Nigerian scams and alcoholism
What do Nigerian scams have to do with alcoholism?
Most con artists, including Charles Ponzi, are or have been alcohol or other-drug addicts. The Nigerian scam, a variation of the up-front fee con originating in the Sir Francis Drake scam perfected by the alcoholic Oscar Hartzell, is no exception. Just as alcohol permeates the offices of penny-stock boiler-rooms, I'd bet my reputation that it does so at the offices of Nigerian con-artists.
Those unfortunate enough to meet such a con artist usually note an inflated sense of self and charm. These are both consistent with alcoholism, which causes egomania, which results in a need to wield power over others. One way by which to exert power is charm. A classic example of ...
