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  • Geebo 8:32 am on October 2, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Moving Scams Surge This October 

    Moving Scams Surge This October

    By Greg Collier

    October is one of the busiest months of the year for residential moves, and consumer protection organizations are cautioning that the chaos of relocating often creates opportunities for scams. The process of packing, transporting, and resettling can be stressful and time-consuming, which makes it easier for fraudulent operators to take advantage of people at a vulnerable time.

    Reports from consumer complaint channels describe a range of deceptive practices. In some cases, individuals receive an initial estimate that changes once belongings are loaded onto a truck, leaving them pressured into paying more. Others have described paying a deposit to secure a moving date only to have the movers never arrive. Hidden fees and unexpected charges also appear frequently in scam reports.

    To reduce the risk of being defrauded, consumer advocates emphasize the importance of thoroughly researching moving companies before signing a contract. Official resources such as the Better Business Bureau website allow people to review company ratings and read past experiences from other customers. Checking whether a company is properly licensed and insured is also a key step, particularly for interstate moves that require registration with federal regulators.

    Certain warning signs can indicate that a moving business may not be legitimate. A quote that appears unusually low, a lack of a physical address, missing registration or insurance information, and websites riddled with poor grammar are potential indicators of trouble. Movers who arrive in unmarked rental trucks or those who discourage written contracts also raise concern.

    In addition to spotting red flags, there are proactive measures that can help protect both possessions and finances. Securing everything in writing, including quotes and terms, reduces the risk of unexpected charges. Reliable movers typically provide written documentation of services and estimates based on the weight of belongings. Insurance coverage is also important, as standard policies may not fully cover high-value items unless additional protection is purchased.

    Safeguarding valuables is another crucial step. Important documents, jewelry, cash, and personal mementos should not travel with movers but should instead remain with the owner or be shipped separately with tracking and insurance. Maintaining a detailed inventory of belongings, labeling boxes, and noting contents helps track items during transit.

    Beyond financial loss, moving scams can also place individuals at risk of identity theft. Fraudulent operators may request Social Security numbers, banking information, or photocopies of identification under the pretense of processing insurance or confirming a reservation. Once this data is in the wrong hands, it can be used long after the move to open accounts, commit fraud, or cause lasting damage to a person’s financial security. Consumers are advised to be extremely cautious about what personal information they provide to moving companies and to question any requests that seem unnecessary for the transaction.

    When moving across state lines, consumers should verify a company’s federal identification number through the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These checks provide reassurance that the mover has met regulatory requirements and can be held accountable if issues arise.

    As moving season peaks, the reminder is clear. Taking the time to investigate, document, and safeguard can prevent costly and stressful outcomes when entrusting personal belongings to a moving service.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on October 1, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fall Scams Target Homeowners 

    By Greg Collier

    As Fall arrives across cold-weather regions of the United States, consumer protection organizations are warning homeowners to be cautious of scams that often surface during seasonal transitions. When households begin shifting from air conditioning to heating, services such as furnace tune-ups and home repairs grow in demand, creating an opportunity for fraudulent operators to exploit unsuspecting residents.

    Common schemes involve contractors who appear unannounced and insist that immediate work is needed. They may claim to have leftover materials from a nearby project, offer unusually low prices, or request cash-only payments. Some scammers target essential systems such as furnaces, chimneys, and ductwork, often using aggressive sales tactics to pressure homeowners into unnecessary or overpriced repairs. In some cases, supposed energy audits or gutter cleanings are used as a pretext to gain access to the property, with the quality of the work ranging from poor to nonexistent.

    The methods used by these operators are consistent across regions. They tend to appear without prior contact, emphasize urgent repairs after only a brief inspection, and make verbal promises of guarantees that are never honored. The combination of seasonal urgency and the vulnerability of older or less mobile homeowners makes these scams particularly effective.

    There are warning signs homeowners can watch for when approached by unsolicited contractors. High-pressure tactics to begin work immediately, vague or incomplete written agreements, or requests for cash-only transactions should all raise concerns. A legitimate professional will provide clear contact information, references, and a written contract that outlines the scope and cost of the project. Another common red flag is when a contractor insists on a full upfront payment before any work has begun.

    If someone suspects they have been targeted, it is important to avoid further interaction and document any communication. Residents should never feel obligated to allow a stranger into their home or yard without prior verification. Contacting local consumer protection offices or the Better Business Bureau can help determine if the individual or company has a history of complaints. Law enforcement may also be notified if there is evidence of fraud or theft.

    Consumer protection agencies encourage residents to take preventive measures before committing to any work. Recommendations include verifying contractors through trusted directories, checking online reviews, and confirming licensing and references. Written contracts are essential, particularly for projects over a certain cost threshold, as they provide legal protections if disputes arise. Payments should be tied to the completion of work rather than upfront promises.

    While the colder months naturally bring greater attention to heating systems and weather-related maintenance, vigilance remains the best safeguard against fraud. By approaching unsolicited offers with caution and conducting thorough checks before hiring, homeowners across northern and midwestern states can reduce their risk of falling victim to these seasonal schemes.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Tax Refund Text Scam Spreads Nationwide 

    Tax Refund Text Scam Spreads Nationwide

    By Greg Collier

    What began as a problem in just two states has since spread more widely, as residents across the country continue to report fraudulent text messages designed to steal financial information. State tax agencies are issuing alerts warning that these scams are evolving in both scale and sophistication, now targeting households in New York, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, and beyond.

    The messages often claim to come from state revenue departments and tell recipients that their refund request has been processed and approved. They then urge taxpayers to provide banking details, with some versions threatening permanent forfeiture of a refund if payment information is not submitted. Officials stress that legitimate state agencies do not request sensitive personal or financial information through unsolicited texts, emails, or phone calls.

    These fraudulent messages are structured to mimic the formal language of government communication. Some include references to tax statutes or deadlines, while others attempt to create urgency with warnings about penalties. Scammers rely on this sense of pressure to convince recipients to click links that lead to spoofed websites or to respond directly with private information. In some cases, even a simple reply can help scammers bypass basic security safeguards on some mobile devices.

    Cybersecurity experts point out that these campaigns have shifted from their earlier focus on banks and retailers to government institutions. By impersonating state tax departments, attackers exploit the authority of trusted institutions. The result is a scam that is more difficult for many taxpayers to dismiss outright.

    Tax agencies across multiple regions are advising residents to exercise caution. Suspicious messages should not be clicked or answered. Verification should be sought only through official state channels, such as tax department websites or phone lines. The broader pattern of these scams reflects the adaptability of cybercriminals and the need for continued public awareness, particularly during tax season when individuals are more likely to be anticipating legitimate communication from government offices.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 29, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fake Collector Targets Old Loan Debt 

    Fake Collector Targets Old Loan Debt

    By Greg Collier

    A Kansas man recently lost $1,500 to a debt collection scam that relied on fabricated paperwork and a sense of urgency to convince the victim of its legitimacy. The case, reported by the Better Business Bureau, involved fraudulent claims of a decades-old loan.

    The scam began when the victim received emails suggesting that a loan of more than $13,000, dating back twenty years, remained unpaid. The sender presented themselves as both a courthouse official and a lawyer, weaving together an appearance of authority. Within days, the victim was persuaded to hand over banking information under what was described as a settlement arrangement.

    The scheme was bolstered with documents designed to look authentic. These included official-looking logos and even a notary stamp, elements carefully chosen to create the illusion of legitimacy. The scammers also attempted to reframe the payment demand as a bargain, falsely claiming that the debt had doubled and the requested amount was a reduced figure.

    Targeting such an old debt is a tactic commonly used to create intimidation and confusion. Many consumers are uncertain about financial records from decades past, and scammers rely on that uncertainty to discourage verification. In reality, even legitimate debts of that age are often considered time-barred and are no longer legally enforceable.

    The damage in this case extended beyond the immediate financial loss. By handing over banking information, the victim exposed themselves to possible identity theft, which can lead to new fraudulent charges and long-term risks beyond the original payment.

    Eventually, the target became wary and researched the organizations involved. This led to the discovery that the businesses had no verifiable addresses, confirming the suspicion that the collection attempt was fraudulent.

    The Better Business Bureau has warned that such scams are effective because they exploit both fear and confusion. Consumers are advised to be cautious when contacted about old debts and to request written validation before engaging. Researching the credibility of any collection agency and refusing to share sensitive financial details under pressure are vital steps in avoiding similar schemes.

    This case is part of a broader pattern of fraud in which criminals pose as figures of authority and attempt to frighten victims into fast decisions. Just as with fake tax collection calls or phishing emails that mimic banks and government agencies, the strategy depends on creating panic and preventing careful verification. Recognizing these patterns can help consumers respond with caution and avoid becoming the next target.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 26, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Cloud Boost Scam Exposed 

    By Greg Collier

    Residents of the Coastal Bend area of Texas are increasingly reporting losses to a fraudulent scheme known as “Cloud Boost.” The operation presents itself as a social media engagement program that rewards users for watching videos and boosting posts. In reality, victims are left defrauded of thousands of dollars.

    The scam often begins innocently, with participants introduced by friends or acquaintances who believe the opportunity to be legitimate. Initial investments can appear profitable, as some individuals are able to withdraw small sums in the beginning. This tactic builds trust and encourages further deposits. Once victims commit larger amounts of money, however, their withdrawals are blocked, and communication with the platform turns deceptive.

    The Better Business Bureau has documented numerous patterns in how the scam operates. Participants are first given simple tasks on platforms such as liking or subscribing to videos. They are then pressured to purchase increasingly expensive “packages” in order to progress and unlock higher earnings. When attempting to cash out, victims are often told they must pay additional fees for processing or taxes, but the money never arrives. Scammers may also migrate users to new platforms under different names, promising resolution that never materializes. Recruitment of friends and family is encouraged, giving the scheme the appearance of a pyramid structure. To appear credible, the perpetrators have even falsely claimed affiliations with major technology companies.

    Schemes such as Cloud Boost also highlight how economic pressures are often leveraged by fraudsters. Many victims are motivated by the promise of fast cash to cover urgent expenses, which can make the opportunity appear especially appealing. Once funds are transferred, recovery is rarely possible because most transactions are funneled through cryptocurrency. The use of digital currency allows scammers to remain anonymous and makes tracing or reclaiming the money nearly impossible, leaving victims with financial and emotional losses that extend far beyond the initial investment.

    Some victims described promises of bonuses such as weekly pay, laptops, or even reimbursement for family meals. All communication takes place through online messaging channels, which helps the scammers maintain a sense of legitimacy by mimicking remote workplace practices. Ultimately, individuals have reported losing tens of thousands of dollars, believing for weeks or months that they were participating in a genuine work-from-home opportunity.

    Cloud Boost is another variation of so-called task scams, which lure people with the idea of quick payouts for minimal effort. These schemes exploit the trust of individuals who believe they are performing legitimate online work. Readers are reminded that a genuine employer will never require payment to begin a job, and any request for upfront fees should be seen as a serious warning sign.

    The Better Business Bureau urges caution to anyone approached with similar offers. Victims are advised to cease all contact with the operators, report the fraud to authorities, and warn others to prevent further harm.

    The rise of Cloud Boost shows how modern scams exploit the growing popularity of gig-style work and online engagement. By blending elements of social media marketing, remote employment, and cryptocurrency, these schemes create the appearance of opportunity while leaving participants with significant financial losses. The key lesson remains that if an investment promises easy profits for minimal effort, it is likely too good to be true.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 25, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Police Tragedies Used in Scam Drives 

    Police Tragedies Used in Scam Drives

    By Greg Collier

    In the aftermath of tragedy, communities often come together to grieve, to remember, and to offer support. Unfortunately, those same moments of collective sorrow also attract opportunists who see vulnerability as a means to profit. Recent incidents have highlighted how quickly fraudulent fundraising efforts can appear following deaths and other high-profile events, preying on the generosity of people who only want to help.

    Authorities in Pennsylvania recently warned residents to be cautious when donating to causes linked to three law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty and two others who were injured. Officials noted that scammers often seize on the public’s compassion, creating false donation drives designed to funnel money away from those truly affected. In this case, people were urged to verify the legitimacy of any fundraising effort by checking official channels such as police department pages or recognized associations before making a contribution. The advice reflects a broader pattern that has repeated itself in tragedies across the country.

    In New Orleans, the family of a local police officer who died recently discovered a fake crowdfunding page created in his name. The fundraiser was not authorized by the family, yet it began soliciting money from strangers who believed they were providing comfort and support. While the platform ultimately removed the campaign and refunded donors, the incident underscores how quickly such scams can materialize. The creation of the page occurred within days of the officer’s death, illustrating how scammers monitor news of loss and act immediately to exploit it.

    These cases are not isolated. Fraudulent fundraisers have followed natural disasters, mass shootings, and individual tragedies alike. The speed with which they emerge shows that scammers rely on the urgency of public sympathy and the limited time people often spend verifying details. In many cases, the organizers of these schemes never have access to funds if platforms intervene in time, but the emotional toll and confusion created in the process cannot be undone. Families already in mourning are forced to spend their time issuing warnings and clarifications instead of focusing on healing.

    Tragedies should never be treated as opportunities for profit, yet criminals repeatedly exploit the instinct to give. Donors can protect themselves by pausing before clicking on links, particularly those shared through private messages or social media comments, and by taking the time to research where a fundraiser originated. Visiting the websites or pages of local agencies, police departments, or recognized charitable organizations provides a clearer picture of which efforts are legitimate. Even a quick search to see if a campaign has been acknowledged by trusted institutions can make the difference between helping a family in need and lining the pockets of someone with bad intentions.

    Anyone who suspects they have been targeted by a fraudulent fundraiser can report the incident to their state’s consumer protection office or directly to the fundraising platform where the campaign appeared. In Pennsylvania, the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection provides an online complaint system and a phone line for victims of scams. In other states, similar agencies can be contacted to investigate deceptive practices. Taking the step to report suspicious activity not only protects individual donors but also helps prevent others from being misled.

     

  • Geebo 9:12 am on September 24, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    BBB Flags Surge in Job Offer Scams 

    BBB Flags Surge in Job Offer Scams

    By Greg Collier

    The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau is warning job seekers about a surge in fraudulent employment offers impersonating well-known companies. According to reports collected through the BBB Scam Tracker, individuals have been contacted by people claiming to be human resources representatives from companies such as Amazon and others. These offers often appear genuine because the scammers adopt personal-sounding names and reference real businesses.

    The approach usually begins with a message suggesting that a resume was discovered online. Recipients are encouraged to continue the application process through WhatsApp, where a staged interview may be conducted. After positive feedback, the applicant is sent an official-looking contract and is asked to provide personal information such as a home address, date of birth, and banking details under the pretense of setting up payroll systems. This information can then be used for identity theft.

    Some variations of the scheme go further by involving a supposed training manager. In these cases, the victim is sent a counterfeit check for office equipment and told to return part of the funds after making a deposit. Because the check is not valid, any money returned to the scammers becomes a direct loss.

    One of the strongest warning signs in these schemes is when the supposed recruiter insists on moving the conversation to WhatsApp. In the United States, most legitimate companies conduct hiring through official websites, business email accounts, or platforms like LinkedIn. WhatsApp is not widely used as a primary communication tool for hiring in the U.S., unlike in many countries overseas where it is a dominant messaging service. That cultural difference makes the request unusual for American job seekers, and scammers exploit that unfamiliarity to lure victims into a less formal, harder-to-trace setting.

    The BBB advises job seekers to carefully research employment opportunities before sharing sensitive information. Checking company websites directly and looking for existing warnings online can help verify the legitimacy of offers. The organization also emphasizes that legitimate employers will not send money upfront to new hires or request that funds be sent back.

    With the rise of remote work and online recruiting, these scams have become increasingly sophisticated. The BBB continues to encourage vigilance and reminds job seekers that promises of easy hiring and high pay with little interaction should be treated as warning signs.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 23, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    FBI Warns of Website Imposters 

    FBI Warns of Website Imposters

    By Greg Collier

    The FBI has issued a warning about a troubling new scheme that targets people who have already been defrauded online. The agency’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, commonly known as IC3, is the official government channel where victims are directed to report internet crimes. Fraudulent actors are now creating convincing copies of the legitimate website in order to collect sensitive details from unsuspecting users.

    These fake websites are designed to look authentic, often by making slight alterations to the legitimate domain name. Once a victim enters personal information such as a home address, banking details, or contact information, the data can be exploited for further financial theft or identity fraud. Because many victims reach out to IC3 in moments of urgency, the risk of falling prey to one of these counterfeit websites is heightened.

    The FBI is advising members of the public to always type http://www.ic3.gov directly into their browser rather than relying on search engine results, where fraudulent sites are more likely to appear. It is also critical to confirm that the website address ends in .gov, since this is reserved for official U.S. government pages. The legitimate IC3 website will never request payment in exchange for recovering lost funds, nor will it direct anyone to a company that demands such payment.

    The agency also reminds the public that IC3 has no social media presence, meaning any account claiming to represent the service should be treated as suspicious. Anyone who believes they have interacted with a spoofed version of the site should immediately contact their local FBI field office or submit a report through the actual IC3 website.

    This development underscores the psychological toll of online fraud. Criminals are targeting individuals who are already vulnerable and may be desperate for help, exploiting their sense of urgency to make them more likely to overlook red flags. Falling victim a second time can deepen both the financial and emotional damage, eroding trust in legitimate institutions that exist to provide assistance.

    The warning also fits into a broader trend of spoofed government websites being used as bait. Fraudulent versions of sites for the IRS, Social Security, and passport services have been reported in recent years, showing that cybercriminals are consistently exploiting public reliance on official resources. The FBI’s alert is a reminder that caution and verification are essential whenever sharing information online, especially when dealing with government portals.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 22, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Impersonating the Law for Profit 

    By Greg Collier

    An alarming case unfolded in Clay County, Kentucky, when an individual from Ohio was taken into custody on charges of fraud and impersonating law enforcement. Authorities reported that the suspect contacted a local woman on September 17, claiming she was facing criminal charges and demanding money.

    The situation escalated while the victim was in contact with the sheriff’s office. A deputy overheard a man instructing her over the phone to return home, wait until no one else was present, and expect him to arrive. Later that same day, the suspect appeared at her residence, where he was confronted by family members before fleeing.

    Deputies located him shortly afterward, and the vehicle he was driving had been marked to resemble an unmarked police car, which added to the ruse. Authorities also learned from the victim’s son that money had already been taken.

    This case underscores the dangers posed by impersonation scams that target vulnerable individuals in moments of fear and confusion. The outcome in this instance may have been far worse if the woman had been alone when he arrived at her home. Who knows what could have happened if she had faced him without the protection of her family?

    Across the United States, fraud involving impersonation has been rising sharply. Reports to enforcement agencies show that scams impersonating government officials or law enforcement occur frequently and cost victims large sums. Older adults have lost tens of millions of dollars in recent years to schemes in which fraudsters pretend to represent trusted institutions and demand payment under threat of legal action. These schemes are growing more sophisticated. Tactics now often involve spoofed caller ID information so that the fraudster’s number appears to be that of a legitimate agency. Communications by email or text also have increased as means of initiating contact. The tools available to criminals, including those that replicate voices or identities via artificial intelligence, raise the stakes for unsuspecting victims.

    When responding to suspicious contacts, keep in mind that real law enforcement will never demand immediate payment via wire transfer or gift cards. Nor will they instruct someone to wait until no one else is present so an officer can come by without proper verification. It is advisable to remain calm, hang up, and reach out directly to the agency in question using a trusted phone number or website. Personal information should not be shared with unverified callers. Verification of identification is also crucial, whether the request is by phone, in person, or by electronic communication.

    This incident offers a clear example of how impersonation scams can escalate if not interrupted. It also offers lessons about what protective measures individuals may take to avoid becoming victims.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 19, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Lottery Winner Texts Are a Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    A new wave of fraudulent text messages has been reported in North Carolina and across the country, with scammers posing as generous lottery winners offering to share their supposed jackpot fortunes. The Federal Trade Commission warns that these messages are not legitimate and advises consumers to exercise caution when receiving such unexpected communications.

    One example circulating now claims that the recipient has been chosen at random to receive one million dollars in cash and a new car. The message explains that the selection was made by an automated system and provides a number to contact a so-called managing director with a special claimant code. When reporters attempted to follow the instructions, the call could not be completed, but the text line produced a swift response. Soon after, the sender requested detailed personal information, including name, address, marital status, occupation, age, income, and even a photograph.

    To test the claim further, reporters tried to initiate a video call, but the call went unanswered. Instead, another message arrived from a foreign number containing a picture of a duffel bag stuffed with cash. The elaborate performance only underscored the deceptive intent.

    According to the Better Business Bureau, the very nature of unsolicited text messages promising money is an immediate red flag. Experts emphasize that responding only confirms to scammers that a real person is at the other end, which encourages them to continue targeting the victim. The goal is almost always to obtain enough personal information to commit identity fraud or to manipulate the target into paying money under false pretenses.

    The Federal Trade Commission stresses the importance of deleting and reporting these texts rather than engaging. Responding can expose recipients to identity theft or malware, especially if links are clicked. Scammers are adept at creating a sense of urgency and legitimacy, but regulators urge people to verify any extraordinary claim through trusted channels rather than through the contact information provided in suspicious messages.

    This type of fraud is not rare. The FTC estimates that Americans lose tens of millions of dollars every year to prize and sweepstakes scams, with older adults among the most frequent targets. The tactics vary, but the pitch is nearly always the same. A promise of sudden wealth, accompanied by requests for personal details or money. A critical fact to keep in mind is that legitimate lottery organizations do not notify winners by text message or through social media, and they do not ask for photographs, income details, or banking information in order to release winnings.

    For anyone who has already replied to one of these messages, experts recommend taking immediate steps to protect personal security. This can include contacting your mobile carrier to block further messages, checking your credit report for unusual activity, and notifying your bank if financial details were shared. It may also be wise to change passwords associated with accounts that could be linked to the information provided. Even if no money was lost, reporting the interaction to the FTC and the BBB helps create a clearer picture of the scam’s reach and may prevent others from becoming victims.

    While these scams are persistent, their effectiveness lies in exploiting the universal hope of financial relief and good fortune. By mimicking the thrill of winning, criminals draw people into sharing information or parting with money. Recognizing the warning signs and taking quick protective measures can turn a potential loss into an important lesson. The safest response remains simple. Treat unexpected lottery offers not as opportunities, but as clear warnings to protect yourself and your information.

     

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