The "Who's Who in America" scam involves fraudulent schemes where scammers exploit the reputable name of the legitimate "Who's Who in America" directory—a respected publication recognizing notable Americans—to trick people into paying for inclusion or merchandise that holds little or no real value. Background:

• The authentic "Who's Who in America" was founded in 1898 by Albert Nelson Marquis and is considered a legitimate chronicle of influential Americans.
• However, the term "Who's Who" is in the public domain, allowing anyone to create directories or listings under that name, which has led to many scams.

How the Scam Works:

• Scammers contact individuals, often by email, phone, or mail, claiming they have been selected for inclusion in a prestigious "Who's Who" directory.
• They then request payment for inclusion, books, certificates, or plaques, often using high-pressure tactics.
• The products sent are usually low quality and have no real recognition or benefit.
• Genuine recognition from the legitimate publication does not require any payment or purchase.

Red Flags and Prevention:

• Unsolicited messages from people claiming to represent "Who's Who in America" asking for fees are suspicious.
• Legitimate listings do not require payment.
• If asked for money or personal information, it is likely a scam.
• Checking the official "Who's Who in America" website and verifying inclusion can help avoid falling victim.
• Reporting suspected scams to authorities like the FTC or Better Business Bureau is advised.

Notable Case:

• Mara Ficarra, a Long Island woman, was involved in a $1.5 million fraud scheme from 2013 to 2018 targeting elderly individuals with a scam reminiscent of "Who's Who" directory fraud. She avoided jail time but has yet to fully reimburse victims

In summary, while "Who's Who in America" is a legitimate publication, many scams use its name to defraud people by charging for worthless recognition or merchandise. Vigilance and verification are key to avoiding these scams