Updates from May, 2025 Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 23, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    QR Code Scam Targets Holiday Parkers 

    QR Code Scam Targets Holiday Parkers

    By Greg Collier

    As the holiday weekend approaches, Fort Lauderdale officials are warning the public about a parking scam involving counterfeit QR code stickers found on city meters. These fake codes mimic legitimate mobile payment options but redirect users to fraudulent websites aimed at harvesting personal and financial information.

    City workers recently discovered more of these fraudulent QR codes affixed to meters and signs in several high-traffic areas, including popular lots and beachfront zones. The timing is especially concerning as increased travel and tourism are expected during Memorial Day weekend. Both residents and visitors are being encouraged to exercise caution and confirm the legitimacy of any QR code before scanning and submitting payment.

    The scam involves stickers that imitate real QR codes from trusted payment platforms. Once scanned, the user is misled into submitting sensitive data on deceptive websites. The city is actively removing these counterfeit codes and reminding drivers to verify they are using the correct payment method. Typically, Fort Lauderdale uses a designated mobile app for parking, and the use of QR codes is limited to specific official contexts. If a code appears on a sticker rather than directly on the meter or signage, it may be suspect.

    While this incident is currently centered in Fort Lauderdale, similar schemes have emerged in other cities across the country. These scams are especially likely to proliferate during long weekends when many people travel and may be unfamiliar with local parking systems. Scammers count on confusion and convenience to trap their victims.

    Drivers are encouraged to report any suspicious codes using local resources to help officials remove malicious stickers and prevent further incidents. Staying vigilant is key. A quick double-check could mean the difference between a secure transaction and falling victim to identity theft.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 22, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Immigration and Customs Enforcement, , , ,   

    Visa Scam Targets Foreign Students 

    By Greg Collier

    Scammers are once again exploiting confusion and fear to prey on vulnerable populations. The FBI’s Atlanta office is warning that international students legally studying in the United States are being targeted in a sophisticated scam designed to extort money under the threat of deportation.

    This warning comes at a time when Immigration and Customs Enforcement has faced scrutiny for canceling and then walking back the cancellation of hundreds of student visas. Scammers appear to be aware of this uncertainty and are using it to make their schemes more convincing. They are impersonating officials from legitimate government agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Some even fabricate names of fake agencies or pose as representatives from U.S. universities, often using phony websites that mimic official ones to add an extra layer of deception.

    Victims are being told they are in violation of their visa status and face serious consequences, unless they pay fines immediately. These fines are described as fees for legal representation, university registration, or immigration processing. So far, students from countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Jordan have been most frequently targeted.

    This is another example of how scammers stay attuned to current events and seize opportunities where trust is already fragile. By weaponizing bureaucratic confusion, they not only cause financial harm but also jeopardize the academic and immigration status of their victims. The FBI is urging international students to remain vigilant, question unsolicited contact from supposed government officials, and report suspicious activity through appropriate channels.

    International students who suspect they are being targeted should not act hastily out of fear. Verification of claims and careful scrutiny of communication can help prevent falling victim. Government agencies do not typically demand immediate payment over the phone or through unofficial platforms. As always, awareness remains a critical line of defense.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 21, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Beware of Counterfeit Pet Products 

    Beware of Counterfeit Pet Products

    By Greg Collier

    The cost of caring for a pet can add up quickly. Routine expenses such as food and veterinary visits already total more than a thousand dollars a year on average. Yet, it’s often the accessories and extras, such as collars, toys, treats, and grooming supplies, where costs can spiral even higher. Unfortunately, scammers have taken notice.

    As pet products flood online marketplaces, so do counterfeit versions. These imitations can appear nearly identical to name-brand items, but often fall short in safety and quality. Many pet owners discover too late that what they purchased online was not what it claimed to be. Some buyers have been left without any product at all, even after receiving shipping confirmations.

    Online advertisements for popular pet items can be tempting, especially when they appear to offer a substantial discount. However, the Better Business Bureau has warned that unusually low prices and unfamiliar websites are common signs of fraud. Counterfeit pet products not only waste money, but may also put animals at risk. A poorly made toy or accessory can break apart, be swallowed, or contain harmful substances.

    To avoid these risks, shoppers are advised to stick with trusted retailers. A secure website, verified reviews, and clear contact information can signal legitimacy. Using a credit card is a safer option, as it allows for disputes in the event the product is defective or fails to arrive. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with a store’s return and refund policies and keep order records until delivery is confirmed.

    Even legitimate-looking websites can carry counterfeit goods, especially when it comes to flea and tick prevention. Because some of these products mimic over-the-counter or prescription medications, there is an added layer of concern. A discussion with a licensed veterinarian is the safest route when choosing a treatment plan for any pet.

    The convenience of online shopping should not come at the expense of a pet’s safety. Thanks to guidance from Consumer Reports and warnings from consumer protection agencies like the BBB, pet owners have tools to shop smarter and avoid falling victim to potentially dangerous fakes.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 20, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , crypto scam, , iowa,   

    Court Ruling Favors Crypto ATMs, Not Victims 

    By Greg Collier

    Two Iowans who fell victim to cryptocurrency scams will not get their money back, according to a recent ruling by the Iowa Supreme Court. In decisions released May 1, the state’s highest court sided with Bitcoin Depot, a third-party cryptocurrency ATM provider, over the victims of online fraud. The court reversed a lower court’s decision that would have allowed the victims to recover the cash they used to purchase bitcoin, which was later seized by law enforcement.

    Both cases followed a similar pattern. The victims were approached online and told to deposit money at a Bitcoin ATM in Linn County. One was led to believe their online accounts were compromised, while the other was falsely accused of possessing illegal content. Each was instructed to convert their money into bitcoin and send it to a digital wallet controlled by scammers. Both individuals complied, transferring over $14,000 before realizing they had been defrauded. Investigators later seized the deposited cash from the ATM operator, but were unable to recover the bitcoin itself.

    The question before the court was what should happen to the seized cash once it was no longer needed for the investigation. The Supreme Court ruled that Bitcoin Depot, as the ATM operator, was entitled to the money. The justices cited the company’s protocols, which include user prompts to confirm wallet ownership and warnings about scams. Because there was no evidence that the company knowingly facilitated fraud, the court concluded that it had a legal right to retain the funds.

    While the legal rationale behind the decision may be sound within the framework of current commercial law, the outcome is difficult to view as anything other than anti-consumer. The victims in these cases were clearly manipulated by scammers using deceptive tactics that exploit fear and urgency. That they not only lost their cryptocurrency, but also the cash used to buy it, adds insult to injury. The court’s opinion effectively shields third-party facilitators from financial accountability, even when they serve as a conduit for criminal activity.

    As it stands, this decision sends a message that victims of crypto fraud have few avenues for restitution, particularly when their money passes through intermediaries. It reinforces a growing perception that current laws lag behind the realities of digital financial crime. Consumers are left to bear the full burden of fraud, while companies that profit from the infrastructure used in these scams remain legally insulated.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 19, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: carfax, dealership cloning, , ,   

    CARFAX Scam Costs Buyer $45,000 

    By Greg Collier

    CARFAX has built a reputation as a trusted source for vehicle history reports, often used by consumers to make informed car-buying decisions. While the platform’s reports remain comprehensive and generally reliable, recent developments have raised concerns about how its site is being used by fraudsters in increasingly sophisticated ways.

    A consumer in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, fell victim to a vehicle scam that leveraged CARFAX listings to give the illusion of legitimacy. She and her husband were seeking a luxury SUV and located one on CARFAX listed for sale by what appeared to be a dealership based in Nebraska. Despite initial concerns about the distance, they were reassured by the dealership’s polished online presence and the fact that the listing originated from a site as widely trusted as CARFAX.

    The couple made direct contact with someone claiming to be the dealership owner. In an attempt to verify the car’s existence, they even requested a video of the vehicle. When the video arrived, they believed it was authentic and proceeded with the purchase. They wired $45,000 with the understanding that the vehicle would be shipped within a week. But the vehicle never came.

    It was later discovered that the couple had not been communicating with the actual dealership. The legitimate business did exist, but it had no online footprint and did not advertise on CARFAX. The real dealer confirmed multiple individuals had been scammed in his name, unaware that his business identity was being used by criminals.

    Investigators uncovered that this was part of a broader scheme known as dealership cloning. Fraudsters reportedly duplicate or closely imitate listings from real dealerships and create convincing websites to support the ruse. These listings are then promoted across various platforms, including those that consumers tend to trust without question.

    After the funds were transferred, the scammers disappeared, leaving the victims with no vehicle and little recourse. A second individual reported being defrauded out of $18,000 over the same vehicle posted on another site. The fake dealership’s website has since been removed, and local police are investigating, though details remain limited.

    This incident serves as a reminder that even when using well-known platforms, due diligence is essential. Experts recommend involving a reputable escrow service when purchasing a vehicle without seeing it in person. The outward appearance of legitimacy is no guarantee against fraud, especially as scammers grow more adept at mimicking credible businesses.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 16, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fake Process Servers Exploit Legal Fears 

    Fake Process Servers Exploit Legal Fears

    By Greg Collier

    A process server has a simple but important job. Their role is to deliver legal documents, such as court summonses or subpoenas, to individuals involved in a legal proceeding. This delivery must follow legal procedures to ensure the recipient is properly notified. Real process servers do not make threats, demand personal information, or call ahead with demands.

    The Better Business Bureau has issued a warning about a growing scam involving fake process servers. Scammers are contacting people by phone and falsely claiming to be process servers attempting to deliver legal papers. In many cases, the callers allege there is a lien against the victim’s home or that legal action is being taken for unpaid medical bills. The intent is to create panic, pushing the person to give up sensitive information.

    In some instances, these callers go beyond the initial target. They may contact relatives or friends, claiming those individuals could face consequences if they do not help reach the original target. These tactics are designed to amplify fear and force quick action. However, no actual legal documents are involved. The goal is identity theft or financial fraud.

    There are ways to identify a real process server from a scammer. A legitimate process server does not ask for Social Security numbers or banking information. They typically do not call ahead with warnings, nor do they try to verify private details over the phone. Most importantly, they serve papers in person and do not threaten arrest for noncompliance. Anyone concerned about potential lawsuits or liens can search court records directly through official court websites.

    Recognizing these signs can help prevent falling victim to this scam. As with many forms of fraud, the key is to stay calm, verify independently, and never give away personal information under pressure.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 15, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Deed Scam Hits 58,000 Homeowners 

    By Greg Collier

    A growing real estate scam has cost Americans more than $1.3 billion between 2019 and 2023, affecting an estimated 58,000 victims across the country. The scheme targets vacant or unmonitored properties, often by forging ownership documents and illegally selling these homes to unsuspecting buyers. Federal investigators, along with local agencies, are raising awareness about this trend as new cases continue to emerge.

    In Lee County, Florida, authorities have identified multiple instances of this type of fraud. One individual was convicted of grand theft and trespassing after fraudulently claiming ownership of a property. In another recent incident, a suspect was caught attempting to file a falsified deed with the local records office. Thanks to the county’s property fraud prevention program, investigators were able to trace the fraudulent activity and apprehend the suspect.

    The county’s fraud prevention alert system plays a central role in combating these crimes. The system notifies registered homeowners via email within 24 hours if a document is filed under their name. Before this tool existed, most victims would not learn of unauthorized activity until months later, often when their tax bills failed to arrive. More than 60,000 property owners in Lee County have signed up for the service, though this represents only a small fraction of the 500,000 parcels in the region.

    Experts recommend that homeowners remain proactive when it comes to protecting their property. This includes regularly reviewing property records, signing up for fraud alerts, and being wary of unsolicited offers or suspicious communications regarding real estate. Consulting with legal professionals before making changes to property ownership can also help avoid falling victim to fraudulent transactions.

    Those who believe they may be at risk or suspect unauthorized activity involving a property deed are urged to report it to federal authorities. With real estate often representing a family’s most valuable asset, taking steps to secure it against fraud is essential in today’s digital environment.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 14, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , ,   

    Fake Refunds, Real Scams 

    Fake Refunds, Real Scams

    By Greg Collier

    There’s already enough anxiety around scams that threaten dire consequences, whether it’s arrest, fines, or lost accounts. But some scams take a different angle, promising something good instead. One such scheme making the rounds in Michigan and other parts of the country is the so-called refund scam, where fraudsters claim that you’re owed money. The offer sounds appealing, especially during times of economic strain, but it’s just another way to steal your personal or financial information.

    Unlike most scams where the fear of loss or punishment is used to manipulate victims, this one dangles the illusion of a reward. The person contacting you may claim to represent your bank, credit union, government office, or a well-known company. They reach out by email, text, phone call, or even social media, claiming you are due a refund or reimbursement. To receive the money, you are often asked to confirm or provide sensitive information like your bank details or Social Security number. In some cases, the scammer might say a small fee is required up front to process the refund.

    These communications often look convincing. The names and logos may resemble real institutions, and the messages might include enough detail to feel personal or urgent. But these tactics are designed to lower your guard. Once the scammer has what they need, the promised money never arrives. Instead, accounts may be drained or identities stolen. In some cases, victims are sent fraudulent checks that later bounce, leaving them responsible for the full amount.

    This type of fraud relies heavily on trust and distraction. The promise of a refund is meant to create a false sense of gain that distracts from the red flags. The safest response is skepticism. If you didn’t ask for a refund or file a claim, be wary of anyone who says you’re getting one. Contact the company directly using verified contact information if you suspect a message could be legitimate. Avoid calling numbers or clicking links provided in unsolicited communications.

    The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services continues to receive reports of these scams. They remind residents that any unexpected communication offering money should be treated with caution. Financial institutions and legitimate businesses do not ask for sensitive information or advance fees to deliver refunds.

    Being cautious about these offers doesn’t mean you’re being paranoid. It means you’re protecting yourself from schemes that promise gain but deliver loss.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 13, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Target Student Loan Restart 

    Scammers Target Student Loan Restart

    By Greg Collier

    There’s already enough confusion about student loan relief, or the lack thereof, without scammers adding to the chaos. As of May 5th, the federal government has resumed the collection of defaulted federal student loans for the first time since March 2020, when payments were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to this change, the Better Business Bureau is warning Missouri residents to be on alert for scams targeting borrowers.

    According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), scammers are exploiting the current uncertainty by contacting borrowers with misleading offers that claim to provide quick or guaranteed student loan forgiveness. These schemes may appear convincing and often pressure borrowers into handing over personal information or paying unnecessary fees. The BBB urges borrowers to remain cautious and avoid trusting unsolicited calls, emails, or texts about loan repayment options.

    One way to reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams is by securing an FSA ID through the official Federal Student Aid website. This helps ensure direct and secure communication between borrowers and the government, rather than third parties posing as legitimate servicers. The BBB also emphasizes the importance of using official websites and verified sources when exploring loan repayment or refinancing options.

    Borrowers are advised not to pay for debt relief services and to be skeptical of any company making bold promises about eliminating student loan debt. Scammers often count on confusion and urgency to convince people to act quickly, especially as collection efforts resume after a long hiatus.

    The BBB’s warning serves as a timely reminder that diligence is essential. Staying informed and cautious is the best defense against fraud as the student loan landscape continues to evolve.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 12, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Your Phone Number May Not Be Just Yours 

    By Greg Collier

    A recent case in Franklin County, Kentucky, highlights a troubling trend in mobile phone fraud known as SIM-swapping. Despite the name, this scam does not always involve the physical SIM card in a victim’s device. Even phones with eSIMs or those marketed as not using traditional SIM cards are still vulnerable. What matters to the scammer is control over the phone number, not the card itself.

    SIM-swapping, also called “porting out,” is when a fraudster convinces a mobile carrier to transfer someone’s phone number to a new account under the scammer’s control. Once the transfer is complete, the victim’s device is disconnected from service, while the scammer now receives all calls and text messages meant for the victim. This includes two-factor authentication codes and verification messages that many financial and online services rely on for security.

    In this instance, the couple discovered this scam when their phones lost service almost simultaneously. A message from their mobile provider followed, indicating that a request to change service providers had been received and was being processed. Within minutes, their numbers had been hijacked by individuals using different carriers. From that moment, their identities were essentially in someone else’s hands.

    The consequences were swift and invasive. The scammers attempted to open credit accounts in their names. As the couple scrambled to regain control, they encountered the frustrating reality of automated systems and long waits for human support. In today’s digital environment, losing access to a phone number is more than just an inconvenience. It can mean losing access to email, banking, and personal communications.

    Preventing SIM-swapping begins with strengthening account security. Users are advised to set up unique PINs or passcodes with their mobile carriers that must be provided before any changes are made to their accounts. Some carriers offer port protection or number lock features that make unauthorized transfers more difficult. It’s also critical to limit how much personal information is shared online, especially birthdates, phone numbers, and email addresses which can be used to impersonate a customer in support calls.

    Despite the technical-sounding name, SIM-swapping is a social engineering attack at its core. It preys not on vulnerabilities in the phone itself, but on human error and the weak points in customer service systems. As more services rely on mobile phones as a gateway to personal data, awareness and proactive security measures become all the more essential.

     

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