News Makers

Web fraudsters target minister

British Justice Secretary Jack Straw was targeted by Internet fraudsters who sent e-mails to his contacts claiming he was in need of emergency money while on a foreign trip, according to a media report yesterday.

Straw told the Lancashire Telegraph that the scammers had e-mailed ministry officials, ruling Labor Party members, and constituents asking for $3,000 dollars because he had lost his wallet while in the Nigerian capital of Lagos. The fake e-mail said: "I misplaced my wallet on my way to the hotel where my money and other valuable things were kept. I would like you to assist me with a soft loan urgently to settle my hotel bills and get myself back home."