Tech Genius Exposes Internet Scammers

Posing as a Vulnerable Grandma

One YouTube content creator is taking a unique approach to dealing with internet scammers. Going by the name Neld Harris, he poses as an 80-year-old grandma and turns the tables on scammers by baiting them, taking over their computers, and exposing their faces, locations, and tactics. His efforts have been compared to a digital Robin Hood, as he aims to expose and embarrass scammers who prey on unsuspecting victims.

The AARP reports that Americans over 60 are scammed out of $28.3 billion each year, with only 1 in 10 scams being reported to authorities. But scammers don't just target seniors; people of all ages can fall victim to their schemes. Neld's videos on his YouTube channel, ScamSandwich, have gained millions of views and generated tens of thousands of subscribers since he started in January 2023.

Neld uses various tactics to bait scammers, including calling their 1-800 numbers and pretending to fall for their scams. He often keeps the scammers on the line for hours, wasting their time and playing along with their demands. He even takes control of their webcams and livestreams their faces to the world, exposing their criminal acts.

Revealing Scammers' Locations

In addition to exposing scammers, Neld goes a step further by revealing their locations to the world. He uses Google Streetview to find where the scammers are operating from, often in Indian cities or West African countries. This adds another layer of embarrassment and threat to the scammers, as Neld shows that he knows exactly where they are working from and can see their group chats.

Through his videos, Neld not only seeks to expose scammers but also to entertain his viewers. He adopts the persona of Neld, an 80-year-old, tech-illiterate widow from Dallas, who plays along with the scammers' attempts to take over her computer. This cover story is intentional, as the AARP warns that elderly Americans, who often live alone, are particularly vulnerable to scammers.

Neld's videos have gained significant popularity, with one video reaching over 1 million views. His unique approach to scambaiting, combining exposé and humor, has struck a chord with viewers who are tired of scammers preying on innocent victims.

Impacting Scammers' Operations

Neld's efforts go beyond just embarrassing and exposing scammers. He takes control of their computers, installing dangerous viruses, and destroying their data. This not only disrupts their scams but also serves as a form of vigilante justice against these criminals. Some scammers have even been brought to tears and have sworn to give up their criminal activities after Neld targets them.

While Neld keeps his real identity hidden for his own safety, he does report some of his investigations to authorities in the US and India. He hopes that by working with the authorities, arrests can be made and scammers can be held accountable for their actions. In the meantime, Neld continues to bait and expose scammers, providing entertainment for his viewers and justice for their victims.