Yesterday, I warned you that the “Many Happy Returns" email campaign had set off my scam-alert alarm bells. It was a false alarm.
In short, I received a suspicious-looking email that appeared to come from Vanguard's PR department touting a new toolkit for climate-conscious investors. Even before Vanguard confirmed that the communications were fake and had "no affiliation with Vanguard," I suspected the email (and website) was a scam designed to get my Vanguard login information.
When on the internet, I’m always on guard for fraudsters. When I come across any email or website that doesn’t pass the smell test, well, I typically run first and ask questions later. (You should do the same.)
It turns out that Many Happy Returns isn't a scam. But, if it isn't a scam, what is it?