I think that's where I must have heard it then. Though I am sure it must be inspired from a real scam, like most books/scenarios.

The scheme is found at an earlier date in a novel by Jerzy Kosinski. I believe it's in his book called "Steps" (1968), however I forget exactly which work it's in.

The scam seems to be well known. I presume it happened sometime.

Also included in the movie Snatch. Big black dildos were used...