Scams have become a constant part of life. In a world full of distrust, how can we know what is real?

‘I had been looking for gold trainers for months and finally found them on a second-hand retail site,’ writes Brigid Delaney. ‘But my pleasure faded as I tried to cross Old South Head Road.’ Photograph: mirror-images/Getty Images

My day started with exciting news. It was a long and gushing email from popular Australian breakfast radio show host Sally Sara saying she was following up on a previous conversation (huh? wot?) and would love to interview me about my 2009 book, This Restless Life, on her program.

“I remain genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to feature your work and to welcome you to an upcoming author conversation. I believe your insights and experience would make for a thoughtful and engaging discussion, and I would be delighted to work with you to create an enjoyable experience for both you and our audience,” she wrote.