Greg's Corner

Updates from February, 2025 Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

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  Geebo 9:17 am on February 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: chickens, Chime ( 3 ), egg prices, eggs, livestock scam, Scams ( 1,438 ), venmo ( 29 ), Zelle ( 69 )   

  Backyard Chicken Scam Exploits Egg Crisis 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As egg prices continue to rise and shortages grow due to the ongoing bird flu outbreak, scammers have found yet another way to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers. An Oregon woman is now warning others about an online scam preying on people eager to raise their own backyard chickens.

  With grocery store shelves often bare and prices soaring, many have turned to social media and online marketplaces, searching for hens to provide a steady supply of fresh eggs. Unfortunately, scammers are fully aware of this trend and have adapted their tactics to exploit it.

  One Oregon woman, eager to secure her own flock, recently fell victim to a fraudulent seller while searching for hens online. The seller, like many operating this scheme, insisted on payment through cash apps such as Zelle, Venmo, or Chime. These platforms offer little to no buyer protection, making it easy for scammers to disappear with the money. As the transaction progressed, additional fees for shipping crates and other hidden costs were suddenly introduced, further draining the victim’s funds before she realized it was all a scam.

  The scam bears a striking resemblance to pet scams, where fraudsters post fake listings for animals, collect payment, and then never deliver the promised pet. In both cases, the scam plays on the buyer’s emotions and urgency, whether it’s the excitement of getting a new puppy or the pressing need to secure a reliable food source during a shortage.

  This scam demonstrates how quickly fraudsters adapt to current events. They capitalize on public concerns, adapting their scams to match whatever is in high demand, whether it be pandemic-era puppies, scarce baby formula, or, in this case, backyard chickens.

  To avoid falling victim, experts recommend sticking to reputable local sellers when looking to purchase hens. Buying in person allows buyers to inspect the birds and ensures the transaction is legitimate. While the appeal of finding a deal online is strong, the risk of being scammed far outweighs any potential savings.

  As more people consider raising chickens due to fluctuating egg prices, awareness is key. Scammers are quick to evolve, but with a cautious approach, buyers can protect themselves from losing money to these fraudulent schemes.

   

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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 27, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Los Angeles ( 5 ), Palisades Wildfire ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,438 ), tow truck ( 3 ), towing scam ( 3 ), wildfires ( 4 )   

  L.A. Fire Survivors Targeted by Tow Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the wake of the devastating Eaton fire, which tore through Los Angeles County earlier this year, some residents found themselves caught in another crisis. One not of nature’s making, but of human exploitation. As fire survivors began the difficult process of rebuilding their lives, fraudulent towing companies saw an opportunity to take advantage of their desperation and uncertainty.

  The fire itself was a catastrophe of staggering proportions. It ignited on January 7 near Pasadena and, in just a few days, destroyed more than 9,400 homes and businesses. The loss of life was heartbreaking, with 17 people confirmed dead. Communities were left in ruins, and in the midst of their struggle to recover, some survivors discovered that their vehicles had vanished, only to learn later that they had been taken by predatory towing companies posing as official responders.

  During the critical early days of the disaster, these companies operated under false pretenses, claiming they had been authorized to remove vehicles on behalf of local authorities. In reality, they were taking cars without properly informing owners of their whereabouts, only to later demand exorbitant fees for their return. Some of the vehicles were discovered in neighboring counties, making it even more difficult for victims to track them down.

  Local officials have condemned these predatory practices and are calling on anyone who encountered suspicious towing activities to come forward. Reports have surfaced of companies asking for photos of driver’s licenses or misleading owners about their vehicle’s location, tactics that officials warn could indicate a scam.

  This crisis is not entirely new. Even before the fire, authorities had been investigating an increase in scams where tow companies illegally impound vehicles and hold them for ransom. Now, with the devastation of the Eaton fire as a backdrop, these fraudulent operations have become an added burden for those already facing immense hardship.

  For those who have been victimized, authorities urge swift reporting in order to crack down on these fraudulent operations. Holding those responsible accountable will not undo the damage, but it can help ensure that no more survivors fall prey to these schemes.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 26, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: funeral ( 16 ), funeral expenses ( 10 ), impersonation scam ( 161 ), inheritance ( 7 ), Scams ( 1,438 )   

  Scammers Prey on Grieving Tulsa Family 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Losing a loved one is one of life’s most painful experiences, and in the midst of that grief, the last thing a family expects is to become the target of a cruel scam. But for one Tulsa family, that is exactly what happened. While struggling to cover the costs of a funeral, they were deceived by a scammer who preyed on their vulnerability, using publicly available obituary information to pose as an insurance representative.

  The ordeal began when a caller claimed that a long-lost insurance policy had been discovered in the name of a deceased relative. The promise of a financial payout seemed like an unexpected blessing, offering relief during an already difficult time. However, the supposed payout came with a catch. Before the family could receive their funds, they needed to cover a ‘deductible’ fee. Desperate for the financial support they were assured was coming, they scraped together what they could, even pawning personal belongings to meet the scammer’s demands.

  Almost immediately after sending the money, doubt crept in. The caller’s tone changed, and communication became rushed and evasive. It became clear they had been tricked, and instead of receiving the large sum of money they were promised, they were left with nothing but financial loss and heartbreak.

  This tragic deception is not an isolated case. Scammers routinely comb through online obituaries, extracting personal details to manipulate grieving families. With names, relationships, and other sensitive information readily available, these fraudsters craft convincing stories to exploit those already facing emotional turmoil.

  Consumer advocates warn that this type of scam is on the rise, and they urge people to be cautious when receiving unexpected financial promises. If someone claims that a loved one has left behind money, experts advise verifying the legitimacy of the claim by independently contacting the alleged agency or company. Most importantly, they stress one key rule. If you are asked to send money in order to receive money, it is almost certainly a scam.

  For this Tulsa family, the pain of their loss has been compounded by the betrayal of a stranger who took advantage of their grief. But by sharing their experience, they hope to prevent others from falling victim to the same cruel scheme.

  As funeral homes and consumer protection agencies work to raise awareness, the message is clear. Always verify before you trust, and never let desperation override caution. In moments of vulnerability, scammers see opportunity, but with knowledge and caution, families can protect themselves from further loss.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 25, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: fake car dealership, impersonation scam ( 161 ), Scams ( 1,438 ), used car ( 37 ), wire transfer ( 5 )   

  Beware: Fake Car Dealership Scam Surge 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scam alert stories have taken a new twist in Wisconsin, where a disturbing pattern of fraudulent car sales has emerged online. In recent developments, state transportation officials have observed a surge in deceptive practices by individuals posing as legitimate car dealerships. These con artists create polished online storefronts that mimic real businesses, using stock images and visuals of genuine vehicles to lure unsuspecting buyers into what appears to be a bargain.

  The fraudulent operations begin with an elaborate digital setup. Fake websites and social media profiles are crafted to look like authentic dealership pages, complete with images that lend an air of legitimacy. Vehicles are often advertised at prices that seem too enticing to pass up, which, in reality, serve as bait to draw in potential buyers. The entire transaction is managed remotely, without any face-to-face meeting or physical inspection of the vehicle, a detail that, under normal circumstances, should raise a few red flags.

  Once a prospective buyer is convinced by the attractive price and seamless online presentation, they are typically asked to complete a wire transfer. At that point, the scammer vanishes. Despite receiving documents that mimic a bill of sale, the buyer soon discovers that the vehicle either never existed or is impossible to retrieve. This pattern of deception highlights the sophisticated methods these fraudsters employ and underscores the need for caution when engaging in any transaction over the internet.

  Wisconsin officials are urging consumers to exercise extreme caution in every step of their purchase process. They advise that anyone considering a vehicle purchase from an online source should conduct thorough research and verification. Confirming the legitimacy of a business through official channels can save one from the significant financial and emotional toll of falling victim to such scams. Even when the offer appears to be a once-in-a-lifetime deal, it is crucial to trust one’s instincts and seek additional validation.

  The convenience of online transactions is often accompanied by hidden risks. The recent rise in fake car dealership scams serves as a stark reminder that a careful, measured approach is essential when dealing with unfamiliar entities online. Maintaining a healthy level of skepticism and taking the necessary steps to verify the authenticity of an offer can help ensure that what seems too good to be true doesn’t turn into a costly mistake.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 24, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: investment scams ( 11 ), pump and dump, Scams ( 1,438 ), social media ( 84 ), stock market ( 2 )   

  Pump-and-Dump Social Media Scam Exposed 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Investors are being targeted by a sophisticated scam that uses modern communication channels to orchestrate fraudulent stock market schemes. Charles Schwab & Co. recently warned that this scam exploits the allure of quick riches to manipulate market prices and leave unsuspecting participants with heavy financial losses.

  The operation unfolds on various social media platforms and messaging services. Fraudsters construct convincing online profiles that mimic notable financial professionals and industry experts. By presenting themselves as trusted sources, they build credibility and attract a following. Once they have established an air of legitimacy, they invite potential investors into private online groups. In these groups, pressure is subtly applied to encourage rapid investment in specific stocks. The false and misleading information shared in these circles is designed to generate a buying frenzy that artificially inflates the price of the targeted security.

  At the height of the excitement, when the price has been driven to an unsustainable level, the operators behind the scheme quickly sell off their shares at the elevated price. The rapid exit leaves a void, and the stock’s value plummets, often leaving investors with devalued shares and significant losses. The scam relies on the inherent trust people place in reputable communication channels, using both cutting-edge digital tools and more traditional methods like text messages and phone calls to reach a wide audience.

  Another disturbing aspect of this fraud is the degree of manipulation involved. The orchestrators not only pressure individuals to invest, but may also guide them through the trading process. In some cases, they even offer detailed instructions on how to act during inquiries or scrutiny, all in an effort to keep the scheme hidden from regulators and outside observers.

  The lesson for anyone involved in the investment world is to remain cautious and well-informed. Unsolicited offers promising rapid profits, especially those delivered through private groups or unverified channels, are red flags. Trust should be reserved for advice from verified, established sources, and any pressure to act quickly should be met with skepticism.

  Staying alert and recognizing the warning signs can help protect both your assets and your financial future. In today’s digital landscape, where information is abundant and not always reliable, diligence is the best safeguard against schemes designed to exploit the unwary.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 21, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: blackmail ( 4 ), email ( 7 ), extortion ( 17 ), Scams ( 1,438 ), sextortion ( 4 )   

  Urgent Warning: Nationwide Extortion Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Across the country, a pervasive online extortion scam is finding its way into email inboxes, preying on fear and uncertainty. Authorities in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, are warning residents to be vigilant as this scam continues to spread. While the messages may appear convincing and even alarming, they are nothing more than fraudulent attempts to manipulate victims into paying money to cybercriminals.

  The scam typically involves an email claiming that the recipient has been caught visiting adult content websites. The sender alleges they have used the recipient’s own webcam to capture compromising images and threatens to release them unless a ransom is paid. To increase the sense of urgency, the email often includes personal details such as a phone number or home address, making it appear more credible. However, officials stress that these emails are entirely fraudulent and should not be engaged with under any circumstances.

  These types of extortion scams have been reported nationwide, with the FBI’s most recent crime report documenting more than 48,000 cases last year alone. Fraudsters use various tactics, from fake threats of exposing personal information to romance scams designed to manipulate individuals into sending money. Many of these scams rely on personal data that has been leaked or sold on the dark web, making it easier for criminals to craft convincing messages.

  Authorities urge recipients to recognize the warning signs of such scams. Fraudulent emails typically lack specific details about the alleged wrongdoing, fail to provide evidence, and demand urgent payment, often in untraceable forms such as Bitcoin, gift cards, or wire transfers. Additionally, the messages frequently contain grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and unrealistic ultimatums.

  To protect against these scams, cybersecurity experts recommend never responding to suspicious emails. Instead, mark them as spam or junk, delete them immediately, and report them to the appropriate authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. Security precautions such as enabling two-factor authentication, using strong passwords, and installing security software can also help safeguard personal information. Covering a computer’s webcam when not in use can provide an extra layer of privacy and peace of mind.

  Scammers rely on fear and intimidation to pressure victims into complying with their demands. By staying informed, individuals can avoid falling prey to these fraudulent schemes. If an email claims to have compromising information, remain calm, do not engage, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. With continued awareness and proactive cybersecurity measures, these scams can be rendered ineffective, preventing more individuals from becoming victims of online extortion.

   
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  Geebo 9:01 am on February 20, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: DOGE, dogecoin, impersonation scam ( 161 ), San Francisco ( 9 ), Scams ( 1,438 ), social engineering ( 3 )   

  DOGE Chaos: Fake Agents, Real Security Threat 

  

  By Greg Collier

  San Francisco City Hall was the scene of an unusual and unsettling event on February 14th when three men, claiming to work for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), attempted to gain access to office computers. Lacking identification but armed with bold attitudes, they demanded that staff upload information from their systems via a USB drive they provided. Their aggressive demeanor and refusal to provide credentials led employees to deny their requests, but the audacity of their actions has left lingering questions about their true motives.

  The supposed Department of Government Efficiency is an initiative linked to the Trump administration and informally led by Elon Musk, purportedly aiming to root out waste, fraud, and abuse within government agencies. However, its lack of formal structure and transparency has made it difficult to discern what authority, if any, these individuals actually had. Their presence was not only disruptive but also legally questionable. Surveillance footage captured them in DOGECOIN t-shirts, a curious wardrobe choice that only deepens the mystery.

  To complicate matters further, similar reports surfaced from an administrative building within the San Francisco Unified School District, where three men fitting the same description attempted to gain entry. Whether this was an extension of the same operation or a separate act under the same guise remains uncertain.

  The nebulous nature of DOGE, both as a government initiative and a cultural phenomenon, creates a breeding ground for confusion, and with confusion comes opportunity, for deception, manipulation, and exploitation. The name itself, associated both with government efficiency and a satirical cryptocurrency, makes it difficult to determine what is genuine and what is an elaborate hoax. This is precisely the kind of environment where future scams could flourish.

  With no clear organizational structure, anyone with a few printed t-shirts and a persuasive tone could claim to represent DOGE and exploit the fear of government oversight. Fraudsters could gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or systems by leveraging the ambiguity surrounding this initiative. Given the rise of social engineering attacks, where deception is used to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information, it is not difficult to imagine similar schemes emerging under the DOGE banner, targeting government offices, businesses, or even everyday citizens.

  This incident at City Hall raises serious concerns about security, credibility, and the ease with which a group of unverified individuals can attempt to infiltrate government offices. The absence of immediate consequences for the perpetrators only emboldens copycats who might see an opportunity to exploit the situation for their own gain. If nothing else, it serves as a stark reminder that in an age where information is power, skepticism and verification are essential defenses against those who seek to take advantage of institutional uncertainty.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 19, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Chase ( 15 ), impersonation scam ( 161 ), JPMorgan Chase ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,438 ), social media ( 84 ), Zelle ( 69 )   

  Chase Blocks Zelle Payments to Social Media 

  

  By Greg Collier

  JPMorgan Chase Bank (Chase) is making a significant change to its Zelle payment policies in an effort to curb the growing number of online scams exploiting the service. Beginning March 23, Chase will start blocking or delaying Zelle payments to accounts identified as originating from social media contacts, a move designed to protect customers from fraudulent transactions.

  As reported by Bleeping Computer, this decision comes in response to alarming trends in scam reports from Chase customers between June and December 2024. Nearly half of all fraud cases involving Zelle were traced back to social media interactions. Many of these scams involve bad actors posing as legitimate sellers, tricking unsuspecting users into sending money through Zelle under the assumption that they are making a secure purchase. However, since Zelle transactions lack purchase protection, victims often have no recourse once the money is sent.

  Chase is now reinforcing its stance that Zelle should only be used to transfer money to known and trusted recipients. Customers will receive warnings and may even be required to provide additional details when adding new recipients or setting up transactions that appear to carry a high risk of fraud.

  This policy shift also aligns with a broader regulatory push. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has been scrutinizing Zelle’s operator, Early Warning Services, along with major banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo. A lawsuit filed by the CFPB in December alleges that these banks rushed Zelle into the market without adequate consumer safeguards, leading to massive financial losses for users. Since its launch, Zelle-related scams and fraud have reportedly cost customers over $870 million, with many victims left to recover their lost funds on their own due to a lack of bank intervention.

  While Chase’s new policy marks a step in the right direction in tackling scams linked to social media, it does not fully address a major issue plaguing Zelle users, bank impersonation fraud. Scammers posing as bank representatives continue to deceive customers into moving their own money under the false pretense of protecting it. Victims are often led to believe they are securing their accounts when, in reality, they are transferring their savings directly into the hands of fraudsters.

  The changes introduced by Chase will likely help reduce fraud originating from social media platforms, but consumers must remain cautious. Scammers continuously evolve their tactics, and as long as payment services like Zelle lack built-in fraud protection, users must exercise extreme caution when transferring money online.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 18, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: advance fee scam ( 46 ), college recruiting, football ( 11 ), high school, Scams ( 1,438 ), Sports ( 5 )   

  Fake Football Offers: A Costly Scam Alert 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recruitment season is an exciting time for high school athletes. The possibility of playing at the next level and earning a college roster spot is a dream for many. But amid the real opportunities, there are also those looking to take advantage of that excitement.

  The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has recently warned about a scam targeting high school football players. Someone posing as a recruiter from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is reaching out to athletes, requesting game footage and falsely claiming that the player has been offered a spot on the team. Shortly after, the scammer demands a fee for a supposedly mandatory camp, one that doesn’t actually exist.

  This type of scam is specific, but it serves as a reminder that scams can appear in even the most unexpected places. While this case involves high school football in Tennessee, it doesn’t mean similar schemes can’t happen elsewhere. Fraudsters are constantly looking for new ways to deceive people, and wherever there’s ambition, there’s potential for exploitation. A young athlete eager to seize an opportunity might not question an offer that seems legitimate, especially if it comes with the promise of playing at the college level.

  The methods used in this scam should raise red flags. Any request for money in exchange for a supposed roster spot should be met with skepticism. Legitimate recruiting processes don’t require upfront payments, and official offers always come through formal channels. It’s crucial for athletes and their families to verify any recruitment claims directly with the university’s athletic department before taking action.

  High school athletes, their parents, and coaches should remain cautious. If something feels off about a recruitment opportunity, it’s worth taking a step back and confirming its legitimacy. And while this particular scheme is centered in Tennessee, it’s a mistake to assume it can’t spread to other parts of the country. Wherever there’s an opportunity for deception, scammers will follow.

  Staying informed is the best way to avoid becoming a victim. Athletes should communicate directly with schools, avoid clicking on unsolicited links, and never send money to someone who reaches out through social media or email. If a recruitment opportunity is real, it will stand up to scrutiny. And if it isn’t, taking the time to verify can prevent a costly mistake.

  Scammers thrive in places where trust and excitement intersect. Whether it’s college recruitment, job offers, or financial investments, it’s always worth slowing down and making sure an opportunity is as good as it seems.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: housing scam ( 4 ), identity theft ( 109 ), Los Angeles ( 5 ), real estate ( 131 ), Scams ( 1,438 ), section 8 housing   

  Section 8 Scam Shocks Los Angeles Residents 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Section 8 housing, formally known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, is a federal assistance initiative designed to help low-income individuals and families afford safe and stable housing. Administered by local public housing agencies (PHAs) with funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for now, the program provides subsidies that allow recipients to rent privately owned homes at a reduced cost. Demand for these vouchers is high, and in cities like Los Angeles, long waiting lists and limited availability create challenges for those seeking assistance.

  Unfortunately, the urgency and need surrounding affordable housing have made it a target for scammers. Over the weekend, dozens of people fell victim to a fraudulent flyer circulating online, which falsely advertised a voucher distribution event at a local recreation center. Upon arrival, hopeful applicants were met with a sign informing them that the event was a hoax.

  These scams are often designed to steal personal information for identity theft. Fraudsters may ask victims to provide sensitive details, such as Social Security numbers or bank account information, under the pretense of processing an application. Others may demand upfront fees for guaranteed placement on a waitlist, or offer fake ‘expedited processing’ services.

  To avoid falling for such scams, it’s crucial to verify any claims regarding Section 8 through official channels. Public housing agencies do not charge fees for applications or placement on a waitlist. Official information on the program, including application procedures and open enrollment periods, can be found through HUD’s website or directly from local housing authorities. In Los Angeles, the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) is responsible for administering Section 8 vouchers, and updates about the program are available on their official website.

  Individuals seeking assistance should be wary of unsolicited offers, especially those circulating on social media, and report suspicious activities to local authorities. While housing challenges remain a pressing issue, accurate information is the best defense against scams that prey on vulnerable communities.