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  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 23, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Nationwide Scam Targets Toll Road Users 

    Nationwide Scam Targets Toll Road Users

    By Greg Collier

    Scammers have ramped up their efforts once again, this time targeting drivers across the United States with a deceptive tactic aimed at toll road users. Whether you’re in North Carolina, Louisiana, Kansas, or any state with a toll program, you might receive a fraudulent text message falsely claiming that you owe money for using toll roads. This scam, referred to as smishing, tricks recipients into clicking on malicious links by pretending to be official communications from toll agencies. These messages often insist that payment is overdue and pressure you to act quickly to avoid additional fees.

    In these fraudulent texts, scammers impersonate toll agencies like NC Quick Pass or GeauxPass. They provide a link that appears legitimate but directs users to a fake website, where personal and financial information is harvested. One tactic involves using slightly altered versions of the official website’s domain name, something as small as omitting a letter or switching ‘.com’ to ‘.net’, to create the illusion of legitimacy. In one instance, a scam directed Louisiana drivers to a domain that had only a minor misspelling of GeauxPass, a change easy to overlook in a moment of urgency.

    The reach of this scam has expanded, initially affecting a few states, but now spreading nationwide. Whether you’ve used a toll road recently or not, receiving such a message is increasingly common. The scammers use randomly selected phone numbers, casting a wide net in the hope that someone will fall for the ploy. Even if you’ve never been on a toll road, you could still receive one of these fraudulent texts.

    One clear indicator of the scam is the text’s request for payment. Legitimate toll agencies do not ask for money via text message. This is a significant red flag, signaling that the message is a scam. Scammers often attempt to create a sense of urgency, threatening additional fees if the supposed balance isn’t settled immediately.

    If you receive one of these texts, it’s essential to delete it right away and avoid clicking on any links or responding to the message. The FBI is actively investigating this series of smishing scams, and anyone who receives one of these texts is encouraged to report it through the Internet Crime Complaint Center. While it can be unsettling to receive such a message, it’s always better to verify the legitimacy of any toll charges by contacting the official toll agency directly or checking your account on their verified website.

    Accidentally clicking on the link or providing personal information can lead to further complications, but quick action can help mitigate the damage. Secure your accounts immediately and report any suspicious activity to your bank or credit card provider. If unfamiliar charges appear, it’s crucial to dispute them as soon as possible.

    As the scam continues to spread, staying alert is the best defense. Many local law enforcement agencies and toll authorities are issuing warnings to the public. By recognizing the signs of the scam and reporting suspicious messages, individuals can help limit the success of these fraud attempts. Keeping a close eye on the details and avoiding any message that seems off will go a long way in protecting your personal and financial information.

    This scam isn’t just an isolated problem in a few states; it has grown into a nationwide issue. As scammers continue to evolve their methods, staying informed and sharing awareness is key to preventing more victims from falling into their trap.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 20, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    The Evolving QR Code Scam 

    The Evolving QR Code Scam

    By Greg Collier

    Across the United States, a new scam is making waves, capitalizing on modern technology and targeting unsuspecting victims in their homes. This scam, which revolves around unsolicited packages and QR codes, has been reported in multiple regions, from Ohio to Mississippi, and is showing no signs of slowing down.

    The scam starts innocently enough as an unexpected package arrives at your door, often containing an item like jewelry, gadgets, or other small electronics. There’s no return address or clear indication of who sent it. Inside, a small QR code invites you to scan it for more information about the ‘gift’ or to register the item. But beneath this seemingly harmless gesture lies a potentially dangerous ploy.

    When scanned, the QR code can deliver malicious software directly to your smartphone or computer. The goal is often to steal sensitive data, such as banking information, personal details, or passwords, allowing scammers to access your financial accounts or even your identity. The damage can be swift and severe, with victims reporting emptied bank accounts and compromised personal data.

    This scam is a more dangerous variation of the traditional brushing scam. In the original version, companies would send unsolicited packages to generate fake positive reviews. However, this new version takes it a step further, using technology to infiltrate personal devices and steal valuable information. The unsolicited items may now come with the hidden threat of malware or identity theft, making this a serious issue nationwide.

    What makes this scam particularly concerning is how easy it is to fall for. QR codes have become increasingly common in everyday life, used for everything from restaurant menus to product registration. Scammers exploit this familiarity by enticing victims to scan the code, unaware of the potential risks.

    Reports of this scam have surfaced in various states, signaling that this is not a localized issue but a national problem. As the scam spreads, its potential to cause widespread harm grows, especially when the holiday season approaches and package deliveries increase. During this time, people are more likely to receive unexpected packages and might be less cautious when interacting with them, which plays right into the scammers’ hands.

    To protect yourself from this scam, there are a few important steps to keep in mind. First and foremost, if you receive a package you didn’t order, resist the temptation to scan any QR codes included with it. Even if the item seems harmless or intriguing, interacting with these codes could lead to severe consequences.

    Reporting these packages is also crucial in alerting authorities and preventing future victims. Whether through online retail platforms or local consumer protection agencies, flagging suspicious packages can help others stay informed and protected.

    As scams like these evolve, the need for public awareness becomes even more critical. With the rise of QR codes as a convenient tool for consumers, scammers are finding new ways to exploit technology and manipulate people into handing over their private information. Educating others, and spreading the word about potential dangers, can make a significant difference in combating this growing national threat.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: affiliate marketing, get rich quick, , ,   

    Is Affiliate Marketing Just a Scam in Disguise? 

    By Greg Collier

    Affiliate marketing has been hailed as a win-win strategy for both businesses and individuals looking to make passive income online. The basic idea sounds harmless enough. Marketers earn a commission by promoting a company’s product through unique affiliate links. But beneath this seemingly simple setup lies a darker reality, one that preys on vulnerable individuals while perpetuating misleading promises and questionable ethics.

    At first glance, affiliate marketing looks like a quick path to financial freedom. The pitch is always the same, minimal effort, zero startup costs, and the ability to earn while you sleep. Influencers and online gurus eagerly tout their six-figure incomes, luring thousands into signing up for affiliate programs. What they fail to mention is the steep learning curve, the saturated market, and the risk of losing money before seeing any meaningful return.

    Many affiliate marketers spend thousands on courses and software just to learn the ropes. These expenses are often brushed aside as “necessary investments,” but they leave countless individuals deeper in debt, all while the so-called experts who sold them the dream are laughing their way to the bank.

    Affiliate marketing shares more than a passing resemblance to pyramid schemes. Just like in multi-level marketing (MLM), top-tier affiliates benefit the most, often by recruiting other marketers rather than selling actual products. Affiliate marketers are frequently incentivized to push high-priced programs, courses, or software with commissions of up to 50%. But the real product being sold isn’t the company’s service or item, it’s the dream of becoming the next affiliate success story.

    The success of a few top earners depends on a revolving door of new affiliates at the bottom, many of whom will fail and drop out after investing time and money into paid ads or content creation. The business model thrives on volume, with only a select few benefiting while the rest are left scrambling for scraps.

    The predatory nature of affiliate marketing also extends to vulnerable populations. People desperate for financial stability, stay-at-home parents, college students, and retirees are frequently targeted. These groups are lured in with the promise of ‘easy money’ from affiliate marketing, but often end up exploited, left to deal with mounting expenses and little to no return.

    One of the most glaring issues with affiliate marketing is the lack of transparency. Many affiliate links are disguised using URL shorteners or embedded within the content, making it difficult for consumers to know they’re being sold to. This blurs the line between genuine recommendations and paid promotions, creating an environment ripe for consumer distrust.

    Moreover, businesses running affiliate programs bear little responsibility for the tactics used by their affiliates. This means marketers can employ unethical methods like false advertising, exaggerated claims, or even clickbait to push sales without repercussions. The blame often falls solely on the affiliate, allowing companies to maintain their image while profiting from dishonest marketing.

    While not every affiliate marketing program is outright fraudulent, the broader industry operates on a predatory model that often leaves participants worse off than when they started. Affiliate marketing preys on people’s hopes for financial freedom, promising rewards that only a small fraction will ever see. The truth is, most people who enter affiliate marketing will fail, not because they lack effort, but because the system is designed to benefit the few at the expense of the many.

    For those considering affiliate marketing, it’s crucial to approach the industry with caution. Understand that it’s far from a get-rich-quick scheme, and be wary of anyone claiming otherwise. Transparency, honesty, and ethical practices are rare in this space, and that’s what makes affiliate marketing, for many, little more than a scam in disguise.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 18, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , safe exchange zones, ,   

    State Promotes Safe Exchange Zones 

    State Promotes Safe Exchange Zones

    By Greg Collier

    A bipartisan effort to improve public safety is moving forward in Pennsylvania with a new proposal to create designated Safe Exchange Zones. These public spaces would be used for completing online sales, trades, giveaways, and even custody exchanges in a secure environment. The bill recently advanced in the Pennsylvania Senate, moving closer to becoming law.

    The proposal was introduced following concerns about the dangers of in-person meetings for online transactions, particularly after a tragic incident in 2021, where an individual lost their life after meeting a buyer from a popular online marketplace. The bill seeks to prevent such tragedies by providing safe, monitored areas for these exchanges.

    If passed, the legislation would establish a grant program, allowing municipalities to set up Safe Exchange Zones at locations like police stations, sheriff’s offices, and other public places. These zones would be monitored by video surveillance and include clear emergency contact information. The Department of Community and Economic Development would oversee the program, ensuring proper policies for video monitoring and retention, while safeguarding constitutional rights.

    While this is a positive step toward improving safety, concerns remain about how effective these zones can truly be without direct supervision. Video surveillance alone may not be enough to prevent incidents, and by the time someone places an emergency call, it could already be too late to prevent harm. Without an immediate response or active monitoring, the zones may offer only limited protection in the most dangerous situations.

    If approved, this initiative could make Pennsylvania a safer place for everyday exchanges, offering residents a secure environment for meeting strangers, whether for online transactions or custody arrangements. However, the question remains whether these spaces can fully guarantee safety without more active oversight.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    What Is the Evil Twin Attack Targeting Travelers? 

    What Is the Evil Twin Attack Targeting Travelers?

    By Greg Collier

    You might feel safe and relaxed while cruising at 35,000 feet, but there’s something you should be on the lookout for, even mid-flight. It’s a sneaky Wi-Fi scam known as the Evil Twin Attack. This old trick has resurfaced, now targeting airline passengers.

    Recently, news outlets in Australia reported an arrest involving this very scam. Authorities claim that a man stole passengers’ personal information using a fake Wi-Fi network while they were on a flight. How did this happen? Let’s break it down.

    Evil Twin Wi-Fi is a fake network that copies the name of a Wi-Fi you’ve used before and trust. Think of places like airports, hotels, or coffee shops where your phone or laptop automatically reconnects to the Wi-Fi without you even thinking about it. Scammers take advantage of this by creating a Wi-Fi network with the same name to trick your phone into connecting to their network instead.

    In the Australian case, the alleged scammer took it a step further. He boarded multiple flights with a portable Wi-Fi hotspot that mimicked the name of the airport’s Wi-Fi. When the plane took off and passengers switched to airplane mode, their phones unknowingly connected to the imposter Wi-Fi, thinking they were back on the airport’s trusted network.

    Once passengers connected, they were asked to log in using their social media or email passwords. If they did, they handed over sensitive information like usernames and passwords, which could easily be used for identity theft. Essentially, the scammer could pretend to be them online and access their accounts.

    This may sound alarming, but there are simple ways to avoid falling victim to an Evil Twin Wi-Fi attack. One effective method is to delete any public networks your phone automatically reconnects to, such as those from airports, cafes, or libraries. By going into your Wi-Fi settings and removing these unnecessary networks, you can prevent your phone from connecting to potentially fake ones in the future.

    Another smart precaution is to keep your Wi-Fi turned off when you’re not using it. Rather than leaving it on by default, only activate it when you are certain you’re connecting to a trusted network. This small habit can greatly reduce your risk.

    Adding security software, like a virtual private network (VPN), is another protective measure. A VPN will encrypt your data, helping to ensure that even if you accidentally connect to a rogue network, your personal information most likely remains secure.

    These adjustments are simple but can go a long way in keeping your data safe. As scams like this one become more common, especially in places like airports, staying alert and taking these precautions will help protect you, even at 35,000 feet!

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: donation scam, , ,   

    Scammers Target Families with Funeral Scams 

    Scammers Target Families with Funeral Scams

    By Greg Collier

    Recently, two separate incidents have highlighted a disturbing trend: scammers are targeting grieving families, preying on their vulnerability during times of profound loss. These scams, which involve either phone calls or fake social media accounts, have surfaced in different parts of the country, exploiting the emotional weight of funeral arrangements to steal money.

    In one case, a fake Facebook account was created in the name of a recently deceased Georgia police officer, falsely offering a livestream of the funeral service and soliciting donations. Investigators believe the scammer gathered information from the funeral home’s website to make the fraudulent account seem legitimate.

    Another scam involved phone calls to families in Alabama who had recently lost a loved one. Posing as representatives of a funeral home, the callers demanded payment for services. In one instance, the scammer almost managed to steal a large sum before the family became suspicious and contacted the funeral home. Fortunately, no money was lost in this case, but the situation underscores the importance of vigilance during emotionally difficult times.

    These incidents reveal how scammers manipulate personal information easily accessible online to exploit grieving families. Funeral homes have been quick to respond, ensuring that their clients know they will never request payment by phone or through social media. Unfortunately, tracking the culprits behind these scams is difficult, particularly when the calls or accounts originate from outside the country.

    Families dealing with loss are encouraged to be cautious and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately. Funeral homes are also reminding families to verify any communication they receive related to payments and to rely on established, secure methods for handling financial transactions.

    These scams are not only financially damaging, but also emotionally devastating for families already coping with profound grief. It is essential to raise awareness about this troubling trend and to help protect those who may be at risk.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Elderly Victim Robbed During Scam 

    Elderly Victim Robbed During Scam

    By Greg Collier

    A recent incident in Houston, Texas, highlights the growing threat of scams targeting the elderly, leaving victims vulnerable to devastating financial losses. In July, an 80-year-old woman fell prey to a sophisticated scheme that ended with her losing $76,000.

    The scam began with a phone call from an individual posing as a bank employee, warning the woman that her bank had been hacked. This person instructed the victim to transfer her funds to a cryptocurrency kiosk for safekeeping. To further the scam, the victim was convinced to download an app that allowed the scammer to take control of her phone remotely.

    Following these instructions, the victim went to a convenience store to deposit $19,000 into a cryptocurrency kiosk. Sadly, while at the location, she was robbed of the cash by two unidentified males who grabbed the envelope and ran off. It remains unclear whether they were directly connected to the scam or simply taking advantage of the situation.

    What makes this case particularly alarming is that, even after the robbery, the scammer contacted the victim again. Despite having just lost a significant amount of money, the victim was manipulated into returning to the same location to deposit another $19,000. Over the course of four days, the elderly woman withdrew a total of $76,000 under the scammer’s instructions.

    In addition to the direct theft, the scammer provided coaching on what to tell bank employees when questioned about the large withdrawals. The victim was advised to claim the money was needed for home repairs, with the implication that even the bank staff couldn’t be trusted.

    There were several key warning signs in this scam that others should be mindful of to avoid falling victim. The scam began with an unsolicited phone call from someone posing as a bank employee, which is a common tactic used to catch victims off guard. Legitimate financial institutions typically don’t initiate calls out of the blue regarding account issues, making this the first red flag. The scammer then created a sense of urgency, pressuring the victim to transfer her money into a cryptocurrency kiosk under the guise of protecting her funds. It’s important to remember that banks or financial institutions will never ask customers to make transfers like this to safeguard their accounts.

    Another critical sign of deception was the request for the victim to download a remote access app, which allowed the scammer full control of her phone. No credible business or bank would ever ask for such invasive access to a personal device. Additionally, the scammer coached the victim to lie to bank employees if questioned about the withdrawals, further isolating her and fostering distrust in those who could have helped. When someone advises lying to a financial institution, it’s a clear indication of foul play.

    The repeated demands for large cash withdrawals over a short period should have also raised concern. Such behavior is unusual and suspicious, particularly when accompanied by the insistence that even bank employees couldn’t be trusted. This sowing of mistrust is a classic scam tactic, used to manipulate victims into relying solely on the scammer’s instructions.

    Recognizing these signs, unexpected calls, urgent financial requests, remote access demands, secrecy, and isolation, can help prevent falling prey to similar schemes. Always take the time to verify claims through trusted channels before taking any action.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 12, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Elderly Scam Victim Who Robbed Bank Pleads Guilty 

    Elderly Scam Victim who Robbed Bank Pleads Guilty

    By Greg Collier

    In a world increasingly connected by technology, we often celebrate the convenience and opportunities it brings. However, this same technology opens the door to manipulation and exploitation, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly. One case in Ohio has left many discussing the dramatic actions of an elderly woman who robbed a bank, but few are talking about the real tragedy behind her crime, the fact that she was scammed.

    The woman in question, a 75-year-old, pleaded guilty to aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon and now faces a potential sentence of up to 12 years in prison. Her crime? Walking into an Ohio credit union, brandishing a gun, and demanding money from the teller. She left with only $580 before being arrested later that same day. While the headlines have focused on the shock of a senior citizen committing such a bold crime, the larger story is how she got there in the first place.

    Before her life took a drastic turn, this woman was likely just like many other seniors, living quietly and trusting those she encountered. According to police, she had been in communication with someone online who deceived her, a scam that drained her finances and left her desperate. She had borrowed tens of thousands of dollars from family and friends to send to someone who claimed to be with U.S. Customs. What no one seems to be discussing is how this exploitation may have pushed her toward a reckless decision that now sees her awaiting sentencing.

    We often hear about bank robberies and crimes involving firearms, but less attention is given to the underlying causes, especially when those causes are rooted in manipulation. This woman’s alleged scam loss wasn’t just financially devastating, it stripped away her trust, her sense of security, and potentially her freedom. The real question is, was she coerced into robbing the bank by the scammer, or did she act out of sheer desperation to try to recover what she lost?

    Online scams targeting seniors are alarmingly common and take many forms, fake lotteries, investment schemes, or phony romantic relationships. For those who are isolated or less familiar with modern technology, the internet can be a dangerous place. These scams don’t just steal money; they take away dignity, trust, and sometimes push victims to drastic measures. In this case, the desperate measure was a bank robbery.

    While it’s shocking that this woman walked into a bank with a gun, the bigger tragedy is that her actions stemmed from a deeply flawed system that often fails to protect the elderly from scams. Her situation could have been prevented if the signs of exploitation had been caught earlier, if there had been more awareness and support for elderly scam victims, or if she had felt safe coming forward without fear of judgment or ridicule.

    We tend to view scam victims through a lens of embarrassment and shame, but that only drives them further into isolation. How many other seniors are sitting in silence right now, too ashamed to admit they’ve been scammed? How many are too fearful to ask for help, fearing they’ll be ridiculed by family or friends? That sense of isolation often drives victims into financial ruin or, in extreme cases, criminal behavior.

    What we need is more conversation around the impact of scams on the elderly, particularly the long-term emotional and financial consequences. We need to remove the stigma surrounding scam victims and create an environment where seniors feel empowered to seek assistance. Had this woman felt comfortable disclosing the scam sooner, the entire situation may have been avoided.

    No one is excusing her actions, but we need to understand the bigger picture. This wasn’t just a robbery, it was the end result of a cruel scam that turned a vulnerable person into a criminal. And unless we start talking more openly about how scams devastate lives, this won’t be the last time someone feels trapped enough to take drastic measures.

    Scams aren’t just minor inconveniences. They destroy lives, break families, and sometimes lead people to act in ways they never thought possible. It’s time we paid attention to the real story. The crime here isn’t just the robbery, it’s the scam that pushed her to the edge. Let’s not ignore that any longer.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 11, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Crypto Scammers Exploit Apple’s iPhone 16 Event 

    By Greg Collier

    On September 9, as Apple enthusiasts eagerly tuned in for the launch of the iPhone 16 during the ‘Glowtime’ event, scammers took advantage of the hype by launching an elaborate crypto scam. Using deepfake technology, the scammers created videos that impersonated Apple CEO Tim Cook, promoting fraudulent cryptocurrency giveaways and investment schemes. These videos, which were posted on YouTube, lured unsuspecting viewers into participating in crypto transactions by flashing QR codes on the screen. Viewers were asked to send their cryptocurrency to fake websites that closely resembled Apple’s official site.

    This isn’t the first time scammers have deployed deepfake technology to impersonate prominent figures. Earlier this year, similar tactics were used to imitate Elon Musk, spreading false crypto giveaways.

    The deepfake videos on YouTube managed to garner thousands of views before being taken down, but not before several people flagged them on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Social media users expressed concern over the growing misuse of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) for fraudulent purposes.

    This event serves as a chilling reminder of the increasing sophistication of cryptocurrency scams. With cryptocurrencies’ volatile nature and the difficulty of tracing transactions, hackers have found fertile ground for fraud. The FBI has warned that crypto scammers are using ever more advanced techniques, with members of the crypto community losing over $5.6 billion to such scams last year.

    It’s important to remember that celebrity endorsements of cryptocurrency schemes are usually fake. Scammers often exploit the likeness and voices of well-known figures, like Tim Cook or Elon Musk, to create a false sense of trust and credibility. These endorsements are rarely, if ever, legitimate. Instead, they are sophisticated traps designed to manipulate and deceive people into investing in fraudulent schemes. When it comes to crypto, always exercise caution and verify information through trusted sources before making any transactions. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 10, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    The Cheating Spouse Scam Has Returned 

    The Cheating Spouse Scam Has Returned

    By Greg Collier

    Following recent reports of a nationwide sextortion scam, a new variation of the scheme is now emerging. This time, the scammers are targeting married couples, falsely accusing one spouse of infidelity. These threatening messages claim that the recipient’s spouse has been hacked and that sensitive data, including personal files, social media activity, and even dating app histories, has been stolen from their devices. The email suggests that this information proves the spouse is cheating and offers the recipient full access to it via a website link.

    What makes these emails particularly concerning is their use of personal names that aren’t commonly associated with individuals online. In several cases, recipients reported seeing maiden names, second last names, or even pet names in the messages—details they had not shared widely. Despite the humor, the source of the data remains a mystery. The exact origins of the information are unclear, but it appears likely that scammers have been mining personal details from publicly available sources or past data leaks.

    Those who tried to investigate the links in the emails reported suspicious activity. Some were prompted to log in, raising concerns about phishing attempts, while others suspected the links were designed to distribute malware. Regardless of the intent, it is essential to recognize these emails as scams.

    Sextortion schemes have become increasingly common over the past few years, and most people now recognize these threats for what they are. Even so, they can still cause distress to recipients, particularly when personal details are involved.

    If you receive an email like this, remember that it is a scam designed to exploit your emotions. The information presented is false, and you should not click on any links or respond. Simply delete the email and, if concerned, monitor your accounts for any unusual activity.

    Protect your data, and always be cautious when unsolicited emails claim to have sensitive information.

     

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