The Case of the Serial Borrower: How One Employee Outsmarted the Office Scammer
If you’ve ever worked in an office, you know there’s always that coworker—the one who’s a little too loud, a little too nosy, and a lot too eager to ask for “just a little” favor. But what happens when that favor-asking coworker turns out to be a serial scammer, targeting every unsuspecting new hire with schemes straight from a sitcom? In today’s tale from Reddit’s r/PettyRevenge, one clever employee decided enough was enough… and delivered a masterclass in subtle payback.
Let’s set the scene: a cubicle farm, a wedding guest dress, and a woman with more excuses than a high schooler on exam day. Buckle up for a story of petty vengeance that’s as satisfying as it is hilarious.
Meet Lori: The Office’s Queen of Chaos
Our story’s hero—let’s call her Tracy, after the Reddit author—had barely settled into her new office when she met Lori. Lori was the kind of coworker who could spot a new face from a mile away, and her “friendly” visits were as regular as the 9 a.m. coffee run. But Lori’s real specialty wasn’t chit-chat; it was borrowing money with the tenacity of a door-to-door vacuum salesman and the repayment habits of a goldfish.
It wasn’t long before Tracy heard the whispers: Lori owed everyone money. She had unpaid debts to coworkers, was dodging small claims court judgments, and had stiffed both the Avon and Pampered Chef reps (which, in the world of office politics, is practically a federal offense). Her other signature move? Selling phantom box lunches for a “friend’s fundraiser,” then conveniently disappearing with both the cash and half the lunches.
The Dress Dilemma: Lori’s Latest Cap
Enter the wedding guest dress. Tracy was innocently browsing online for something to wear, when in swooped Lori, eyes sparkling with opportunity. She “ooh’d” and “ahh’d,” then returned with a brilliant scheme: “If you buy a dress for yourself and one for me, you’ll get free shipping! I’ll pay you back—payday is just around the corner!”
Now, Tracy had already heard the tales. She knew Lori’s “I’ll pay you Tuesday for a dress I want to wear today” routine. So, she decided to play along—but with a twist.
Reverse Uno: Playing the Scammer at Her Own Game
Instead of placing the order, Tracy did… nothing. She let Lori believe the dresses were en route, all while Lori tried every trick in the book to stall repayment and accelerate delivery. There were excuses, negotiations, and a desperate plea for “just a few more days.”
When the imaginary delivery date rolled around, Tracy calmly told Lori the dresses would arrive by the weekend and she’d need her money by then. Lori, realizing she was outmaneuvered, tried to wriggle out of it, but Tracy held firm. Finally, she dropped the coup de grâce: “Oh, I sent both dresses back. I found something better at the mall.”
And just like that, the spell was broken. Lori slunk back to her own desk, leaving Tracy—and her wallet—blissfully unbothered.
Why This Petty Revenge Worked So Well
What makes this story so delicious? First, Tracy didn’t just avoid being scammed; she gave Lori a taste of her own medicine, minus any real harm. There was no confrontation, no HR drama, and no cash lost. Instead, Lori’s own tactics were turned against her, exposing her scheming ways and making Tracy immune to further “favors.”
It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best revenge is simply not playing the game. Tracy’s patience and strategic “non-action” sent a clear message: Not today, scammer.
The Aftermath: Karma in Cubicle Land
Lori, perhaps sensing her days of easy marks were over, kept her distance from that day on. Eventually, her performance (and reputation) caught up with her, and she was transferred out. The office breathed a little easier, and Tracy had earned a quiet badge of honor in the eternal war against workplace nonsense.
The Takeaway: How to Spot (and Outsmart) a Workplace Scammer
Lori isn’t unique—every office has at least one. Here’s what Tracy’s story can teach us:
- Listen to the office veterans. If multiple coworkers warn you about someone, pay attention.
- Don’t be afraid to say no. It’s easier than undoing a scam.
- Outsmart, don’t out-shout. Sometimes, a little patience and a poker face is all you need.
Have you ever dealt with a Lori? Got your own tale of petty revenge or office drama? Share your story in the comments—and remember, sometimes the best way to win is not to play.
What’s your best (or worst) experience with a coworker scammer? Let’s get some office therapy going below!
Original Reddit Post: I’ll pay you Tuesday for a dress I want to wear today