Monsieur Patrick

Clairvoyant Monsieur Patrick clearly did not foresee a WA ScamNet warning in his own future when he decided to peddle his ‘psychic powers’ to Western Australian consumers.

More than 30 people have reported receiving a letter from the “Power Medium”. The postage stamp indicates it’s sent via airmail from Malaysia; a postal route known to be popular with scammers delivering bogus mail.

The package contains a typed black and white letter, a shiny pamphlet and a blank TattsLotto lottery ticket that will supposedly give you ‘a life free from want until the end of your days’.

You’ll be told of Monsieur Patrick’s mythical powers and your chance to get a big discount on his usual $200 consultancy fee. There are supposed testimonials which are conveniently followed by initials rather than full names, making verification impossible.

He’s apparently been featured in hundreds of press and TV items for his magical reputation; yet an internet search brings up an Eastern states newspaper article about him being a scammer!

Monsieur Patrick says there is no limit to the amount you can win, to write down the amount you need, then have to hold the mock lottery ticket and concentrate hard on what you’ll do with your winnings.

Last but not least you need to return the ticket in the prepaid envelope to 135 RUE DES ROSEAUX, 01220 DIVONNE LES BAINS, FRANCE, along with an application form giving your personal details and credit card number. The form authorises a deduction of $30 payment plus $10 postage.

There’s a deadline for you to respond by – scammers love to create a sense of urgency. Oh and don’t forget the exclusive 90-day money-back guarantee that’s provided…although it’s not worth the paper it’s written on.

WA ScamNet can guarantee that giving your name, address and date of birth to an organisation you don’t know will not only put you at risk of identity theft but it is most certainly going to increase the amount of bogus mail you receive in the future. We’re also willing to bet your bottom dollar that you’ll never see a cent if you reply.

When you’re really struggling financially you might feel like anything’s worth a try and $40 may seem a small amount for a shot at winning cash.

If you have replied to Monsieur Patrick, write to the return address to ask for your money back and to be removed from the mailing list.

If you don’t receive a reply/refund, talk to your credit card provider about a charge back (transaction reversal).