By SCOTT MACLEOD
Computer buffs in New Zealand are "baiting" Nigerian fraudsters in a game dubbed the new internet bloodsport.
The ultimate goal is to turn the fraud back on the Nigerians, but authorities warn the game is dangerous and are urging people not to play.
Scam-baiters start by replying to emails
from African fraudsters trying to fleece recipients with fake charities or investments.
The baiters pretend to fall for the scams while secretly humiliating the fraudsters, whom they call "lads".
Typically, they make endless demands for proof of identity that force the lads to forge passports, bank accounts and documents.
Sometimes the lads are told to photograph themselves in ridiculous poses, with loaves of bread on their heads, or clutching signs with secret passwords.
A North Islander with the baiter name ScamTech said baiting was plain good fun.
He liked the "thrill of the hunt, matching wits with complete strangers" and getting "trophy" photographs and fake documents.
ScamTech did not think baiting was dangerous, but did not want the fraudsters to know his real identity.
"They have been known to kill people who cause them trouble."
Auckland baiter Vek, aged 17, told a lad he was the head of a multinational firm.
"Now I'm convincing him to take photos of various clothing items and generally make a fool of himself.
"These people have pretty bad English, and you can get a laugh out of the lengths they will go to to rip you off," Vek said.
Ministry of Consumer Affairs spokeswoman Julie Allan said baiting was "extremely dangerous and silly".
Every conversation with a fraudster gave snippets of personal information that could be used against a person, she said.
Nigeria is the source of endless computer-based attempts to encourage people to invest in fraudulent get-rich-quick schemes.
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