You know what would be nice? Some real life experience and results, case studies. I see the "common sense" and "logic" to a lot of these suggestions but that and $1.75 plus tax will get you a venti coffee of the day at Starbucks. Victim: I'd be very wary of these suggestions unless there's some good, solid reason to believe they're based on reality not just "I've simulated all of human psychology in my head and here's what I think you should do..." I think it's interesting that the guy asks for such small amounts, under US$1000. Maybe that's a lot of money for him. Maybe he thinks it won't be worth investigating such a small amount. Maybe he thinks it's not a very big crime so if he gets caught he's more likely to walk. Maybe he thinks he's poor/broke and this money is deservedly his to demand, it's such a modest demand. Note: He could be factually/legally wrong but that's why I prefaced with "maybe he thinks..." Maybe he's a sadist and gets a kick out of making you squirm and the money is just his way of keeping score, making you do something tangible, kind of like "kiss my boots!" Maybe he's insane which voids all of the above. Maybe it's some sort of penetration exercise by terrorists, a govt, etc. Maybe all I've said and $1.75 plus tax... -- -Barry Shein The World | bzs@TheWorld.com | http://www.TheWorld.com Purveyors to the Trade | Voice: 800-THE-WRLD | Dial-Up: US, PR, Canada Software Tool & Die | Public Access Internet | SINCE 1989 *oo*