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  • Geebo 12:02 pm on July 11, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Target Texas Flood Victims 

    By Greg Collier

    The recent floods in Central Texas have left behind a trail of destruction and heartbreak. With more than 100 lives lost, including several children at a summer camp, communities are now faced with the long and difficult road to recovery. As families grieve and begin rebuilding, authorities are urging residents to be vigilant against opportunistic scams that often follow in the wake of natural disasters.

    One major concern involves individuals posing as contractors offering to repair flood-damaged homes. These scammers frequently approach victims by phone, email, mail, or even door-to-door. They may demand payment upfront and then disappear without completing any work. Others may perform substandard repairs or use unlicensed labor, leaving homeowners in worse shape than before. Officials have also warned that during a disaster declaration, price gouging laws are in effect, and vendors are not permitted to charge excessive prices for basic goods and services.

    Another area of concern involves fraud related to FEMA. While the agency’s current role in disaster relief may be subject to change, fraudsters have historically used its name to gain access to victims’ personal information. Scammers may call, email, or visit flood victims pretending to be FEMA officials. They often ask for Social Security numbers, banking details, or other sensitive information under the guise of offering aid. It is important to remember that filing a FEMA claim is always free. Anyone who asks for payment to file or expedite a FEMA application is not legitimate.

    Charity scams are also a growing threat. After any disaster, fraudulent organizations often emerge, claiming to raise money for relief efforts. These fake charities may use emotional appeals and professional-looking websites to appear legitimate. In some cases, scammers have targeted the families of victims directly, falsely claiming to have information about missing loved ones in order to extort money. Others may solicit donations through crowdfunding platforms without any real connection to those affected by the disaster.

    Authorities have emphasized the importance of verifying the legitimacy of any organization before donating. If a group is not a registered nonprofit with tax-exempt status, donations may not be deductible and could ultimately end up in the hands of bad actors. Consumers are advised to rely on well-established resources such as the Better Business Bureau, GuideStar, and Charity Navigator to confirm whether an organization is a recognized nonprofit. These platforms provide public records, ratings, and financial details to help donors make informed decisions.

    In a time of widespread loss, generosity can make a meaningful difference. But staying informed and cautious can help ensure that support reaches those who truly need it and prevents further harm in the aftermath of an already devastating event.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 10, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Task Scam Jobs Are on the Rise 

    By Greg Collier

    In a time when finding stable work can be difficult, scammers are increasingly preying on job seekers with offers that appear too good to be true. According to the Federal Trade Commission, deceptive job offers that involve so-called “gamified tasks” or “product boosting” schemes have become a major concern. These scams often appear through unexpected messages via text or instant messaging, and they are designed to manipulate and exploit people who are simply trying to earn a living.

    The scam typically starts with a message from someone posing as a recruiter. They may offer what sounds like an easy online job with good pay for clicking on links, liking videos, or rating product images. The supposed employer may use praise to build trust and make the opportunity feel legitimate. What follows is a carefully constructed illusion. As the victim completes these tasks, they see what appears to be growing earnings inside a platform or app. However, those numbers are fake. Eventually, the individual is asked to deposit their own money, usually in cryptocurrency, to unlock further tasks or to withdraw their earnings. That money is never returned, and the earnings are never real.

    Those especially vulnerable include individuals new to the workforce, those returning after long absences, and immigrants who may be unfamiliar with local hiring practices. The promise of remote work, immediate start dates, and simple tasks can be appealing, especially in a climate of financial uncertainty. Some may overlook their doubts in the hope of finally finding an income stream.

    While these scams exploit digital tools and apps, the core manipulation remains old-fashioned. They rely on trust, urgency, and desperation. Authorities recommend caution when approached with unsolicited job offers and warn against any role that requires upfront payment to access tasks or earnings. Though the scams may be dressed up in modern platforms and buzzwords, the outcome remains the same. Victims lose real money while chasing phantom wages.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 9, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , ramp and dump,   

    Beware the Ramp-and-Dump Investment Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation is warning the public about a growing online scam known as the “ramp-and-dump.” This scheme involves criminals manipulating stock prices through social media engagement and messaging apps, often targeting retail investors across the United States.

    The scam starts with seemingly innocent social media ads or unsolicited messages promoting so-called investment clubs. These clubs, which may include fake profiles or bots, are designed to lure individuals into private conversations on secure messaging platforms. Within these groups, scammers pose as legitimate brokers or financial analysts to build trust and push specific stocks.

    The mechanics of the scam are simple but effective. The perpetrators secretly hold large amounts of a low-cost stock. They then encourage group members to buy into that stock, gradually driving up its price. Once the price has risen enough, the scammers sell their shares for a profit, causing the stock’s value to crash and leaving unsuspecting victims with significant losses.

    This type of fraud closely resembles the pig butchering scam. Both involve establishing a false sense of community or connection before financially exploiting the victim. In pig butchering, this often takes the form of a fake romantic or friendly relationship. In ramp-and-dump scams, the manipulation happens under the guise of financial collaboration and shared investment opportunities.

    According to the FBI, there has already been a sharp increase in complaints related to ramp-and-dump scams this year. Many victims were initially contacted through messages that appeared accidental or casual, only to be drawn into more elaborate schemes once trust was established. The fraud often includes promises of high returns, urgent calls to action, and false assurances meant to reduce suspicion.

    The FBI warns that any request for personal or financial information under the pretense of investment should be treated with caution. Scammers may use that information to open fraudulent accounts or launder money through unsuspecting individuals.

    Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to this scam is encouraged to report it through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 8, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , heat wave, , , ,   

    Scammers Use Heat to Fake Shutoffs 

    By Greg Collier

    As temperatures rise across the country, so do the efforts of scammers looking to exploit the summer heat. One power company in West Virginia has issued a warning after receiving reports of fraudulent calls and visits designed to intimidate or deceive residents into paying fake utility bills.

    These scams typically involve callers who use high-pressure tactics, including threats of immediate disconnection, to scare individuals into sending money. In many cases, they ask for payment through prepaid cards, gift cards, or digital methods that are difficult to trace. Some schemes go even further by offering fake deals to reduce electricity bills through solar panel installation.

    The fraudulent activity is not limited to one region. Similar scams have been reported nationwide, often targeting seniors, those whose first language is not English, and small business owners during peak hours. Scammers may impersonate utility employees over the phone or in person, but legitimate providers will never demand immediate payment or collect money at your door.

    It is also important to note that in many areas, laws or regulations prohibit utility shutoffs during extreme weather. Some states have protections in place that prevent disconnections during periods of intense heat or cold. Individuals should check with their local government or electricity provider to understand their rights and available safeguards.

    If you receive a call threatening to disconnect your power unless you pay immediately, the safest response is to hang up and contact your utility provider directly using a verified phone number. Never provide personal or financial information to unknown callers.

    Suspicious encounters should be reported to your power provider and local authorities. Awareness and verification remain your best defense against these deceptive practices.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 7, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Tricked by a Fake Work-From-Home Job 

    Tricked by a Fake Work-From-Home Job

    By Greg Collier

    Work-from-home opportunities can be a lifeline for people who cannot take on traditional employment. The flexibility to earn an income without commuting or meeting rigid schedules has opened new doors for many, especially older adults or those with disabilities. However, this growing market has also become a playground for scammers who exploit that flexibility for their own gain.

    A Houston resident recently learned this the hard way. After being hired to inspect and repackage what appeared to be Amazon shipments, she was promised nearly three thousand dollars in compensation, plus a small bonus for each package she handled. She worked diligently for months, expecting her payday to arrive soon. Instead, the company that hired her simply disappeared, leaving her unpaid and in financial jeopardy.

    The job, as it turns out, was not legitimate. Authorities believe it was part of a “reshipping scam” in which scammers use unsuspecting workers to move goods that were likely obtained through fraudulent means. The purpose is to create layers of shipping activity to conceal the origin of the merchandise. Once the job is done, the fraudulent company vanishes, and the worker is left empty-handed.

    There are few legal remedies in cases like this. Because the business was never real to begin with, there is often no way to pursue back pay or damages. The only real protection lies in awareness and prevention.

    Scams like this highlight the need for caution when applying for remote jobs. Some signs that a work-from-home offer may not be genuine include excessive promises of high pay, a lack of any interview or verification process, or requests for money upfront. Jobs that expect significant work to be completed before issuing any payment also deserve extra scrutiny.

    The loss suffered in this case is more than just financial. The emotional toll of being deceived after months of labor is real and profound. While there may be no way to recover what was lost, stories like this serve as a warning to others navigating the often murky world of online employment.

    Remote work can be legitimate and rewarding. But it requires due diligence. Before accepting any job, especially one that operates entirely online, it’s important to research the company, ask questions, and look for signs that the offer is too good to be true. The best protection against scams is a healthy dose of skepticism and a commitment to verify before committing.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , house arrest scam, , , ,   

    Fake Jail Release Scams Spreading 

    Fake Jail Release Scams Spreading

    By Greg Collier

    Authorities in multiple jurisdictions are alerting the public to a growing trend of scams that exploit families of recently arrested individuals. These schemes have been reported in both Jones County, Mississippi and Essex County, New Jersey, with scammers attempting to extract large sums of money by offering fraudulent release options.

    In Mississippi, the scam involves callers reaching out to relatives of inmates at the county’s adult detention facility. The callers claim the inmate can be released on house arrest in exchange for a payment. The requested amounts vary but have reportedly ranged from several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Payment is typically demanded through debit cards or digital cash transfer services.

    In New Jersey, a similar approach is being used, but with a different narrative. Scammers are posing as law enforcement officers or court personnel, contacting families and demanding bail payments through mobile apps such as Apple Pay or Zelle. One report indicated a victim sent thousands of dollars after being convinced the money was required to secure a loved one’s release.

    Officials have emphasized that these claims are entirely false. Under current legal frameworks, particularly in jurisdictions that have adopted criminal justice reforms, cash bail is often no longer required in the manner suggested by these scams. No legitimate release process involves unsolicited requests for money through digital platforms.

    Residents are advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious calls or messages. Families of incarcerated individuals are encouraged to verify any claims directly with the appropriate legal or correctional authorities before taking action.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 2, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , PHI, ,   

    Fake Health Investigators Target You 

    By Greg Collier

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a warning about a new wave of scams where cybercriminals impersonate health fraud investigators. As detailed in a report from Bleeping Computer, these schemes are designed to trick both patients and healthcare providers into surrendering sensitive data, including medical and financial records.

    According to a recent advisory from the agency, fraudsters are posing as legitimate health insurers or members of investigative teams. Victims are contacted through emails or text messages crafted to appear authentic. The goal is to pressure individuals into sharing protected health information or personal financial details. In some cases, the messages claim the recipient must provide reimbursements for supposed overpayments or services not covered by insurance.

    The messages typically mimic the language and branding of trusted healthcare entities, making them difficult to distinguish from genuine communications. Once the information is obtained, it can be used for a range of criminal activities, including identity theft and insurance fraud.

    Federal agencies recommend taking caution with any unsolicited messages requesting personal or medical information. They advise verifying the authenticity of such communications by contacting the insurer directly. Security experts also emphasize the importance of strong passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication to protect against account breaches.

    The healthcare sector remains a frequent target of these attacks. In a separate notice, the Department of Health and Human Services highlighted how attackers are using social engineering to exploit IT help desks at healthcare organizations. By gaining internal access, they can reroute financial transactions through business email compromise tactics, often with devastating results.

    As impersonation scams evolve, public awareness and vigilance remain key defenses. Verifying communications and safeguarding personal data can help prevent falling victim to schemes that increasingly blur the line between real and fake.

     

  • Geebo 8:26 am on July 1, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Brushing Scams Start at Your Door 

    Brushing Scams Start at Your Door

    By Greg Collier

    A surprise package on your doorstep may seem like a harmless fluke or a lucky mistake. But if you didn’t order it, it could be a warning sign that your personal information has fallen into the wrong hands.

    The U.S. Postal Service is raising awareness about a growing fraud known as a brushing scam. These scams involve third-party sellers sending unsolicited, low-cost items, such as socks, kitchen gadgets or trinkets, to real names and addresses. While the package itself might appear innocuous, its arrival often means that your name, address and possibly more sensitive data are already circulating among cybercriminals.

    At the heart of this scheme is a tactic used to game online retail platforms. After sending out items, the scammers leave positive reviews in the recipient’s name to boost the product’s visibility. This process creates fake but “verified” buyer accounts. It may start with a small item, but experts warn that brushing scams are rarely isolated incidents. The presence of such a package suggests that personal data may have been scraped, bought, or stolen from compromised databases.

    The concern doesn’t end with phony reviews. The misuse of your identity in this way can indicate a much broader security issue. Stolen data can be used to commit financial fraud, steal identities, impersonate users, or circumvent authentication protocols on secure accounts. With information like your full name, home address, and even phone number, scammers can initiate phishing campaigns, open unauthorized accounts or execute social engineering attacks.

    If you receive a package you did not order, it’s important to take it seriously. While there may not be an immediate financial loss, the presence of such a package can indicate that your personal information is at risk. It’s recommended to report the incident to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, monitor financial and retail accounts for irregularities, and take precautions such as changing passwords. Even if fraud hasn’t occurred yet, these steps can help prevent future harm.

    One important note is to avoid engaging with the package in any way. Scanning QR codes, leaving reviews, or attempting to return the item may confirm to the sender that your address is valid, potentially inviting further contact or exploitation. Some scammers may include counterfeit postage or links to malicious websites, further complicating matters.

    Treat any unexpected delivery with caution. A mystery box might seem like a minor curiosity, but it can be the first clue that your identity is being used without your knowledge. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a larger and more damaging scam.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Temu Review Job Offer Is a Scam 

    Temu Review Job Offer Is a Scam

    By Greg Collier

    A growing number of consumers are reporting suspicious text messages claiming to offer high-paying jobs for writing reviews on Temu. These messages often appear to come from unusual email addresses or fake recruiters claiming to work for familiar platforms like Indeed. The promised compensation ranges from hundreds to thousands of dollars for only minutes of work each day.

    These types of messages are part of a broader wave of text-based job scams that have been circulating for months. In many cases, the recipient has never applied for a job and may not even be actively seeking employment. Despite that, the message encourages recipients to respond, provide personal information, or click on embedded links. The goal of these scams is typically to steal money, commit identity fraud, or infect a device with malware.

    The supposed connection to Temu appears to be entirely fabricated. The company has acknowledged that scammers have falsely used its name in phishing attempts. As with other brands that gain rapid popularity, Temu has become a convenient reference point for fraudsters trying to seem legitimate.

    The safest response to these messages is to ignore them completely. Do not click any links or call the numbers listed in the message. Instead, consumers can report the messages by forwarding them to 7726, which stands for SPAM. After forwarding, a follow-up message will prompt the user to share the phone number or email that sent the original text. This helps authorities track the source and prevent further abuse.

    These scams are a reminder to remain cautious when receiving unsolicited job offers, especially ones promising fast money for minimal work. If a message seems too good to be true, it likely is.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 27, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Walmart Fined $10M Over Scam Transfers 

    Walmart Fined $10M Over Scam Transfers

    By Greg Collier

    When scammers aren’t asking for gift cards or precious metals, they’re often relying on money transfers. These services offer a fast, irreversible way to move cash, making them an attractive tool for fraud. One of the most accessible and widely used venues for money transfers in the United States is Walmart. Now, the retail giant has agreed to pay $10 million to settle charges brought by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over its handling of scam-related transfers.

    The FTC alleged that for years Walmart allowed its in-store money transfer services to be exploited by criminals. According to the agency, from 2013 to 2018, the company failed to enforce adequate anti-fraud policies and procedures. It also did not properly train staff or effectively warn customers about the risks associated with certain types of money transfers. These failures reportedly allowed scammers to take hundreds of millions of dollars from consumers, often in the context of impersonation schemes, bogus telemarketing offers, and fraudulent payments for nonexistent services or goods.

    Walmart acted as an agent for major transfer networks, including MoneyGram and Western Union, during the period in question. The FTC’s case pointed to a pattern of neglect that enabled widespread abuse. Though an amended complaint filed in 2023 expanded on these allegations, the Commission faced setbacks in court. A key telemarketing claim was dismissed twice, limiting the agency’s ability to seek broader consumer restitution. However, the resolution announced this month marks a partial victory, setting enforceable standards for future conduct.

    The final order, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, is designed to prevent similar problems going forward. Walmart is now prohibited from continuing money transfer operations without taking meaningful steps to detect and stop fraud. The company is also barred from facilitating or supporting telemarketers who use these transfers to extract upfront payments or who solicit money under deceptive pretenses.

    The $10 million settlement is relatively small compared to the scale of the alleged fraud, but it underscores the importance of corporate responsibility in the financial services sector. Consumers continue to be targeted through a range of schemes that depend on fast and irreversible payments. When retailers provide these services, they also carry the obligation to help safeguard the public.

    This case highlights how a lack of oversight at the point of service can lead to substantial harm. Whether through wire transfers, gift cards, or digital platforms, scammers thrive on speed and anonymity. Regulatory action like this serves as a reminder that vigilance and consumer protection must be a priority wherever money changes hands.

     

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