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  Geebo 1:00 pm on March 10, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gift cards ( 103 ), New Hampshire ( 3 ), recovery scam ( 8 ), Scams ( 1,459 )   

  Rare Chance to Recover Gift Card Scam Losses 

  

  By Greg Collier

  For those who have fallen victim to gift card fraud in the past year and a half, there may be a rare opportunity to recover lost funds. Federal authorities have launched a restitution program targeting a global fraud operation that funneled millions of dollars through New Hampshire.

  This initiative, led by federal investigators and prosecutors, is an effort to return money to victims who unknowingly purchased fraudulent gift cards or were coerced into sending them as part of scams. While scams of this nature are unfortunately common, restitution opportunities are not. It is important to recognize this as an exception rather than the rule. In most cases, once money is lost to fraud, it is nearly impossible to retrieve.

  Authorities uncovered a sophisticated scheme in which fraudulently obtained gift cards were used to purchase high-end electronics, primarily Apple products, which were then resold overseas. Investigators linked the operation to a warehouse in Salem, New Hampshire, where millions of dollars in goods were seized. Those involved in the fraud have pleaded guilty and await sentencing, but law enforcement is now turning its attention to the victims, seeking to provide some measure of financial relief.

  Victims who had funds stolen through this scam between October 1, 2023, and January 11, 2024, may be eligible to submit claims for restitution. Specifically, those who purchased gift cards from major retailers such as Apple, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy should provide their gift card numbers and proof of purchase to federal investigators before the June 30 deadline.

  It is essential to remain cautious when dealing with scams and potential recovery offers. Outside of official government channels like this one, anyone claiming they can recover lost money is likely running a scam themselves. Fraudsters frequently target those who have already been scammed, preying on their desperation to recover funds. Legitimate restitution efforts are rare and always handled by law enforcement, not private individuals or companies offering to ‘get your money back’ for a fee.

  As fraud schemes become more sophisticated, public awareness remains one of the strongest defenses. Anyone affected by this scam is encouraged to share their experience, helping others recognize red flags before falling victim. Staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activity can make a difference in preventing further financial losses within the community.

  For those who believe they may qualify for restitution, contact Homeland Security Investigations via HSINewEnglandVictimAssistance@ice.dhs.gov with the required documentation before June 30.

   

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  Geebo 2:00 pm on March 7, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: DOGE ( 2 ), impersonation scam ( 165 ), Scams ( 1,459 ), smishing ( 13 ), text scam ( 27 )   

  New $5K Scam Uses DOGE & Gov’t Promise 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A new scam is making the rounds via text message, luring victims with the promise of a $5,000 federal subsidy. Authorities in Crawford County, Kansas, are warning residents to stay vigilant as scammers attempt to trick recipients into handing over personal information under the guise of government assistance.

  The fraudulent message claims that recent budget cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency have freed up money for distribution. It instructs recipients to reply with a confirmation, reopen the message, and click a provided link. This is an attempt to bypass security settings and increase engagement. The scammers promise that after submitting personal details, a check will be deposited directly into the recipient’s bank account or mailed within days.

  Officials have confirmed that this is a scam. Legitimate government agencies do not distribute funds in this manner, nor do they request sensitive information via unsolicited text messages. Anyone receiving such a message should delete it immediately and block the sender if possible. If there’s any uncertainty about a suspicious message, local law enforcement agencies can provide guidance, and reports can also be filed through official fraud reporting channels.

  This scam is just one example of how fraudsters exploit official-sounding names to appear legitimate. By invoking the ‘Department of Government Efficiency’, scammers create a sense of credibility, making their scheme more convincing. Similar tactics have been used in the past, and it’s likely that more scams will emerge using fabricated agencies or misleading government affiliations. Staying cautious of unsolicited financial offers, especially those that pressure quick action or request personal information, is essential in avoiding these ever-evolving threats.

   
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  Geebo 2:00 pm on March 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: classic cars, money transfer ( 8 ), Scams ( 1,459 ), used car ( 38 )   

  Dream Car Scam: A Costly Online Trap 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The excitement of finally finding a dream car can quickly turn into heartbreak when scammers are involved. A man from Virginia learned this lesson the hard way after losing thousands of dollars in what he believed was a legitimate online purchase from a Cleveland, Ohio, area car dealer.

  For years, he had saved up for a classic car, a lifelong goal inspired by his father’s passion for collecting them. When he found a listing for the perfect vehicle, one that even matched the model of his father’s first car, he thought fate had finally brought him to the right deal. The price was significantly lower than expected, making it feel like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

  The seller, who claimed to be a reputable broker, provided everything needed to make the deal seem authentic, contracts through an electronic signing service, a bill of sale, company documents, and a series of detailed photographs. Feeling secure, the buyer took out a loan and transferred the money, expecting his dream car to arrive shortly after.

  But the car never showed up. The seller became unreachable, and the website that had hosted the listing vanished. The realization set in, he had been scammed. The financial hit was devastating, forcing him to cash out his retirement savings just to recover from the loss.

  This case is far from unique. Experts in the auto industry warn that online car scams are becoming more sophisticated. Fraudulent sellers go to great lengths to create the illusion of legitimacy, making it crucial for buyers to remain vigilant.

  Those familiar with the industry advise that one of the most important steps a buyer can take is to directly communicate with or meet the seller whenever possible. Researching a seller’s history, reading reviews, and searching for any signs of suspicious activity can prevent a financial disaster. It’s also wise to approach any unusually low price with skepticism, questioning why a vehicle is being sold for much less than market value.

  Visual clues in photos can sometimes reveal red flags. If a listing claims to be from one region, but the background in the pictures doesn’t match that location, it’s worth investigating further. Another important step is verifying vehicle documents before any money changes hands. Requesting the VIN and checking a car’s history through services like CARFAX can help confirm whether a listing is legitimate. While running such reports may come with a small fee, it’s a minor expense compared to what scammers can steal.

  For those navigating the world of online car buying, caution is key. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. The best defense against falling victim to fraud is thorough research, skepticism, and taking extra steps to verify a seller’s credibility. While this Virginia buyer’s dream car never arrived, he hopes that sharing his experience will prevent others from making the same costly mistake.

   
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  Geebo 2:00 pm on March 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Canada ( 3 ), grandparent scam ( 72 ), Scams ( 1,459 ), Vermont ( 2 )   

  Grandparent Scam Busted: $21M Fraud Exposed 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A recent federal indictment has brought attention to a sophisticated and deeply troubling scam targeting older Americans. Authorities in Vermont have charged 25 individuals in connection with a nationwide ‘grandparent scam’, which defrauded seniors of more than $21 million. This scheme, orchestrated from call centers in Canada, manipulated victims into believing their loved ones were in urgent legal trouble, prompting them to send large sums of money.

  The grandparent scam preys on emotions, using fear and urgency to override rational thinking. Callers often pose as a grandchild or another close relative, claiming to be in distress, frequently citing an arrest or legal issue requiring immediate bail money. The scam is effective because it exploits a grandparent’s instinct to help their family without hesitation. Criminals use personal details obtained from social media or other sources to make their deception more convincing. Once a victim agrees to send money, the funds are often funneled through complex laundering operations, sometimes involving cryptocurrency, making recovery nearly impossible.

  In this particular case, a federal grand jury in Vermont unsealed an indictment charging the suspects with fraud and money laundering. The charges stem from an operation running between 2021 and mid-2024, during which call centers in and around Montreal targeted seniors across the United States. Law enforcement agencies in both countries collaborated to dismantle the network, with Canadian authorities raiding multiple locations where some of the accused were caught in the act of making fraudulent calls. The case highlights the scale of the problem, with victims spanning Vermont and over 40 other states.

  Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of public awareness as a defense against such scams. Older adults and their families can take proactive steps to prevent falling victim. One of the most effective strategies is verifying any distress call before taking action. If someone claiming to be a relative calls asking for money, the best response is to hang up and contact the supposed family member directly. Scammers rely on panic and urgency, so taking a moment to confirm the facts can prevent financial loss. Additionally, setting up family code words can help authenticate real emergencies.

  Government agencies and consumer protection organizations urge the public to remain skeptical of unsolicited calls requesting money. It is essential to educate seniors about these tactics and encourage them to consult a trusted friend or family member before responding to urgent financial requests. Law enforcement continues to investigate and prosecute those behind these frauds, but the best protection remains awareness and vigilance.

  The Vermont indictment serves as a reminder of both the persistence of fraudsters and the power of international cooperation in bringing them to justice. While some of those charged face significant prison sentences, the real victory will come when potential victims recognize these scams before any money is lost.

   
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  Geebo 2:00 pm on March 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gold ( 2 ), gold coins, impersonation scam ( 165 ), Scams ( 1,459 ), social security ( 30 )   

  Gold Coin Scams: A Growing U.S. Threat 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, financial scams have evolved into increasingly sophisticated operations, targeting vulnerable individuals with elaborate deception. One alarming trend that has surfaced across the United States is scams that demand gold, where victims are tricked into purchasing and handing over gold under the guise of government intervention. Law enforcement agencies have reported an increasing number of cases where individuals, particularly seniors, are manipulated through fear and coercion into parting with their life savings.

  One such case recently unfolded in Clark County, Washington, where a woman in her 70s fell victim to a highly orchestrated scam. The fraudsters initiated contact by posing as government officials, claiming that fraudulent activity had been detected involving her Social Security number. Over time, they convinced her that in order to protect her financial assets, she needed to transfer them through an official process. Adding another layer of credibility, the scammers even staged a phone call from an individual impersonating a local police officer to validate the fraudulent claims.

  The scheme ultimately led the victim to withdraw the majority of her liquid assets, convert them into gold coins, and hand them over to a supposed undercover agent. The false promise that her assets would later be reissued to her ensured that she continued following their instructions without suspicion. By the time she realized what had happened, the perpetrators had vanished without a trace. In total, the victim lost $500,000 to the scammers.

  Gold has become an increasingly attractive target for scammers because, unlike digital transactions, it is nearly impossible to trace once it leaves the victim’s possession. Once gold is physically handed over, it can be melted down, resold, or transported without the same level of oversight as traditional banking methods. This makes it particularly appealing to criminals who want to avoid the risk of detection through electronic transactions or wire transfers.

  This method of deception is not isolated to one region. Other cases across the country have demonstrated similar patterns, where scammers exploit online vulnerabilities or impersonate trusted institutions to gain access to financial assets. Victims are often instructed to keep their interactions private, warned that speaking to others could compromise the security of the supposed investigation. This tactic effectively isolates them, preventing intervention from family members or financial advisors who might otherwise recognize the scam.

  Authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance when receiving unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming to be from government agencies. No legitimate government office will ever request payments in gold, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. If such a request is made, it is a clear indicator of fraud. Verifying claims through direct contact with the agency in question, by independently looking up their phone number rather than using a provided contact, is a crucial step in preventing financial loss.

  As financial fraud continues to evolve, spreading awareness remains one of the most effective defenses against these types of scams. Checking in with elderly family members and ensuring they are aware of these tactics can make a significant difference in preventing future cases. Law enforcement agencies remain committed to investigating these crimes, but prevention is key in stopping scammers before they succeed.

   
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  Geebo 2:00 pm on March 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: ankle monitor ( 3 ), inmate scam ( 8 ), jail, police impersonation scam ( 74 ), prison ( 5 ), Scams ( 1,459 )   

  Jail Release Scam: Fake Ankle Monitor Fees 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scammers are constantly finding new ways to prey on people, and one of the latest schemes targets individuals who have recently been released from jail. Reports have surfaced across the United States, including in Blount County, Tennessee, where law enforcement officials have warned about fraudulent phone calls demanding payment for an ankle monitor. These calls claim that failure to pay will result in re-arrest, creating a sense of urgency and fear.

  Authorities have made it clear that these calls are completely illegitimate. Any conditions related to release, including the use of an ankle monitor, are determined before an individual leaves jail. Official agencies will never call afterward to demand additional payments, nor will they request money over the phone or ask anyone to meet at a random location to settle fees.

  Despite these warnings, scammers continue to find victims by exploiting confusion and fear. Their methods often involve posing as law enforcement officials and using official-sounding language to convince people to comply. With personal information sometimes readily available through public records, these criminals can make their claims seem even more convincing.

  To protect against such scams, people are encouraged to remain skeptical of unsolicited calls demanding money, especially those that use threats or intimidation. Officials recommend ignoring such calls and using call-blocking apps to filter out potential scams. If there is ever doubt about the legitimacy of a call from law enforcement, individuals should directly contact the agency using a verified phone number rather than engaging with the caller.

  Unfortunately, scams like these are not isolated to one location. They have been reported in multiple states and take on different forms. The best defense against such fraud is awareness and caution. By staying informed and recognizing the warning signs, people can avoid becoming victims and help spread the word to others who may be at risk.

   
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  Geebo 2:17 pm on February 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: chickens, Chime ( 3 ), egg prices, eggs, livestock scam, Scams ( 1,459 ), venmo ( 29 ), Zelle ( 70 )   

  Backyard Chicken Scam Exploits Egg Crisis 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   
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  Geebo 2:00 pm on February 27, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Los Angeles ( 5 ), Palisades Wildfire ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,459 ), tow truck ( 3 ), towing scam ( 3 ), wildfires ( 4 )   

  L.A. Fire Survivors Targeted by Tow Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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

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

   
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  Geebo 2:00 pm on February 26, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: funeral ( 17 ), funeral expenses ( 10 ), impersonation scam ( 165 ), inheritance ( 7 ), Scams ( 1,459 )   

  Scammers Prey on Grieving Tulsa Family 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   
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  Geebo 2:00 pm on February 25, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: fake car dealership, impersonation scam ( 165 ), Scams ( 1,459 ), used car ( 38 ), wire transfer ( 5 )   

  Beware: Fake Car Dealership Scam Surge 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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