If you’ve followed our work, you know that much of what we do is exposing scam patterns, analyzing scripts, and warning others about the traps laid by online fraudsters. But sometimes, the story doesn’t end with exposure. Sometimes, it takes a surprising turn—toward redemption.

In recent weeks, three scammers we’ve interacted with admitted openly what they were doing. Instead of doubling down or vanishing, they shared their real situations: poverty, lack of opportunity, and desperation that pushed them into this life. Two are from Ghana, and one is from Nairobi.

This led us to a new realization: while scams devastate victims, the people running them are often victims of circumstance themselves. If they want a way out, shouldn’t we try to help them?

A New Mission

That’s why today we are announcing the formation of a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping former scammers transition into legitimate, sustainable work. Our goal is simple:

  • Employment Readiness – Providing training, mentorship, and access to platforms like Udemy so they can develop real-world skills.
  • Technology Access – Ensuring they have the basics—a laptop, reliable internet, and the tools to compete in the global economy.
  • Daily Support – Recognizing that even $3 a day for food and essentials can be the difference between falling back into scams and focusing on a new future.

We’re not excusing the harm scammers cause. But if even a handful can leave that world behind, it’s worth trying.

Real Stories, Real People

The ones we’re working with now aren’t faceless fraudsters anymore. They’re young men and women with families, with hopes for education, with a desire for dignity through honest work. Their choice to admit the truth was a leap of courage. Our choice is to meet that courage with opportunity.

What’s Next

We’ll continue to expose scams and share warnings, but we’ll also share updates on this new nonprofit journey. For us, this isn’t just about catching the lies—it’s about writing a better ending.

Scammers aren’t born. They’re made by environments of scarcity and hopelessness. And if we can help even a few unmake that path, then maybe we can turn what started as deception into a story of hope.

How You Can Help

If you believe in this mission and want to be part of it, you can support us now with a donation. Please note: since our nonprofit status is still being established, your contribution will not yet be tax-deductible. Once the nonprofit paperwork is finalized, future donations will qualify for tax write-offs.

Your early support will directly provide food, internet access, laptops, and training resources for the three people we are already working with—and help us expand to reach more.

--Wes & Dana Scully