[inconceivable]

you need to think one level deeper. are we sure we're not being scammed?

the amount of people willing to send complete strangers money over the internet is mind-blowing. check out /r/scams, and be amazed.

[phanimahesh]

I know the internet is not a good place to be naive, but I find being overly cynical is not a good state of mind to be in - for me. I ocassionally override the "maybe scam" siren in my head if the help I provide is a small amount or non financial.

I can afford to give away the cost of a meal at a restaurant or other small equivalent once in a while without it making a material difference to my own finances.

Always be wary of giving away money, but sometimes a little money is the best help that can be provided.