RIP-OFF ALERT: File this one in the "News of the Weird" bin. An Internet-based virtual world called Second Life has spawned rip-off artists who scam users out of very real money. Second Life is a virtual community where you create a new you and live out a second identity in a digital world. Scammers got into Second Life and set up a virtual bank. But it's not real, right? Well, here's the rub: They got people to deposit real money with the promise of large returns. The Chicago Tribune reports the scammers made off with $75K.

This whole strange episode is an early warning signal that even in your play area on the 'Net there are people who aren't playing at all. Folks are more likely to let their guard down in Second Life. But this is no different than going on vacation and getting your wallet or camera stolen because you didn't safeguard it. Clark also says to be wary anytime you're promised huge returns; it could be a classic Ponzi scheme. Beware when words like "guaranteed" are thrown around. The only thing that's guaranteed is that your wallet will get burned. Meanwhile, the Better Business Bureau has put out an alert that's particularly timely: As people have financial hiccups because of the slowing economy, they're more likely to be susceptible to a variety of "Get Rich Quick" schemes. For example, Clark recently took 2 calls on currency exchange scams. Be sure to avoid this one.