Greg's Corner

Updates from May, 2025 Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 7, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: arrest scam ( 3 ), arrest warrant ( 28 ), jury duty scam ( 35 ), police impersonation scam ( 78 ), Scams ( 1,481 )   

  Jury Duty Scam Tactics Exposed 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Two recent incidents in Massachusetts and Texas have highlighted how convincing and costly phone scams involving fake jury duty summonses continue to affect unsuspecting individuals. In both cases, callers impersonated law enforcement officers, presenting official-sounding threats and legal terminology to pressure victims into handing over thousands of dollars.

  In Massachusetts, a resident of Bourne reported losing over $68,000 after being told he had failed to appear for jury duty. The callers warned of immediate arrest if a payment was not made. They provided documents that appeared official at first glance, but closer inspection revealed inconsistencies, such as incorrect addresses and typographical errors. The victim ultimately transferred the funds at a local business before contacting the authorities.

  In San Antonio, a viewer reported being on the phone for nearly an hour with someone claiming to represent the sheriff’s office. The caller cited a missed jury summons and used legal language to establish authority. A second person joined the call to intensify the pressure and demanded thousands of dollars. The attempt was thwarted when a family member intervened and the potential victim conducted a quick online search, discovering similar past scams.

  These incidents reflect a broader trend. The continued prevalence of such schemes stems in part from their effectiveness. Scams like this persist because people continue to fall for them. The tone of authority, the use of court-related language, and the exploitation of fear make these scams particularly difficult to detect in the moment. However, while these scams are common, blaming the victims is not appropriate. No one is immune. Scammers rely on stress, confusion, and isolation to succeed, and even cautious, educated individuals can be caught off guard.

  Law enforcement agencies consistently remind the public that they do not conduct business this way. Phone calls demanding payment or threatening arrest are not standard practice. Those who receive such calls should hang up and verify the information with a trusted source, such as a local police department or court clerk.

  Public awareness is one of the strongest tools in fighting these scams. Sharing experiences helps prevent others from falling into the same traps. The more these tactics are understood, the less power they hold.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Arizona ( 12 ), money mule ( 5 ), pig butchering scam ( 18 ), romance scam ( 75 ), Scams ( 1,481 )   

  Romance Scam Money Mule Sentenced 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A recent federal sentencing in Phoenix underscores the growing threat of online financial fraud and the serious legal consequences that can come, even to those who claim they were unaware of their role in a scam. A man who laundered nearly $4 million linked to online romance scams was sentenced to 17 months in prison following his guilty plea to conspiring to structure financial transactions in a way that evaded federal detection.

  The case revealed that the individual played a central role in a wider romance scam operation. By opening and managing dozens of bank accounts under various names, he helped conceal and distribute funds obtained from vulnerable victims, many of whom were misled into believing they were helping loved ones in distress. Surveillance footage and financial records placed him at the heart of the scheme, executing transactions designed to fly under the radar of mandatory financial reporting laws.

  Authorities emphasized that even though the man claimed he believed the money was intended for legitimate business ventures, the methods used to move the funds were deceptive and pointed to a clear effort to obscure their origin. The use of fraudulent identities and structured withdrawals ultimately served the goals of a sophisticated criminal enterprise. In at least one documented instance, a victim lost close to $200,000 by sending funds to an address linked to one of the fraudulent identities used in the scheme.

  This prosecution highlights the increasing prevalence of romance scams and related frauds. Federal investigators have seen a rise in schemes like “pig butchering,” where fraudsters spend time gaining victims’ trust before persuading them to invest in fake cryptocurrency platforms.

  Law enforcement continues to stress the importance of reporting suspected scams, no matter how embarrassing or personal the situation may feel. Older adults in particular are often targeted, and the financial damage is frequently compounded by emotional distress and long-term financial insecurity.

  It is critical for the public to understand that even if someone is unknowingly participating in a scam, actions taken to bypass federal regulations, such as using false identities or structuring financial transactions to avoid detection, can still lead to serious criminal charges. Being unaware of the full scope of a scam does not eliminate liability if the conduct involves deceitful or unlawful behavior.

  Staying vigilant, verifying identities, and avoiding pressure to move money under unusual circumstances can help reduce exposure to such crimes. Anyone who suspects they have been targeted should contact authorities immediately to minimize further harm and aid investigations into these increasingly complex fraud operations.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cybersecurity ( 38 ), evil twin attack ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,481 ), travel ( 2 ), wifi ( 3 )   

  Travel Abroad? Beware Fake Wi-Fi 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As economic concerns continue to affect consumer behavior, many travelers are reconsidering their summer plans. Domestic air travel is seeing a slight contraction, with several airlines recently announcing the cancellation of select routes within the United States. While this has caused frustration for those seeking to travel closer to home, international destinations, especially those in Europe, appear to be gaining momentum as U.S. carriers expand their global offerings.

  This uptick in overseas travel brings with it a host of new considerations, particularly when it comes to staying connected. International roaming fees from major U.S. carriers typically range from $6 to $15 per day, depending on the specifics of one’s plan and destination. To avoid these charges, many travelers opt to leave their phones in airplane mode and instead rely on Wi-Fi hotspots found in hotels, airports, and cafés.

  However, using public Wi-Fi networks comes with significant security risks. One of the more concerning threats is a tactic known in cybersecurity circles as the ‘evil twin’ attack. In such an attack, a malicious actor creates a fake Wi-Fi network that closely mimics a legitimate one, often using names that resemble trusted locations such as “Airport” or “Cafe_Guest.” Once a traveler connects to the fraudulent network, the attacker is able to intercept and monitor the data being transmitted. This type of intrusion allows them to collect sensitive information such as passwords, emails, and even financial data.

  This threat is particularly troubling because it is both simple and inexpensive for attackers to execute. Setting up a fake hotspot often requires little more than a laptop and freely available software. As international travel becomes more common during peak seasons, so too does the likelihood of encountering one of these fraudulent networks.

  To protect personal information while abroad, travelers are encouraged to avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks unless they are secured with a password and known to be legitimate. Device settings should be adjusted to prevent automatic connections to nearby networks, and file sharing should be disabled. It is also wise to refrain from accessing sensitive accounts while using any public connection.

  An added layer of protection can be achieved by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which encrypts internet traffic and helps shield it from interception. For those seeking more control over their internet access, a portable hotspot that uses a secured mobile data connection may also be a worthwhile investment.

  As more people prepare to travel internationally this year, awareness and caution are essential. A proactive approach to digital security can prevent costly and intrusive experiences and ensure that the memories made abroad are good ones.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 2, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: FBI ( 27 ), health insurance ( 6 ), healthcare ( 43 ), insurance fraud ( 6 ), Scams ( 1,481 )   

  Scammers Peddling Fake Health Plans 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The FBI is warning the public about a widespread scam involving fraudulent discount medical insurance plans. These deceptive schemes are targeting people who are searching for affordable healthcare coverage. Many victims have lost money and received no actual insurance benefits in return.

  These scams typically begin with an unsolicited phone call, email, or text message. The person on the other end poses as a representative from a legitimate insurance provider and offers what sounds like an unbeatable deal. They may promise full medical or dental coverage, the ability to see your current doctor, or even additional perks like help with groceries and gas. The catch is that you have to act quickly. The supposed discount is only available for a short time, creating pressure to make an immediate decision.

  Once people agree and submit their payment, the promised insurance never materializes. Some only discover the truth after trying to use the policy for a medical visit, only to be told they are not insured and must pay out of pocket. Others are misled about refunds or cancellation terms and find themselves unable to stop recurring charges.

  The FBI reports that these scams are not isolated incidents. A recent case in Washington state resulted in a cease-and-desist order against a company operating under several names. The business received more than 100 complaints for misrepresenting coverage, charging unauthorized fees, and denying refunds.

  These operations often use language that resembles official communications, which makes the pitch seem legitimate. Victims are rushed through the process and discouraged from reading the fine print. By the time the deception is uncovered, the damage is already done.

  Consumers are strongly urged to avoid any health insurance or benefit offer that arrives through an unsolicited phone call or message. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Take the time to verify companies through official channels and never give out payment or personal information under pressure.

  These scams are evolving quickly and spreading across the country. The cost of falling for them can be both financial and personal. With millions already lost, awareness remains the best defense.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 1, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: missouri ( 5 ), online gambling ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,481 )   

  Fake Casino Sites Target Missouri 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A new warning from the Missouri Gaming Commission sheds light on a growing scam that could just as easily spread beyond state borders. The scheme involves fraudulent websites posing as legitimate online extensions of real-world casinos in Missouri. These deceptive platforms are being promoted on social media and often feature imagery from actual casinos to reinforce their appearance of legitimacy.

  There is currently no legal online casino gambling in Missouri. Any advertisement claiming that such services are now available to Missouri residents is entirely false. The risk with these illegal websites is significant. Because they operate outside the jurisdiction of regulatory agencies, there is no recourse for players who do not receive promised winnings. What appears to be a payout opportunity may, in fact, be a dead end with no consumer protections.

  With online sports wagering expected to launch in Missouri later this year, the public’s anticipation has created a ripe environment for opportunistic scams. Residents who are eager to participate in legal gambling may be more vulnerable to false advertising, especially when it closely resembles legitimate casino branding.

  This scam is not unique to Missouri. Similar schemes have been reported in other parts of the country, making this a broader issue that could impact residents nationwide. As states move to expand or legalize online gambling, scammers are likely to exploit confusion and excitement surrounding new gambling laws and platforms.

  Authorities advise that anyone who encounters a suspicious betting site should report it to their state’s gaming authority, local law enforcement and the Internet Crime Complaint Center. Until online casino gambling is legalized and properly regulated in Missouri or any other state, it is crucial for residents to remain skeptical of unsolicited betting opportunities online.

  For anyone struggling with a gambling problem, help is available. The National Problem Gambling Helpline can be reached at 1-800-GAMBLER.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: romance scam ( 75 ), Scams ( 1,481 ), Wyoming ( 2 )   

  Romance Scam Hits Small-Town Wyoming 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A recent incident in the small town of Lovell, Wyoming, underscores a sobering truth. Online scams do not just target those in bustling cities or tech-heavy regions. Even in close-knit rural communities, no one is immune to digital deception.

  In this case, a local woman became the target of a romance scam after a well-meaning family member signed her up for a dating site. Although she was not seeking a relationship, she soon found herself fielding message after message from strangers claiming to be lonely widowers. Many of them followed a script, asking the same questions and offering similar life stories. With no prior experience on dating platforms, she did her best to proceed carefully, but the patterns went unnoticed at first.

  Eventually, one online suitor stood out. He presented himself as a hardworking professional traveling abroad, someone grounded, warm, and seemingly sincere. Over time, he built trust without immediately asking for money. He sent flowers, shared music, and made her feel seen. The emotional connection grew, and when a crisis arose, she stepped in to help, believing she was supporting a friend in need.

  What she did not realize until much later was that the crisis was invented. The requests for help were part of a well-crafted manipulation. She ended up sending funds she could not afford to lose. Thankfully, with the help of family and a trusted financial institution, the damage was limited. But the emotional toll was real.

  Scams like these are often underreported, partly due to embarrassment and shame. Victims may blame themselves, but experts stress that anyone can be fooled. The emotional tactics used by scammers are calculated and convincing. Once they succeed, victims may be flagged as potential targets and find themselves approached by other scammers. These operations are organized, profitable, and often shielded by international jurisdictions, making recovery of funds nearly impossible.

  Local law enforcement officials say they are limited in how much they can do unless they are contacted before money changes hands. Once a scam progresses, jurisdictional challenges and international laundering schemes make intervention difficult. This highlights the need for early reporting and open dialogue between the public and authorities.

  In rural areas like Lovell, the belief that “it can’t happen here” can create a false sense of security. But the internet has changed the landscape. Scammers are no longer limited by geography. An internet connection is all it takes for a fraudster to virtually slip through the front door of any home.

  Authorities urge people to remain vigilant when interacting online, especially in emotionally vulnerable spaces like dating platforms. Building trust with someone online should never happen at the expense of common sense. Verification is key, and friends, family, banks, and law enforcement are valuable resources when things feel off.

  This story is a reminder that while technology connects us, it also opens doors for exploitation. Even in the most peaceful towns, the threat is real.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 29, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: BBB ( 21 ), driver's license ( 3 ), identity theft ( 113 ), Real ID, Scams ( 1,481 )   

  Real ID Deadline Nears Amid Scam Risks 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The May 7th deadline to upgrade a driver’s license or state ID to a Real ID is approaching quickly. With that deadline looming, the Better Business Bureau is warning that scammers are actively trying to take advantage of individuals eager to meet the requirement.

  A Real ID will be necessary to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities and military bases. On official websites, images of a Real ID feature a gold star in the upper right-hand corner, distinguishing it from licenses that do not meet federal standards.

  Obtaining a Real ID requires providing several sensitive documents. These include proof of identity such as a birth certificate or U.S. passport, proof of residency through items like a utility bill or credit card statement, a social security number, and documentation of any name changes since birth, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Individuals who hold a permanent resident card or employment authorization card will also need to present those.

  Because these documents contain all the information necessary for identity theft, the risk of falling victim to scams is elevated during this period. One of the most common scams involves fake websites that falsely claim to offer Real ID upgrades completely online. In reality, the Real ID application must be completed in person at an authorized location. Although many DMVs are offering Real ID services, it is important to confirm that the specific location you plan to visit participates.

  Individuals are often more vulnerable to scams when they are rushing, and the approaching deadline may lead some to fall for fraudulent offers. It is important to remember that the Real ID process cannot be completed solely online.

  For those who already possess a valid U.S. passport, the May 7 deadline poses less urgency. A passport can also be used for boarding domestic flights and accessing federal buildings or military bases.

  Travelers should keep in mind that it may take several weeks for a Real ID to arrive by mail after applying. To avoid travel disruptions, it is recommended to schedule an appointment at a local tag agency or visit the appropriate government website to find an authorized location.

  Applicants should be aware that while there are many legitimate resources available, fraudulent websites posing as government agencies are also common. Official information will always make clear that in-person verification is required.

  It is also important to note that obtaining a Real ID is not necessary to continue driving, voting, or applying for federal benefits. However, after May 7th it will be required for air travel and entry into certain federal facilities unless a valid passport is presented.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: quitclaim deeds ( 2 ), real estate ( 133 ), Scams ( 1,481 ), title theft ( 2 )   

  FBI Warns Homeowners of Title Theft 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The FBI is alerting homeowners to a growing threat known as “title theft,” where fraudsters steal property owners’ identities and attempt to sell their land without their knowledge. Officials report that these scams are on the rise, particularly targeting elderly individuals who are more likely to own vacant land or homes that are fully paid off.

  According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, from 2019 through 2023, real estate fraud cost victims across the United States approximately $1.3 billion.

  Authorities emphasize that timing is critical when addressing title theft. Reporting suspected fraud within 24 hours can significantly increase the chances of recovering stolen funds. Title pirates often operate quickly, attempting to finalize fraudulent sales before property owners even realize their homes or land have been targeted.

  Recent cases have illustrated how these scams unfold. Criminals often create forged deeds using publicly available information and submit them electronically to legitimate attorneys to initiate property sales. Many contracts today are completed online, making it easier for scammers to slip fraudulent documents past busy professionals. Once the forged documents are accepted, scammers often secure loans against the stolen property, taking the money and disappearing before the fraud is discovered.

  In one case, a homeowner was alerted to the fraud only because an attorney verified a suspicious sale. Without that early warning, the homeowner might have faced months of legal battles and tens of thousands of dollars in fees to reclaim their property.

  The FBI warns that scammers tend to focus on properties that are vacant, mortgage-free, or second homes. They use fake identification that often closely mimics genuine government documents, making detection difficult. Criminals usually insist on handling transactions remotely, refusing video calls and in-person meetings, and push for quick sales at below-market prices to expedite the fraud.

  Real estate professionals are encouraged to be especially vigilant. The National Association of Realtors advises taking additional precautions, such as verifying seller identities through multiple methods. Homeowners are also urged to register for notification alerts with their local registry of deeds. These alerts notify owners whenever a document is recorded against their property, helping to catch fraudulent activity early.

  Title theft is a serious and evolving threat, and both homeowners and real estate professionals must remain proactive to guard against it. The FBI continues to investigate these crimes and work to prevent future victims from losing their homes and life savings.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 25, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: customer service ( 52 ), Federal Locker ( 2 ), moving money ( 6 ), police impersonation scam ( 78 ), Scams ( 1,481 )   

  “Federal Locker” Scam Hits PA Victim 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Authorities in Chester County, Pennsylvania, are alerting residents to a concerning scam that has already claimed at least one local victim. The deceptive scheme involves impersonators who threaten individuals with arrest by federal law enforcement if they do not immediately comply with demands for money.

  The scam, now being referred to as the “Federal Locker Scam,” follows a familiar pattern of fear-based manipulation. In the incident reported, a victim was tricked after searching online for a subscription service’s contact number. The number she dialed appeared legitimate, but instead connected her to a scammer who falsely claimed her account had been compromised and needed federal intervention.

  Scammers are increasingly using online advertising to add a layer of credibility to their schemes. By purchasing ads on popular search engines like Google, they can impersonate legitimate companies and services. These fraudulent listings often appear at the very top of search results, even outranking the actual businesses they are pretending to represent. This tactic makes it more likely for unsuspecting individuals to call a scammer instead of the real customer service line, setting the stage for sophisticated fraud attempts like the one described in this case.

  Once trust was established, the caller urged her to withdraw large sums of money and convert them into gold, cryptocurrency, and gift cards. The fraudsters assured her these assets would be safely stored in a so-called government locker and later returned by federal agents. Over the course of eight days, the victim lost $100,000. The ruse only came to an end after a concerned family member intervened and helped her contact law enforcement.

  Officials say this case is not an isolated incident. Similar scams have emerged in neighboring jurisdictions, often involving impersonations of federal agencies. These scams frequently cite agencies such as the U.S. Marshals Service or Social Security Administration and attempt to obtain personal banking details or alternative forms of untraceable payment.

  Victims range widely in age, from young adults to senior citizens, demonstrating that the scam does not target one particular demographic. Police emphasize that real federal agencies will never request payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, nor will they threaten arrest over the phone.

  In the case reported, the victim was fortunate to recover a portion of the funds. Law enforcement encourages anyone who receives suspicious calls of this nature to reach out to their local police department before taking any action.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 24, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: apple pay ( 2 ), funeral ( 18 ), Scams ( 1,481 ), tap to-pay   

  Tap-to-Pay Funeral Scam Drains $5K in Seconds 

  

  By Greg Collier

  This story may sound like an urban legend, but it is very real and has affected multiple people across Chicago. It begins with what appears to be a plea for help. A young man approaches a passerby and says his younger brother has died. He claims the family cannot afford a funeral and asks for a small donation. The appeal is emotionally charged and convincing. Most people just want to help.

  But this isn’t about helping. It’s about stealing.

  The scam has surfaced at well-trafficked locations, including major intersections and shopping centers. The setup is nearly identical each time. A grieving sibling, a tragic backstory, and a refusal to accept cash. Instead, the victim is asked to donate using tap-to-pay on a cell phone. The unsuspecting donor thinks they are sending ten or twenty dollars. In reality, thousands are being drained in seconds.

  Victims have reported being hit with two back-to-back charges totaling nearly $5,000. Notifications often arrive after the scammers have fled in waiting vehicles. In one case, a man even chased the suspects down and briefly wrestled with one in a moving car. He recovered his money. Others have not been so lucky.

  Card issuers have responded by emphasizing the importance of their fraud review processes. Some victims have been offered provisional credits while investigations proceed. Others are still waiting, stuck in limbo as banks review their claims.

  This scam works because it hijacks empathy. It relies on the human impulse to help those in need. It manipulates emotion, bypassing the critical thinking that might otherwise make someone pause before tapping a phone.

  The best way to avoid this kind of scam is to never hand your device or payment method to a stranger. If someone is truly in need, there are safer ways to donate or support them. Suggest giving through a known charity or offering food, not funds. Be cautious when asked to pay directly on another person’s phone. If something feels off, trust that instinct.

  A legitimate cause will not pressure you to bypass safer methods of donation. Any story, no matter how heartbreaking, does not justify the theft of thousands of dollars.

  Helping others should not leave you in financial ruin.