10/11/2024
Question that inspired this post(posted on 10/11/2024):
I wanted to share something that happened to me this morning.
While waiting for my early train at Gare de Lyon around 6:40 am, an older man approached me. He had a small black carry-on suitcase and was holding a silver iPhone with a cracked screen protector. He asked if I spoke English, and I said yes. He mentioned he was from London, though his accent didn't quite match what you'd typically hear. Still, he spoke excellent English.
He explained that he'd lost his wallet—likely pickpocketed. Having been a victim of pickpocketing twice before, I understood how stressful that is. Despite his situation, he was remarkably calm, perhaps due to age and experience. He told me he was short 35 euros to buy a ticket back to London and asked if I could help.
I wanted to assist but was also cautious. I don't have much money myself, but I asked how much he needed. "35 euros," he replied. I told him I didn't carry cash, only a card, and he mentioned there was an ATM just outside the station.
I hesitated since my train was leaving in five minutes, but he assured me it was just a two-minute walk. Feeling it was hard to say no, I decided to follow him to the ATM. As we walked, he asked where I was from and what I did; I kept my responses brief. I withdrew 50 euros, gave him 40, and wished him well as he said he was heading back to London for hernia surgery. Being a medical student, I sympathized with knowing how painful that can be.
In a hurry to catch my train, I told him to take care and be more careful. I rushed back and made it just in time. Once seated with my friends, I told them what happened. They immediately said, "You got scammed."
I felt a bit sad—not just over the money, but for possibly being naive. I still don't know if I was scammed or if I genuinely helped someone in need. I wanted to share this story as a heads-up to others who might encounter something similar. What do you think—was this a scam?
Inspired by Facebook post
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