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  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 8, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Amazon Refund Text Scam Alert 

    Amazon Refund Text Scam Alert

    By Greg Collier

    Scammers are once again impersonating Amazon in an effort to steal money and personal information from unsuspecting consumers. This warning comes from the Federal Trade Commission, which reports that fraudulent text messages are claiming there is a problem with a recent purchase and offering a refund.

    The messages appear to come from Amazon and state that a “routine quality inspection” has determined that an item recently purchased does not meet the company’s standards or has been recalled. The text promises a full refund without the need to return the product but instructs the recipient to click a link to claim the money. In reality, there is no refund, and the link leads to a phishing site designed to obtain financial or personal information.

    Amazon is a frequent target for impersonation in scams because of its large customer base and the high volume of orders placed each day. Many recipients of these texts will have made a purchase recently, which makes the scam seem more believable and increases the likelihood they will interact with the message.

    Legitimate companies do not issue refunds through unsolicited text messages, and consumers should be cautious when receiving unexpected communications. Rather than clicking any links or replying to the message, shoppers concerned about the authenticity of such a notice should contact the retailer directly using verified channels. Checking an account through the official website or app can confirm whether a product recall or quality issue actually exists.

    Suspicious texts can be reported to mobile carriers by forwarding them to 7726, which spells “SPAM” on most devices, or by using the built-in junk reporting feature on a smartphone. After reporting, the message should be deleted to prevent accidental interaction. Consumers who believe they have been targeted by this type of scam can file a report with the Federal Trade Commission to help stop fraudulent activity.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 7, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , Labubu, , ,   

    Labubu Toy Scam Hits Online Shoppers 

    By Greg Collier

    Labubu toys, produced by the collectible toy brand Pop Mart, have quickly become one of the most sought-after items among children and collectors alike. These stylized, elf-like figures are part of a blind-box toy series and often feature whimsical, sometimes mischievous expressions. Originally launched as part of the “The Monsters” collection, Labubu figures typically retail for about $15 to $20 apiece, though rare editions and limited releases can fetch significantly higher prices in resale markets.

    Like Beanie Babies in the 1990s or Hatchimals in the 2010s, Labubus have developed a devoted following that fuels both demand and scarcity. As with any highly coveted toy, this has made them a ripe target for counterfeiters and scammers. The Better Business Bureau is now warning consumers to be especially cautious when purchasing Labubu toys online, particularly from unfamiliar websites or third-party sellers advertising through social media platforms.

    Recent reports show that dozens of buyers have been deceived by online retailers promising authentic Labubu toys, only to receive cheap knockoffs or, in some cases, nothing at all. Some consumers were led to these fraudulent sellers through ads on popular apps, such as TikTok. Once a purchase was made, the retailer’s website would often disappear, leaving no recourse for the buyer.

    Because these toys are part of a global collectible trend, their physical features are often closely scrutinized by fans and collectors. Authentic Labubu figures should come in branded packaging with specific identifiers such as a QR code and a holographic sticker. The figures themselves typically have a pale peach complexion and are designed with nine sharp, pointed teeth. Anything that deviates from these markers could indicate a counterfeit product.

    Counterfeit toys also come with risks beyond the disappointment of receiving a fake. These knockoffs are not subject to the same safety and quality regulations as legitimate products. As a result, they may be made with unsafe materials such as lead-based paint or contain small, breakable parts that pose choking hazards. While collectors may recognize the difference immediately, unsuspecting parents could be putting their children at risk without knowing it.

    To avoid falling victim to these scams, experts advise consumers to make purchases through reputable and well-known retailers. Suspiciously low prices, poor-quality website design, or vague contact information should be considered red flags. While social media advertising can sometimes lead to legitimate deals, it has also become a common method for scam operations to gain traction quickly and then disappear.

    The popularity of Labubu toys is expected to continue rising, especially as limited editions and seasonal releases drive further demand. For those looking to join the trend or buy for a child or collector, taking extra care during the purchasing process can help prevent costly disappointments. The Better Business Bureau continues to provide updated consumer alerts and shopping advice on its official website.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Student Aid and Housing Scams Surge 

    Student Aid and Housing Scams Surge

    By Greg Collier

    August marks the beginning of scholarship application season for many students, but it also signals an increase in scams targeting those seeking financial aid. Fraudulent offers often arrive through email, social media, or phone calls, claiming to represent government agencies, universities, or nonprofit organizations. In some cases, students are told they have been awarded a scholarship or grant they never applied for but must pay a processing or application fee before receiving the funds. These offers may use official-sounding names and professional-looking websites to appear legitimate. One recently reported case involved a website designed to mimic the official federal financial aid portal but that requested credit card information to complete an application. The official application process for federal student aid never requires payment.

    Similar schemes can be found in the housing market as students prepare for the fall semester. Rental scams are particularly common among younger renters and can be costly. Fraudulent listings often use copied photos and descriptions from legitimate advertisements, replacing the real contact information with that of the scammer. Victims are typically asked to send a deposit and the first month’s rent before seeing the property in person, sometimes with the explanation that the owner is out of town. In other cases, the property in question may actually be for sale rather than for rent. Payments are frequently requested through non-secure methods such as wire transfers or gift cards, which make recovery of lost funds nearly impossible.

    Both scholarship and rental scams exploit the urgency and financial pressure that students face at the start of the academic year. While the specific methods vary, the underlying strategy remains the same. Scammers create a false sense of opportunity, push for quick action, and request money in advance. Students can reduce their risk by taking time to verify any offers or listings through official channels, avoiding any that request payment before services are rendered, and seeking assistance from school guidance counselors or financial aid offices.

    Conducting a reverse image search on rental photos can help determine whether the images were taken from another listing, and running a web search on the rental property’s address can reveal conflicting or suspicious information. For scholarship opportunities, contacting the sponsoring organization directly and confirming details on its official website can help ensure that the offer is legitimate. Careful research and skepticism can make a significant difference in avoiding financial losses at a time when resources are already stretched thin.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , ,   

    Jury Duty Scam Gets a Tech Upgrade 

    By Greg Collier

    The jury duty scam has been a persistent threat for years, often beginning with a phone call from someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer. The caller accuses the recipient of failing to report for jury duty and threatens immediate arrest unless a fine is paid. These calls can be very convincing, with scammers using spoofed caller IDs to make it appear as if the call is coming from a local police department. Victims are often pressured into making quick payments using gift cards, wire transfers, or mobile payment apps. The urgency and fear created by the call are intended to override a person’s judgment, making them more likely to comply.

    A new variation of this scam is now emerging, according to a warning from the Federal Trade Commission. Instead of instructing targets to make a payment directly over the phone, scammers are directing them to visit a fraudulent website. This site is designed to mimic an official government page, complete with realistic-looking seals and professional design elements. The individual is asked to enter sensitive personal information, including their date of birth and Social Security number, under the pretense of verifying their identity or calculating a fine. In some cases, the site demands payment through non-traditional methods such as cryptocurrency or through so-called government kiosks, which do not actually exist.

    This approach allows scammers to collect personal data as well as money, potentially leading to both financial loss and identity theft. The presence of a convincing website may give the impression of legitimacy, especially to individuals who are unfamiliar with how official government sites operate.

    Once this personal information is collected, the consequences can extend far beyond the initial scam. Scammers may use the data to open fraudulent credit accounts, file false tax returns, or even commit medical identity theft. Victims often do not realize their identity has been compromised until they receive collection notices, are denied credit, or encounter issues with government agencies. The damage can take years to fully resolve.

    Anyone who receives such a call should avoid engaging with the caller or visiting the provided website. If there is any concern about jury duty status, the appropriate course of action is to contact the local court directly using a verified phone number or official website.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Home Lost After Church Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    As the new school year begins and summer temperatures peak in the Las Vegas Valley, one local family is enduring a far more personal crisis that serves as a sobering warning about real estate scams targeting the elderly.

    According to a recent report from 8 News Now, a Southern Nevada family is speaking out after their elderly father lost his home to what they describe as a long-running and devastating fraud. The situation reportedly began several years ago when the man, hoping to lower his mortgage payments, was approached by someone at church who claimed to be an attorney offering help with a loan modification.

    Religious communities are often built on trust and mutual support, which unfortunately makes them attractive hunting grounds for scammers. Many bad actors intentionally target places of worship because they know people are more likely to let their guard down around someone who appears to share their faith and values.

    In this case, the homeowner trusted the man’s assurances and ultimately signed a quitclaim deed and paid thousands of dollars, believing this would help him stay in his home. Instead, it left him vulnerable to financial and legal exploitation. Despite his family’s efforts to intervene, the home was foreclosed on and sold at auction.

    Quitclaim deeds are commonly used to transfer property between family members or trusted parties, as they allow an owner to give up their interest in a property quickly and with minimal paperwork. However, they do not offer any warranty or protection for the grantor, making them a favorite tool in real estate fraud. Once the deed is signed and recorded, the transfer is legally binding, even if the property was essentially taken under false pretenses. Reversing such a transfer typically requires a costly and time-consuming legal process.

    Court records indicate that the individual who orchestrated the scheme currently has a warrant out for his arrest, and the family believes he has used similar tactics in other states. Their father remains in the home for now, but with new ownership in place, eviction could happen at any time. The case remains under investigation.

    This incident underscores the importance of public awareness surrounding mortgage assistance fraud and deed-related scams. Older homeowners, in particular, should be cautious of anyone offering unsolicited help with financial matters, especially in informal or familiar settings such as churches. Verifying credentials, consulting licensed professionals, and understanding the legal implications of real estate documents are critical steps in protecting one’s home.

    As the legal case proceeds, the family’s hope is that their story will help others recognize the warning signs before it’s too late. The emotional and financial fallout from fraud can be devastating, particularly when it strips someone of the home they worked a lifetime to secure.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 1, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , PPP Loans,   

    PPP Scam Targets Texas Bank Accounts 

    By Greg Collier

    It has been five years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the ripple effects continue to impact Americans. One troubling development is a scam that has resurfaced across the country, now affecting communities in Texas. Individuals who received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans are being contacted by scammers posing as their bank, asking for sensitive financial information.

    These fraudulent calls have recently begun targeting residents in the Abilene area. The scammers are not operating at random. Instead, they appear to be using publicly available information released by the Small Business Administration. The list includes names, loan amounts, and financial institutions involved in distributing PPP funds. Criminals are taking this data and impersonating bank representatives in an effort to gain access to recipients’ online banking systems.

    Once contact is made, victims are pressured to hand over account details such as passwords or authentication codes. These details are then used to initiate unauthorized transactions and siphon funds. Although the scam is tailored to PPP recipients, the broader tactic of impersonating a bank and spoofing phone numbers to appear legitimate is not new. Spoofed calls can make it seem like they are coming from a trusted local number or even the recipient’s own bank.

    The situation highlights the importance of verifying who you are speaking to before sharing any personal or financial information. Financial institutions will not request passwords or secure access codes over the phone. Customers who receive such requests are encouraged to end the call and contact their bank directly using a verified phone number listed on the institution’s official website or documents.

    Local financial institutions are not taking the matter lightly. Some banks have started collaborating with trade organizations to push for the removal of sensitive PPP data from public access. This step aims to reduce the likelihood of criminals using that information to manipulate and defraud recipients.

    For individuals who may have already fallen victim to this scam, there are steps that can be taken to recover. Under federal law known as Regulation E, consumers have 60 days from the date of their bank statement to report unauthorized electronic transfers. If reported in time, banks are required to investigate and may be obligated to reverse the fraudulent transactions. Victims can also report the incident to the Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General or file a complaint through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s IdentityTheft.gov portal, which offers resources and action plans for dealing with financial fraud and identity theft.

    In the meantime, those who believe they have received a scam call or have been victimized are encouraged to use resources like the BBB Scam Tracker website. Sharing experiences can help others stay informed and may aid in shutting down fraudulent activity more quickly.

    Although the PPP program was designed to offer relief during a national emergency, it has unfortunately become a tool for exploitation. As long as that data remains public, scammers will continue to find ways to use it against the very people it was intended to help.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 31, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , SpaceX, Starlink   

    Fake Starlink Deals Flood Facebook 

    Fake Starlink Deals Flood Facebook

    By Greg Collier

    As SpaceX continues to offer legitimate discounts for its Starlink satellite internet service, scammers are taking advantage of the buzz with fraudulent ads on Facebook. According to a recent report by PCMag, deceptive promotions are circulating on the platform that falsely promise “lifetime access” to Starlink at a steep discount.

    The fraudulent ads frequently appear in Facebook search results for Starlink and claim to offer official Starlink hardware, including the new portable Mini dish, for a one-time payment as low as $127. Some ads suggest that SpaceX is running a limited-time promotion for a small batch of discounted units, implying urgency to lure unsuspecting customers. However, these promotions do not link to the official Starlink website.

    Instead, users are redirected to imposter websites. These sites mimic the look of legitimate retailers and offer unrealistic deals, like three Starlink dishes for $39.99 with so-called lifetime internet access. After selecting a package, consumers are taken to a checkout page that accepts credit card payments. In numerous instances, customers who made purchases never received any products.

    Although some users have been able to recognize these sites as fraudulent, others were deceived. Reports of the scam have emerged from several countries, and it has been active since at least May. The ease with which these ads can be found through Facebook search suggests the scam is widespread and ongoing.

    SpaceX has issued previous warnings about similar scams involving phishing emails and fraudulent texts posing as Starlink representatives. Meanwhile, the company has promoted its own verified deals through Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter).

    Despite the presence of these scams on its platform, Facebook has not issued a public response. The prevalence of fraudulent ads continues to raise concerns about the social media platform’s ability to detect and remove deceptive content before it causes financial harm.

    Beyond the immediate financial loss, victims may also be at risk of identity theft. By entering personal and payment information into these fake websites, users could unknowingly expose their data to criminals who may resell the information or use it for further fraud. This adds a longer-term risk that may not be immediately apparent to those targeted by the scam.

    Starlink currently provides internet service to over two million customers in the United States. As with any high-demand product, consumers are urged to verify the authenticity of any deal by visiting the official website and avoiding third-party links promising unrealistic offers.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , ,   

    Fake IRS Letters Target Military Families 

    Fake IRS Letters Target Military Families

    By Greg Collier

    Military families in metro Atlanta are being warned about a tax-related scam that appears to target the loved ones of active-duty service members deployed overseas. The scheme involves fraudulent letters claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service. These letters demand payment for supposed back taxes and threaten the loss of property if the amount is not paid.

    The letters look official and often arrive via certified mail, which adds to their deceptive appearance. Families, already under emotional stress while their loved ones are deployed, may feel pressured to act quickly without verifying the source. This creates an ideal environment for scammers who rely on fear and confusion to extract money or personal information.

    Some families have reported difficulty confirming whether the tax debt is legitimate, especially with the added complication of time zone differences and limited communication during deployment. In at least one case, repeated calls to the IRS were required to confirm that no taxes were owed. Such scams can create unnecessary financial anxiety and emotional stress for those trying to support deployed relatives from afar.

    Organizations that monitor scams affecting military personnel say these individuals are often more vulnerable due to the nature of their service. Deployed members may not have regular access to email or financial accounts, and physical mail may go unchecked for long periods. This makes it easier for fraudulent claims to go unnoticed or unchallenged until significant damage is done.

    The most common types of scams targeting this group are impostor scams and identity theft. Fraudsters often pose as government agencies or financial institutions to gain trust and pressure victims into taking immediate action. Military families are encouraged to be skeptical of unsolicited communications demanding money and to verify all claims directly through official government channels.

    To confirm whether a tax debt is legitimate, individuals can check directly with the IRS by using the official IRS website or by calling the phone number listed on IRS.gov. The agency does not demand immediate payment using methods such as gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, and it typically initiates contact through prior notices before escalating collection efforts.

    It may also be helpful for families to be aware of protections available under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. This law provides financial and legal safeguards to active-duty service members, including protections against certain debt collection actions. Understanding these rights can be an important step in identifying and resisting fraudulent threats.

    As scams continue to evolve, staying informed remains a critical line of defense. Families should consider placing fraud alerts on financial accounts and monitoring credit activity, especially during periods of deployment. Prompt reporting of suspicious activity to the proper authorities can also help prevent further harm and assist in identifying patterns that lead to enforcement action.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 29, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , State Code 15C-16.003,   

    Fake DMV Texts Cite Bogus Laws 

    By Greg Collier

    A phishing scam that has been circulating in multiple states is continuing to evolve, with a new variation citing a fictitious state code to lend credibility to fraudulent messages. The scam targets drivers by sending official-looking texts that claim the recipient owes traffic fines or faces legal penalties, such as license suspension or damage to their credit score.

    The latest version of the scam has appeared in Illinois, California, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Tennessee. In each instance, recipients receive alarming messages that appear to come from a state motor vehicle agency. The messages often claim that an outstanding traffic ticket needs to be paid immediately or that the ticket will be referred to a toll agency for an additional fee. A recent variation includes a fabricated code, such as “State Code 15C-16.003,” to make the warning seem more legitimate. This code has no basis in any actual state law.

    These text messages usually contain a link that, when clicked, leads to a fake website designed to steal personal or financial information. In some cases, the scam also involves spoofed phone numbers that appear to come from law enforcement agencies or government offices. These tactics are intended to pressure recipients into taking immediate action without verifying the source.

    State agencies across the country have issued warnings to residents, clarifying that they do not send text messages demanding payment or threatening legal action. Official notices regarding traffic violations or unpaid fines are typically sent by mail. Payments are usually made through secure state websites, not through third-party links sent via text.

    To avoid falling victim to this scam, drivers are advised not to respond to unexpected text messages, especially those that include suspicious links or legal threats. Instead, they should verify the legitimacy of any message by contacting their state’s department of motor vehicles or public safety office directly. Residents who believe they have received a fraudulent message are encouraged to report it to the Federal Trade Commission or their state’s consumer protection office.

    This scam has persisted for months and continues to adapt. The inclusion of a fictitious legal code is the latest effort to deceive and pressure recipients. Remaining cautious and informed is essential to protecting personal information and avoiding financial loss.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: car cloning, , , ,   

    Cloned Cars Cost Kansas Drivers Big 

    Cloned Cars Cost Kansas Drivers Big

    By Greg Collier

    Criminals in Kansas are increasingly using cloned vehicles to defraud unsuspecting buyers, leaving victims without legal recourse and contributing to higher insurance costs across the state. The Kansas Highway Patrol reports a growing number of these cases, in which stolen or salvaged vehicles are made to appear legitimate through fraudulent documentation and vehicle identification numbers.

    A cloned vehicle is one that has had its identifying features altered to disguise its original identity. Criminals acquire the vehicle identification number (VIN) from a legally registered vehicle and use it to create fake labels and documentation that match the same make, model, and year. These forged materials are then applied to the stolen or salvaged vehicle, allowing it to be sold as if it were legitimate. Because the vehicle now carries the identity of a real, legally registered vehicle, its original history becomes concealed.

    The impact on buyers can be severe. Those who unknowingly purchase a cloned vehicle often pay thousands of dollars, sometimes in cash, and have no legal claim to the vehicle once it is discovered to be stolen. They may also be unable to recover the money paid. Meanwhile, the original owners of the stolen vehicles must go through the process of proving their ownership and often receive an insurance payout that does not fully reflect the vehicle’s value. In some cases, victims may not have theft coverage at all.

    This type of fraud can also lead to broader consequences. Insurance companies may be forced to pay large claims, which in turn contributes to rising premiums for all policyholders. Additionally, cloned vehicles can be used in the commission of other crimes since they are difficult to trace back to the person who altered them.

    While it is difficult to quantify the exact financial toll of this scam in Kansas, even a single case can result in combined losses exceeding six figures. Buyers may lose their payment, insurers may be responsible for substantial payouts, and the original vehicle owners are often left without a car or proper compensation.

    To avoid becoming a victim, prospective buyers should be cautious and research a vehicle’s history before completing a purchase. They should verify the legitimacy of the title, ensure the VIN on the vehicle matches official documents, and avoid cash transactions that are difficult to trace. Taking steps such as photographing the seller and checking identification can also help deter fraud. Ultimately, buyers should remain skeptical of prices that appear unusually low, as they may indicate a more profound issue with the vehicle’s history.

    Additional information and resources for verifying a vehicle’s identity can typically be found on your state’s Highway Patrol or State Police website. The National Insurance Crime Bureau also offers a free VIN check service that can assist buyers in identifying potential cloned vehicles.

     

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