Security:
If you forward an email to multiple recipients in the normal way, recipients will be able to easily view each other's email addresses. The email is likely to be forwarded many more times and it will carry an expanding list of email addresses along with it, including those of your friends and family. Some of your recipients may not appreciate the fact that their private email address has been clearly revealed to dozens or hundreds of total strangers.

Ultimately, this list of email addresses may well find its way into the hands of spammers who will send you and other people on the list irritating and intrusive junk email.

I go to a lot of trouble to protect my private email address from spammers, so I do tend to get irritated when I am forwarded an email and realize that my email address has been blasted across cyberspace to dozens of strangers without my permission and its continued transmission is totally beyond my control.

Luckily, there are a couple of very easy steps you can take to protect the privacy of your recipients and help to reduce spam. Firstly, be sure to remove any previous email addresses displayed in a message before you forward it. Secondly, be sure to use the Blind Carbon Copy (BCC) function of your email program when forwarding a message to multiple recipients.
Protecting your own email address:
Even if you do remove previous email addresses and use BCC, you need to be aware that your private email address might well end up being sent onward and displayed in email inboxes across the planet. Once you click the "Send" button, you have very little control over where or to whom your email address is subsequently displayed. However, you can reduce the risk by asking your recipients to remove your email address before forwarding. You could also use a throwaway email account just for forwarding purposes.

Many users are simply not aware of the privacy and security issues connected to forwarding emails. You can take an active role in helping to protect user privacy and reducing spam by making others aware of these issues.

Write-up by Brett M.Christensen

Elf Bowling Virus Hoax

2009-11-28T22:11:00.005-08:00

Elf Bowling Virus Hoax

Summary:
Email claims that the Elf Bowling and Frogapult games contain a dangerous virus (Full commentary below.)

Status:
False

Examples:(Submitted, 2003)

TO ALL IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED ANY OF THESE GAMES = FROGAPULT.EXE ELFBOWL.EXE (FROG GAME) & (ELFBOWLING GAME) PLEASE CAN YOU DELETE THEM COMPLETELY OUT OF YOUR SYSTEM AS THEY BOTH HAVE A DELAYED VIRUS ATTACHED TO THEM THAT WILL BE ACTIVATED ON CHRISTMAS DAY AND WILL WIPE OUT YOUR SYSTEM. LET EVERYONE KNOW OF THIS.

Bonsai Kittens Email Petition

2009-11-28T22:11:00.003-08:00

Bonsai Kittens Email Petition

Summary:
Email exhorts recipients to sign and forward a message protesting the practise of creating "bonsai kittens" by placing cats in class jars to restrict their growth (Full commentary below.)

Status:
Pointless! Nobody is making bonsai kittens.

Example:(Submitted, 2004)

FOR EVERYONE WHO LOVES ANIMALS

There is a Japanese man living in New York that sells "BONSAI CATS".

The guy puts the kittens in glass bottle then puts a probe in their anus that gets out from a gap in the bottle to dispense their urine and faeces. For the kittens to take the bottle shape, they are fed with chemicals to melt the bones. Then he keeps the cats for as long as they can survive.

They can't move, walk or clean up.

He calls this "art".

This cruelty is the last fashion in NYC, China, Indonesia, New Zeland, because is a "decoration pet". If you want more information take a look in this site : http://www.shorty.com/bonsaikitten/bkmethod.html, and the babies into of a glass bottle in http://www.shorty.com/bonsaikitten/gray.html and http://www.shorty.com/bonsaikitten/bnw.html

We are making a list to sent to Animals Protection Association n USA and Mexico, and to TV news, to stop this.

We call out to anybody that loves cats or just has basic respect for LIFE - please put your name in the end of this list, then forward this e-mail to anyone you can think of.

If in the list you find more than 500 names, please send a copy to [ADDRESS REMOVED]

We are very thankfull to your help and we ask you to send this e-mail.

Fake News Story: Cambodian Midgets Fight Lion

2009-11-28T22:11:00.001-08:00

Fake News Story: Cambodian Midgets Fight Lion

Summary:
News story claims that 42 Cambodian Midgets were mutilated in a fight with an African lion while paying spectators looked on (Full commentary below.)

Status:
False

Example:

[Excerpt 1]

Headline:
Lion Mutilates 42 Midgets in Cambodian Ring-Fight

An African Lion much like this is responsible for the death of 28 Cambodian Midgets. Spectators cheered as entire Cambodian Midget Fighting League squared off against African Lion

[Excerpt 2]

The fight was called in only 12 minutes, after which 28 fighters were declared dead, while the other 14 suffered severe injuries including broken bones and lost limbs, rendering them unable to fight back.

Read the entire story

Amy Bruce Charity Hoax

2009-11-27T17:18:00.009-08:00

Amy Bruce Charity Hoax

Summary:
Email claims that 7-year-old Amy Bruce is dying of lung cancer and a brain tumour and that the Make-A-Wish Foundation will donate money every time the email is forwarded (Full commentary below.).

Status:
False

Example:(Submitted, July 2007)

Subject: A 7 year old cancer patient

Pharming - Information about Pharming Scams

2009-11-27T17:18:00.007-08:00

Pharming - Information about Pharming Scams

Hopefully, an increasing number of web users are now aware of how phishing scams work. A typical phishing scam operates as an evil duo comprising a fraudulent email closely coupled to an equally fraudulent website. The scam email, supposedly from a well-known company or financial institution, is intended to trick recipients into following a link to the fake website and providing sensitive personal information.

Phishing's more sophisticated first cousin is a technique known as "pharming". Like phishing, pharming coerces victims into visiting a fake website and supplying information. However, instead of tricking recipients into clicking on an email link, pharming can secretly redirect victims to a fraudulent website directly from their web browser. Pharming effectively eliminates the need for "bait" emails and is therefore potentially more dangerous than "normal" phishing scams and can cast a wider "net" in which to snare victims. Even phishing-savvy web users could fall victim to a pharming scam without realizing it.

In order to make pharming work, scammers may compromise a victim's system directly by secretly installing malicious software on his or her computer or modifying the browser's hosts file. Alternatively, the scammers may use "DNS cache poisoning" to effectively compromise the DNS server.

What this means in plain English is that, even if you manually enter the web-address of your bank or financial institution directly into your browser, or click on a saved bookmark, it is possible that a pharming attack could cause your browser to unobtrusively redirect to a fraud site. If the scam site is made to resemble the legitimate website of the targeted institution, a victim could enter account numbers, passwords and other sensitive information before he or she realized what was happening.

Currently, pharming does not appear to be as common as phishing. However, many computer security experts are predicting that pharming attacks will continue to increase as more criminals embrace these techniques. To help protect yourself from pharming, you should make sure that the secure website you are visiting has a valid certificate of authority from a trusted service such as VeriSign. Before entering sensitive personal data on the website, click the "lock" icon in the browser's status bar to view the certificate. Ensure that the name on the certificate corresponds to the site you are viewing. You should also run anti-virus and anti-spyware software, keep your operating system and browser updated with the latest security patches and use a reliable firewall. As with all aspects of Internet security, simple vigilance is a crucial defensive weapon. For example, if your Internet banking site suddenly seems subtly different in layout and styling and /or some of the links don't work as expected, it is possible that you have been secretly redirected to a scam site.

The technical aspects of pharming are quite complex and I have only touched the surface of the subject here. This article is intended to offer a brief overview of pharming. The list of resources included below should prove useful for those interested in finding out more about pharming.

Pharming Resource List:
Attorney General Foti Warns of New ID Theft Scam: "Pharming"
First Was Phishing, Next Is Pharming
Alarm over 'pharming' attacks
Phishing and pharming
Don't Get 'Pharmed'
Don't Let Your Users Buy the 'Pharm'

Phishing Scams - Anti-Phishing Information

2009-11-27T17:18:00.005-08:00

Phishing Scams - Anti-Phishing Information

Phishing is one of the most prevalent of all Internet scams. At any one time, a large number of major financial institutions and online entities around the world will be the target of phishing scammers. Some high profile institutions such as Citibank and PayPal are targeted almost continually. Phishing scams attempt to trick people into providing sensitive personal information such as credit card or banking details.

Phishing Scam Resources

Should Virus Warning Emails be Forwarded?

2009-11-27T17:18:00.003-08:00

Should Virus Warning Emails be Forwarded?

Whenever a significant new virus or other computer security threat emerges, it is not unusual for various warnings about the threat to begin circulating via email.

While the willingness to let others know about a potential computer security threat is commendable, forwarding a "virus warning" email may not be the best way to approach the issue. Like other email forwards, they tend to mutate as they travel from inbox to inbox. Even if the original message was accurate, ongoing modifications can mean that the information can quite quickly lose its relevance. The perceived danger can be significantly exaggerated and important details can become false or misleading. Also, such messages often continue to circulate for months or even years after the described threat has subsided.

For example, in mid 2005, a trojan was distributed via an email message that claimed Osama Bin Laden had been captured and hanged. Soon after, exaggerated and highly inaccurate warnings about the threat began circulating. Versions of this garbled "warning" message continue to circulate years later even though the "virus" described has long since ceased to be a significant danger. Another version combines the Bin Laden warning with an outright hoax about the non-existent "Olympic Torch" virus.

Even if a warning was originally valid, simply pointing friends to a write-up about the threat on a reputable anti-virus website is likely to be a better course of action than forwarding a full description via email. Unlike an email forward, an expert, web-based write-up will continue to contain accurate and up-to-date information about the security threat described. If you do feel that it is necessary to send or forward a virus warning via email, at least ensure that the information is clear, up-to-date, accurate and contains checkable references.

An outdated or inaccurate warning is unlikely to be very helpful and may even be counterproductive. In fact, misleading or outdated email virus warnings can develop some of the characteristics of the threats they claim to describe. Like email worms, such warnings can pointlessly consume bandwidth, add to inbox clutter and waste the time of both recipients and computer help and support staff obligated to deal with enquiries. Moreover, given the number of virus warning emails that are outright hoaxes, some hoax-weary recipients may dismiss even valid descriptions as bogus.

So think twice before you forward the next virus warning message that comes your way. Ultimately, taking the time to ensure that your friends have a good overall knowledge of computer security issues is likely to be a lot more productive than blindly forwarding virus warnings. For example, teaching a computer "newbie" friend how to install reliable anti-virus software, and keep it updated, is probably going to be a lot more helpful than firing off endless virus warning messages.

Sleeper Virus - Downadup or Conficker Worm Warnings

2009-11-27T17:18:00.001-08:00

Sleeper Virus - Downadup or Conficker Worm Warnings

Messages circulating via email, blogs, and online communities are warning computer users about a "sleeper" virus dubbed the "downadup" or "conficker" worm. These warnings are true although some media reports about the potential consequences of a supposed April 1st 2009 launch of the sleeper virus tend to be exaggerated.

According to CNN and other news outlets, the worm exploits a bug in Microsoft Windows that allows it to infect computers linked via corporate networks. Once installed, the worm can potentially allow hackers to take control of the infected computers.

The worm has caused concern among computer security experts because it is so widespread with large infections detected in the US, Asia and Europe. So far, however, the worm is yet to cause any harm to the infected networks, hence its designation as a "sleeper". A January 16 2009 article on CNN notes:

It is the most serious large scale worm outbreak we have seen in recent years because of how widespread it is, but it is not very serious in terms of what it does. So far it doesn't try to steal personal information or credit card details.

An article published on CRN.com explains:

Like other malware, the worm known as Conficker or Downadup is a blended threat, relying upon a variety of attack vectors, which range from brute-force password guessing to hitching rides on USB sticks, in order to replicate and spread throughout a network. However, what experts say makes this worm unique is the rate of speed at which it replicates.

Although the potential threat is certainly real, computer security experts suggest that some media reports surrounding the supposed "launch" of the worm on April 1st 2009 tend to seriously exaggerate its potential consequences. Some of the more sensational reports claim that on April 1st hackers will be able to take control of millions of computers around the world with potentially devastating results. In spite of these reports, computer security experts are telling computer users there is no need for panic. An article by security expert Joe Stewart published on the SecureWorks research blog notes:

If you've been reading any news at all on the Internet in the past week, you've probably heard that Conficker Armageddon is approaching, and it's scheduled for April 1st, only a few days from now. The SecureWorks Counter Threat Unit has been receiving an increasing number of inquiries asking what one needs to do to prepare for the impending April 1st outbreak.

The truth is, there will be no April 1st outbreak, despite what some of the press stories have said so far. The only thing that will happen with Conficker on April 1st is that already-infected systems will begin to use a new algorithm to locate potential update servers. There, that's not so scary, is it?

Stewart's take on the issue is confirmed by other security experts:

Despite the hype surrounding the April 1 "launch" for the Conficker, or Downadup, worm, security experts from Symantec and McAfee say there's little to worry about. Although the authors of Conficker have consistently improved the worm, the media attention makes a criminal move on April 1 unlikely. Security best practices should protect most PCs. Despite security analysts insisting that April 1 is only a red herring, the Conficker malware hype keeps growing as April Fools' Day approaches. Indeed, the doom and gloom is persisting even as security researchers offer a voice of reason.

Users of Microsoft Windows should ensure that the latest Windows security updates are installed on their computers. A removal tool for the worm is available from the F-Secure website. Note that computers infected by Downadup are blocked from reaching f-secure.com websites. The F-Secure FTP server can also be reached from: ftp://ftp.antivirus.fi/anti-virus/tools/beta/ and ftp://193.110.109.53/anti-virus/tools/beta/.

References:
Downadup virus exposes millions of PCs to hijack
ISTP and F-Downadup Removal Tool
Conficker Worm Spreads Fast, Infects Millions
ISTP and F-Downadup Removal Tool

Starbucks Lack of Support For Iraq Troops Rumor

2009-11-27T17:17:00.017-08:00

Starbucks Lack of Support For Iraq Troops Rumor

Summary:
Message claims that Starbucks refused to donate coffee to Marines stationed in Iraq because the company does not support the war (Full commentary below).

Status:
False

Example:(Submitted, January 2008)

Recently Marines in Iraq wrote to Starbucks because they wanted to let them know how much they liked their coffees and to request that they send some of it to the troops there. Starbucks replied, telling the Marines thank you for their support of their business, but that Starbucks does not support the war, nor anyone in it, and that they would not send the troops their brand of coffee.

So as not to offend Starbucks, maybe we should not support them by buying any of their products! I feel we should get this out in the open. I know this war might not be very popular with some folks, but that doesn't mean we don't support the boys on the ground fighting street -to-street and house-to-house.

If you feel the same as I do then pass this along, or you can discard it and no one will never know.

Thanks very much for your support. I know you'll all be there again when I deploy once more.

Semper Fidelis.
Sgt. Howard C. Wright
1st Force Recon Co
1st Plt PLT

PLEASE DON'T DELETE THIS . . ALLOW IT TO BE PASSED TO ALL IN MEMORY OF ALL THE TROOPS WHO HAVE DIED SO THAT WE MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE TO SUPPORT THEM OR NOT! ! !

Also, don't forget that when the Twin Trade Towers were hit the fire fighters and rescue workers went to Starbucks because it was close by for water for the survivors and workers and Starbucks charged them! ! !

JUST A NOTE TO THIS; STARBUCKS HAD STORES ON SEVERAL MILITARY BASES IN THE UNITED STATES. THEY ARE NOW BEING REMOVED BECAUSE OF THIS. GO GET 'EM AMERICA . STAND-UP FOR OURSELVES!

Online Quiz to Help Bihar Flood Victims

2009-11-27T17:17:00.016-08:00

Online Quiz to Help Bihar Flood Victims

Summary:
Email claims that recipients can help victims of a devastating flood in Bihar India by participating in a short online quiz (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, September 2008)

Subject: help Bihar Flood Victims......

Hi All,

Just came across a site to help Bihar Flood victims. Shows how one can contribute without actually spending anything or being physically present by spending 60 seconds of one's time. Just have to answer simple questions, and sponsors will pay to the NGO on your behalf. Kindly spread the word.

http://www.helpbihar.in

Please visit www.helpbihar.in and answer 4 simple questions. Correct answers are:

1. Patna
2. Kosi
3. 25 Lakh People
4. Drought

For each correct answer you give, Chevrolet will donate candles and biscuits and godrej will donate soaps.
Your 30 seconds may lighten-up someone's eyes. Please forward this to as many people you can.

Breast Cancer Site Email (Not a Hoax)

2009-11-27T17:17:00.015-08:00

Breast Cancer Site Email (Not a Hoax)

Summary:
Email claims that recipients can help to raise money towards free mammograms by visiting the Breast Cancer Site and clicking on a button (Full commentary below.)

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, October 2004)

Subject: Breast Cancer Site

I know you are busy but....
A Favor to Ask
It only takes a minute....

Please tell ten friends to tell ten today! The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman .

It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on "donating a mammogram" for free (pink window in the middle).

This doesn't cost you a thing.

Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising.

Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.

http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/

Reusing Plastic Bottles Causes Cancer Hoax

2009-11-27T17:17:00.013-08:00

Reusing Plastic Bottles Causes Cancer Hoax

Summary:
Email claims that reusing plastic bottles can lead to the ingestion of cancer causing chemical agents (Full commentary below).

Status:
False

Example:(Submitted via email, August 2004)

Many are unaware of poisoning caused by re-using plastic bottles. Some of you may be in the habit of using and re-using your disposable mineral water bottles (eg. Evian, Aqua, Ice Mountain, Vita, etc), keeping them in your car or at work. Not a good idea. In a nutshell, the plastic (called polyethylene terephthalate or PET) used in these bottles contains a potentially carcinogenic element (something called diethylhydroxylamine or DEHA).

The bottles are safe for one-time use only; if you must keep them longer, it should be or no more than a few days, a week max, and keep them away from heat as well. Repeated washing and rinsing can cause the plastic to break down and the carcinogens (cancer- causing chemical agents)can leach into the water that YOU are drinking. Better to invest in water bottles that are really meant for multiple uses. This is not something we should be scrimping on. Those of you with family - please advise them, especially for their children's sake."

Plastics Cancer Link Email - Freezing Plastic Bottles - Plastics In the Microwave or Car

2009-11-27T17:17:00.011-08:00

Plastics Cancer Link Email - Freezing Plastic Bottles - Plastics In the Microwave or Car

Summary:
Email claims that freezing water or microwaving food in plastic containers or plastic wrap can lead to the consumption of cancer causing chemicals (Full commentary below).

Status:
False

Update:
June 2007: A new variant of the hoax warning claims that drinking water from plastic water bottles that have been left in a car can cause breast cancer (details in commentary below).

Example:(Submitted, February 2005)

FW: Cancer News from John Hopkins

No plastics in micro

No water bottles in freezer.

No plastic wrap in micro

Johns Hopkins has recently sent this out in their newsletters worth noting... This information is being circulated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Dioxin Carcinogens cause cancer, especially breast cancer. Don't freeze your plastic water bottles with water as this also releases dioxins in the plastic.

Dr. Edward Fujimoto from Castle hospital was on a TV program explaining this health hazard. (He is the manager of the Wellness Program at the hospital.)

He was talking about dioxins and how bad they are for us. He said that we should not be heating our food in the microwave using plastic containers.

This applies to foods that contain fat. He said that the combination fat, high heat and plastics releases dioxins into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body. Dioxins are carcinogens and highly toxic to the cells of our bodies. Instead, he recommends using glass, Corning Ware, or ceramic containers for heating food. You get the same results, without the dioxins.

So such things as TV dinners, instant ramen and soups, should be removed from the container and heated in something else. Paper isn't bad but you don't know what is in the paper. It's just safer to use tempered glass, Corning Ware, etc. He said we might remember when some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam containers to paper. The dioxin problem is one of the reasons.

To add to this, Saran wrap placed over foods as they are nuked, with the high heat, actually drips poisonous toxins into the food, use paper towels.

Pass this on to your family & friends & those that are important in your life!

Painted Bathroom Floor Photograph

2009-11-27T17:17:00.009-08:00

Painted Bathroom Floor Photograph

Summary:
Email claims an attached photograph shows a bathroom with the floor painted so that it appears to be open to the sky (Full commentary below).

Status:
False

Example:(Submitted, May 2007)

Subject: WOW

BATHROOM PAINTED FLOOR

IMAGINE YOU ARE AT A PARTY on the tenth floor....

YOU'VE BEEN DRINKING......(not that you would...)

AND THEN YOU HAVE TO VISIT THE BATHROOM....

You open the door....

NOW, REMEMBER,THE FLOOR IS JUST! A PAINTED FLOOR!

KINDA TAKES YOUR BREATH AWAY.....DOESN'T IT?

Scroll sloooooooowly.....

Oscar Mayer Does Not Support The War Hoax

2009-11-27T17:17:00.007-08:00

Oscar Mayer Does Not Support The War Hoax

Summary:
Email claims that Oscar Mayer refused to donate hotdogs to US Marines stationed in Iraq because the company does not support the war (Full commentary below).

Status:
False

Example:(Submitted, January 2008)

Subject: OSCAR MEYER

Guess I will not be eating Oscar Meyer hot dogs any more!

Recently Marines in Iraq wrote to Oscar Meyer because they wanted to let them know how much they liked their hot dogs and to request that they send some of it to the troops there.

Oscar Meyer replied , telling the Marines thank you for their support of their business, but that Oscar Meyer does not support the war, nor anyone in it, and that they would not send the troops their brand of hot

dogs. So as not to offend Oscar Meyer, maybe we should not support them by buying any of their products! As a war vet writing to fellow patriots, I feel we should get this out in the open. I know this war might not be very popular with some folks, but that doesn't mean we don't support the boys on the ground fighting street-to-street and house-to-house for what they and I believe is right.

If you feel the same as I do then pass this along, or you can discard it and no one will never know.

Thanks very much for your support. I know you'll all be there again when I deploy once more.

"Semper Fidelis."
Sgt Howard C. Wright
1st Force Recon Co
1st Plt PLT

PLEASE DON'T DELETE THIS ... ALLOW IT TO BE PASSED TO ALL IN MEMORY OF ALL THE TROOPS WHO HAVE DIED SO THAT WE MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE TO SUPPORT THEM OR NOT!!!

Mat Company's Rude Response to US Soldier in Iraq

2009-11-27T17:17:00.005-08:00

Mat Company's Rude Response to US Soldier in Iraq

Summary:
Email forward claims that a discount mat company responded to a soldier's email about its products by rudely suggesting that the soldier and his troops should pull out of Iraq (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, January 2007)

A soldier based in Iraq got this response when inquiring as to whether or not the company ships overseas. He wanted to get the troops better gear to sleep on.

To Whom it may concern:

Do you ship to APO addresses?

I'm in the 1st Cavalry Division stationed in Iraq and we are trying to order some mats but we are looking for who ships to APO first.

SGT Hess

************************************

From: contact@discount-mats.com

Subject: Re: Feedback: from discount-mats.com

SGT Hess,

We do not ship to APO addresses, and even if we did, we would NEVER ship to Iraq.

If you were sensible, you and your troops would pull out of Iraq.

Bargain Suppliers

Discount-Mats.com

Photos of Houses in Weird Places

2009-11-27T17:17:00.003-08:00

Photos of Houses in Weird Places

Summary:
Series of circulating images supposedly show houses built in strange locations (Full commentary below).

Status:
Some images are manipulated - others are genuine

Example:(Submitted, April 2007)

Subject: Houses in weird places

Could you go to sleep at night and not wonder if these houses would be there the next morning?

How would you like to spend your nights in # 3

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Home in A Garbage Truck

2009-11-27T17:17:00.001-08:00

Home in A Garbage Truck

Subject: This guy lives in a garbage truck!

Not sure if I have sent this one on would'nt mind living in one myself.

This guy lives in a garbage truck....you have to see it!

This is wild!!!!!

He lives in a garbage truck! You have to look at this house!

Email Request to Adopt Free Black Lab Puppies

2009-11-26T22:09:00.021-08:00

Email Request to Adopt Free Black Lab Puppies

Summary:
Message claims that 6 black lab puppies rescued from a roadway are in desperate need of new homes (Full commentary below).

Status:
May have been true, but the message is now outdated and pointless

Example:(Submitted, October 2007)

Subject: FW: Free black labs...Know anybody looking?

these guys are sure tempting!! this email came from my sister via

work ... Please let me know if you know of anyone who might be interested.

Scott rescued 6 black lab (mix) puppies out of the middle of the road on Saturday. PLEASE help me find them homes - otherwise, it's Animal Control - which means they only have 5 days. We've bathed them, sprayed them for fleas and wormed them....but we can't keep them. They are currently in a kennel in my basement since I don't have a fence. I've lost count of the number of rescue groups that I've contacted, only to be turned down due to no room. Please check with every dog person you know to see if they need a puppy.

Culvert Car Flip - Miraculous Escape Photos

2009-11-26T22:09:00.019-08:00

Culvert Car Flip - Miraculous Escape Photos

Summary:
Photos depict a vehicle that has apparently hit a bridge guardrail and then flipped completely over a very deep culvert to land in relative safety on the other side (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, January 2007)

Man hits guard rail and flips end over end over that culvert. Do you think he had an angel on his shoulder? Check out the third picture!!

Click images for larger view

House Removal Bridge Accident Photographs

2009-11-26T22:09:00.017-08:00

House Removal Bridge Accident Photographs

Subject: Engineering Question

Engineering Questions of the Day

Q.) How much does a house weigh and

How much can a rural two-lane bridge Hold???

SO! WOULD THIS BE COVERED BY HOUSE INSURANCE, CAR INSURANCE, OR, DOES IT COME UNDER ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE ???

God Spilled the Paint Photograph

2009-11-26T22:09:00.009-08:00

God Spilled the Paint Photograph

Summary:
A beautiful photograph of desert wildflowers is circulating via email and online.(Full commentary below).

Status:
Photograph is genuine

Example:(Submitted, November 2006)

God's Paint Spill, breathtaking

This is breathtaking!!!

Desert Flowers on the east side of the Carrizo plain, in the Temblor Range (about 50 miles due west of Bakersfield).
(Author and Photographer unknown)

Image © Frankie Kee

Parrot Flower Photographs

2009-11-26T22:09:00.007-08:00

Parrot Flower Photographs

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs show a very rare plant with parrot shaped flowers that grows in Thailand (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, May 2008)

Subject: The Parrot Flower

THE PARROT FLOWER

Armless Girl Jessica Cox Gains Pilot's License

2009-11-26T22:09:00.003-08:00

Armless Girl Jessica Cox Gains Pilot's License

Summary:
Email forward tells the inspirational story of Jessica Cox, a girl who was able to gain her pilot's licence, among other remarkable achievements, in spite of being born without arms (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, January 2008)

Subject: FW: Armless Girl Gets A Pilot License

Jessica Cox, 25, a girl born without arms, stands inside an aircraft. The girl from Tucson, Arizona got the Sport Pilot certificate lately and became the first pilot licensed to fly using only her feet.

Jessica Cox of Tucson was born without arms, but that has only stopped her from doing one thing: using the word "can't."

Her latest flight into the seemingly impossible is becoming the first pilot licensed to fly using only her feet.

With one foot manning the controls and the other delicately guiding the steering column, Cox, 25, soared to achieve a Sport Pilot certificate. Her certificate qualifies her to fly a light-sport aircraft to altitudes of 10,000 feet.

"She's a good pilot. She's rock solid," said Parrish Traweek, 42, the flying instructor at San Manuel's Ray Blair Airport.

Parrish Traweek runs PC Aircraft Maintenance and Flight Services and has trained many pilots, some of whom didn't come close to Cox's abilities.

"When she came up here driving a car," Traweek recalled, "I knew she'd have no problem flying a plane."

Doctors never learned why she was born without arms, but she figured out early on that she didn't want to use prosthetic devices.

Difference Between http & https

2009-11-26T22:09:00.001-08:00

Difference Between http & https

Summary:
Circulating email advises web users to take note of the differences between "http" and "https" in web addresses to ensure that they only provide sensitive personal and financial information on secure websites (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, January 2009)

Subject: FW: Difference between http & https (no joke)

Don't know how many are aware of this difference, but worth sending to any that do not...... What is the difference between http and https

FIRST, MANY PEOPLE ARE UNAWARE OF
**The main difference between http:// and https:// is It's all about keeping you secure** HTTP stands for Hyper Text Transport Protocol,

Which is just a fancy way of saying it's a protocol (a language, in a manner of speaking) For information to be passed back and forth between web servers and clients. The important thing is the letter S which makes the difference between HTTP and HTTPS.

The S (big surprise) stands for "Secure". If you visit a website or webpage, and look at the address in the web browser, it will likely begin with the following: http://.

This means that the website is talking to your browser using the regular 'unsecure' language. In other words, it is possible for someone to "eavesdrop" on your computer's conversation with the website. If you fill out a form on the website, someone might see the information you send to that site.

This is why you never ever enter your credit card number in an http website! But if the web address begins with https://, that basically means your computer is talking to the website in a secure code that no one can eavesdrop on.

You understand why this is so important, right?

If a website ever asks you to enter your credit card information, you should automatically look to see if the web address begins with https://.

If it doesn't, there's no way you're going to enter sensitive information like a credit card number.

PASS IT ON (You may save someone a lot of grief).

Obama Acceptance Speech Trojan Horse Warning

2009-11-26T22:08:00.011-08:00

Obama Acceptance Speech Trojan Horse Warning

Summary:
Message warns recipients not to open an email with the subject "Obama Acceptance Speech" because it carries a password stealing Trojan horse (Full commentary below).

Status:
Real Trojan horse, but warning is exaggerated, misleading and outdated

Example:(Submitted, January 2009)

Subject: FW: Very, Very, Urgent, please read and pass on

Confirmed with Symantec

THERE IS AN EMAIL WITH SUBJECT LINE OBAMA ACCEPTANCE SPEECH FLOATING AROUND WITH A Trojan HORSE ATTACHMENT.

DO NOT OPEN FOR ANY REASON!!! DELETE IMMEDIATELY. THE Trojan STEALS ALL PASSWORDS AND USER IDS!!!

SPREAD THE WORD TO EVERYONE ON YOUR EMAIL LIST.

THANKS.

Animal Rescue Site Email Forward

2009-11-26T22:08:00.010-08:00

Animal Rescue Site Email Forward

Summary:
Email forward claims that you can help provide food for abused and neglected animals simply by clicking a button on the Animal Rescue Site (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, December 2008)

Subject: FW: help homeless animals for free

PLEASE DO THIS 'FREE' GOOD DEED - Animal Rescue:

Hi, all you animal lovers. This is pretty simple... Please tell ten friends to tell ten today! The Animal Rescue Site is having trouble getting enough people to click on it daily to meet their quota of getting free food donated every day to abused and neglected animals.

It takes less than a minute (How about 20 seconds) to go to their site and click on the purple box that says "Click here to Give - It's Free!" You don't have to fill anything out, and it's just counting clicks.

This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate food to abandoned/neglected animals in exchange for advertising. Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/

PLEASE TELL 10 FRIENDS !!!

Plastic Containers - Chasing Arrows Symbol Reveals Plastic's Chemical Makeup

2009-11-26T22:08:00.009-08:00

Plastic Containers - Chasing Arrows Symbol Reveals Plastic's Chemical Makeup

Summary:
Email forward explains how to decode the triangular "chasing arrows" symbol on plastic containers (Full commentary below).

Status:
Coding information is factual - Health warnings are debatable

Example:(Submitted, February 2009)

Subject: FW: Health knowledges-Recycle Plastic bottle Grade

Did you ever drink from a plastic bottle and see a triangle symbol on the bottom with a number inside?

Do you know what the number stands for?
Did you guess that it's just for recycling?
Then you are WRONG!!!!!!
THE NUMBER TELLS YOU THE CHEMICAL MAKE UP OF THE PLASTIC.....
1) Polyethylene terephalate (PET)
2) High density polyethylene (HDPE)
3) Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) or Plasticised polyvinyl chloride (PPVC)
4) Low density polyethylene LDPE
5) Polypropylene (PP)
6) Polystyrene (PS) or Expandable polystyrene (EPS)
7) Other, including nylon and acrylic

What you aren't told is that many of the plastics used are toxic and the chemicals used to create a plastic can leach out of the plastic and into the food / drink.

Think about it, how many times have you or a friend said "I don't like this, it taste like the plastic bottle ..... "
THAT'S BECAUSE YOU ARE TASTING THE PLASTIC

The WORST ONES are Nos: 3, 6, and 7 !!!
DO NOT USE THESE NUMBERS if stated at the bottom of the bottle) !!!

Check out this chart that breaks down the plastic, its uses and chemical makeup (I find #7 a little scary)
http://www.epd.gov.hk/epd/english/environmentinhk/waste/guide_ref/guide_plascod3.html

Photos of Koala Escaping Heatwave

2009-11-26T22:08:00.007-08:00

Photos of Koala Escaping Heatwave

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs show a wild koala that came inside a back porch to seek relief from a heatwave that struck southern Australia in early 2009 (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, February 2009)

Version One:

Subject: FW: Heatwave

In Victoria the temperature has been above 44 degrees all week and they are forecasting another week of 40+ temperatures. Power is failing, trains have stopped running because tracks are buckling under the heat . It's just scorching and it seems that the people are not the only ones suffering.

Check out these photos of a little Koala which just walked onto a back porch looking for a bit of heat relief. The woman filled up a bucket for it and this is what happened!

Version Two:

Subject: FW: Heat

A guy at work lives at Maude. His wife sent him these photos of a little Koala which just walked into the back porch looking for a bit of heat relief. She filled up a bucket and this is what happened!

Coconut Crab Photographs

2009-11-26T22:08:00.005-08:00

Coconut Crab Photographs

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs depict a very large type of crab called the Coconut Crab because of its ability to crack coconuts with its strong claws (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, February 2009)

Subject: LIKE COCONUTS?

Our friends in Australia sent us a picture of a Coconut Crab. This is pretty interesting.... Coconut Crab (Birgus latro) is the largest terrestrial arthropod in the world. It is known for its ability to crack coconuts with its strong pincers in order to eat the contents.

It is sometimes called the robber crab because some coconut crabs are rumored to steal shiny items such as pots and silverware from houses and tents.

The second photo gives you a good idea of how large these crabs are - a coconut crab is seeking food from a black trashcan.

Mass Migration of Rays

2009-11-26T22:08:00.003-08:00

Mass Migration of Rays

Summary:
Email forward claims that attached photographs show a mass migration of rays in the Gulf of Mexico (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, March 2009)

Subject: FW: Stingray Migration, Gulf Of Mexico

Mass Migration of Golden Cow-nose rays

Looking like giant leaves floating in the sea, thousands of Golden Rays are seen here gathering off the coast of Mexico . The spectacular scene was captured as the magnificent creatures made one of their biannual mass migrations to more agreeable waters.

Gliding silently beneath the waves, they turned vast areas of blue water to gold off the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. Sandra Critelli, an amateur photographer, stumbled across the phenomenon while looking for whale sharks. She said: 'It was an unreal image, very difficult to describe. The surface of the water was covered by warm and different shades of gold and looked like a bed of autumn leaves gently moved by the wind.

Tear Drop Monument - Russian Gift to the United States

2009-11-26T22:08:00.001-08:00

Tear Drop Monument - Russian Gift to the United States

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs show a monument donated by Russia as a memorial for the victims of 9/11 (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, March 2009)

Subject: Fw: Did anyone hear about this??? I didn't!

Did anyone hear about this??? I didn't! Russian gift to the U.S.

I had never heard of this before receiving an e-mail. Wonder why the press didn't report it? > This is the "TEAR DROP" made and installed by the Russians to honor those who died in 9 11 and a statement against terrorism. It is very impressive. The tear drop is lined up with the Statue of Liberty.

Gift from the people of Russia......."Monument to the struggle against world terrorism, artist Zurab Tesereteii" ....it is an impressive memorial and statement against terrorism. The walkway is made of stones.

Names of the persons killed on 9 11 are inscribed on the base. The base like the Vietnam Memorial wall. It was a cold and windy day but well worth the drive to see. It is down in the shipping yards across from "The Lady".

Petition for Autism Units in Australian Schools

2009-11-25T18:42:00.019-08:00

Petition for Autism Units in Australian Schools

Summary:
Email forward asks recipients to sign an attached petition letter that requests the Australian Government to address serious problems encountered by children with Autism within the current education system (Full commentary below).

Status:
True - Petition is valid

Example:(Submitted, April 2009)

Subject: Petition for Autism units in Australian schools

Dear Friends,

Autism Advisory and Support Service (AASS) have been contacted by many parents in the past few months with grave concerns that their children with Autism are not receiving an education suited to their needs. Some parents have been forced to homeschool their children and some children are only allowed to attend school for up to two hours per day. Many children are being suspended from school for displaying behaviours that are simply manifestations of their Autism. Please help these parents by signing your name and adding your address to the attached petition and returning it to us by email. We encourage you to forward this to as many friends and family Australia wide as possible. This is something that affects us all, both short term and in the long run.

Thank you in advance for your support,
Grace Fava
President
Autism Advisory and Support Service
www.aass.org.au

Download the petition for ASD schools (PDF)

Pen PC - Pen Shaped Miniature Personal Computer

2009-11-25T18:42:00.017-08:00

Pen PC - Pen Shaped Miniature Personal Computer

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs depict a revolutionary new pen-shaped personal computer that operates via a projected virtual keyboard and monitor (Full commentary below).

Status:
Photographs are genuine but show a prototype computer. These devices are not yet available to consumers

Example:(Submitted, April 2009)

Subject: FW: Amazing Technology from Japan!

I must have one of these

Look closely and guess what they could be...

Are they pens with cameras?

Any wild guesses? No clue yet?

Ladies and gentlemen... congratulations!
You've just looked into the future... yep that's right!

You've just seen something that will replace your PC in the near future.

Here is how it works:

In the revolution of miniature computers, scientists have made great developments with bluetooth technology...

This is the forthcoming computers you can carry within your pockets

This "pen sort of instrument" produces both the monitor as well as the keyboard on any flat surfaces from where you can carry out functions you would normally do on your desktop computer.

Can anyone say, "Goodbye laptops!"

Looks like our computers are out of date..again!

1956 Hard Disk Drive - Disk Storage Unit for 305 RAMAC Computer

2009-11-25T18:42:00.015-08:00

1956 Hard Disk Drive - Disk Storage Unit for 305 RAMAC Computer

Summary:
Email forward claims that an attached photograph shows a massive hard disk drive designed for use with the 1956 305 RAMAC computer (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, April 2009)

Subject: FW: Can you guess what this is?

One Way Glass Toilet

2009-11-25T18:42:00.013-08:00

One Way Glass Toilet

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs show a public toilet made of one way glass located in Houston, Texas (Full commentary below).

Status:
The photographs are genuine but the description is inaccurate

Example:(Submitted, May 2009)

Subject: Loo with a view.....

Awesome Toilet

THE LADY IS GETTING READY TO ENTER!!
This is a picture of a public toilet in Houston:

Now that you've seen the outside view, take a look at the inside view...

It's made entirely of one-way glass!

No one can see you from the outside, but when you are inside it's like sitting in a clear glass box!

Now would you... COULD YOU....???

Jim Neugent - Rude Response from ABC

2009-11-25T18:42:00.011-08:00

Jim Neugent - Rude Response from ABC

Summary:
Email claims that a man named Jim Neugent received a very rude response when he contacted US television network ABC to complain about an episode of "The Practice" which dealt with the possible gay marriage of two of the characters (Full commentary below).

Status:
True - However, message is now very outdated

Example:(Submitted May 2009)

Subject: Jim Neugent response from ABC

I've never liked "The Practice" any way and it looks like I'll be careful of the shows I watch (if any) on ABC Marcia

FYI: The times, they are a changing... You decide if it is for the best...

Jim Neugent

A Coach In Childress , Texas

Writes To ABC Network

Jim Writes:

My name is Jim Neugent. I wrote to ABC (on-line) concerning a program called 'THE PRACTICE.' In last nights episode, one of the lawyer's mothers decided she is gay and wanted her son to go to court and help her get a marriage license so she could marry her 'partner.' I sent the following letter to ABC yesterday and really did not expect a reply, but I did get one.

My original message was:

ABC is obsessed with the subject of homosexuality. I will no longer watch any of your attempts to convince the world that homosexuality is OK. ' THE PRACTICE' can be a fairly good show, but last night's program was so typical of your agenda. You picked the 'dufus' of the office to be the one who was against the idea of his mother being gay, and made him look like a whiner because he had convictions. This type of mentality calls people like me a 'gay basher.'

Read the first chapter of Romans (that's in the Bible); and see what the apostle Paul had to say about it..... He, God and Jesus were all 'gay bashers'. What if she'd fallen in love with her cocker spaniel? Is that an alternative life style? (By the way, the Bible speaks against that, too.)
--Jim Neugent

Here is ABC's reply from the ABC on-line webmaster:

How about getting your nose out of the Bible (which is ONLY a book of stories compiled by MANY different writers hundreds of years ago) and read the declaration of independence (what our nation is built on), where it says 'All Men are Created equal,' and try treating them that way for a change!

Or better yet, try thinking for yourself and stop using an archaic book of stories as your lame crutch for your existence. You are in the minority in this country, and your boycott will not affect us at ABC or our freedom of statement.

Jim Neugent's second response to ABC:

Thanks for your reply. From your harsh reply, evidently I hit a nerve. I will share it with all with whom I come in contact. Hopefully, the Arkansas Democrat Newspaper will include it in one of their columns and I will be praying for you.

- -Jim Neugent- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Note: Wouldn't Satan just love it if people stopped using the Bible for a crutch?
Please resend this to everyone in your mailbox.

Jim Neugent

I wonder if the person from ABC considered how many people would eventually read this e-mail!

Please, if you are a Christian, pass this on to others so they may be aware.

WE NEED TO SAVE WHAT WE HAVE LEFT OF THIS COUNTRY!

Gibraltar Airport Runway Photographs

2009-11-25T18:42:00.009-08:00

Gibraltar Airport Runway Photographs

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs show a busy road that goes right across the main runway at Gibraltar airport (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(May 2009)

Subject: Gibraltar Airport

Imagine a runway crossing Western Express Highway Mumbai, Santacruz..
You must be thinking I am kidding. Read on and see for yourself

We have heard of highways being used as runways in some countries. But this is the first time I have seen roads crossing a runway and road traffic being stopped by a traffic light while an aircraft takes off or lands!

Absolutely amazing!

The mind boggles

Gibraltar Airport

Old Airplane Converted To Home Photographs

2009-11-25T18:42:00.007-08:00

Old Airplane Converted To Home Photographs

Summary:
Message claims that attached photographs show an old aircraft that has been converted into a luxuriously appointed private home (Full commentary below).

Status:
Photographs are genuine but the description is inaccurate

Example:(Submitted, July 2009)

Subject: What to do with your old plane.

Airplane home!!!!!Location,location,location!!!!! :)

Would you like to live in an aeroplane?

They cheated a little by building a hut around it.

But it looks nice inside

Very Wooden

Sam Bish Prayer Request Email

2009-11-25T18:42:00.005-08:00

Sam Bish Prayer Request Email

Summary:
Email calls for prayers to help speed the recovery of 8 year old Sam Bish, who has been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer (Full commentary below).

Status:
The case described is real and the prayer request is genuine

Example:(Submitted, September 2009)

Hi to all my friends and family,

I felt compelled to spread this story about son's best friend, Sam who is 8 (on the left in the photo above). He is in MAJOR need of Prayer. The following story is what his mother Cindy (we are in MOPS together) wrote today.

Background Story

Our son Sam is a wonderful young man who is 8 years old. He will be 9 in January. He is going into the 3rd grade in Reynoldsburg , Ohio . Sam had been having some pain in his right knee most of this summer (2009). As the pain increased we realized that something might be wrong and we made an appointment for him to see an Orthopedist on 8/10/09. At this doctors appointment an X-ray was done of Sam's leg/knee and it showed that there was a mass that the doctor believed to be cancerous. Samuel went into the hospital just a few days later for a series of tests. He received a cat scan, MRI, and also a full body scan. Our family met with the pediatric oncologist the following day and Samuel was diagnosed with a type of cancer called Osteosarcoma (stage 4). The cancer is in his right knee and it has also spread to both of his lungs. This is an agressive type of cancer and it will be treated with agressive forms of chemo. We are asking everyone to please lift up our litle boy Samuel Gordon Bish in prayer. We pray for healing!! We serve a mighty God and we know that HE can heal Sam if that is his will for Sam's life. Please be prayer warriors along with our family as Sam starts this very difficult journey in his young life.

Today's date is August 16th, 2009 and all this has happened in 6 days. His first appointment was on Monday the 10th and by Friday the 14th he was in the hospital getting his Chemo-port put in his chest and a biopsy done.

I figured if an animated woman walking around the world for cancer can get passed to millions, then so can this story.

SAM CAN NEVER GET ENOUGH PRAYERS.
WE PRAY FOR HEALING AND PEACE FOR HIS FAMILY. . .There are also 2 younger sisters.

For Sam and all children who have to deal with cancer...

Tow Bikes - Converted Motorbikes That Can Tow Vehicles

2009-11-25T18:42:00.003-08:00

Tow Bikes - Converted Motorbikes That Can Tow Vehicles

Summary:
Circulating photographs show a specialized motorbike that has a towing attachment that can be used to easily retrieve broken down vehicles in heavy traffic situations (Full commentary below).

Status:
Genuine Photographs

Example:(Submitted, August 2009)

Subject: FW: Japanese Tow Trucks

New! Used by Japanese highway patrol!

Crop Art - Rice Fields of Japan

2009-11-25T18:42:00.001-08:00

Crop Art - Rice Fields of Japan

Summary:
Message claims that attached photographs depict giant works of art created by growing different coloured rice plants in Japanese rice fields (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, September 2009)

Subject: Rice art

Stunning crop art has sprung up across rice fields in Japan. But this is no alien creation - the designs have been cleverly planted. Farmers creating the huge displays use no ink or dye. Instead, different colours of rice plants have been precisely and strategically arranged and grown in the paddy fields.

As summer progresses and the plants shoot up, the detailed artwork begins to emerge.

A Sengoku warrior on horseback has been created from hundreds of thousands of rice plants, the colours created by using different varieties, in Inakadate in Japan

The largest and finest work is grown in the Aomori village of Inakadate, 600 miles north of Toyko, where the tradition began in 1993. The village has now earned a reputation for its agricultural artistry and this year the enormous pictures of Napoleon and a Sengoku-period warrior, both on horseback, are visible in a pair of fields adjacent to the town hall.

More than 150,000 vistors come to Inakadate, where just 8,700 people live, every summer to see the extraordinary murals.

Each year hundreds of volunteers and villagers plant four different varieties of rice in late May across huge swathes of paddy fields.

Invisible Man Photographs - Man Painted to Blend into Background

2009-11-25T18:41:00.002-08:00

Invisible Man Photographs - Man Painted to Blend into Background

Summary:
Message claims that attached photographs depict a man who paints himself in such a way that he appears to blend into the background to such an extent that he is almost invisible (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, September 2009)

Subject: Invisible man

This guy paints himself, no kidding, no trick photography he just paints himself

Request for New Home for Labradors Cookie and Coco

2009-11-25T18:41:00.001-08:00

Request for New Home for Labradors Cookie and Coco

Summary:
Email asks for help finding a new home for Cookie and Coco, two Labradors whose owners are moving and cannot take the dogs (Full commentary below).

Status:
Request was genuine but is now outdated. The dogs now have a new home.

Example:(Submitted, October 2009)

Subject: Seeking Home for 2 Family Dogs- Two gorgeous labs trained Cookie and Coco

Would you, or anyone you know, be interested in adopting 2 beautiful young 3 year old Labs.....trained & free to a good home!

Even if you can't take these dogs, please pass along to everyone in your email list & maybe they will find a home.

ANY PET LOVERS LOOKING FOR TWO LABS?

We are moving in just 2 weeks. Unfortunately, I have still not been able to find a good home for Cookie and Coco . We ' re not able to take our beloved doggies with us and I ' ve been desperately trying to find a home for both of them ' together ' . They were raised together and pine without each other. The Lab rescue have already said that they would probably separate them, so this is my last resort. Recently I tried to take Coco out in my car alone and she TOTALLY refused to even get into the car without Cookie......!!!! She absolutely pulled back on her haunches until Cookie was by her side.

Both doggies are in great health, have been spayed and have ID chips implanted under the skin.

Cookie turned 3 December 10th and Coco turned 3 April 1st. Cookie is my mellow-yellow, and just loves her tummy rubbed. Coco is adorably funny and lives for her "ball." She also loves the water...... Cookie loves lots of attention. Both doggies are loyal and love to walk. They have been raised with my 3 kids running around all over the place, and have survived Sammy's constant hugging and love of ' dress-up ' , so they are fantastic family dogs.. This is by far one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make, but under the circumstances I have no choice.

Please, please forward these pics to all your friends. I want to find a great home for these fabulous doggies. They are just adorable and it ' s heartbreaking to let them go. In a perfect world, I hope that we could find someone local so that we can still keep in touch and visit them. I pray that someone, somewhere can help us keep Cookie and Coco together, and love them just as much as we do. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. [Email address removed]

First Communion on the Moon

2009-11-24T21:47:00.011-08:00

First Communion on the Moon

Summary:
Message claims that Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin took communion on the Moon using a special communion kit given to him by his church (Full commentary below).

Status:
Mostly True

Example:(Submitted, October 2009O)

Subject: Fw: Communion on the Moon

The first food and drink consumed on the moon was the reserved sacrament of communion.

At first, it was kept secret. To mark the 40th anniversary of the first Apollo moon landing, Bosco Peters has posted the details of this Christian act of worship 235,000 miles from the earth. The First Communion on the Moon is now one of The Episcopal Church's "lesser feasts and fasts,"he writes.

On Sunday July 20, 1969 the first people landed on the moon. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were in the lunar lander which touched down at 3:17 Eastern Standard Time. Buzz Aldrin had with him the Reserved Sacrament. He radioed: "Houston , this is Eagle. This is the LM pilot speaking. I would like to request a few moments of silence. I would like to invite each person listening in, whoever or wherever he may be, to contemplate for a moment the events of the last few hours, and to give thanks in his own individual way."

Later he wrote: "In the radio blackout, I opened the little plastic packages which contained the bread and the wine. I poured the wine into the chalice our church had given me. In the one-sixth gravity of the moon, the wine slowly curled and gracefully came up the side of the cup. Then I read the Scripture, I am the vine, you are the branches. Whosoever abides in me will bring forth much fruit. I had intended to read my communion passage back to earth, but at the last minute Deke Slayton had requested that I not do this."

NASA was already embroiled in a legal battle with Madelyn Murray O'Hare, the celebrated opponent of religion, over the Apollo 8 crew reading from Genesis while orbiting the moon at Christmas. I agreed reluctantly . I ate the tiny Host and swallowed the wine. I gave thanks for the intelligence and spirit that had brought two young pilots to the Sea of Tranquility . It was interesting for me to think: the very first liquid ever poured on the moon, and the very first food eaten there, were the communion elements.

"NASA kept this secret for two decades. The memoirs of Buzz Aldrin and the Tom Hanks Emmy-winning HBO mini-series, From the Earth to the Moon (1998), made people aware of this act of Christian worship 235,000 miles from Earth.

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
Psalm 91:4

Huge Banana Bunch Photograph

2009-11-24T21:47:00.009-08:00

Huge Banana Bunch Photograph

Summary:
Email forward includes a photograph apparently showing a massive bunch of bananas hanging from a very tall banana tree (Full commentary below).

Status:
Genuine photograph

Example:(Submitted, July 2008)

Subject: Fw: What a Bananaaaa..............

IF ONLY I HAVE FIVE HECTARES OF THIS LIKE I THINK I CAN BE A MILLIONAIRE IN A MATTER OF 2 YEARS

The Uno - Ben Gulak's Innovative Electric Motorbike

2009-11-24T21:47:00.007-08:00

The Uno - Ben Gulak's Innovative Electric Motorbike

Summary:
Email forward describes the Uno, an innovative electric motorcycle invented by Canadian Ben Gulak that moves on two wheels positioned side by side and is controlled by body movement (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, October 2009)

Subject: world first

Read First

A young inventor has created a motorbike with a twist - it uses two wheels but they are positioned right next to each other, giving it the illusion of being a powered unicycle. And even better, it might help save the planet.

Ben Gulak has spent several years building the electric Uno that uses gyroscopic technology - like the infamous Segway commuter device - to stay upright.

The bizarre-looking contraption has only one switch - on or off - and is controlled entirely by body movement.

The rider leans forwards to accelerate to speeds of 25mph and back to slow down. It has two wheels side-by-side and has been turning heads wherever it has been ridden.

The green machine is so small and light it can be taken indoors and carried into lifts - and is recharged by being plugged into the mains. The wheels are completely independent, allowing the bike to turn on a sixpence and the technology takes the balance and guesswork out of riding a unicycle.

Stopped The Train - Burning Train Bridge at Sharon Springs

2009-11-24T21:47:00.005-08:00

Stopped The Train - Burning Train Bridge at Sharon Springs

Summary:
Message claims that attached photographs show coal train cars and a wooden train bridge burning after the train was stopped on the bridge due to a melted wheel bearing (Full commentary below).

Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, November 2009)

Subject: Stopped the train

The Good news:

It was a normal day in Sharon Springs , KS. When a Union Pacific crew boarded a loaded coal train for the long trek to Salina ..

The Bad news:

Just a few miles into the trip a wheel bearing became overheated and melted, letting a metal support drop down and grind on the rail, creating white hot molten metal droppings spewing down to the rail.

The Good news:

A very alert crew noticed smoke about halfway back in the train and immediately stopped the train in compliance with the rules.

The Bad news:

The train stopped with the hot wheel over a wooden bridge with creosote ties and trusses

...........................................Scroll down:

BUGGAR!

RULES ARE RULES!
But, don't let common sense get in the way of a good disaster!

Photo Credit:
Julie Samuelson and The Western Times

Christmas Cards For Noah Biorkman

2009-11-24T21:41:00.003-08:00

Christmas Cards For Noah Biorkman

Summary:
Message requests Christmas cards for 5 year Noah Biorkman who was battling Neuroblastoma cancer (Full commentary below).

Status:
True, but outdated. Sadly, Noah passed away on November 23rd 2009.

Example:(Submitted, November 2009)

Subject: Cards for Noah Biorkman

Diana Harrison Biorkman has a 5-yr old son in his last stages of a 2 1/2 year battle with Neuroblastoma cancer. They are celebrating Christmas next weekend and Noah loves Christmas cards.

Please take a minute to send a card.

Most Colourful River In The World Photographs

2009-11-24T21:41:00.001-08:00

Most Colourful River In The World Photographs

Summary:
Email forward claims that a series of attached photographs show a very colourful and spectacular display created by many varieties of algae and moss growing on an isolated river at a certain time of year (Full commentary below).

Status:
Genuine photographs

Example:(Submitted, November 2009)

Subject: FW: The Most Colourful River In The World

The river that ran away to paradise -

During a brief span between wet and dry seasons, when the water level is just right, the many varieties of algae and moss bloom in a dazzling display of colors.

Without any roads leading to this river, it must be accessed by horse.

Quick And Easy Survey Phishing Scam

2008-12-21T03:36:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email claims that money will be credited to the recipient's account in return for filling out a "quick and easy" online survey (Full commentary below).
Status:
Phishing scam designed to steal account details

Example:(Received, November 2008) Subject:Official Notification

Congratulations!

Dear Customer,

You've been selected to take part in our quick and easy 8 questions survey In return we will credit $90.00 to your account - Just for your time!

This survey has been sent only to a few people from our random generator !

Please spare two minutes of your time and take part in our online survey so we can improve our services. Don't miss this chance to change something.

To access the form please click the link below :

[Link to bogus website removed]

With the information collected we can decide to direct a number of changes to improve and expand our online services.

Note: * If you received this message in your SPAM/BULK folder, that is because of the restrictions implemented by your ISP
* For security reasons, we will record your ip address, the date and time.
* Deliberate wrong imputs are criminally pursued and indicted.

Survey ID : 1255fr566

Commentary:
According to this email, the recipient can have $90 credited to his or her bank account simply by participating in an "easy 8 questions survey". The message includes a link to a website where the recipient can supposedly fill out the survey and claim the reward.

However, although the survey web page may look genuine, it is in fact designed to steal personal information including credit card details. Those who click the link will be presented with a web form like the one shown in the screen shot below.

The first portion of the form contains the bogus "survey questions". The second portion asks the victim to supply name and contact information and credit card details including the PIN attached to the card. The card information is supposedly required in order to credit the participant's account with the $90 survey fee. In reality, however, the fee is entirely imaginary and all information supplied on the bogus survey form will be collected and used by scammers.

Scammers have used the same paid survey ruse a number of times over the last few years. While the particular incarnation included here purports to be from Walmart, previous versions have targeted a wide range of companies and institutions including McDonald's, Citibank, Chase Bank and even the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Other details may also vary, including the amount of the supposed survey fee, the number of questions, and the type of bogus survey question included on the web form. In spite of such superficial differences, however, the underlying scam is the same and is, in every case, designed to steal financial information from victims.

The scam emails may include formatting and logos that make them look like valid company messages. However, they do not really originate from the company named in the emails. Links in these scam messages are generally disguised so that they appear to belong to the particular company being targeted. The bogus web forms used in the scam may also be styled to resemble the targeted company's genuine website.

Internet users should be very cautious of any unsolicited message that promises to pay a fee for filling out a short survey. Companies may certainly conduct customer surveys and may even reward participants by entering them into a prize draw or offering free or discounted products. In some cases, they may even pay customers who participate in in-depth surveys or organized focus groups. However, they are extremely unlikely to pay such a substantial fee for filling out a small and insignificant survey. Nor would any legitimate company resort to sending out unsolicited bulk emails in order to entice consumers to participate.

Phishing scams take many forms and all Internet users would be wise to gain an understanding of how such scams operate.

from: http://www.hoax-slayer.com/quick-easy-survey-scam.shtml

Evan Trembley Missing Child Hoax

2008-12-21T03:35:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email forward claims that 15-year-old Evan Trembley, is missing and asks recipients to pass on the message in the hope that someone has seen him.
Status:
False

Update:
A mutated version of the hoax claims that Evan is missing from Charters Towers, a town located in north Queensland, Australia.

Example:(Submitted, August 2007)

Subject: Evan Trembley

Amber Alert.

Staff Sergeant Rick Williams
Wichita Falls Police Dept.
1007 N. Elm St.
Wichita Falls, Texas 76310
[Phone Number Removed]

Please look at the picture, read what his mother says (below), then forward this message on. - Sometimes Internet Reports have produced remarkable results.

My 15 year old boy, Evan Trembley, is missing. He has been missing for now two weeks.

Maybe if everyone passes this on, someone will see this child. That is how the girl from Stevens Point was found by circulation of her picture on tv. The internet circulates even overseas, South America , and Canada etc.

Please pass this to everyone in your address book. With GOD on his side he will be found.

"I am asking you all, begging you to please forward this email on to anyone and everyone you know, PLEASE.

It is still not too late. Please help us. If anyone knows anything, please contact me at: HelpfindEvanTrembley@yahoocom I am including a picture of him.

All prayers are appreciated! ! "It only takes 2 seconds to forward this.

If it was your child, you would want all the help you could get!!

THANK YOU

Commentary:
According to this message, which claims to be an Amber Alert, 15-year-old Evan Trembley has been missing for two weeks. The message includes a photograph of Evan and supposedly contains a plea for help from the boy's distraught mother. It asks recipients to pass on the message to as many people as possible in the hope that someone has seen Evan.

However, the message is a hoax. Evan Trembley is a real child who lives in Wichita Falls, Texas, but he is not missing. In fact, young Evan himself is responsible for this fake Amber Alert. The teenager created the message as a joke and passed it on to some friends. Predictably, however, these friends passed it on to others and very soon the message had circulated far and wide with many recipients believing the information to be true. A summary of a KFDX TV news report about the prank previously published on TexomasHomepage.com noted:

A Rider High School sophomore is paying the price for a practical joke he says got out of hand. Last month, 15 year old Evan Trembley took a phony "Amber Alert" MySpace message and changed the details to make it seem like he was the missing person. He originally sent it to a few friends as a joke but it soon spread via e-mail to inboxes all over the world.

Evan tried to add some credibility to his prank message by creating a fictitious endorsement by one "Sergeant Rick Williams" of Wichita Falls Police Dept. In fact, there is no "Sergeant Rick Williams" and the police department contact details included in the message are incorrect. However, Evan did include his own phone number as part of the fake police endorsement and his family has since received a great many phone calls from concerned recipients of the hoax.

A newer version of the hoax claims that Evan went missing from a property located near the town of Charters Towers in Queensland Australia. Of course, this version of the hoax is as equally false as as the original Wichita Falls version.

Unfortunately, Evan's irresponsible prank is not unprecedented. The text of the message is based on a widely circulated hoax that has seen a number of variants. One of the earlier versions was the infamous Penny Brown Hoax that began circulating back in 2001 and still continues to hit inboxes around the world.

In 2006, another, almost identical, version of the hoax claimed that 13-year-old Ashley Flores was missing. As with Evan Trembley, the Ashley Flores version began as a practical joke but rapidly got out of hand. The message, along with Ashley's photograph, was soon passed to inboxes all around the world and still continues to circulate.

In yet another 2006 copycat version, another teenage prankster falsely claimed that a boy named Michael Hunt was missing. Although the name Michael Hunt was simply made up for the prank, the perpetrator included his own photograph and a working email address.

It seems clear that the youngsters who launch these pranks generally mean no real harm. However, they do seriously underestimate how far and how fast such messages can spread and they probably never stopped to consider the possible consequences of their little joke - at least until after the message begins to spread uncontrollably.

Such hoaxes are far from harmless. They waste the time of police departments and missing person organizations that must answer endless enquiries about children that are not really missing at all. They can also lessen the effectiveness of real missing child alerts. Before forwarding any missing child email it is very important to check its validity via credible sources such as news, police reports or missing person organizations. And if you do receive one of these false alerts, please let the sender know that the information is untrue and should not be forwarded.

from: http://www.hoax-slayer.com/evan-trembley-missing.shtml

Let's Say Thanks Website - Send a Card to a Soldier

2008-12-21T03:34:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Message claims that members of the public can go to the "LetsSayThanks" website and choose a thank-you card that will be sent to US soldiers serving overseas (Full commentary below).
Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, August 2006) Subject: Let's say "THANKS" to our Armed Forces Personnel..

Let's Say Thanks!

http://www.letssaythanks.com/

If you go to the web site at LetsSayThanks.com you can pick out a thank you card and the Xerox Corporation will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq. You can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to some member of the armed services. It is FREE and it only takes a second. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the soldiers received a bunch of these?

Commentary:
This message urges recipients to say "thank-you" to US Armed Forces personnel serving overseas by visiting a website and selecting a card to be printed and sent to a soldier. The information in the message is true.

In June 2006, Xerox launched Let'sSayThanks.com, a website that allows visitors to select from a range of postcard designs created by US children and add a personalized message to a soldier. The cards are then printed out and delivered to soldiers deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan and other locations. Information on Let'sSayThanks.com outlines the purpose of the site:

The mission of Let's Say Thanks is to provide a way for individuals across the country to recognize U.S. troops stationed overseas. By submitting a message through this site you will send a free personalized postcard greeting to deployed servicemen and women.

The postcards, depicting patriotic scenes and hometown images, were selected from a pool of entries from children across the country.

According to the Let's Say Thanks FAQ, postcards are printed in batches and distributed to various locations along with care packages from Give2TheTroops®. Cards should reach their destination in one or two months from the time they are submitted on the site.

from: http://www.hoax-slayer.com/xerox-say-thanks.html

Flower And Wine Delivery Credit Card Scam Warning

2008-12-02T09:42:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email warning describes an incident in which a scammer, posing as a courier delivering an unexpected gift of wine and roses, stole the gift recipient's credit card details with the use of a portable card scanning device (Full commentary below).

Status:
True - A scammer used this scheme in Sydney, Australia during November 2008

Example:(Submitted, November 2008) Subject: Credit card fraud wine and flowers delivery

Hi everyone,

I want to let you all know that Frank and I have been the victims of credit card fraud this week and felt I should warn you all about the clever scam. It works like this:

Last Wednesday I had a phone call late morning from Express Couriers to ask if I was going to be home as he had a delivery for me. He said he would there in roughly an hour. He turned up with a beautiful basket of flowers and wine. I expressed my surprise as I wasn't expecting anything like this and said I was intrigued to know who was sending me such a lovely gift. He said he was only delivering the gift and the card was being sent separately (the card has never arrived). There was a consignment note with the gift.

He went on to explain that because the gift contained alcohol he has to charge the recipient $3.50 as proof that he has actually delivered to an adult, and not left it on a door step if the recipient is out, to be stolen or taken by children. This seemed logical and I offered to get the cash. He then said that the company required the payment to be by Eftpos so he's not handling cash and everything is properly accounted for. Frank was there and got his credit card and "John" swiped the card on this small mobile machine that also had a small screen upon which Frank entered in his pin number. A receipt was printed out and given to us.

Between last Thursday and Monday $4,000 was withdrawn from our credit account at ATM machines in the north shore area. It appears a dummy credit card was made using the details in the machine and of course, they had Frank's pin number.

The Bank has stopped our cards and I've been to the Police this morning, where they confirmed that it is a definite scam and many households were hit during the first 3 days of October.

So PLEASE be wary of accepting a gift you're not expecting especially if the card is not with it. We've all received gifts like this and would never dream that it could be such a despicable act. Please also let other female friends and relatives know. Hopefully, these fraudsters have ceased this activity by now but you never know. I wanted to warn all my friends.

P.S. I don't think I'll ever drink the wine - I'd probably choke on it!

Commentary:

A Sydney based fraudster posing as a courier delivering a gift of wine and flowers has stolen credit card details via a portable card skimming device

This email relates an incident in which a couple had $4000 stolen from their credit card account after a fraudster posing as a delivery driver tricked them into swiping their credit card on a portable card skimming device. According to the message, the scammer pretended to be a courier delivering an unexpected gift of wine and flowers. The scammer claimed that, because the gift included alcohol, the company required a small fee to be paid to prove that the gift had been delivered to an adult. He insisted that the fee be paid via card rather than cash and presented what seemed to be a legitimate mobile EFTPOS machine. However, the machine was in fact a skimming device that recorded the victim's credit card details.

The information in the warning message is true. A spate of such crimes occurred in several suburbs in Sydney's north-west in late 2008. A November 7 New South Wales Police Media Release notes:

Police in Sydney’s north-west have released an image of a man they believe can assist with inquiries into a fraudulent delivery scam which leaves people robbed of their savings.

A number of people across the Eastwood, Gladesville and Kuring-gai Local Area Commands have told police they believe they are the victim of a manipulative scam which has left their bank accounts wiped clean.

In all instances, police have been told a man has knocked at the door of residential homes dressed as a courier with a bunch of flowers and bottles of wine. The man has then delivered a parcel requiring a signature to confirm the goods have been received.

The man is alleged to have told recipients of the parcel that a delivery fee of $3.50 is required and must be done via EFTPOS. In all instances, those involved have swiped their credit card into a hand-held machine and been given a receipt for their payment.

Since the media release was published, a man has been apprehended and charged in relation to the incidents. A November 23 article in the Sydney Morning Herald notes:

A MAN charged with stealing more than $30,000 by posing as a delivery man bearing wine and flowers was refused bail in court yesterday.

David John Hennessey, 50, was stopped by police on the F3 freeway at Wahroonga, in northern Sydney, on Friday. He was arrested after a police search of his car allegedly found a number of card skimming devices.

Police allege that Hennessey had defrauded 10 residents of the Eastwood-Gladesville and Ku-ring-gai areas of $32,000 by posing as a delivery man bearing wine and flowers.

Residents should certainly remain vigilant with regard to such scams. Similar schemes have been used by criminals in the past. Portable card reader equipment is now regularly used by many businesses and is becoming commonplace. Criminals are likely to continue to exploit the popularity of such machines by using card skimming devices that look the same as genuine card readers.

It should be noted however, that the particular incident described in this email occurred in Sydney, Australia and the culprit has now been apprehended. Some versions of the warning message that are circulating falsely claim that the incident took place in other locations, including the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, North Vancouver, Canada and at least one Asian city.

While they may be perfectly valid when first launched, a problem with such warning emails is that they may continue to circulate for years and eventually become outdated and redundant. And, as noted, false or misleading information may be added to the messages as they circulate and such additions can significantly erode their use as warnings. Before forwarding such warning messages, it is always wise to check that the information they contain is accurate and up-to-date.
from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/flowers-wine-credit-card-scam.shtml

Christmas Cards for Recovering American Soldiers

2008-12-02T09:39:00.002-08:00

Summary:
Message claims that people can send Christmas greetings to wounded soldiers by addressing cards to "A Recovering American soldier" care of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center (Full commentary below).

Status:
Addressing information is incorrect - See commentary below for valid instructions for sending Holiday Mail for Heroes

Example:(Submitted, November 2008)

Subject: FW: Christmas Cards

GREAT IDEA!! When doing your Christmas cards this year, take one card and send it to this address. If we pass this on and everyone sends one card, think of how many cards these wonderful special people who have sacrificed so much would get.

When you are making out your Christmas card list this year, please include the following:

A Recovering American Soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue,NW
Washington,D.C. 20307-5001

If you approve, please pass it on.

Commentary:
This message advises recipients that they can send Christmas cards addressed to "A Recovering American soldier" care of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. While this might seem like a good way to show support for wounded soldiers, the information in the message is incorrect. Cards sent to "A Recovering American soldier" or similar will not be accepted by Walter Reed Army Medical Center. However, cards can be sent to servicemembers via the "Holiday Mail for Heroes" campaign operated by the American Red Cross. An announcement on the Walter Reed Army Medical Center explains:

The American Red Cross is sponsoring a national "Holiday Mail for Heroes" campaign to receive and distribute holiday cards to servicemembers and veterans both in the United States and abroad.

Holiday Mail for Heroes, which began Tuesday, Veterans Day, is a follow-up to the 2007 effort that resulted in the collection and distribution of more than 600,000 cards to hospitalized servicemembers. This year's program will expand its reach to not only wounded servicemembers but also veterans and their families. The goal is to collect and distribute 1 million pieces of holiday mail.

"As we enter this holiday season-a time to celebrate with family and friends-it's important to remember the thousands of men and women who serve our nation in harm's way and those who are recovering in military and veterans hospitals," said Army Col. Norvell V. Coots, commander, Walter Reed Health Care System. "The Holiday Mail for Heroes program is a wonderful outreach effort and a great way to acknowledge the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform."

Holiday cards should be mailed to:
Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD. 20791-5456

All cards must be postmarked no later than Dec. 10. Cards should not be mailed or delivered to Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Further details about the campaign are available on the American Red Cross website. The article notes:

The Red Cross is partnering with Pitney Bowes this holiday season for the Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign. For the second year in a row, we're collecting holiday cards to distribute to American service members, veterans and their families in the United States and around the world. Pitney Bowes is generously donating technology, resources and postage to make this holiday card program possible.

Our goal is to collect and distribute one million holiday cards to spread holiday cheer and facilitate thanks to these brave individuals and families.

For full guidelines for sending cards, please refer to the Red Cross website.
from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/soldier-christmas-card.shtml

Brown Recluse Spider Bite Warning

2008-12-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email forward warns about the danger of Brown Recluse spiders and includes graphic pictures of a wound supposedly caused by a recluse bite (Full commentary below.)
Status:
Unsubstantiated

Update:
A new version of the warning message claims that the spider shown in the photograph is a "new known" spider that is spreading throughout eastern Australia and heading for Western Australia. This information is untrue. See commentary for details.

Example:(Submitted, May 2006)

I thought that you would all benefit from these pictures, now the last couple pictures are nasty and the very last picture is the spider itself, but basically these pictures are showing the effects of a brown recluse spider bite.

The following illustrates the progression of a brown recluse spider bite. The affected skin actually dies on his body. Some of the pictures towards the end are pretty nasty, but take a look at the last one -- it is a picture of the spider itself.

The Brown Recluse Spider is the most dangerous spider that we have here in the USA.

A person can die from it's bite. We all should know what the spider looks like. Send this around to people you love, because it is almost summertime. People will be digging around, doing yard work, spring cleaning, and sometimes in their attics. Please be careful.

Spider bites are dangerous and can have permanent and highly negative consequences. They like the darkness and tend to live in storage sheds or attics or other areas that might not be frequented by people or light. If you have a need to be in your attic, go up there and turn on a light and leave it on for about 30 minutes before you go in to do your work.

This man was bitten by a Brown Recluse spider:

Day 3
The following illustrates the progression of a brown recluse spider bite. The affected skin actually dies on his body.

Day 5
Some of the pictures towards the end are pretty nasty, but take a look at the last one -- it is a picture of the spider itself.

Day 6

Day 9
A person can die from it's bite. We all should know what the spider looks like

The Dangerous Brown Recluse Spider

Commentary:
This email forward warns of the dangers of the Brown Recluse spider and includes several photographs depicting the progression of a wound supposedly caused by a bite from one of these spiders. Versions of the warning have been circulating since at least 2002.

Although there is no reason to doubt that the wound depicted in the photographs is real, there is also no way of determining if it was actually caused by a Brown Recluse spider bite. This message does not identify the victim shown in the pictures nor does it provide any way of confirming that the wound was a result of a Brown Recluse. Different versions have claimed that the bite occurred in several different areas of the United States and Canada.

Brown Recluse venom can cause necrosis (tissue death) in the area of the bite and can result in a deep and painful wound that takes a long time to heal. However, a number of other causes can result in similar wounds. An Ohio State University Fact Sheet about Brown Recluse Spiders notes that:

Necrotic wounds can result from a variety of agents such as bacteria (Staphylococcus, "flesh-eating" Streptococcus, etc.), viruses, fungi, and arthropods (non-recluse spiders, centipedes, mites, ticks, wasps, bedbugs, kissing bugs, biting flies, etc.). Necrotic conditions also can be caused by vascular and lymphatic disorders, drug reactions, underlying diseases states, and a variety of other agents.

That said, it is possible that the wound is indeed the result of a Brown Recluse spider bite. However, true or not, the message that accompanies the photograph tends to exaggerate risks associated with the bite of the Brown Recluse. Many Brown Recluse bites only cause a small red mark and heal without long-term effects. Also, deaths from Brown Recluse bites are extremely rare. In an article discussing this email warning, entomologist Rick Vetter from the University of California, notes that:

Despite the fact that lots of people believe that brown recluses are deadly, there are only about 8 reported deaths from possible brown recluse bites in the medical literature, Philip Anderson states that there is still not one VERIFIED death from a brown recluse bite and none of the alleged fatal cases are convincing.

Vetter also explains that, if the images do really depict a Brown recluse bite, the case would be "truly one of the rare, horrific ones" and certainly not the normal outcome of such a bite.

Also, Brown Recluse bites are very commonly misdiagnosed and this adds to the myths and hysteria surrounding the creatures. According to a University of California article,

One reason for the great "awareness" of the recluse spiders throughout the United States is that necrotic wounds are misdiagnosed as "brown recluse bites." Although recluses can cause these wounds, the biological data involving the distribution of the spider indicate that most of these diagnoses are incorrect.

Furthermore, the Ohio State University Fact Sheet notes that the "brown recluse spider is not aggressive, and it normally bites only when crushed, handled or disturbed."

Thus, think twice before forwarding this message. The wound depicted may not even be from a Brown Recluse and, in any case, the message overstates the risk of these spiders. Certainly, Brown Recluse spiders can be dangerous and people should be aware of what they look like and where they live. However, I would suggest reviewing Rick Vetter's in-depth analysis of this message and other information about recluse spiders before you hit the forward button.

Update: November 2008
During 2008, a new version of the warning message began circulating in Australia. The new variant includes the same photographs as the earlier version, but substitutes the following information in place of the original text:

This is a new known spider, so please take note. Has been found all over Eastern Aust and heading to WA. Looks similar to a huntsman.

This spider is in all states so watchout in fact it looks a bit like a huntsman

Not a good look!!

Please take note of this spider - it is very dangerous. Please warn kids and send to every one you know to alert them as well! This spider is breeding at a rate of speed and is found in more and more houses!!!!

While the veracity of the original version is questionable, this version of the warning is totally untrue and should be considered as an outright hoax. The spider shown in both versions of the warning message is indeed a Brown Recluse. Although the spider is known to inhabit a restricted area of a southern Australian state, there are no credible reports that suggest that the Brown Recluse or any similar spider is now spreading in Australia. Nor have there been any recorded bites from the spider in Australia. The message uses the same set of images that were included in the original US version. Thus, it seems clear that some prankster has simply modified the original version to suit Australian conditions and sent it on its way.

Furthermore, the Queensland Museum has also dismissed the warning message as a hoax. After many enquirers from concerned members of the public, Queensland Museum has now published an article debunking the hoax on its website:
Spider hoax clogs inboxes Australia-wide

Some commentators have suggested that the Australian version of the warning may refer to Australia's White-tailed Spider. The White-tailed Spider is a creature that, like the Brown Recluse in the US, has been the subject of many reports regarding the severity of necrotic wounds caused by its bite. However, these reports are largely unsubstantiated. A fact sheet on the Australian Museum website notes:

White-tailed Spider bites can cause initial burning pain followed by swelling and itchiness at the bitten area. Occasionally, weals, blistering or local ulceration have been reported - conditions known medically as necrotising arachnidism. As well as the spider's venom, minor bacterial infection of the wound may be a contributory factor in such cases.

A debate continues about the involvement of White-tailed Spider bite in cases of severe ulcerative skin lesions seen in patients diagnosed as probable spider bite victims. Typically, in such cases no direct evidence of spider bite is available. Sensational media reporting of supposed cases of severe "necrotising arachnidism" has given the White-tailed Spider a bad reputation. However, a recent study has monitored the medical outcomes of over 100 verified White-tailed Spider bites and found not a single case of ulceration (confirming the results of an earlier study). The available evidence suggests that skin ulceration is not a common outcome of White-tailed Spider bite.

And, in any case, the photograph in the warning message certainly does not show a White-tailed Spider.

Sending on this bogus warning message, will serve only to spread misinformation and cause unnecessary fear and alarm.

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/brown-recluse.html

Product Barcode Country Identification

2008-12-02T09:37:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email claims that consumers can identify what country a product was manufactured in by analyzing the first 3 digits of the product's barcode (Full commentary below).
Status:
Misleading

Example:(Submitted, November 2008) Subject: Product Bar Coding

Product Bar Coding

The whole world is scared of China made 'black hearted goods'. Can you differentiate which one is made in the USA , Philippines , Taiwan or China ? For your Information ... the first 3 digits of the barcode is the country code wherein the product was made.

Sample: all barcodes that start with 690.691.692 until 695 are all MADE IN CHINA.
471 is Made in Taiwan

This bar code is 471 – Made in Taiwan

This is our human right to know, but the government and related department never educate the public, therefore we have to RESCUE ourselves.

Nowadays, Chinese businessmen know that consumers do not prefer products 'made in china', so they don't show from which country it is made.

However, you may now refer to the barcode, remember if the first 3 digits is 690-695 then it is Made in China .

00 ~ 13 USA & CANADA
30 ~ 37 FRANCE
40 ~ 44 GERMANY
49 ~ JAPAN
50 ~ UK
57 ~ Denmark
64 ~ Finland
76 ~ Switzerland and Lienchtenstein
471 ~ Taiwan
628 ~ Saudi-Arabien
629 ~ United Arab Emirates
690-695 ~ China
740 ~ 745 - Central America
All 480 Codes are Made in the Philippines.

Commentary:
This email claims that consumers can find out which country a product was manufactured in by examining the product's barcode. According to the message, the first three digits of the product barcode identify where the product was made. It suggests that concerned consumers could thus easily identify products made in countries with a dubious reputation for contaminated or dangerous products such as China by matching the first three barcode digits to a country list included in the message.

The first three digits of a product barcode do not always identify where the product was made

However, the information in the message is quite misleading.

The first three digits of European Article Number (EAN) barcodes are known as the manufacturing code and they do indicate which EAN numbering authority allocated a particular set of numbers. Every country that uses the EAN system has its own numbering authority which is responsible for assigning manufacturer codes for companies within its jurisdiction. These codes are sometimes referred to as "country codes". Thus, at first take, the information in the message may seem valid.

However, in reality, this is not the case. An FAQ published on bar code information website Bar Code 1 explains:

Does the barcode number indicate the country of origin of a product?

No it doesn't. The 3-digit prefix code indicates which numbering organization has allocated the bank of numbers to the company. For example, a company may have it's headquarters in South Africa. The EAN organization in South Africa has the code "600", but all the products of the company may be manufactured in England. The English-made products would still have the "600" prefix code. The prefix code is a way to have 70-plus EAN member organizations issuing numbers without having to worry about duplicate numbers.

This information is confirmed on a barcode prefix list published on global standards organisation, GS1's website:

GS1 Prefixes do not provide identification of country of origin for a given product. They simply provide number capacity to different countries for assignment from that location to companies who apply. Those companies in turn may manufacture products anywhere in the world.

Thus, while the first three digits of the product barcode may sometimes indicate where the product was manufactured, it will not always do so. For example, a barcode that has 690 as the first three digits indicates that the barcode was assigned by the Chinese EAN numbering authority. However, it does not necessarily mean that the product was actually manufactured in China.

Therefore, the advice given in this email is actually rather pointless. The information in the email would only be useful to consumers if the prefix invariably indicated where a product was manufactured. The fact that the barcode prefix is not a reliable and constant method of determining a product's country of manufacture means that, while the information in the email may be interesting, it is actually of little practical value.

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/product-bar-codes.shtml

SMS Advance Fee Prize Scam

2008-12-02T09:08:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Mobile phone SMS claims that the recipient has won a major prize in a rewards promotion and should call a specified number to find out further details (Full commentary below).
Status:
False

Example:(Submitted, November 2008) JAPAN INTENATIONAL MOTORS: you have WON toyota prado VX 4WD worth 110000US$ dollars,in GLOBAL internate rewards promotion,call Mr.Nick on [number removed] now!

Commentary:

Beware of SMS messages that claim that you have won a prize or cash in a promotion that you have never entered

Scammers are quick to use any means at their disposal in order to steal money from their victims. Long before the arrival of the Internet, advance fee scammers operated via surface mail and telephone. Email and the World Wide Web have made their tasks much easier. And fraudsters also use other modern technologies, including the Short Message Service (SMS) communication protocol on mobile phones.

Except for the means of distribution, the above scam attempt is basically the same as thousands of other prize advance fee scams that are sent via email. The scam SMS claims that the recipient has won an expensive 4DW vehicle in a global "rewards promotion" and instructs him or her to call a specified number to claim the prize.

However, neither the prize nor the supposed promotion actually exists. The SMS is simply the bait used to fool potential victims into contacting the fraudsters responsible. If a recipient does take the bait and reply, he or she will be asked to pay an upfront fee, supposedly to procure the release of the prize. The scammers may claim that the payment is to cover, insurance, delivery costs, legal fees or any one of a plethora of other bogus excuses. If the victim pays the first of the requested fees, other payment requests may follow. Of course, all of the money sent by the victim will be kept by the scammers. The victim will never receive the "prize" nor is he or she likely to get his or her money back even if the police are eventually notified.

The scammers may also trick their victim into supplying a large amount of personal information that could be subsequently use to steal his or her identity. People should be very cautious of any SMS, email, fax, or surface mail message that claims that they have won money or a prize in a lottery that they have never entered.

Note:
Some unscrupulous companies have also use "prize winner" SMS messages or phone calls to trick users into making expensive premium rate calls, supposedly to claim their prize. Although these premium rate schemes are not related to the advance fee scams described above, and may not even be illegal, mobile phone users should certainly be aware that responding to some prize calls or SMS's could very rapidly rack up sizable phone bills.

House Removal Bridge Accident Photographs

2008-11-12T13:46:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Photographs show an accident in which a house, along with the large truck carrying it, became stuck across a river after a bridge collapsed, presumably due to the excess weight of the vehicle's load (Full commentary below).

Status:
Origin unknown - Research in Progress

Example:(Submitted, November 2008) Subject: Engineering Question

Engineering Questions of the Day

Q.) How much does a house weigh and

How much can a rural two-lane bridge Hold???

SO! WOULD THIS BE COVERED BY HOUSE INSURANCE, CAR INSURANCE, OR, DOES IT COME UNDER ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE ???

Commentary:
They say that every picture tells a story and these are no exception. It seems reasonable to suggest that the hapless organizers of a house removal project have made a serious miscalculation when planning their route with quite devastating and destructive results. However, without knowing any of the circumstances involved in the depicted incident, it is difficult to draw any concrete conclusions.

The images have been posted to a number of online communities and blogs and also circulate via email. So far, none of the descriptions I have seen mention where or when the mishap took place. The earliest posts I have seen containing the images date back to late 2007.

Some commentators have suggested that the images have been digitally altered. Although this cannot be conclusively ruled out, I have so far seen no evidence that casts doubt on the authenticity of the images.

I am currently attempting to discover where and when this incident took place. If you have any knowledge about the images, please email me or leave a comment below.

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/house-removal-bridge-accident.shtml

Obama Malware Emails

2008-11-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

In the wake of the US Presidential election, inboxes around the world are being hit by malware emails supposedly providing news about Barack Obama's historic win. Soon after the results were announced the first batch of bogus "news" emails were sent out. These messages claim to provide news about the election and contain a link that supposedly opens a video showing Obama's "amazing" acceptance speech. However, clicking the link opens a webpage that claims that, in order to view the video, the user is required to download what appears to be a new version of Adobe Flash Player. In fact, the download is not a flash player at all, but a trojan that, once installed, can collect sensitive personal information from the infected computer and send it to a remote server. The emails arrive with a variety of subject lines.

Criminals regularly exploit major news events and it is not surprising that they have chosen to target the US election results. Malware distributors are likely to continue to exploit the election over the coming weeks and months. Internet users should be very caution of any unsolicited emails claiming to link to news, videos or photographs concerning the election. If you receive such a message, do not click on any links contained in the email or open any attachments that it may contain.

References:
US Presidential Malware
Blizzard of US Presidential malware
Spammers use 'Obama' emails to load trojans

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/obama-malware-emails.shtml

Babysitting Overpayment Scam

2008-11-09T20:57:00.000-08:00

Criminals use a large variety of nefarious schemes to "launder" their ill gotten gains and/or trick unwary victims into sending them money or personal information. One such scheme involves sending the victim a cheque or money order for considerably more than a previously agreed upon price and asking him or her to wire the "extra" amount to a specified recipient. The scammers claim that the extra money is to cover further costs such as supplies or shipping fees.

In reality, the victim will be unknowingly sending the money directly back to the scammers, usually as a cash wire transfer. In this way, criminals are able to reap the proceeds of their crimes without leaving a trail that will lead the police to their door. For example, the scammer may send the victim a cheque for several thousand dollars, which is supposedly enough to cover the cost of an item he is purchasing as well as a "delivery" fee that is to be forwarded to a third party "agent". The victim will be instructed to bank the cheque, and once it clears, send the extra amount to the agent via a wire transfer. Alas, the cheque will turn out to be stolen and investigations may lead police to the victim who processed it. Meanwhile, the criminal has been able to procure a sizable portion of the stolen money in the form of untraceable cash.

The following real life example should help to illustrate how these overpayment scammers operate. The scammer first contacted his potential victim with the following message:

Subject: Can You BabySit For Me

Hello,

My name is Dr Bill, I need a babysitter for my twins, i live in london Canada but am coming down to your area in the state for a Six Weeks seminar and am coming down with my set of twins,i lost my wife some months back and i cant leave my babies behinde here in Canada.

Please get back to me if you are intrested in babysitting for my twins.I need someone that will take care of them as her own baby. Please get back to be on time so we can arrange how possible this will be.

Thanks Dr Bill

The potential victim responded and, after more correspondence, a price for the babysitting work was arranged. The scammer then sent the following message:

Hi,

Thanks for the prompt response, I have informed my colleague that i have gotten someone who will be caring for my Kids and am really looking up to the care you will give to my KIDS.I will have the deposit and the payment for your service for babysitting my Kids made to you prior to my arrival, Also I have contacted a store that will be shipping the KIDS item to your address with the KIDS toys,i just want to inform you about this and i will be forwarding money for the KIDS item plus your a month wages,so you can forward the money for the KIDS item to the Store Manager and she can send the items to you before i arrive with the KIDS and so you can put everything in place prior to our arrival.

Get back to me with your Full Name and Address including your phone number.

Anticipating to meet you and get the best care for the KIDS.Also i will be staying in an hotel, i will let you know the exact address before we arrive. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Thanks
Dr Bill

Thus, the scammer intended to send money for a babysitting deposit as well as extra to be forwarded to a "Store Manager" who would supposedly send supplies for the children after receiving payment. In reality, this extra money would have been sent back to the scammer or an accomplice after the babysitter inadvertently banked a stolen or bogus cheque.

Thankfully, the intended victim in this case became suspicious and pulled out of the "agreement" before it was too late. Unfortunately, many victims do fall for overpayment and job offer laundering scams every day.

Internet users should be very suspicious of any business arrangements in which the buyer or client offers to send an amount over the agreed price with instructions to forward the extra money to a third party. The following links provide more information about overpayment and payment transfer job scams:

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/baby-sitting-overpayment-scam.shtml

Denmark Whaling Shame Protest Email

2008-11-09T20:53:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email claims that attached photographs depict a bloody whale slaughter near a shore in the Faroe Islands, a province that is part of Denmark (Full commentary below).
Status:
True

Example:(Submitted, November 2008) Subject: Denmark, What a Shame

DENAMRK: WHAT A SHAME, A SAD SHAME. THIS MAIL HAS TO BE SEEN . THERE IS NO WORST BEAST THAN HUMAN KIND ITSELF!!!!

While it may seem liar even today continues to be made this time of year BRUTAL, Dantesque, bloody slaughter in the Faroe Islands, which belong to Denmark. A country supposedly 'civilization' AND EUROPEAN UNION country. For many people this attack to life is unknown , to sensitivity. IN THIS bloody slaughter to attend Moz to 'show' entering adulthood (!) Is absolutely incredible that no one does ANYTHING to prevent this barbarism that are committed against Calderon, an intelligent dolphin who has the particularity of approaching People out of sheer curiosity. fwd this everywhere, PLEASE.

Pass it on to your friends around the world! It is OUTRAGEOUS!!!!!

Make Denmark STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Commentary:
This protest message decries the killing of pilot whales in the Faroe Islands and includes a series of photographs that graphically depict this bloody slaughter. The message calls on Denmark, of which the Faroe Islands is a part, to stop the slaughter and urges recipients to pass on the message in order to raise awareness of the issue.

The claims in the email are true. Such whale hunts do indeed occur in the Faroe Islands, usually during the summer months. The Faroe Islands are made up of a number of small inhabited islands. Every year, hundreds of Long-finned Pilot Whales are killed in such slaughters. The hunts are non-commercial and anyone in the island communities can join in at will. When a school of whales is spotted close to shore, messengers are dispatched to inform local inhabitants of the particular island involved. A formation of small boats is then used to drive the whales ashore, where they beach themselves in the shallow water and are killed by waiting islanders. A special whaling knife is used to sever the animal's spine near the dorsal fin. Information on a Faroe Islands website about whaling in the province describes the killing process:

Men gather on the shore to kill the beached whales. Ideally, most of the whales will strand far enough up on shore that it is unnecessary to secure them. However, those remaining in the shallows must be secured and hauled closer. Traditionally, this is done by driving a steel hook, or gaff, with a rope attached to it into the back of the whale. A new blunt hook inserted into an airsac in the whale’s blowhole has now been widely tested in practice and it is hoped that this new equipment may eventually replace the traditional gaff as the standard method for securing whales. The whale is killed using a sharp knife to cut down to sever the spinal cord, which also severs the major blood supply to the brain, ensuring both the loss of consciousness and death within seconds.

These whale kills have occurred in the Faroe Islands for hundreds of years and are considered by Islanders to be an important part of their social culture. It is generally only Faroese men who take part in the killings while female islanders look on. The whale hunts have caused international outrage and have been roundly condemned as unnecessary and barbaric by conservation and animal rights groups around the world. However, Faroe Islanders vigorously defend their right to engage in the hunts. A Wikipedia entry on the subject notes:

Most Faroese maintain that it is their right to catch pilot whales given that they have done so for centuries. The Faroese whalers defend their actions before international organizations like Greenpeace with three arguments: one, that grindadráp is not a hunt as such, but a dráp meaning a kill (ie that they do not regularly take to sea just to hunt for pilot whales, but only kill those which are sighted swimming to close at land); two, that the pilot whale hunt does not exist for commercial reasons, but for internal food distribution among households; and three, they do not believe the pilot whale to be an endangered species.

They further argue that most people in the modern world have become so far removed from the harsh realities of animal food production that they have formulated unrealistic notions of how food actually gets to their tables.

However, conservation organisations do not consider these factors to be valid arguments for the continuation of the slaughters. They argue that modern day Faroe Islanders have ample food and do not require whale meat to survive as in earlier centuries. Moreover, they point out that Pilot Whales in the region are known to have high levels of mercury, PCBs and environmental poisons and excessive consumption of whale meat could be detrimental to the health of Islanders.

In spite of its cultural significance, the continuation of the practise is very difficult to convincingly defend and even some Faroe Islanders have began opposing it.

It should be noted that, although the Faroe Islands are indeed a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, they are largely an autonomous entity. A home-rule law was brought into effect in 1948 which gave the Faroe Islands a considerable degree of political independence from Denmark. The Faroese are self governing in most matters other than foreign affairs, the legal system and defence. Furthermore, although Denmark is certainly part of the European Union, the Faroe Islands are not. Information about the Faroe Islands on theUK Trade & Investment website notes:

Denmark granted the Faroe Islands a measure of Home Rule as a self-governing populace in 1948. Over the years the ties to Denmark have gradually relaxed so that, whilst being part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the islands have their own parliament and flag and issue their own bank notes and stamps. The special status of the Faroe Islands means that their policies and tax regimes do not always coincide, indeed some differ greatly, with those of Denmark. For example, the Faroe Islands are not a member of the European Union and all trade is governed by special treaties with the EU. In November 2003 the Faroe Islands agreed with the EU and acceeded to membership of the Pan-European System of Cumulation of Origin. In principle this is a mutual free-trade agreement.

Thus, demanding that Denmark put a stop to the slaughter may not be the most effective approach. The continuation of international condemnation and pressure to stop the whale kills might be more effectively aimed directly to the Faroe Islanders themselves.

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/denmark-whaling.shtml

One Wing Plane Landing - Best Air Race Pilot Ever Video

2008-11-06T20:13:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Video supposedly shows an air race pilot successfully landing his plane after one wing snapped off during a mid air manoeuvre (Full commentary below).
Status:
Almost certainly false - Probably part of a viral ad campaign for German clothing company killathrill

Example:(Submitted, November 2008)

Subject: Fw: Wing breaks off stunt plane Best pilot EVER!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRCbkBfdBrQ

Commentary:
This video, supposedly depicting a skilled pilot's miraculous landing after one wing snapped off his aircraft during a mid air stunt, is rapidly circulating via email and online. Some viewers apparently believe that the video is genuine footage of a real incident. However, many commentators suggest that all is not what it seems to be. The landing sequence, especially, looks decidedly suspect and most probably depicts a remote control plane rather than a full sized aircraft. The video is almost certainly the result of clever editing and manipulation with full sized and remote controlled aircraft.

The supposed pilot of the aircraft has been identified as one James Andersson. Andersson has his own website which discusses his alleged prowess as a pilot. The site even features an interview in which "Jimmy" talks about the lost wing landing incident. However, there is strong evidence to suggest that both the one winged landing video and and the pilot's website are part of an elaborate advertising scheme launched by German fashion design company killathrill. The killathrill brand name features prominently on the stricken aircraft, supposedly as Andersson's sponsor. The pilot also wears a killathrill jacket during his "interview" about the incident.

The WhoIs record for the domain, jamesandersson.com lists the registrant as one Sandra Thielecke and includes a killathrill.com email address. It seems more than a coincidence that Sandra Thielecke is in turn listed on the killathrill website as the company's geschäftsführerin (female managing director). And, in spite of James Andersson's supposedly long involvement with stunt flying and air races, there is seemingly no mention of his past deeds other than on his own website and in comments related to the video itself. The WhoIs record also reveals that the domain was only registered in September 2008.

Moreover, if genuine, such a compelling piece of footage would have almost certainly been prominently featured in TV news shows around the world. Instead, it apparently only made it to YouTube.

Thus, it seems very likely that the video and the related website are yet another clandestine advertising campaign aimed at raising the profile of a particular company, in this case, killathrill. Such "viral" advertising videos are a new trend in online marketing and have proved very successful for other companies. A Dutch travel company has used another "amazing" aircraft landing video as part of a viral advertising campaign. A video supposedly showing cell phones making popcorn was later revealed to be an ad for Bluetooth headsets. And a "scary" video of an elevator ghost turned out to be a promotion by a consultancy company in Singapore.

In time, killathrill, like other companies who have pulled such stunts, is likely to "own up" and further reap the benefits of its creations. Meanwhile, the video will continue to circulate, generating much intense debate as to its veracity and affording killathrill a great deal of free publicity.

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/one-wing-plane-landing-video.shtml

Door To Hell Gas Fire Photographs

2008-11-06T20:10:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Message claims that attached photographs depict a gas filled crater that has been burning continually for more than 35 years(Full commentary below).
Status:
Photographs are genuine - Description may be true but is largely unsubstantiated

Example:(Submitted, November 2008) Subject: FW: Door To Hell

Door to hell

This place in Uzbekistan is called by locals "The Door to Hell". It is situated near the small town of Darvaz. The story of this place lasts already for 35 years. Once the geologists were drilling for gas. Then suddenly during the drilling they have found an underground cavern, it was so big that all the drilling site with all the equipment and camps got deep deep under the ground.

None dared to go down there because the cavern was filled with gas. So they ignited it so that no poisonous gas could come out of the hole, and since then, it's burning, already for 35 years without any pause. Nobody knows how many tons of excellent gas has been burned for all those years but it just seems to be infinite there.

Commentary:
This message, which circulates via email, blogs and online communities, claims that these spectacular photographs show a large crater filled with natural gas that has been burning continual for three decades. Research indicates that the photographs are genuine and such a burning gas crater does exist, although concrete and verifiable details about its history and current status are somewhat elusive.

The "Door to Hell", is indeed near the settlement of Darvaza as stated in the message. However, Darvaza is located in Turkmenistan, not Uzbekistan. Both Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are in the same region of central Asia. Turkmenistan has one of the largest gas reserves in the world.

Although, Darvaza, and Turkmenistan itself, are off the major tourist routes and tend to be visited by only the more adventurous travelers, a number of photographs of the burning gas pit have made their way onto the Internet. The photographs included above appear to be part of a series taken by John Bradley during a trip to the region in 2007. The same photographs appear in a post on EnglishRussia.com and on many other websites. Other photographs showing the pit in daylight hours are available on photo-sharing website, flickr. The following YouTube video also offers views of the burning crater:

According to this version of the message, the fire has been burning for thirty five years, implying that the accident described occurred in the 1970's. Some sources put the date of the initial accident back to the 1950's. Most references claim that the burning pit is the remains of a giant underground cavern that collapsed during exploration and was then purposely ignited as a means of burning off escaping gas. However, there appears to be little information available that provides a detailed description of the cavern collapse and the circumstances surrounding it. Writer and blogger Joshua Kucera notes:

One of the coolest things I did in Turkmenistan was to visit the Darvaza burning gas crater. This is in the middle of nowhere, about a three-hour drive through the desert north of Ashgabat.

It's 60 meters in diameter and was apparently created sometime in the 50s when the Soviets were prospecting for natural gas in this area. That’s all the guidebook says, and when we got there I asked my guide for a more complete explanation. So, how exactly was this made, I asked. "It was natural," was the answer. So, I still don’t know. If anyone has any information I’d be very grateful to hear it.

I would likewise be grateful to find out more concrete details about Darvaza's burning pit. If you know of such details, please let me know.

References:
TURKMENISTAN AT A GLANCE
Turkmenistan Gas Field Is One of World's Largest
Turkmenistan - Darvaza - Burning Gas Craters
Darvaz: The Door to Hell
flickr - turkmenistan
Fire! Fire!: Darvaza

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/door-to-hell.shtml

Home in A Garbage Truck

2008-11-05T18:37:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email forward claims that attached photographs depict a garbage truck converted into a mobile home (Full commentary below).
Status:
Photographs are genuine but vehicle is not actually a converted garbage truck

Example:(Submitted, October 2008) Subject: This guy lives in a garbage truck!

Not sure if I have sent this one on would'nt mind living in one myself.

This guy lives in a garbage truck....you have to see it!

This is wild!!!!!

He lives in a garbage truck! You have to look at this house!

Commentary:
According to this email forward, a series of attached images show a garbage truck that has been converted into a very neat and serviceable mobile home. Some commentators have suggested that the images are faked and that the interior photographs do not actually show the truck shown in the exterior shots. Observant doubters have pointed out that the windows clearly visible in the interior shots cannot be seen in those showing the truck's exterior.

The truck shown in the photographs, and other similar such vehicles, do in fact exist. However, in spite of the appearance of the vehicle shown in the photographs it is not actually a converted garbage truck. In fact it is a purpose built mobile home. The vehicles are made by UNICAT, a company based in Europe that now also has an American branch.

The particular model shown in the photographs is designated as the "EX63-HDM / MAN TGA 6x6". The series of photographs included in the email can be viewed on the UNICAT website, along with many other photographs. This model has a roof that lowers snugly over the windows when travelling thus explaining the apparent mystery of the disappearing windows.

UNICATAmericas explains its philosophy as follows:

Our Philosophy: "Explore without boundaries"

There are many RV's that will ably go anywhere where there are roads and even more SUV's, trucks, motorcycles, dune buggies, ATV's, etc. that will take you off-road. UNICAT bridges the gap by providing the highest comfort levels of an RV with a go anywhere ability of off-road vehicles.

UNICAT produces some truly amazing vehicles and the company can fully customize them to suit the needs of individual customers. However, getting yourself in one will set you back a sizable chunk of cash with the Amerigo models starting out at half a million dollars.

References:
UNICAT
UNICATAmericas
UNICAT: EX63-HDM / MAN TGA 6x6 Photos
EX63-HD / MAN M 4x4 Specs
Elgan: Here comes the digital nomad dream vehicle

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/garbage-truck-home.shtml

Fidel Castro Sector Zero Virus Warning

2008-11-05T18:35:00.000-08:00

Summary:
Email forward written in Spanish warns that clicking links in messages about the death of Fidel Castro can download a virus. It also warns that opening an email attachment with the name 'El Autentico Pez Polla' can launch a virus that can destroy the hard drive on the infected computer (Full commentary below).
Status:
Mingles some truthful information with a variant of an old virus hoax

Example:
(The original version of this message is in Spanish. The Spanish version is included below the following English translation. The text was translated by Hoax-Slayer visitor Ebe, who submitted the original example for analysis in October 2008)

English Translation:

Subject: Urgent – New virus

URGENT!

Be very careful with an email that started last night, about the death of Fidel Castro, where it says it will show pictures and videos…. Taking advantage of our morbid human nature it will invite you to open a link with the advertisement of two important news agencies… Don't do it! If you do, a virus disguised as a legal antivirus will be downloaded, it was just announced.

Please send this email to your friends, family, contacts. In the next days you have to pay attention: do not open an email with an attachment called "The authentic chick fish", no matter who is sending it. This is a virus that will open a port in windows that will "eat" all your C hard drive in your computer. This virus will come from a person you know and you were in this person's contact list.

That's why you have to resend this email to all of your contacts. It's better to receive this email 25 times than to receive the virus and open it. If you receive the email called "The authentic chick fish", even if a friend sent it, don't open it and turn off your computer immediately. It's the worst virus announced by the CNN. A new virus has been discovered recently, that has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever. This virus was discovered yesterday by McAfee. And they don't know yet how to fight it. This virus simply destroy the Sector Zero of the Hard Drive, where the crucial information is saved.

SEND THIS EMAIL TO WHOM TO KNOW, COPY THIS TO A NEW EMAIL AND SEND IT TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS. REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT TO THEM, ALL OF US WILL BENEFIT.

Original Spanish version:

*Subject:* FW: URGENTEEEEEEEE NUEVO VIRUS

**_URGENTE !!!!!!!_**

TENGAN MUCHO CUIDADO CON UN CORREO QUE EMPEZO ANOCHE , SOBRE UN ANUNCIO DE LA MUERTE DE FIDEL CASTRO DONDE PROMETEN MOSTRAR VIDEOS Y FOTOS SOBRE ESTE ACONTECIMIENTO. .. APROVECHANDO LA POSIBLE MORBOSIDAD DE LOS SERES HUMANOS INVITA A ENTRAR A UN LINK ANUNCIADO POR DOS IMPORTANTES AGENCIAS DE NOTICIAS **/_NOOOOOOOOO LO HAGAS_/** !!!!! AL HACERLO SE TE DESCARGARA UN MALWARE DISFRAZADO DE SOFTWARE LEGAL, ES UN POTENTE VIRUS ,LO ACABAN DE ANUNCIAR.

POR FAVOR, HACER CIRCULAR ESTE AVISO ENTRE AMIGOS, FAMILIA, CONTACTOS!!En los próximos días, deben estar atentos: No abran ningún mensaje con un archivo anexo llamado 'EL AUTENTICO PEZ POLLA', independientemente de quien se lo envíe. Es un virus que 'abre' un puerto especifico de windows que se ' Come ' todo el disco duro C dela computadora. Este virus vendrá de una persona conocida que te tenia en su lista de direcciones. Es por eso que debes enviar este mail a todos tus contactos. Es preferible recibir 25 veces este mensaje que recibir elvirus y abrirlo. Si recibes el correo llamado EL 'AUTENTICO PEZ POLLA',aunque sea enviado por un amigo, no lo abras y apaga tu maquina inmediatamente. Es el peor virus anunciado por CNN.

Un nuevo virus ha sido descubierto recientemente que ha sido clasificado por Microsoft como el virus mas destructivo que haya existido. Este virus fue descubierto ayer por la tarde por McAfee. Y no hay arreglo aun para esta clase de virus. Este virus destruye simplemente el Sector Zero del Disco Duro, donde la información vital de su función es guardada.

ENVIA ESTE E-MAIL A QUIENES CONOZCAS COPIA ESTE CORREO A UNO NUEVO Y MANDALO A TODOS TUS AMIGOS Y RECUERDA : SI LO ENVIAS A ELLOS , NOS BENEFICIAS A TODOS.

Commentary:
This virus warning email claims that messages about the supposed death of Cuban leader Fidel Castro contain links to a malicious website that can download a virus to the user's computer. It also claims that an email with the subject "El Autentico Pez Polla" carries a virus that destroys the hard drive on the infected computer and has been classified as the worst virus ever. According to the warning, the virus will "eat" away the C drive and destroy Sector Zero, "where the crucial information is saved".

Several hoax emails falsely claim that a currently circulating computer virus will destroy "Sector Zero" on the infected computer's hard-drive

This warning combines some true, if somewhat outdated, information with a variant of a completely false virus warning hoax that has been circulating for several years. Unfortunately, warnings such as this can be quite confusing for many recipients because they mingle elements of truth with unhelpful misinformation.

The first part of the message warns recipients to watch out for fake news emails claiming that Fidel Castro has died. This part of the message is basically true. A March 2008 post on the Cuba Journal blog notes:

Castro Emails claiming that ex-Cuban leader Fidel Castro is dead are attempting to spread a worm onto PCs worldwide.

The worm infects PCs by disguising itself as a video of a report bringing news of Castro's death.

"This worm spreads itself in an email message with the subject 'Mala Noticia' (Bad news) and makes reference to the supposed death of Fidel Castro," security firm Panda Labs wrote in its blog.

The supposed video file actually contains a worm and clicking the link in the email takes you to a web page displaying a Spanish report written in 1997 about another Castro death hoax.

However, although this threat was certainly real, it had none of the characteristics of the destructive virus described in the message. The worm was designed to download information stealing trojan components to the infected computer and spread itself via P2P file sharing software. It certainly did not destroy or damage the infected computer's hard drive.

Moreover, the bulk of its distribution occurred earlier in 2008 and there is no information to suggest that is again being distributed at the time of writing. That said, malware distribution tactics are often reused, so Internet users would be wise to be cautious of "news" emails that claim that famous or infamous people have died. A similar tactic was used in 2005 when trojan emails claimed that Osama Bin Laden had been captured and hanged.

Although the references in the email to the Fidel Castro malware messages are valid, the rest of the information is pure nonsense and should not be taken seriously. It is no more than a mutated and translated version of the Olympic Torch virus hoax that has been circulating since 2006. The following example reveals the strong similarity between the two "warnings":

You should be alert during the next days: Do not open any message with an attached filed called "Invitation" regardless of who sent it. It is a virus that opens an Olympic Torch which "burns" the whole hard disc C of your computer. This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in his/her contact list, that is why you should send this e-mail to all your contacts. It is better to receive this message 25 times than to receive the virus and open it.

If you receive a mail called "invitation", though sent by a friend, do not open it and shut down your computer immediately.

This is the worst virus announced by CNN, it has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever. This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair yet for this kind of virus. This virus simply destroys the Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the vital information is kept. SEND THIS E-MAIL TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW, COPY THIS E-MAIL AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS AND REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT TO THEM, YOU WILL BENEFIT ALL OF US

Moreover, both versions are derived from the even earlier Virtual Card For You hoax.

Unfortunately, recipients who attempt to research this warning before forwarding it may be fooled into believing that all of the information is factual because they have found references that seemingly confirm the first portion of it. However, given that the bulk of the information in the message is false and even the information that is factual is now outdated, forwarding the message will serve only to spread misinformation and clutter inboxes.

References:
Fidel Castro death news hoax and virus
W32/FakeDeath.A.worm
Osama Bin Laden Virus Emails
Olympic Torch Invitation Virus Hoax
Virtual Card For You Virus Hoax

from:http://www.hoax-slayer.com/fidel-castro-sector-zero-virus-hoax.shtml