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  • Geebo 9:10 am on January 31, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Amazon Job Scam: Don’t Pay to Work! 

    Amazon Job Scam: Don’t Pay to Work!

    By Greg Collier

    Jobseekers in Las Vegas recently found themselves victims of a scam that cost them hundreds of dollars and left them without the opportunities they had been promised. The fraudulent scheme revolved around an online job posting for third-party delivery drivers, allegedly for Amazon. What seemed like a promising opportunity turned into financial loss and frustration when applicants arrived for scheduled interviews, only to discover that the business they had interacted with no longer existed.

    This incident serves as a reminder that no one should ever have to pay money to find a job. Legitimate employers do not require application fees, security deposits, or any kind of upfront payment for a job offer. Unfortunately, scams that prey on jobseekers, particularly those in urgent need of employment, have become increasingly sophisticated. Fraudsters use online platforms to advertise seemingly legitimate positions, sometimes even providing in-person interactions to establish credibility before vanishing with victims’ money.

    In this case, individuals seeking work responded to an online job ad, visited a physical location, and submitted applications. They were then asked to pay a fee of $200, which was collected through various payment methods. After being assigned a future interview date, they returned only to find the business vacant. The realization that they had been scammed sparked a widespread outcry, with victims taking to social media to warn others. Authorities have since launched an investigation into the fraudulent operation.

    This type of deception is not limited to Las Vegas. Across the country, scammers continue to exploit jobseekers by posing as recruiters, representatives of well-known companies, or managers of third-party contract positions. The common thread in these scams is an upfront financial demand, which should always be a red flag. Legitimate businesses go through standard hiring processes without requiring fees for applications, background checks, or training materials.

    For those seeking employment, it is crucial to verify job offers before engaging in the hiring process. Researching companies, confirming their legitimacy through official websites, and being cautious about any monetary requests can prevent falling victim to similar schemes. If something seems suspicious, it is always best to step back, ask questions, and seek guidance from trusted sources before proceeding.

    Law enforcement continues to investigate the recent scam, urging victims and potential jobseekers to remain vigilant. If anyone has been affected or suspects fraudulent activity, reporting it to local authorities or consumer protection agencies can help prevent further incidents. The hope is that raising awareness will protect others from similar scams and ensure that jobseekers can find opportunities without the risk of financial loss.

    Above all, one thing remains clear. Employment should never come with an upfront price tag.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Target Immigrants with Fake Fees 

    Scammers Target Immigrants with Fake Fees

    By Greg Collier

    In the wake of heightened immigration enforcement, authorities are warning about an emerging scam targeting vulnerable individuals. Scammers, posing as law enforcement officers or government officials, attempt to exploit fears of deportation by demanding money in exchange for supposed protection or relief. This scheme follows a well-documented pattern seen in other fraudulent operations, where bad actors take advantage of fear and uncertainty to extract money from their victims.

    These scams typically involve phone calls or messages claiming that a person, or their family member, is at risk of deportation. The scammers, using sophisticated technology such as phone number spoofing, make their calls appear to come from legitimate agencies. They pressure their targets into paying fees, often through untraceable methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. In some cases, they go further, falsely promising expedited citizenship or legal residency for a price. Authorities stress that these offers are fraudulent, as legitimate legal processes never involve direct payments to individuals over the phone.

    Law enforcement officials emphasize that no government agency or police department will ever demand money in exchange for halting deportation proceedings or offering legal status. Any such request should be considered a red flag. Those receiving these calls are encouraged to hang up immediately, avoid engaging with the scammers, and report the incident to law enforcement.

    To protect against these scams, individuals should verify any official-sounding claims directly with the appropriate government agency. Checking official websites, consulting trusted legal professionals, and avoiding unsolicited requests for payment can help prevent falling victim to these deceptive tactics. Community organizations and immigration attorneys can also offer guidance on legitimate pathways to citizenship and legal status, ensuring that those seeking assistance are not misled by false promises.

    As with past scams targeting seniors and disaster victims, fraudsters continually adapt their tactics to exploit new situations. Raising awareness and staying informed is crucial in preventing financial and emotional harm. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls or messages to help prevent further victimization.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 29, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fake Killers Alert: The Scam Behind the Panic 

    Fake Killers Alert: The Scam Behind the Panic

    By Greg Collier

    In recent weeks, communities across the United States have been targeted by alarming social media posts warning of killers on the run. These posts, often crafted to incite panic and urgency, are spreading rapidly through platforms like Facebook, particularly in informal groups such as local yard sale pages. Despite their convincing appearance, authorities have confirmed that these posts are scams designed to manipulate and exploit unsuspecting users.

    The posts generally follow a predictable pattern. They claim a dangerous situation is unfolding nearby, such as a pair of suspects fleeing after committing violent crimes. The tone is always dire, urging residents to share the information widely and take immediate precautions. While these messages may appear credible at first glance, a closer look reveals their recycled nature. Law enforcement agencies have noted that the same images and stories are being used in different parts of the country, slightly altered to fit the targeted location.

    The purpose of these scams is more insidious than simply spreading misinformation. By preying on people’s instinct to help or protect their communities, scammers aim to generate viral engagement. Once the post has gained significant traction and shares, it can be edited to include a scam offer, such as a fraudulent link, a fake charity appeal, or a phishing attempt. These links often lead to malicious websites designed to steal personal information or install harmful software on devices.

    Authorities have emphasized the importance of verifying the authenticity of such posts. It is unlikely that law enforcement would use informal community groups as the primary method to disseminate critical information. Instead, updates on genuine emergencies are typically shared through official channels, such as police department websites, verified social media accounts, or trusted news outlets. People are encouraged to report suspicious posts directly to the relevant platform or local law enforcement to help prevent further harm.

    The rapid spread of these fake alerts highlights the growing challenge of navigating misinformation in the digital age. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting both the trust within online communities and the immediacy of social media. To counteract this, users must remain cautious and critical of what they see online, particularly when posts are designed to provoke strong emotional reactions.

    By staying informed, individuals can help curb the spread of these scams and protect their communities from falling victim to malicious actors. Taking a moment to verify information before sharing it can make all the difference in breaking the cycle of deception.

     

  • Geebo 9:01 am on January 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Stop Toll Text Scams in Their Tracks 

    Stop Toll Text Scams in Their Tracks

    By Greg Collier

    The rise in text message scams has created a pressing need for awareness, particularly for drivers who rely on automated tolling systems. Scammers are exploiting this technology by impersonating services like E-ZPass, SunPass, and others to trick users into revealing sensitive personal or financial information.

    Recent reports reveal a spike in fraudulent text messages, falsely claiming recipients owe unpaid tolls. These messages often use urgent language, warning about excessive fees or deadlines to avoid penalties. While the messages may seem legitimate, tolling agencies have consistently reiterated that they do not request payments through text messages or links sent via SMS. Legitimate communications typically occur through secure websites or official emails.

    The issue has become especially relevant in Ohio, where toll enforcement policies have recently shifted. The Ohio Turnpike has implemented late fees for unpaid tolls. Drivers who fail to pay their tolls within 30 days will incur a $5 late fee for each unpaid toll. These changes coincide with the rollout of Ohio’s automated tolling system, which has encountered some growing pains. While the new system allows E-ZPass users to bypass toll booths at highway speeds, drivers without E-ZPass must still use cash or credit card lanes to settle their tolls. This shift has created some confusion, which scammers are exploiting to send fraudulent messages targeting unsuspecting customers.

    These scams use ‘smishing’, a phishing attempt via SMS, to mimic official correspondence. They often include non-local phone numbers, emojis, or links to unverified websites. Clicking these links or sharing personal information can compromise financial accounts and lead to identity theft. Many scammers add urgency to their messages, hoping to pressure recipients into acting quickly without verifying the legitimacy of the request.

    Tolling agencies and consumer protection organizations are urging drivers to remain vigilant. Verifying suspicious messages directly with tolling agencies through their official websites or customer service channels is essential. Ignoring these messages is often the best approach, as any response confirms the validity of your phone number to scammers, potentially increasing the likelihood of future attacks.

    If you’ve already clicked on a suspicious link or shared personal information, immediate action is crucial. Changing account credentials, freezing credit, and contacting your bank can help mitigate potential damage. Reporting scams to authorities like the Federal Trade Commission or relevant state agencies aids in tracking and shutting down these fraudulent schemes.

    For Ohio drivers, understanding the new late fee structure and legitimate communication methods of the Ohio Turnpike is key to avoiding confusion. Official Ohio websites are the only trusted sources for E-ZPass payments. Any payment requests outside these platforms should be treated with skepticism.

    While it’s nearly impossible to prevent scam attempts entirely, being informed can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim. By recognizing the tactics scammers use, verifying payment requests independently, and staying calm under pressure, drivers can protect their personal information and financial security.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 27, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    AI Voice Scams: The Ransom Threat 

    AI Voice Scams: The Ransom Threat

    By Greg Collier

    In a chilling evolution of traditional scams, a new wave of ransom schemes is targeting families with advanced technology, creating fear and financial loss. These scams, which have been reported in Westchester County, New York, and Chatham County, Georgia, use artificial intelligence (AI) to replicate the voices of loved ones and phone number spoofing to make calls appear authentic. The alarming frequency and realism of these incidents leave victims shaken and desperate.

    In Peekskill, New York, families in a local school district were targeted with calls claiming their child had been kidnapped. Using AI-generated voice replication, scammers made the calls sound as though they were coming directly from the child. The calls included cries for help and demands for ransom, creating a terrifying sense of urgency for the families. Similarly, in Chatham County, Georgia, law enforcement received reports of scam calls where the voices of loved ones were mimicked, and their phone numbers were spoofed. Victims believed they were speaking directly with their family member, further convincing them of the alleged kidnapping.

    This type of scam, known as the virtual kidnapping scam, is made possible by the proliferation of digital tools capable of replicating a person’s voice with only a few audio samples. These samples are often taken from social media, where individuals frequently share videos and voice recordings. Additionally, phone number spoofing allows scammers to manipulate caller IDs, making it seem as though the call is originating from the victim’s own phone or from a familiar contact.

    Authorities have noted that these scams exploit advanced technology and human psychology to maximum effect. The sense of urgency created by threats of violence and the apparent authenticity of the call make it difficult for victims to pause and assess the situation critically. Victims often feel immense pressure to act quickly, believing that hesitation could lead to harm for their loved ones.

    In both Peekskill and Chatham County, authorities have emphasized the importance of verifying the safety of family members independently and resisting the temptation to provide personal or financial information over the phone. Families are being encouraged to create unique verification methods, such as secret passwords or phrases, to quickly confirm the legitimacy of a call. Law enforcement in both areas continues to investigate these cases and spread awareness to prevent further victimization.

    While the technological tools enabling these scams are growing more sophisticated, education remains a powerful defense. By understanding how these scams operate and staying cautious about unfamiliar links or calls, individuals can protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim to these disturbing schemes.

    With the rise of these incidents, it’s clear that continued efforts to promote awareness and implement preventative strategies will be key in combating this alarming trend.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 24, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    IRS Credit Scams: What You Need to Know 

    By Greg Collier

    The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is making strides to ensure taxpayers receive all the benefits they are entitled to, including the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. This refundable credit is for individuals who missed one or more Economic Impact Payments, also referred to as stimulus payments. To address this, the IRS has announced plans to issue automatic payments to eligible individuals who did not claim the credit on their 2021 tax returns.

    The initiative comes after a review of internal data revealed that many eligible taxpayers overlooked claiming the credit when filing their returns. These payments, set to arrive through direct deposit or by paper check, will reach most recipients by late January 2025. A separate notification letter will accompany the payments, ensuring recipients are informed about their eligibility and the steps taken by the IRS.

    Importantly, no action is required from those who qualify for the payments. The IRS has emphasized that these payments will be processed automatically, sparing recipients from the need to file an amended return.

    While the IRS works to ensure these payments reach the right people, scammers have seized the opportunity to exploit this effort. Fraudulent messages, often sent via text or email, claim to offer Recovery Rebate Credit payments but instead aim to extract personal and financial information from unsuspecting individuals. These fake messages often originate from random email accounts rather than official government addresses. Some even include deceptive URLs that mimic government websites, making it crucial for individuals to verify the legitimacy of any communication they receive.

    The IRS has made it clear that it will not contact taxpayers through text messages or social media to request personal or financial information. Anyone receiving such communications should exercise caution and report suspicious messages.

    This initiative underscores the importance of taxpayer awareness, not only in claiming benefits, but also in protecting personal information from potential fraud. As the upcoming tax season approaches, the IRS continues to focus on educating taxpayers about credits, deductions, and safeguards against scams. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to enhancing accessibility and reducing barriers that prevent individuals from receiving the benefits they deserve.

    By staying informed and cautious, taxpayers can take full advantage of the opportunities available to them while avoiding common pitfalls associated with fraudulent schemes.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 23, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    The Grandparent Scam: A Costly Lesson in Trust 

    The Grandparent Scam: A Costly Lesson in Trust

    By Greg Collier

    Nestled in the serene community of Rossmoor in Walnut Creek, California, a gated haven for retired adults, the unthinkable happened. For the second time in just four months, a senior resident fell prey to the cruel scheme known as the ‘grandparent scam’. This deceptive tactic preys on the trust and love that grandparents hold for their family, exploiting their vulnerability in the guise of an urgent family emergency.

    The scam begins with a heart-wrenching phone call. The voice on the other end, remarkably convincing, claims to be a grandchild in dire trouble. The story is always urgent and emotionally charged. An arrest, a car accident, or another dire scenario requiring immediate financial help. This time, it was a tearful tale involving a car accident, an injured pregnant woman, and a desperate need for bail money. The imposter even enlisted an ‘attorney’ to bolster the credibility of the story, weaving a web of urgency and fear.

    One victim, caught in this web, recounted her ordeal. The voice, which mimicked her grandson’s perfectly, left no room for doubt. Following the caller’s instructions, she withdrew $7,500 in cash, wrapped it in decorative paper, and handed it over to a courier who had somehow bypassed the community’s gate security protocols. The incident didn’t end there. Hours later, the scammers called back, requesting an additional $5,000 for supposed damages.

    Banks, often the last line of defense in these scams, raised red flags. Employees asked probing questions and even verified the presence of a companion in the car, but the victim, following the scammer’s explicit instructions, deflected their concerns. Fearful of jeopardizing her grandson’s situation, she fabricated a cover story to explain the large withdrawals.

    The scam unraveled only when a family member intervened, recognizing the fraudulent nature of the calls. The realization was devastating. The victim, like many others before her, was left reeling. Not just from the financial loss, but from the emotional toll of being manipulated through love and fear.

    Such incidents underscore the importance of verification. Law enforcement officials urge caution when receiving urgent calls involving financial demands. A simple call to other family members can verify the authenticity of the claim. Creating a family-specific password for emergencies can also thwart scammers who rely on secrecy and haste.

    The grandparent scam is a poignant reminder of the lengths to which scammers will go to exploit trust. While the financial losses are significant, the emotional betrayal often cuts deeper. By fostering open communication and practicing healthy skepticism, families can protect their loved ones from falling victim to these heartless schemes.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 22, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Romance Scams: Love Turned to Betrayal 

    Romance Scams: Love Turned to Betrayal

    By Greg Collier

    Romance scams, a devastating form of fraud, prey on the vulnerabilities of individuals seeking companionship. For those ensnared, the consequences extend far beyond financial ruin, often leaving emotional scars and, in some cases, life-altering repercussions. Recent developments in a Chicago-based investigation highlight not only the extensive harm caused to victims, but also the complex reality that some individuals complicit in these schemes may themselves be victims of manipulation.

    A network of scammers operating overseas orchestrated an elaborate romance scam that deceived numerous individuals, including one widow who lost nearly $2 million. Among those caught in the fraudulent operation were three Chicago-area residents who unwittingly or knowingly facilitated the scam by laundering funds. Their actions underscore a troubling trend in the use of ‘money mules’ to obscure financial transactions, complicating law enforcement efforts to track illicit activities.

    The victims’ stories paint a haunting picture of exploitation. One woman, a retired health care executive, fell victim to an elaborate deception by someone she believed to be her romantic partner. Over two years, she was manipulated into sending her life savings to an imaginary suitor, who fabricated a tragic persona to elicit her trust. By the end, she was coerced into further criminal activity, setting up fake companies and accounts to move money, a devastating twist that exemplifies how deeply these scams entangle their targets.

    Tragically, this woman’s financial losses were not the sole outcome; her life ended under circumstances tied to the psychological toll of the scam. For her family, the pain of her loss is compounded by the knowledge that her kindness and trust were exploited to such devastating effect.

    Yet, the complexity of romance scams extends beyond the victims they defraud. Those who participate in these operations are not always straightforward criminals. One participant, a former postal worker and military veteran, found herself entangled in the scheme after entering a relationship with one of the scammers. She claims she was manipulated into aiding the operation, believing her partner’s lies about his identity and intentions. While this does not excuse her actions, it highlights how scammers can exploit not only their primary targets but also others around them, weaving a web of deceit that traps even those who may initially have no malicious intent.

    For law enforcement, unraveling these networks is a daunting task. Prosecutors and courts must navigate the fine line between holding individuals accountable and recognizing when their involvement stems from coercion or manipulation. In one recent sentencing, a judge acknowledged the vast disparity in culpability among defendants, balancing the severity of their actions with the circumstances that led to their participation.

    The fallout of romance scams is profound, touching every individual caught in their wake. For victims, the loss of trust can be as devastating as the financial ruin they face. For the families left behind, the pain of witnessing loved ones manipulated into despair is immeasurable. And for those drawn into these schemes as unwitting accomplices, the shame and regret can cast long shadows over their lives.

    These stories are a sobering reminder of the human cost of online fraud. They call for vigilance, not just in identifying and prosecuting those responsible, but in fostering a broader understanding of how these schemes operate and whom they harm. As digital connections grow more pervasive, so too does the need for empathy, awareness, and robust preventative measures to protect individuals from falling prey to exploitation.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 21, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    New Jersey Employers Hit by Deposit Scam 

    New Jersey Employers Hit by Deposit Scam

    By Greg Collier

    A concerning scam targeting employers has recently surfaced in New Jersey, with several companies falling victim to fraudulent direct deposit change requests. While this scheme has been reported in Middlesex County, its nature suggests it could happen anywhere, making it a warning for businesses and employees nationwide.

    The scam operates through deceptive emails sent to employers, requesting changes to an employee’s direct deposit account. These emails often appear authentic, containing accurate details like the employee’s name, address, and social security number. This level of detail makes the requests seem legitimate, but a closer look at the sender’s email often reveals fraudulent origins.

    Once the employer processes the request, payroll funds are deposited into a new account controlled by the scammers, who withdraw the money almost immediately. In these cases, urgency was a recurring theme, with the fraudulent emails pressuring employers to act quickly without additional verification.

    This scam highlights a universal vulnerability in payroll systems. Employers everywhere should consider implementing stronger safeguards to verify any direct deposit change requests. Best practices include requiring in-person confirmation or using a verified phone number to authenticate the request. A dual-verification system can serve as a critical defense against unauthorized account changes.

    Employees also have a role in protecting their financial security. Regularly monitoring payroll deposits and immediately reporting discrepancies to employers and law enforcement can help limit the impact of fraudulent activity.

    This situation highlights the importance of secure communication in protecting sensitive payroll information. While the scam has been identified in New Jersey, its potential to occur elsewhere serves as a warning to businesses and workers everywhere to remain alert and proactive.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 20, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Exploit Grieving Families’ Pain 

    Scammers Exploit Grieving Families' Pain

    By Greg Collier

    In a distressing turn of events, a funeral home in Decatur, Georgia, is facing an alarming wave of fraud targeting grieving families. In recent weeks, multiple families preparing to say goodbye to their loved ones have fallen prey to scammers exploiting their vulnerability during a time of mourning.

    The fraudsters are using online obituaries to identify potential victims, posing as staff members from the funeral home and contacting families directly. These deceptive calls involve claims that the families owe additional fees, such as ‘casket insurance’, and threaten that services could be disrupted if payments are not made promptly. The amounts requested have ranged from a few hundred dollars to thousands, often demanded through unconventional methods like mobile payment apps, such as Cash App.

    This type of scam is particularly traumatic, preying on individuals at one of the most emotional and challenging times of their lives. Grieving families, eager to ensure nothing interferes with the memorialization of their loved ones, can be especially susceptible to such fraudulent tactics. Many victims feel devastated and embarrassed upon realizing they have been deceived.

    Understanding how these scams operate is essential to preventing them. Funeral homes typically have established payment procedures that involve in-person discussions and formal agreements. Any unexpected request for payment, particularly via phone or digital platforms, should raise immediate red flags. It is always advisable to verify any payment requests directly with the funeral home to ensure their legitimacy.

    To protect themselves, families are encouraged to handle all aspects of funeral planning directly with their chosen funeral home. This approach not only minimizes the risk of falling victim to fraud but also ensures clear communication and understanding of all arrangements. Reporting such incidents to local law enforcement is equally critical, as it helps raise awareness and potentially curtail further fraudulent activities.

    As scammers continue to exploit the emotional vulnerabilities of grieving families, staying informed remains the best defense. The impact of these scams goes beyond financial loss, adding unnecessary stress and anguish to already heart-wrenching situations. By recognizing the warning signs and prioritizing secure communication with funeral homes, families can safeguard their memories and focus on honoring their loved ones without fear of exploitation.

     

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