Greg's Corner

Updates from July, 2025 Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 21, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: check washing ( 19 ), mail theft ( 12 ), online banking ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,530 )   

  $85 Check Washed into $4,000 Fraud 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A Wake County, North Carolina, resident is sharing her story after falling victim to a growing form of financial fraud. Despite following what many would consider standard precautions, her personal check was intercepted and altered, leading to a loss of thousands of dollars.

  She had written a check for a routine $85 payment and delivered it by hand at her local post office. However, the check never reached its intended recipient. Instead, it was stolen and manipulated. The original amount was changed to $4,000, and the altered check was deposited through a mobile banking app. The victim only discovered the crime after noticing the large transaction while reviewing her bank records.

  This kind of fraud is known as check washing. It involves stealing legitimate checks and chemically removing the original ink so that new details can be written in. The name on the check may remain unchanged or be replaced entirely, depending on the goal of the thief. Once altered, the checks are often deposited using mobile apps that do not require in-person verification.

  While the financial industry continues to adapt its security measures, criminals are also becoming more sophisticated, targeting checks that are sent through the mail or dropped off at locations presumed to be secure.

  In this case, the victim did everything right. She physically delivered her payment rather than mailing it from home. Yet even that precaution was not enough to prevent her check from being stolen and altered. This highlights how pervasive and difficult to predict these schemes can be.

  To reduce the risk of check washing, financial experts suggest using pens with ink that is resistant to chemical alteration. Gel pens, in particular, are harder for thieves to erase. Additionally, consider using electronic payment methods when available. If writing checks is necessary, monitor your bank account regularly for unexpected transactions and act quickly if something looks suspicious.

  This incident serves as a reminder that even the most diligent efforts to prevent fraud are not always enough. Staying informed remains the best defense against financial scams like check washing.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 18, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: car wrapping ( 12 ), check scam ( 82 ), fake check ( 52 ), job scam ( 89 ), Scams ( 1,530 )   

  Car Wrap Scam Returns for Summer 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A long-running scam has returned to Springfield, Missouri, this time using the Dr. Pepper name to bait potential victims. What seems like a simple chance to make money by advertising the well-known soda on your car is actually part of a counterfeit check scheme that could leave you with a serious financial loss.

  The pitch usually arrives by mail. It offers to pay you for wrapping your car in Dr. Pepper branding and driving around for a few weeks. Along with the offer are checks that look authentic, often totaling several thousand dollars. You’re told to deposit the checks, keep a portion as your pay, and send the rest to a company that will supposedly handle the wrap installation.

  However, the checks are fake. Banks may initially make the money available through provisional credit, giving the impression that the funds have cleared. Victims often follow through with the instructions and send the money out. Days later, when the checks bounce, the bank withdraws the funds, and the victim is left covering the entire amount.

  While Dr. Pepper is the brand used in this case, scammers can use the name of any recognizable company to build trust and make the scam look credible. The appearance of legitimacy is part of the trap. Scammers know that familiar brands can lower a victim’s guard.

  Legitimate car wrap programs do exist, but they don’t operate by sending out unsolicited checks. Real advertising jobs require you to apply, and payment is never made before services are performed. Any unexpected job offer that comes with upfront money should be treated with extreme caution.

  Consumers who encounter offers like this are urged to report them to consumer protection agencies to help warn others before more damage is done.

   
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  Geebo 8:01 am on July 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: ICE ( 3 ), Immigration ( 14 ), Immigration and Customs Enforcement ( 3 ), police impersonation scam ( 84 ), Scams ( 1,530 )   

  Scam Calls Target Immigrants in Texas 

  

  By Greg Collier

  With the current complexity of immigration laws in the United States, many individuals, especially those in vulnerable communities, may find their legal status not only difficult to understand but also a source of fear for their personal safety. This uncertainty creates a dangerous opening for scammers who seek to exploit those fears for financial gain.

  In a recent warning issued by the Austin, Texas, Police Department, residents are being cautioned about scam calls from individuals impersonating either local law enforcement officers or agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These callers are reportedly claiming that the person being contacted is facing fraudulent criminal charges or unspecified immigration violations. The tone of the calls is designed to induce panic, pressuring the recipient into complying out of fear of arrest or deportation.

  What makes this scam particularly insidious is its appearance of legitimacy. Police have identified that many of these calls originate from numbers with a 512 area code, specifically those beginning with the prefix 974. Authorities have stated clearly that any calls appearing with this number format should be treated as fraudulent and reported immediately.

  It is important to emphasize that these types of scams are not limited to areas along the Southern Border. Communities across the country have reported similar schemes, with scammers adapting their tactics to exploit local area codes and regional law enforcement terminology in an effort to appear credible.

  Individuals should remain cautious of unsolicited phone calls, especially those involving threats related to immigration status or legal trouble. Law enforcement agencies and immigration officials do not conduct official business in this manner, particularly when it comes to demanding immediate responses or payments. Anyone who receives such a call should not engage with the caller and should instead report the incident to local authorities or relevant federal agencies.

  As long as confusion persists around immigration policy and enforcement, scammers will continue to take advantage of that uncertainty. Staying informed and vigilant is key to protecting oneself and one’s community.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 16, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Amber Alert ( 3 ), child safety kit ( 3 ), identity theft ( 120 ), impersonation scam ( 177 ), Scams ( 1,530 )   

  Fake AMBER Alert Kits Are a Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Authorities in Orlando, Florida, are warning residents about a troubling scam that falsely claims to be associated with the AMBER Alert program. Scammers have been contacting families both by phone and in person, claiming that parents must register their children for an AMBER Alert kit. In reality, no such registration or payment is required for a child to be eligible for an AMBER Alert.

  The genuine AMBER Alert system is a public safety tool activated only when law enforcement confirms that a child has been abducted and specific criteria are met. Once issued, alerts are distributed through a wide-reaching network that includes radio, television, highway signs, mobile phones, and digital platforms. The system is designed to mobilize communities quickly, not to require any kind of pre-registration or participation in a kit program.

  Scammers are preying on parental fears and using this false narrative to gain trust. In some cases, they have been reported as highly persistent and even appear to possess personal information about the families they target. These tactics are not only designed to extract sensitive data but may also be used to gain physical access to people’s homes under false pretenses.

  The underlying goal of these scams is not just theft of personal data for immediate use. Scammers are particularly interested in obtaining children’s personal information because it can be used to open new lines of credit. Since children are unlikely to check their credit reports, fraudulent accounts may remain undetected for years, sometimes only discovered once the child becomes an adult and applies for credit for the first time.

  Residents are urged to stay cautious and not to share any personal information with individuals claiming to offer or sell AMBER Alert kits. Anyone approached in this way should contact local law enforcement to report the incident. Public awareness is one of the most effective tools in shutting down these deceptive and invasive schemes.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 15, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gold bars ( 11 ), impersonation scam ( 177 ), moving money ( 7 ), Scams ( 1,530 )   

  Gold Bar Scam Is Still a Risk 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Although reports of the gold bar scam have become less frequent in recent months, this does not mean the scam has vanished. On the contrary, these types of schemes continue to claim new victims across the country, often targeting older adults and those unfamiliar with the tactics scammers use to manipulate their targets.

  A recent case out of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, highlights the ongoing danger. A man from New York allegedly stole over half a million dollars in gold bars from a local resident after convincing the victim their finances were under threat. The scam began with remote access to the victim’s computer, followed by claims that their bank accounts were at risk. The scammers pressured the victim to convert their savings into gold and then hand it over to individuals posing as federal employees. The gold, of course, was never protected; it was stolen.

  The reason gold remains a key element in these schemes is simple. Gold is valuable, portable, and difficult to trace once in the hands of a criminal. It can be melted down, sold overseas, or moved through shadowy markets without leaving a digital footprint. For scammers, gold offers an attractive alternative to traditional wire fraud and digital theft.

  Despite law enforcement efforts and public warnings, scammers continue to use fear and urgency to push victims into making hasty financial decisions. These schemes often involve impersonating trusted institutions, such as government agencies or financial services. The underlying message is always the same. Your money is in danger, and the only way to save it is to move it, typically into a form that the scammers can easily steal.

  Anyone who tells you to “move” your money for safekeeping, especially into gold, is not trying to protect you. They are trying to steal from you. No legitimate agency or institution will ever ask you to buy gold, withdraw large sums of cash, or hand over your assets to a stranger who shows up at your door.

  The key to avoiding these scams lies in staying calm, verifying information through official channels, and never acting on financial instructions from unsolicited calls or messages. The gold bar scam may not dominate the headlines like it once did, but it remains a very real and evolving threat.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 14, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: deed transfer ( 16 ), home title theft, quitclaim deeds ( 4 ), real estate ( 135 ), Scams ( 1,530 )   

  Title Theft Scam Hits Homeowners for Millions 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Homeowners across the United States are being warned about a growing form of real estate fraud involving quitclaim deeds. While a recent report from the FBI in Boston focuses on scams in New Hampshire, this type of crime is not limited to New England. It has the potential to impact property owners in every state.

  A quitclaim deed is a legal instrument that allows someone to transfer their interest in a property to another party. It does not guarantee a clear title and can be executed with minimal scrutiny. That makes it an attractive target for criminals who forge documents to sell a home, secure a mortgage, or rent the property without the owner’s knowledge.

  According to federal investigators, more than $4 million was stolen from New Hampshire homeowners between 2019 and 2023 through forged deed scams. Over 200 individuals were victimized during that period. Many of the targeted properties were vacant homes, vacation houses, or parcels of land owned by people living in other states. These types of properties are easier for scammers to exploit without attracting attention.

  The fraudsters often forge both deed documents and personal identification to take advantage of remote real estate closings. They use public records to identify potential properties and sometimes work with real estate agents who are unaware that they are dealing with an impersonator. Victims frequently discover the fraud only after a fake sale or lease has already taken place.

  In some cases, the perpetrators manipulate elderly relatives into transferring ownership, often by taking advantage of confusion about legal rights and obligations. While these scenarios commonly involve unoccupied properties, any home can be at risk. Victims of what is also known as home title theft are often forced into lengthy and expensive legal battles to regain their rightful ownership.

  Many homeowners are unaware of how to report title theft or feel too embarrassed to come forward, further complicating recovery efforts.

  Experts suggest several protective measures. A homeowner’s policy of title insurance can provide post-purchase protection and help resolve fraudulent title claims. Some counties now offer notification services that alert homeowners if a new document is filed in their name. Paid monitoring services can provide similar alerts. Regularly checking on your property or asking a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on vacant homes can also help prevent fraud.

  It is important to stay informed and vigilant. While quitclaim deed scams may not be as well known as other forms of financial fraud, the consequences can be devastating. Homeowners should act now to protect their property and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement or the FBI.

   
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  Geebo 12:02 pm on July 11, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: charity scam ( 39 ), contractors ( 10 ), FEMA ( 12 ), floods ( 4 ), impersonation scam ( 177 ), natural disasters ( 23 ), Scams ( 1,530 ), texas ( 23 )   

  Scammers Target Texas Flood Victims 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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

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

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 10, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: job scam ( 89 ), product boosting ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,530 ), task scam ( 2 )   

  Task Scam Jobs Are on the Rise 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 9, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: FBI ( 29 ), investment scams ( 12 ), ramp and dump, Scams ( 1,530 )   

  Beware the Ramp-and-Dump Investment Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 8, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: electric company ( 2 ), heat wave, power company ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,530 ), shut off scam ( 19 ), utility scam ( 34 )   

  Scammers Use Heat to Fake Shutoffs 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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

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