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  • Geebo 9:00 am on December 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , ,   

    Grief, Trust, and a Bill That Never Existed 

    By Greg Collier

    Every loss brings heartbreak, and scammers are now exploiting that heartbreak for cash.

    A Moment of Mourning and a Lie You Never Saw Coming

    When a loved one passes, families lean on funeral homes to help guide them through the worst week of their lives. Arrangements get made. Plans are finalized. Payments are settled. It’s one of the few moments where certainty feels possible.

    And that’s exactly when fraudsters strike.

    Across Southwest Virginia, grieving families are receiving fraudulent phone calls from criminals impersonating funeral directors—claiming there’s a sudden problem with the arrangements and demanding immediate payment to “avoid cancellation.”

    It’s financial abuse disguised as urgency.

    Three funeral homes have reported these fake calls, including Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory. One family hung up, sensed something was off, and canceled their cards just in time. Another family wasn’t so lucky—they lost $1,200 to the scam.

    “It’s a horrible, horrible situation,” co-owner Bradley Simpson said. “You’ve already lost a loved one, and then you’re being taken advantage of. It’s just piling on.”

    The calls feel legitimate. The pressure sounds real. But the demands?
    They’re pure fiction.

    What’s Going On

    A family arranges a funeral. They believe everything is settled.

    Within hours—or even days—scammers insert themselves into the process.

    • Fraudsters call pretending to be the funeral home, sometimes even referencing real arrangements.
    • They claim an “unexpected deposit” or “processing error” has occurred.
    • They threaten to delay or cancel services unless immediate payment is made.
    • Payments are routed through credit cards or direct transfers and vanish instantly.
    • Meanwhile, real funeral homes never made these calls at all—they learn about the scam only after the damage is done.

    As Trey Finch of the Virginia Funeral Directors Association explains:

    “Payment arrangements… are generally discussed face-to-face. You should not be receiving calls hours or days later.”

    Roanoke County Police have now opened an investigation.

    Why It Works

    • Emotional vulnerability: Families in mourning are overwhelmed, exhausted, and trying to honor a loved one. Scammers exploit that moment.
    • Borrowed authority: Funeral directors are trusted figures. When a caller imitates one, people rarely question it.
    • Urgency and fear: Threats to “cancel” or “delay” a funeral weaponize pressure. No one wants disruption during a memorial.
    • Payment confusion: Many families aren’t familiar with funeral billing processes, making surprise charges feel plausible.
    • Private arrangements: Because funerals are not public events, families often assume they must quietly resolve unexpected issues.

    Red Flags

    • Any request for payment over the phone after arrangements are already completed.
    • A caller claiming there’s an “urgent problem” with your service contract.
    • Threats to cancel or postpone funeral services.
    • Pressure to act immediately or provide credit card details.
    • Calls from phone numbers that don’t match your funeral home’s official listing.
    • Requests for payment methods funeral homes never use, such as digital transfers or prepaid cards.

    Quick Tip: Funeral homes do not add last-minute charges by phone. If someone is pressuring you for payment, hang up and call your funeral home directly using the number on your paperwork—not the number that called you.

    What You Can Do

    • Verify first. Contact your funeral home directly to confirm any claim.
    • Trust your instincts. If the call feels off, it probably is.
    • Document everything. Save the phone number, the time of the call, and what was said.
    • Alert local law enforcement. Roanoke County Police are already investigating cases.
    • Warn family members involved in the arrangements so they don’t fall for the scam.

    If You’ve Been Targeted

    • Contact your bank or credit card company immediately to dispute fraudulent charges.
    • File a police report—this helps investigators track patterns.
    • Notify your funeral home so they can alert other families.
    • Keep all documentation, including call logs and receipts.
    • Warn your community, especially older relatives or those handling arrangements alone.

    Final Thoughts

    Losing someone is hard enough. Scammers know that—and they’re weaponizing grief to steal money while families are at their most vulnerable. These calls aren’t just financial fraud; they’re emotional exploitation.

    In moments of mourning, the best protection is clarity. Verify every request. Slow down the pressure. Call the funeral home directly.

    Grief deserves compassion, not manipulation.

    Further Reading

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on December 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: package delay, , , ,   

    Holiday Package Delay Text Scam: The Grift That Hits Before the Gifts 

    Holiday Package Delay Text Scam: The Grift That Hits Before the Gifts

    By Greg Collier

    With more than two billion packages moving across the country this holiday season, scammers aren’t just watching—they’re waiting. And they know exactly how to strike.

    As orders flood in from Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, millions of people are tracking shipments, checking updates, and anticipating deliveries. Scammers see this as the perfect moment to slip into your text messages with one simple line:

    “Your package is delayed. Click here.”

    But not all of these alerts are real.

    Authorities are warning about a surge in fake package-delay text messages, many traced to international numbers and fraudulent delivery sites designed to harvest your personal information, payment data, or login credentials. These schemes spike every December—and they’re getting more convincing.

    What’s Going On:

    A tracking update appears on your phone.
    Only it isn’t from UPS, USPS, or FedEx—it’s from a scammer.

    Here’s how it typically unfolds:

    • A scammer blasts thousands of texts to random numbers, banking on the fact that nearly everyone has at least one package on the way.
    • The text claims a delivery issue—“delayed,” “on hold,” or “needs address verification.”
    • The message contains a link to a counterfeit tracking page that looks legitimate at first glance.
    • The site asks for personal data, account logins, or “redelivery fees” as low as $1–$3.
    • Once victims enter their information, scammers move quickly—stealing credentials, draining accounts, or selling the data on criminal marketplaces.
    • Many of these texts originate from numbers beginning with +63, the country code for the Philippines.

    The entire scam thrives on one thing: your expectation that a package is actually on its way.

    Why It Works:

    • Perfect timing: Holiday shopping creates a flood of real delivery alerts. Fake ones blend in effortlessly.
    • High volume: With billions of shipments, scammers don’t need to know what you ordered—just that you probably ordered something.
    • Urgency: “Delivery failed” messages spark instant panic. People act first, verify later.
    • Convincing design: Fake tracking pages mimic real carrier sites with logos, colors, and order-status bars.
    • Low-stakes requests: Small redelivery fees or simple login prompts seem harmless—until your account is compromised.
    • Overwhelmed consumers: The holidays are chaotic. Scammers rely on distraction.

    Red Flags:

    • Text messages from numbers starting with +63 or unfamiliar area codes.
    • Messages that never mention what item is delayed—just a generic warning.
    • Links that use odd domains or slight misspellings of delivery companies.
    • Requests to “update your address,” “verify payment,” or “reschedule delivery.”
    • Alerts arriving at strange hours (midnight, early morning).
    • No corresponding order or tracking email in your inbox.
    • Warnings with spelling mistakes, formatting issues, or robotic phrasing.
    • Being asked to pay a “redelivery fee” for a package you never missed.

    If something feels off, it probably is.

    Quick Tip: Before clicking anything, check your original confirmation email from the retailer.
    If the order is real, the tracking link inside that email will show the accurate status—no mystery text message required.

    What You Can Do:

    • Rely on official sources. Use your retailer’s website or carrier tracking page—never unsolicited texts.
    • Keep your confirmation emails organized. They contain the legitimate tracking links scammers want you to forget.
    • Never pay redelivery fees through text. Major carriers do not operate like this.
    • Type the URL manually. If you want to check a status, go directly to USPS.com, UPS.com, or FedEx.com.
    • Block and delete suspicious numbers. Don’t engage.
    • Warn others. Many people fall for these scams simply because they’ve never heard of them.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    • Contact your bank if you entered payment information.
    • Change passwords linked to any compromised accounts.
    • Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
    • Report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
    • Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) to alert your carrier.
    • Keep screenshots, URLs, and any payment receipts for investigation.

    Act quickly—scammers move fast.

    Final Thoughts:

    Scammers don’t need to know what you bought—they just need you to be expecting something. In a season defined by nonstop deliveries, fake “package delay” alerts are an easy weapon. But they only work if you click before you think.

    A moment of caution is worth more than any holiday deal. Verify before you react. Real tracking updates come from your inbox—not from an unknown number demanding your attention.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on December 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , ,   

    The Return of the Secret Santa Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    Every December, the holiday scammers come out right on schedule. One minute you’re scrolling past endless “early Black Friday deals,” and the next, your feed is full of cheerful chain posts promising that if you just send a $10 gift to a stranger, the universe will reward you with dozens in return.

    According to the Better Business Bureau, these “Secret Santa” chains aren’t generosity. They’re data harvesting dressed up as holiday spirit.

    What’s Going On:

    The scam shows up as Facebook posts promoting a feel-good gift exchange. They ask you to buy a small $10 present and send it to someone on a list. In return, you’re promised multiple gifts sent by other participants.

    This year, there are several variations:

    • Basic $10 gift swaps
    • “Wine exchange” or “bourbon exchange” twists
    • “Send money to a name on this list” versions
    • “Secret Santa Dog” for pet-themed gifts

    Regardless of the theme, the underlying mechanics stay the same. The BBB says these exchanges fall under illegal pyramid schemes, and they’re not designed to bring joy to strangers. They’re designed to collect your email address, your home address, and your friends’ information.

    BBB of Eastern Carolinas spokesperson Nicole Cordero highlights the danger:

    “With this Secret Santa, you’re supposed to invite your friends on Facebook or on other social media, and it tricks even more people into this scam. It’s likely not to pay it forward. It is likely scammers trying to get your information.”

    In other words, your $10 gift is not the real commodity here. Your personal information is.

    Scam Breakdown:

    Here’s how the Secret Santa pyramid scheme functions behind the scenes:

    1. The Hook

    A friendly, sentimental social media post invites you to participate in a “wholesome” holiday tradition for just ten dollars.

    2. The Social Multiplier

    Participants are instructed to share the post, tag friends, or invite others to join. This snowballs the scam outward through friend networks—prime territory for data collection.

    3. The Data Harvest

    The scammers collect the information people volunteer: emails, mailing addresses, and sometimes even phone numbers. This data can be used for identity fraud, resale to marketing lists, phishing attempts, or future scams.

    4. The Empty Return

    You send a gift, but the promised dozens of gifts never arrive. Meanwhile, scammers walk away with a growing list of personal information from you and everyone you invited.

    Red Flags:

    • Promises that you’ll “get many gifts back” for sending one
    • Requests for your email address or home address
    • Instructions to invite friends to expand the exchange
    • Tempting photos or themes (wine bottles, dogs in Santa hats, etc.) used only to lure people in
    • Any “exchange” that needs recruitment to function

    If it requires you to recruit others to get a return, it’s a pyramid scheme—no matter how much fake holiday cheer it’s wrapped in.

    Quick Tip: Never hand over personal information to strangers through a social media chain post. If a holiday exchange relies on multiplying through your friend network, it’s not a community activity. It’s a scam.

    What You Should Do:

    The BBB advises consumers to:

    • Scroll past these posts
    • Do not reply or sign up
    • Report them to the BBB Scam Tracker and the social media platform where you saw them

    Protecting your personal information is far more meaningful than taking part in a fake gift exchange.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on December 1, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , ,   

    The Holiday Brushing Scam Breakdown 

    It’s that time of year when packages pile up on porches like elves have gone feral. So what do you do when a random Amazon box shows up addressed to you, containing a free bracelet or gadget you definitely did not order?

    Well… congratulations, you did not win anything.

    But a scammer just hit the jackpot, and they used your identity to do it.

    Welcome to brushing season.

    What’s Going On

    It’s the holidays, which means boxes are piling up on doorsteps everywhere. But lately, people are receiving packages they never ordered, sometimes from Amazon, sometimes from a faceless “third-party seller,” and sometimes from no return address at all.

    Inside? Random merchandise: bracelets, gadgets, household items, and strange sentimental trinkets sent with poetic notes like “To My Sister in Christ.”

    If you didn’t order it, and no one you know sent it, then you’ve just been brushed.

    According to the Better Business Bureau, brushing scams have been popping up nationwide. And while the items look harmless, the scam behind them is anything but.

    One Ohio consumer reported receiving a bracelet in a white envelope from an unknown address. The tracking claimed it was ordered by someone in New York, and the packaging contained multiple QR codes the consumer wisely refused to scan.

    This is not a gift. It’s a setup.

    How It Works

    Brushing scams exist for one purpose: falsifying “verified purchase” reviews.

    Here’s how the con works:

    1. A shady third-party seller finds your name and address online.
    2. They ship you a product you never bought.
    3. Once the package is marked “delivered,” they use your identity to post a glowing review as a “verified buyer.”
    4. Their product gets boosted ratings and increased visibility.
    5. They make more sales.
    6. They lose no money because the “purchase” was made from their own account.

    These sellers are essentially laundering product reviews, and your home address is the tool.

    But there’s a more serious issue underneath.

    If they had enough of your information to send merchandise in your name, they might have more than you think.

    Red Flags

    Common signs you’re being brushed include:

    • Packages arrive that you did not order.
    • No return address or a vague shipping label.
    • Tracking info lists another person as the buyer.
    • Items are cheap, generic, or strange.
    • Packages include QR codes or links encouraging you to “learn more.”
    • Multiple packages begin showing up in a short period.

    If your porch suddenly becomes a drop-off zone for unsolicited trinkets, something is wrong.

    What You Can Do

    The BBB and retailers recommend the following steps:

    1. Confirm it’s not a real gift. Rare, but possible. Make sure a friend or family member didn’t send something.
    2. Contact the retailer. If it looks like it came from Amazon, use Amazon’s official site to reach customer service. Do not Google phone numbers. Amazon investigates brushing and takes action against third-party sellers who engage in it.
    3. Check your accounts. Review your recent orders and payment history. If you start receiving multiple unordered packages, consider refusing delivery or routing legitimate packages to a package acceptance service temporarily.
    4. Change your passwords. Treat any unsolicited package as a possible sign of compromised data. Update passwords on major accounts and keep a close eye on credit card statements.
    5. Monitor and protect your identity. Review your credit reports regularly and use secure websites when entering personal information.
    6. Report the incident. Contact your local Better Business Bureau and submit details through the BBB Scam Tracker.

    Final Thoughts

    Unsolicited packages may look like holiday luck, but brushing scams are designed to exploit your identity for someone else’s profit. The merchandise is merely the bait. The real goal is to turn you into a “verified buyer” without your consent and to inflate a seller’s reputation through fake reviews tied to your name.

    Treat any surprise delivery as a warning, not a windfall. If something arrives that you didn’t order, don’t scan anything, don’t assume it’s harmless, and don’t ignore it. This is one scam where the box on your porch is the least concerning part of the package.

    Further Reading

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 26, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: holiday mail, postage stamps, ,   

    Holiday Mail Destroyed by Fake Stamps 

    Holiday Mail Destroyed by Fake Stamps

    By Greg Collier

    A bargain that looks innocent. A roll of stamps that seems legit. And a holiday gift that never arrives because it was destroyed before Christmas morning.

    A Holiday Deal You Thought You Could Trust—and the Lie Hidden Under the Seal

    Every December brings the same rush. Packages taped, cards addressed, and long lines at the post office. So when people see what appears to be a great deal online—half-price Forever stamps or bulk rolls for a fraction of their usual cost—the temptation is immediate.

    But this year, postal inspectors say scammers have perfected a new twist: counterfeit postage so realistic that victims don’t realize they’ve been duped until their gifts vanish into the system. The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) reports a surge in these fake stamps, many sold through shady websites and fast-moving Facebook Marketplace accounts designed to disappear as soon as the money lands.

    And the stakes are higher than anyone thinks. Under a new United States Postal Service (USPS) policy, any mail found with counterfeit postage is pulled from circulation, not returned, and treated as abandoned mail. In other words, the package doesn’t come back to you. It doesn’t limp forward to the destination. It gets destroyed.

    What’s Going On

    • A fake “discount” site appears. Scam websites advertise Forever stamps at impossibly low prices, often around fifty percent off, and claim they are sourced from bulk liquidation or overstock events.
    • Facebook Marketplace gets flooded. Scammers create throwaway accounts and offer rolls of stamps at deep discounts, relying on urgency and holiday panic to push buyers into fast decisions.
    • The stamps look real. Today’s counterfeit postage is so convincing that most customers cannot tell the difference. Some fakes even mimic micro-printing and texture.
    • USPS detects the truth. The mail-sorting system flags the counterfeit stamp. The package is automatically rejected.
    • Your gift disappears. Because counterfeit postage is treated as abandoned mail, USPS destroys the package. No refund. No return. No notice besides the tracking that never updates.
    • Scammers vanish. By the time victims realize what happened, the website is gone, the Marketplace account is deleted, and any payment made is irreversible.

    Why It Works

    • Holiday desperation. People are overwhelmed, rushed, and eager to save time and money during peak mailing season.
    • Hyper-realistic counterfeits. New printing methods make fake stamps nearly indistinguishable from genuine ones.
    • The illusion of legitimacy. Big-box retailers sometimes offer minor discounts, which makes large “online sale” claims feel believable.
    • Platform trust. Buyers assume Facebook Marketplace and discount websites are policed more tightly than they really are.
    • Harsh USPS consequences. Most people have no idea that a counterfeit stamp means total loss of the package, not a delay or return.

    Red Flags

    • Stamps advertised at more than a tiny markdown, especially anything close to fifty percent off.
    • Sellers with newly created social-media accounts or no sale history.
    • Websites with generic names, vague contact information, or claims of “bulk liquidation.”
    • Rolls of stamps being sold outside approved postal providers or major retailers.
    • Payment requests through apps or direct transfers instead of standard retail checkout systems.

    Quick Tip: If you see “Half-Price Stamps”, assume it’s a scam. USPS does not discount Forever stamps anywhere near that amount.

    What You Can Do

    • Buy stamps only from USPS, official postal providers, or major retailers.
    • Check the approved provider list when in doubt.
    • Avoid deals that promise large bulk savings or massive last-minute holiday discounts.
    • Report suspected counterfeit stamps to the Postal Inspection Service.
    • Warn family and friends so their holiday packages don’t meet the same fate.

    If You’ve Been Targeted

    • Contact your bank or card issuer if you paid through a card and believe the seller was fraudulent.
    • Report the seller or website to the platform where you found it.
    • File a report with the Postal Inspection Service detailing the purchase and providing screenshots.
    • Keep any counterfeit stamps you received. Inspectors may request them as evidence.

    Final Thoughts

    This scam doesn’t just steal your money. It steals your mail. A single counterfeit stamp can erase an entire package—letters, gifts, keepsakes—all destroyed before they ever had a chance to reach the people you care about. Holiday mail already brings its own stresses. Don’t let a fake bargain be the reason your Christmas package never makes it past the first sorting machine. The safest choice is the simplest one: buy postage from trusted sources and avoid any offer that seems too good to be true. If a deal feels off, assume the stamp is fake—because the scammers are counting on you not to look too closely.

    Further Reading

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 25, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , AI scams, , , ,   

    AI Is Fueling the Next Big Scams 

    AI Is Fueling the Next Big Scams

    By Greg Collier

    Online scammer networks are becoming more sophisticated, more automated, and more relentless. Even the most tech-savvy people can fall victim. And as Artificial Intelligence tools grow more powerful, criminals are using them to deceive, impersonate, and infiltrate in ways that were impossible just a few years ago.

    California’s Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) is warning that AI-assisted scams are now spreading across every corner of the digital world. From deepfake impersonations to AI-generated romance profiles, scammers are weaponizing technology to steal money, identities, and trust.

    This guide breaks down the most common AI-powered scams, the red flags to look for, and the steps you can take to protect yourself.

    How AI Is Supercharging Scams

    Scammers used to rely on typos, bad grammar, and clumsy impersonations. Not anymore. AI tools let criminals:

    • Clone voices from just a few seconds of audio
    • Create photorealistic fake images and videos
    • Generate persuasive investment pitches
    • Build entire networks of fake followers and accounts
    • Automate malware attacks at scale

    The result: scams that look, sound, and feel real—until it’s too late.

    AI Scams You Need to Know About

    Imposter Deepfakes

    AI systems compile images from countless databases to create fake photos or videos of real people. These deepfakes may use the face or voice of someone you trust—a friend, family member, celebrity, or public figure—to deliver a message that seems credible.

    Romance Scams

    With AI-generated profile pictures, bios, and “perfect match” personality traits, scammers build fake relationships on dating apps and social platforms. The emotional connection feels genuine, but the person isn’t real.

    Grandparent or Relative Scams

    AI voice cloning is being used to mimic the voice of a grandchild or family member in distress. The caller claims to be in trouble and urgently needs money. A simple family password—known only to your household—can help verify real emergencies.

    Finfluencers

    Some social media investment influencers appear successful but have no real financial credentials. AI tools help them fabricate followers, engagement, and even fake performance screenshots to sell risky or nonexistent crypto schemes.

    Automated Attacks

    AI-generated malware can slip past antivirus software, steal login credentials, and harvest financial data from your device. Experts recommend two-factor authentication on all accounts and frequent password updates.

    Classic Investment Red Flags Still Apply

    Even with new technology, the fundamentals of scam detection remain the same:

    • Promises of “zero risk”
    • High-pressure tactics urging you to invest immediately
    • Investment performance that looks unrealistically perfect

    If it sounds too good to be true, AI can make it look convincing—but it still isn’t real.

    New Red Flags Unique to AI Scams

    • Fake AI Investment Platforms
      Companies or trading sites that claim to use AI to generate profit are often running fabricated operations. Your account may show impressive gains, but no real trading occurs. When you attempt to withdraw, the platform disappears along with your money. These schemes are especially common in crypto markets.
    • AI-Generated News Articles
      Scammers create professional-looking articles to support false investment claims. Repeated exposure to this content can make the narrative seem legitimate, encouraging victims to “buy in” based on manufactured credibility.
    • Fake Social Media Accounts
      Investment pitches shared online may be surrounded by AI-generated followers, cloned profiles, or bot accounts to simulate popularity and trust. Be cautious of opportunities that offer commissions for recruiting new investors, and always research the individual or company independently.

    Protect Yourself Before You Get Scammed

    • Slow down and verify unexpected calls, messages, or investment tips.
    • Use a family password for emergency calls.
    • Turn on two-factor authentication on all accounts.
    • Update your passwords regularly.
    • Research anyone offering financial advice—especially if they appear only on social media.
    • Confirm that investment companies are properly registered and licensed.

    Final Thoughts

    AI is transforming the way scammers operate, making their tactics faster, more convincing, and harder to detect. But the same rule still applies: urgency is the enemy of safety. Take a moment to verify, research, or ask questions before you respond.

    A quick pause could be the difference between keeping your money and losing it to a machine-powered scam.

    Further Reading

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 24, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , tragedy   

    AI Charity Scams Exploiting Tragedy 

    By Greg Collier

    Every disaster sparks generosity, and fraudsters are now using AI to cash in on it.

    A Cause You Care About and a Lie You Never Saw Coming:

    When a wildfire, earthquake, or school tragedy hits, people instinctively want to help. Within hours, social media floods with donation links, emotional photos, and urgent calls to “act now.” But not all of them are real.

    Investigators are warning of a sharp rise in AI-generated charity scams, where fraudsters use fake photos, cloned victim stories, and synthetic testimonials to create convincing donation pages that exploit public empathy.

    According to the Federal Trade Commission, charity-related scams surged by 68% in 2025, with many traced to fraudulent GoFundMe pages, cloned nonprofit websites, and even deepfake videos of “aid workers” asking for funds.

    What’s Going On:

    1. A tragedy trends online. Within minutes, scammers generate AI-created images of crying children, destroyed homes, or hospital scenes.
    2. Fake donation pages go live. These pages use realistic nonprofit branding or names like “United Earth Relief” or “KidsFirst Global,” none of which actually exist.
    3. Emotion and urgency drive action. People donate small amounts ($10–$50), which quickly add up to millions across multiple fake campaigns.
    4. Funds disappear. The scammers close the page within 72 hours and move the money through cryptocurrency or international accounts.
    5. Reputational fallout. Real charities suffer when donors stop trusting online fundraising entirely.

    Some fraudsters are even using AI voice cloning to pose as known charity representatives or local news anchors, giving “updates” on aid efforts that never happened.

    Why It Works:

    • Emotional manipulation: Disasters evoke strong empathy and urgency—people donate before verifying.
    • AI realism: Synthetic photos and deepfake videos are now indistinguishable from real footage.
    • Small donation psychology: Scammers keep requests low ($5–$25) to avoid suspicion.
    • Platform trust: Many assume popular crowdfunding sites fully verify campaigns, which isn’t always true.
    • Instant payment tools: Apps like Cash App, Venmo, and crypto wallets make donations fast and irreversible.

    Red Flags:

    • Donation links shared through new or unverified accounts that just joined social platforms.
    • Fundraiser names that sound generic or global, rather than tied to a local group.
    • Emotional imagery that feels overly dramatic or AI-rendered (too perfect lighting, distorted hands, repeated faces).
    • No clear information about how the funds will be used or who runs the campaign.
    • Requests for cryptocurrency, gift cards, or direct transfers instead of secure charity processors.

    Quick Tip: Before donating, look up the charity’s name at CharityNavigator.org or through the IRS nonprofit registry. If you can’t find them, they’re not real.

    What You Can Do:

    • Give through known organizations. Stick with the Red Cross, UNICEF, or established local groups.
    • Check the domain name. Real charities rarely use domains like “.co” or “.shop.”
    • Don’t rely on photos alone. AI can fabricate entire disaster scenes; check for news coverage or official confirmation.
    • Be skeptical of “viral” fundraisers. Especially if they spread rapidly on TikTok, Telegram, or Facebook within hours of a tragedy.
    • Report fake fundraisers. Use in-app reporting tools or notify the FTC and the platform hosting the campaign.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    1. Contact your bank or card provider to dispute unauthorized donations.
    2. Report the page to the hosting platform (GoFundMe, PayPal Giving, etc.).
    3. File a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
    4. Post a warning in community forums or local groups to alert others.
    5. Keep documentation (links, screenshots, receipts)—it helps authorities trace funds.

    Final Thoughts:

    AI isn’t just transforming technology; it’s reshaping fraud. Scammers no longer need real victims to profit from tragedy; they can create them out of pixels and prompts.

    In the chaos of a crisis, the best gift you can give is a moment of pause. Verify before you give. Real aid starts with real accountability.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 21, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: ESPN, , , streaming scams, tv provider blackouts   

    When ESPN Vanishes, Scammers Appear 

    When ESPN Vanishes, Scammers Appear

    By Greg Collier

    With major players locked in a battle, subscribers become the collateral, and fraudsters are watching.

    You’re Paying for TV—But What You’re Actually Getting May Change Overnight:

    Millions of sports fans subscribe to YouTube TV, streaming services, or cable packs and assume they’ll get live games, top channels, and uninterrupted service. But when Disney pulled its channels—ABC, ESPN, and others—from YouTube TV after negotiations broke down this fall, subscribers found themselves locked out of major sports and had to decide whether to pay more, switch services, or risk missing games.

    Now imagine this. You continue paying because this is “your package,” but the offering you thought you had is changed. Suddenly you’re locked out, asked to upgrade, or face delayed access. That gap opens up opportunities not just for frustration but for fraud like misleading offers, fake “fix this” services, and subscription bait-and-switches.

    What’s Going On:

    Here’s how consumer behaviors and fraud risks intertwine in this scenario:

    • Subscription confusion and urgency: When viewers learn they might lose channels they value, they often react quickly—searching for alternatives, signing up for new services, or accepting unfamiliar offers. That urgency is fertile ground for scammers.
    • Bait-and-switch offers: A flyer or e-mail might appear saying, “Get ESPN games, uninterrupted—subscribe here now,” but it could redirect to a fraudulent service that collects payment then fails to deliver legitimate access.
    • Fake “repair” or “restore access” scams: Viewers affected by the blackout may receive cold calls or web ads claiming, “We can restore your channels now—pay $50 and we’ll switch you back”—this opens the door to unauthorized payment, credential theft, or subscription hijacking.
    • Data-harvesting and upsell tactics: Providers may push users to switch apps or platforms. This may require login credentials, account linking, or personal data entry, which could be captured by bad actors who pose as “help centers.”
    • Price-hike fatigue & credential reuse: As sports rights rise, companies push up prices or layer more services. Viewers may reuse passwords or delay updating payment info—scenarios exploitable by fraudsters who exploit reused or compromised credentials.

    The Disney-ESPN vs. YouTube TV dispute is not itself a scam, but the context creates the perfect environment for fraudsters to insert themselves between provider and consumer.

    Why It’s Effective:

    • Viewers assume their subscription is “locked in” and don’t verify which channels are available each month.
    • The bargaining leverage is skewed: companies hold key content (ESPN) and consumers are forced into churn or upgrade.
    • Many users aren’t aware of exactly what rights they have—which channels, what platform, what app—so confusion opens the door.
    • When content is missing, frustration and fear lead people to accept “quick fixes” that could be fraudulent.
    • A shift in service (e.g., being told to download a new app, install a “patch,” or enter login details) increases exposure to phishing.

    Red Flags:

    If you’re a subscriber in this space, watch out for:

    • Emails or calls saying, “Your ESPN access is restored—click this link,” but the domain is unfamiliar or misspelled.
    • Ads that promise “refunds” or “back-pay compensation” for blackout windows but ask for payment or bank info upfront.
    • Offers that require you to install “special software” or log into provider accounts via non-official apps.
    • Sudden messages claiming your subscription is invalid and you must pay to avoid disconnection—especially after a carrier dispute.
    • Unofficial “help-desk” pages or phone numbers that surfaced after you noticed missing channels.

    Quick tip: When you see an alert about missing channels, directly go to your provider’s official site/app—don’t click links forwarded via unknown sources. Verify your account status and official communications.

    What Consumers Can Do:

    • Check channel listings: Log into your streaming or cable account and verify exactly which channels you have. Compare to what you expect (ESPN, ABC, etc.).
    • Keep official apps up-to-date: If a provider suggests switching apps or platforms, verify via the official website, not through a forwarded link.
    • Use secure payment methods: Credit cards or verified payment services offer better recourse than wire transfers or gift cards.
    • Beware of third-party “fix” offers: Only trust the provider or verified reseller. Be skeptical of “we’ll restore your channels” offers from unknown sellers.
    • Monitor your bills and charges: After such disputes, check if your subscription rate unexpectedly increased or extra “service fees” appear.
    • Consider contingency: Have an alternate way to watch key sports before pursuing shady offers—e.g., free over-the-air channels, official league apps.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    1. Immediately review any new payment you made for “channel restoration” or “premium access” that wasn’t from your known provider.
    2. Contact your bank or payment provider if you suspect fraudulent charges.
    3. Change passwords for your streaming service account and any linked payment methods.
    4. Report the scam communication via the provider’s fraud or support contact.
    5. File a complaint with consumer-protection agencies—the FTC in the U.S., for example—if you lost money or data.

    Final Thoughts:

    The ESPN carriage dispute may seem like corporate boardroom drama—but the real losers can be everyday viewers. When services shift, channels vanish, or everyone’s told to migrate platforms, consumer behavior changes—and so do the risks.

    In such moments of transition, fraudsters thrive. Subscribers desperate not to miss their favorite teams or shows become vulnerable. Protecting your access starts with vigilance, verifying every communication, and treating any unexpected “restore your access” offer with caution. Your loyalty should never be taken advantage of—but unfortunately, today it often is.

    Further Reading:

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on November 20, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: oil on the negine scam, ,   

    How Used Car Scams Snare Both Sellers and Lenders 

    How Used Car Scams Snare Both Sellers and Lenders

    By Greg Collier

    Fraudsters are exploiting vehicle sales and auto financing in creative ways, and both ends of the market (buyers and lenders) are at risk.

    The Car Looks Fine, Until It’s Not:

    You list your car for sale. A buyer comes and takes it for what seems like a normal test drive. Later you learn they deliberately poured oil into the engine, staged a mechanical problem, and coerced you to sell the car at a deep discount. Or you apply for an auto loan, everything looks legitimate, but the identity is fake, the income inflated, and the vehicle ends up abandoned or resold overseas, leaving you (or your lender) on the hook.

    In the Bay Area, two men were recently arrested after attempting the “oil-in-the-engine” scam. They tried to purchase a car at a steep discount by faking mechanical problems during a test drive.

    Meanwhile, U.S. lenders reported that auto lending fraud hit roughly $9.2 billion in 2024, including schemes such as synthetic identities, credit washing, and fake dealership websites.

    What’s Going On:

    There are two major car-fraud vectors right now:

    1. Seller-Targeted Scheme (“Oil-in-the-Engine” Type):

    • A fraudster sees your for-sale listing.
    • They ask for a test drive and during that drive deliberately cause or simulate a mechanical issue (e.g., pour oil in the engine, fake damage).
    • They then use the “issue” as leverage to force you to accept a much lower sale price.
    • After purchase, the fraudster may swap plates, resell the vehicle, or abandon it, leaving you with a big loss or legal mess.

    2. Buyer/Finance-Targeted Scheme (Auto Loan Fraud):

    • Fraudsters submit loan applications using false or synthetic identities, inflated income, or credit-washing tactics.
    • They buy vehicles (often luxury or high-end cars) and then vanish—no repayment; the vehicle might be shipped overseas or re-titled.

    Lenders bear large losses because the borrower credentials looked legitimate and the vehicle collateral might be compromised or unrecoverable.

    Why It’s Effective:

    • Private-party car sales often have minimal safeguards—less paperwork, fewer checks, so scammer flexibility is high.
    • Digital-first auto loan processes (online applications, remote verification) make it easier for fraudsters to use fake or synthetic identities.
    • The dual pressures of consumer demand for fast purchases and lenders for streamlined approvals reduce scrutiny.
    • Vehicles have value and mobility—they can be moved, retitled, and exported, making recovery difficult.
    • Trust and urgency fuel the scams—sellers rush to close a deal, buyers rush to secure financing, and both end up letting their guard down.

    Red Flags:

    For Sellers:

    • A buyer insists on a test drive without proper verification of their license or payment method.
    • During the test drive something “odd” happens—the seller doesn’t understand the issue but feels pressured to deal.
    • The buyer tries to negotiate a large discount, citing mechanical trouble found during the test drive.
    • The payment method is unusual, or they ask for an unconventional arrangement (money down + later, etc.).

    For Buyers / Lenders:

    • Credit application uses little or no verifiable history or references a shell employer.
    • The dealership or seller appears rushed or says, “We’ll do paperwork later” but already hands over the vehicle.
    • Vehicle being financed is high-end, out of keeping with buyer’s apparent profile.
    • Lender notices loan applicant’s information mismatches (address, SSN, employment).
    • Post-purchase, the vehicle disappears or is shipped/exported, with no contact from the buyer.

    Quick Tip: For a private car sale, always verify buyer identity, use escrow or secure payment, get a vehicle history report, and draft a clear bill of sale. For lenders, include strong identity validation, verify income/employment, and monitor vehicle location after sale.

    What You Can Do:

    • As a seller: Require valid ID before test drives, escort during test drives, use secure payment methods, and clear title transfer at sale time.
    • As a buyer: Verify the seller’s identity and title authenticity, inspect the vehicle professionally, and don’t rush into deals that seem “too good.”
    • As a lender: Use fraud detection tools that check for synthetic identities, track vehicle location and registration status, and cross-check employment/income claims.
    • For all parties: Use secure financing platforms, keep documentation of sale/loan, maintain records of test drive interactions and payment communications.
    • Report suspicious transactions to police, to consumer-fraud agencies, and, as needed, to auto-fraud databases.

    If You’ve Been Targeted:

    • Contact law enforcement and file a report. Include all documentation (IDs, communications, test drive details, loan documents).
    • Notify your bank or financing company if payments are being mishandled or the vehicle is being misused.
    • For lost vehicle or loan default risk, contact your lender or insurance broker.
    • Place identity fraud alerts if you suspect synthetic identity was used.
    • Share your story in local seller/buyer forums so others can avoid the same trap.

     Final Thoughts:

    Car fraud schemes are evolving rapidly. What may appear as a routine sale, test drive, or financing transaction can hide sophisticated deception. Whether you’re buying, selling, or financing a vehicle, a little suspicion and verification go a long way.

    If something feels off—a buyer rushes, a vehicle behaves strangely, or a lender’s application looks too neat—take a step back. Protecting your car deal today could save you from thousands in losses tomorrow.

    Further Reading:

     

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