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  • Geebo 8:03 am on May 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Tricked Into Crime by a Fake Job 

    Tricked Into Crime by a Fake Job

    By Greg Collier

    In a twist on employment fraud, scammers are targeting people looking for work with what seems like an easy way to make money. Known as a reshipping scam, the scheme presents itself as a legitimate job offer under titles such as “shipping coordinator” or other vaguely defined logistics roles. The job may appear to offer attractive pay for minimal effort, but the reality is far more dangerous and costly.

    Victims of reshipping scams are often asked to receive packages at their home and then forward them to other locations. The job might require them to use their own funds to pay for the second shipment, with the promise of reimbursement and wages after the task is completed. But when the time comes to be paid, the employer vanishes, leaving the victim without compensation and out the money they spent on shipping.

    What many don’t realize until it’s too late is that the contents of the packages are frequently obtained using stolen credit cards. Items sent through these operations have included high-value goods like drones, electronics and even precious metals. This setup not only leaves victims financially drained, but can also put them in legal jeopardy. Law enforcement agencies have documented cases where participants in reshipping schemes were investigated or arrested after unknowingly assisting in the transport of stolen merchandise.

    The danger escalates further when victims provide personal information during the so-called hiring process. Information such as Social Security numbers, home addresses and banking details are often collected, making the victim vulnerable to identity theft in addition to financial loss.

    Some individuals, in an attempt to avoid trouble once they realize they’ve been scammed, might try to dispose of or reroute the packages without following shipping or customs regulations. Doing so can lead to further legal consequences. Authorities have warned that attempting to circumvent import or export laws, even unknowingly, can result in criminal charges.

    The scheme is often tied to larger networks of organized crime that profit from exploiting individuals under the guise of employment. The psychological toll of being deceived, combined with the financial impact, can leave victims with lasting consequences.

    As employment scams continue to evolve, it’s critical for jobseekers to remain suspicious and verify the legitimacy of any position that involves personal financial risk or unusual responsibilities. When something sounds too good to be true, it often is.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 29, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Fake DMV Texts Are the New Nationwide Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    A new phishing scam is spreading across the country, targeting drivers with fraudulent text messages that appear to come from official motor vehicle departments. These messages claim the recipient has unpaid traffic fines and threaten license suspension or other penalties unless immediate action is taken. In reality, these texts are not from any legitimate agency and are designed to steal personal and financial information.

    In Georgia, the messages reference a nonexistent Department of Motor Vehicles and warn about suspended driving privileges unless payment is made. Officials in that state have clarified that there is no state DMV and that real agencies, like the Department of Driver Services, do not use text messages for these purposes.

    In Illinois, the scam texts include specific legal codes, threatening prosecution and credit score damage. The messages cite fake administrative laws and demand payment through a fraudulent link. State officials have warned that such texts are not a legitimate form of communication for any action involving traffic violations or license status.

    Louisiana drivers have received similar texts claiming they owe fines. The state’s Office of Motor Vehicles confirmed these messages are not legitimate and has issued warnings advising residents not to click on any links. Officials say these scams are part of a broader phishing campaign that could also lead to malware infections or identity theft.

    This wave of fake DMV text messages appears to be the latest version of the toll scam texts that circulated widely earlier this year. In those cases, scammers pretended to represent toll agencies and used a similar strategy of creating urgency to push recipients into making fake payments. The transition to impersonating motor vehicle departments suggests that scammers are adapting their tactics to stay ahead of public awareness.

    These scams exploit common anxieties about driving privileges, legal consequences, and unpaid fines. By mimicking the language and tone of government agencies, the messages aim to pressure individuals into quick action before they have time to verify the source. In each case, the fraudulent messages include links to sites that harvest sensitive data or install harmful software.

    As this scam continues to appear in multiple states, it highlights the importance of being cautious with any unsolicited message, especially those requesting immediate payment or personal information. Motor vehicle agencies generally communicate through secure channels and do not use text messages to issue threats or collect fines. Drivers are encouraged to verify any suspicious message by contacting their local agency directly.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Are Sliding Into LinkedIn 

    LinkedIn is often considered one of the safer corners of social media, a place where professionals share career milestones, expand their networks, and connect with future colleagues. But even platforms aimed at career growth are not immune to deception. As one recent incident illustrates, scammers are watching just as closely as potential employers.

    A newly hired employee at a North Carolina television station had shared a standard career update on LinkedIn to mark the beginning of a new role. It was a common post, the kind many professionals make to celebrate career changes. But shortly after connecting with colleagues, the employee received a suspicious text message. The sender claimed to be a manager at the new job, asking if she was available. The message came from an unfamiliar number. Rather than responding right away, she verified the sender through official work channels. That quick check confirmed her instincts that the message was a scam.

    This incident is part of a broader trend of social engineering schemes that target people through LinkedIn and similar platforms. Security experts have long warned that scammers often impersonate employers, recruiters, or co-workers. While some of these messages are after money or personal information, others aim to pull unsuspecting users into criminal activity without their knowledge. Fake job offers, especially ones promising remote work for easy pay, can sometimes serve as fronts for money laundering operations. Scammers may ask victims to transfer funds, purchase gift cards, or engage in other seemingly legitimate tasks, all designed to disguise the origin of illicit gains.

    The growing capabilities of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology are only making these scams harder to detect. Fraudsters can now use fabricated audio and video content to mimic real people and sound convincingly professional. As technology advances, even savvy internet users may struggle to identify what is real and what has been manipulated.

    It’s important to remember that even platforms built for professional engagement are not immune from manipulation. LinkedIn’s focus on career development can create a false sense of security, but scammers thrive in these environments because they know people often let their guard down. Users should be cautious about what they share publicly and consider reviewing their privacy settings. Reducing the visibility of personal details can be one way to limit exposure.

    There are also tools available to help manage your digital footprint. Some online services allow users to request the removal of personally identifiable information from search results. Taking advantage of these features may reduce the risk of being targeted.

    If anything seems off, whether it’s a job offer that feels too good to be true or a message from someone you don’t recognize, verify through a trusted channel before engaging. In today’s digital landscape, vigilance remains one of the most reliable defenses.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 27, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Million-Dollar Inheritance Scam 

    Million-Dollar Inheritance Scam

    By Greg Collier

    A recent attempted scam out of Canada serves as a reminder that the promise of a surprise inheritance is usually more fiction than fact. The setup had all the hallmarks of a well-planned con: a letter from a foreign attorney, a sizable estate left behind by a deceased woman who shared a surname with the recipient, and a convincing narrative involving court filings, insurance policies, and official documents. But it was all a lie.

    The person who received the letter saw through it immediately and was never in danger. But others may not be as fortunate. These scams are often aimed at people who are either unfamiliar with how to vet such claims or who are in a desperate situation where even the faintest promise of a windfall can seem like a lifeline. The emotional appeal is deliberate. Scammers understand how to exploit both financial need and human greed.

    In this case, the supposed law firm that sent the letter did not exist. The lawyer named on the documents is not listed with the Canadian Bar Association. The firm’s website was only recently registered and traced to Malaysia. The deceased woman’s death certificate could not be verified through any official channels. The address provided for her residence was actually that of an assisted living facility, and the office location for the lawyer turned out to be a strip mall storefront. Even the judge’s signature was fraudulent, as the real judge had retired prior to the date on the document.

    Scams like this hinge on creating just enough legitimacy to fool someone into handing over their personal information. The fraudsters often mix truth with fiction, using real names and plausible addresses to lower suspicion. The next step usually involves asking for banking details or a “processing fee” to unlock the inheritance. Once that happens, it’s the victim’s money that vanishes, not an imaginary estate that appears.

    These inheritance claims are rarely, if ever, real. Large unclaimed estates without a clear heir are extremely uncommon, and when they do occur, the process for claiming them is handled through official probate courts, not unsolicited letters or emails. Most of the time, if an heir cannot be located, the estate is absorbed by the government after a thorough legal process.

    It’s tempting to believe in a sudden fortune falling from the sky, especially when the story is polished enough to seem true. But the sad reality is that scams like this one continue to work because they are engineered to manipulate emotions and cloud judgment. If something seems like a gift from nowhere, it almost certainly comes with a price.

    And when no legitimate heir can be found, the money doesn’t go to the person who answers a mysterious letter. It goes to the state, not to a stranger willing to fabricate a connection. So no matter how convincing the story sounds, it’s always better to walk away than be taken in.

     

  • 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
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    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.

     

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