Greg's Corner

Updates from July, 2024 Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 10, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook ( 178 ), missing child ( 4 ), Scams ( 1,363 ), social media ( 79 )   

  Disturbing misuse of missing girl’s image in scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Last year, the abduction and subsequent discovery of a 9-year-old New York girl captivated the nation. Her safe return was a relief to many, but now, months later, her photo is being exploited in a series of deceptive Facebook posts. These posts have appeared in groups from the US to Australia, and are spreading misinformation about her still being a missing person.

  The first of these misleading posts surfaced on July 4th in a US-based swap and save group, quickly amassing 28,000 shares. Identical posts have since appeared in similar Facebook groups all around the world, garnering thousands of shares and spreading the false narrative globally.

  This misuse of the girl’s image is not just a harmless mistake but part of a more sinister trend. Scammers use these emotionally charged posts to manipulate public sympathy and gain widespread attention. These posts initially attract concern and shares, but scammers later alter them into deceptive ads or links.

  So, naturally, we all want to help when a child is reported missing, and we still can. However, before sharing a post, it’s important to ensure it comes from a credible source. For instance, if the post is from a local news station, a police department, or an established organization like The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), it is likely to be legitimate.

  To avoid falling victim to these scams, the BBB advises checking the source of the post, looking for any updates or corrections, and being wary of posts that ask for personal information or direct users to click on external links. If you encounter such a post, report it to the platform to help prevent further spread.

  The story of this child’s abduction and rescue is a reminder of the power of community and media in locating missing children. However, the current misuse of her image underscores the importance of digital literacy. By staying informed and cautious, we can protect ourselves and others from falling prey to these deceitful schemes.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 144 ), missing pets ( 11 ), Scams ( 1,363 )   

  Missing pet scams rise after 4th 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Following the recent Fourth of July celebrations over the past weekend, many pets have gone missing due to excessive fireworks in their areas. Unfortunately, scammers are exploiting the anxieties of pet owners during this time. Roanoke, Virginia, provides a prime example of how these scams are unfolding.

  The Roanoke Valley SPCA has reported a surge in calls about missing pets during this time. Losing a pet is every owner’s nightmare. The hope that comes with a call saying their beloved animal has been found can quickly turn to despair when it’s revealed to be a scam.

  Recently, two residents contacted the shelter after receiving suspicious calls. The scammer, posing as a third-party representative for the Roanoke Valley SPCA, claimed that their pets had been found but were injured in car accidents. The scammer said the dogs needed treatment for dislocated shoulders and requested the owners’ credit card information to cover the medical expenses. Victims were pressured and threatened with losing custody of their pets if they did not comply.

  The Roanoke Valley SPCA assures that pets will never be held hostage and emphasizes that they do not take in or treat stray animals. The organization would never ask for credit card payment over the phone or hold a pet for ransom.

  Posting about missing pets on social media can make pet owners targets for scammers due to the publicly accessible information and detailed descriptions shared in these posts. Desperate and emotionally vulnerable, owners often include contact information, making it easy for scammers to reach out and exploit their distress. Scammers use emotional manipulation, claiming the pet is injured or needs immediate medical attention, to pressure owners into quick payments. While social media can help in finding lost pets by reaching a large audience, it also increases the risk of scammers seeing the posts and taking advantage of the situation.

  To avoid being scammed when looking for a missing pet, owners should share information in trusted community groups, avoid posting personal contact details publicly, and verify claims by asking specific questions only someone with the pet would know. Be skeptical of anyone requesting money upfront for the pet’s return, and report suspicious contacts to authorities. Ensure pets are microchipped and have ID tags, and stay informed about local scams by following animal shelters and veterinary offices for alerts and advice. These precautions can help protect owners from scams while effectively utilizing resources to find their lost pets.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 8, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: BEC scam ( 5 ), business email compromise ( 11 ), home buying ( 5 ), real estate ( 127 ), Scams ( 1,363 )   

  Email scam dupes homebuyers, bank delays refund 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Homebuyers are finding themselves vulnerable to a sophisticated and growing threat: business email exchange (BEC) scams. These cybercrimes exploit the trust and urgency inherent in property purchases by infiltrating email communications between buyers, sellers, and their agents. With access to sensitive information, scammers impersonate legitimate parties to redirect substantial down payments and closing costs into their own accounts. This deceptive tactic not only results in significant financial loss but also disrupts the dream of homeownership for many unsuspecting victims.

  One couple wired $25,000 meant for their home purchase but were tricked into sending it to a scammer. However, TD Bank, which held the scammer’s account, froze the account before the scammer could abscond with the funds. Despite this, more than 20 months later, the couple still don’t have their money back due to a bank delay.

  After nine years in a townhome, the couple decided to buy a single-family home. They found a house and were set to close. They received a legitimate email from their title company. The next day, a scammer impersonating the title company sent an email with new wire instructions, which went unnoticed. They authorized a $25,000 transfer from their Chase account to the scammer’s TD Bank account.

  When the real title company reported not receiving the payment, they realized they had been scammed. They rushed to Chase Bank to recall the wire, but it couldn’t be recalled. Fortunately, TD Bank had frozen the account. They reported the fraud to the FBI through the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The FBI informed them that TD Bank needed an indemnification letter from Chase to release the funds. After much persistence and involving the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Chase issued the letter.

  However, the letter repeatedly failed to reach the correct hands at TD Bank. Months passed with no resolution, forcing the couple to dig into their retirement savings to make the down payment for the house. It wasn’t until the couple got the local media involved before the letter from Chase finally found the right recipient at TD Bank. The couple is receiving a refund but only for a partial amount.

  Banks should prioritize assisting scam victims promptly and efficiently, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles. The current landscape, where fraudsters can exploit complex financial systems, demands that banks adopt a more proactive and compassionate approach. Simplifying the process for victims to recover their funds and providing clear, supportive guidance can significantly alleviate the emotional and financial stress caused by scams. By reducing red tape, banks can enhance their reputation for customer service and contribute to a more secure and trustworthy financial environment.

  Homebuyers should always verify any payment instructions in person or over the phone to avoid falling victim to BEC scams. Scammers can create convincing emails that appear to be from trusted parties like real estate agents or title companies. To ensure the legitimacy of wire instructions, buyers should contact the issuing party directly using a known, reliable phone number, or visit them in person. This extra step of verification can prevent significant financial loss and provide peace of mind during the homebuying process.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 5, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist ( 129 ), Facebook Marketplace ( 62 ), impersonation scam ( 144 ), online shopping ( 33 ), Scams ( 1,363 ), shipping containers ( 2 )   

  Farmers scammed buying shipping containers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An Arizona farm owner decided to expand their barn using shipping containers due to their durability and resistance to wind and water. Seeking convenience, they turned to online marketplaces like Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to find suitable containers. Their search led them to a seller claiming to represent a company selling shipping containers.

  After researching the company and finding positive reviews, the buyer communicated with a man through Facebook Messenger. The man’s prompt responses and attentiveness built a sense of trust. However, when it came time to make the purchase, several red flags emerged.

  To proceed, nearly $2,700 needed to be paid upfront. The buyer preferred to pay with a credit card for added protection, but the man insisted on a check made out to an individual instead of the business. Although this raised suspicions, the man’s explanations seemed plausible, and the payment was made.

  The problems began when the delivery date approached. The buyer faced constant delays, excuses, and a demand for an additional $3,500 in insurance. Growing increasingly uneasy, they decided to contact the container company directly using the information on their official website.

  The response was a devastating blow. The real container company had no record of the order, invoice, or any knowledge of the man they were communicating with. The buyer had been dealing with scammers impersonating the legitimate company to defraud consumers on third-party websites.

  This experience highlights the importance of thorough verification when making large purchases. Here are key takeaways to protect yourself from similar scams.

  Always contact the company directly using information from their official website. Never rely solely on contact details provided by the seller.

  Be wary if a company insists on communicating only through messaging platforms. Legitimate businesses typically offer multiple communication channels, including phone and email.

  Whenever possible, pay with a credit card, which offers better fraud protection. Be cautious of sellers requesting payment through irreversible methods like cashier’s checks or wire transfers.

  Check reviews on multiple websites and search for any reports of scams or imposters. Include terms like “scam” or “fraud” in your search.

  If a seller pressures you to make a quick decision, take a step back. Consider your options carefully before committing.

  If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, report it immediately. Contact your local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Prompt reporting can help authorities track and combat fraudulent activities.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 144 ), Scams ( 1,363 ), shut off scam ( 17 ), utility scam ( 31 )   

  Extreme heat gives rise to utility scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  With the current high heat temperatures hitting the region, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing a warning to residents to be on high alert for utility scams. These scams tend to spike during extreme weather events when people are more reliant on their utilities, such as air conditioning, making them more vulnerable to threats of service termination.

  Scammers often pose as employees of water, electric, and gas companies, employing various tactics to deceive both residents and business owners. They typically contact potential victims via phone calls, texts, or by knocking on doors.

  The most common utility scam is the shut-off scam. This scam involves scammers posing as representatives from the power company when contacting their victims over the phone. They threaten to terminate the victim’s electric service due to an alleged past-due balance, insisting that the service will be disconnected within 15 to 30 minutes unless an immediate payment is made. These scammers often demand payment through unconventional methods such as gift cards, and in some cases, they have instructed victims to use Bitcoin ATMs for payment.

  However, the BBB is now reporting that some utility scammers are taking it one step further by showing up to the doors of their victims. Posing as utility employees, scammers may show up at your door in what appears to be a credible uniform. They might claim that your meter is malfunctioning and needs immediate replacement at your expense, or that they need access to your property to make necessary repairs or conduct an energy audit. The true intent is often to steal items or gather personal information.

  The BBB emphasizes that requests for prepaid debit cards, gift cards, digital wallet apps, or wire transfers are significant red flags. Pressure for immediate payment and personal information is another warning sign. To protect yourself, you can follow these steps.

  If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and call the customer service number listed on your utility bill. Do not allow anyone into your home or business unless you have a scheduled appointment or have reported a problem directly to your utility company.

  If you believe you have been targeted or have fallen victim to a scam, contact your local police and report the incident to BBB Scam Tracker.

  By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your personal information and finances from falling into the wrong hands.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 2, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Bud and June Runion, craigslist ( 129 ), murder ( 9 ), Ronnie Adrian "Jay" Towns, Scams ( 1,363 ), used car ( 33 )   

  Craigslist car ad proves deadly for couple 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Bud and June Runion were a loving couple, cherished by their family and friends. In January 2015, they set off on what they believed would be an exciting adventure to purchase a 1966 Ford Mustang, a classic car Bud had long admired. They found the vehicle listed for sale on Craigslist and made arrangements to meet the seller in McRae, Georgia.

  When the Runions failed to return home or contact their family, concern quickly turned to alarm. Their family reported them missing, igniting a widespread search and a wave of anxiety among those who knew them.

  The search came to a tragic end on a few days later, when authorities discovered the bodies of Bud and June Runion in a remote area of Telfair County, Georgia. The couple had been shot to death, their lives cruelly taken in an act of senseless violence.

  The investigation swiftly honed in on Ronnie Adrian “Jay” Towns, a local man from McRae. Towns had allegedly posted the fake Craigslist ad intending to lure and rob the couple. When the Runions arrived, Towns led them to an isolated location where he carried out his heinous crime.

  Due to legal complications and delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Towns has yet to stand trial.

  Recently, a magnet fisher found what may be potential evidence further linking Towns to the crime.

  Bud and June Runion’s story is one of love, loss, and a call to action. While their lives were tragically cut short, their legacy lives on as a beacon of awareness and a reminder to always stay cautious in online dealings.

  When shopping on online platforms for a used or classic car, safety should be your top priority. Here are several steps to help protect yourself from potential dangers such as robbery or worse. Check the seller’s name, phone number, and email address. Use search engines and social media to see if the information matches. Request detailed information about the car. A legitimate seller should be able to provide this without hesitation.

  Schedule meetings during daylight hours when visibility is better and more people are around. Always meet in a public place with high foot traffic, such as a police station, bank parking lot, or a shopping center. While it’s not a guarantee, meeting at a police station significantly discourages criminals from targeting you.

  Bring a friend or family member with you. If that’s not possible, inform someone of your whereabouts and the details of your meeting. Provide someone with the seller’s information and the meeting location.

  Avoid carrying large sums of cash. Consider using secure payment methods like bank checks or electronic transfers. If a cash payment is necessary, conduct the transaction inside a bank where security measures are in place.

  By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of being robbed or harmed while shopping for a used or classic car online. Always prioritize your personal safety over the potential deal.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 1, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: coin ( 2 ), coin collection, coin collectors, FBI ( 22 ), Scams ( 1,363 )   

  FBI warns of coin collection scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scammers have found ways to infiltrate nearly every aspect of our lives, preying on unsuspecting individuals involved in a number of activities. From online shopping to investing, no area seems immune to their deceitful tactics. One such vulnerable domain is coin collecting, a cherished hobby for many enthusiasts. Scammers have cleverly adapted their schemes to target collectors, exploiting their passion and trust to steal valuable items and money. Understanding the methods these fraudsters use is crucial for protecting oneself in an increasingly interconnected world.

  The FBI has recently issued a warning to the public about a new scam targeting collectible coin enthusiasts. Scammers posing as legitimate coin dealers are tricking individuals into selling their valuable coin collections under false pretenses, only to cheat them out of significant sums of money.

  According to FBI officials, these scammers lure victims by promising substantial returns for their collectible coins.

  The scammer contacts the victim, claiming to have a collectible coin business, and offers an irresistible deal for their coin collection. The victim is promised a high payout for the coins, enticing them to send their collection. Once the scammers have received the coins, they pay the victim a much smaller amount than initially promised and keep the coins.

  In other cases, scammers offer to sell collectible coins to victims, but these coins are often of lesser value or never delivered.

  The FBI warns that scammers use various tactics to pressure victims into making quick decisions. For example, a scammer might claim that there is an upcoming auction, pushing the victim to sell their coins quickly to get a good price. Or the scammers might fabricate stories about needing to sell coins urgently due to financial distress, convincing the victim to act fast.

  Victims of this scam often end up losing their valuable coin collections and receiving only a fraction of the promised amount, if anything at all.

  According to the FBI, collectors should be wary of any unsolicited offers to purchase or sell collectible coins. Verify the legitimacy of the caller and their business. Do not hand over your coin collection to someone for ‘appraisal’ unless you are certain of their credibility.

  If you have been a victim of this scam or any similar fraudulent activity, the FBI urges you to file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov.

  Collectible coins can be valuable assets, both financially and sentimentally. By staying informed about the latest scams and following the FBI’s guidelines, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim. Remember, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify the legitimacy of any coin dealer and exercise caution in your transactions.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 28, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gold bars ( 9 ), impersonation scam ( 144 ), police impersonation scam ( 64 ), Scams ( 1,363 )   

  More scammers force victims to buy gold 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In a concerning incident highlighting the ongoing threat of financial scams, two college students from Ohio were recently arrested in Bourbon County, Kentucky, after allegedly scamming an elderly woman out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the FBI, uncovered the elaborate scheme and apprehended the suspects.

  According to the victim, she had been contacted via email and phone by individuals posing as IRS agents and representatives from her financial organization. The scammers convinced her that her account had been hacked, prompting her to withdraw hundreds of thousands of dollars from her bank under the pretext of home remodeling plans.

  Under the scammers’ instructions, the woman deposited a substantial sum at a bitcoin location. But the deception didn’t end there. The perpetrators also persuaded her to wire additional funds to New York to purchase gold bars valued at nearly a quarter of a million dollars. The gold bars were then shipped to her home in Bourbon County, where the scammers intended to collect them.

  Acting swiftly, the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the FBI, intercepted the scammers. Authorities listened to multiple phone conversations that detailed the scheme. When the suspects arrived to retrieve the gold bars, law enforcement officers were ready and took them into custody.

  During questioning, the suspects admitted to committing similar scams in the past, including a case in Ohio where they stole a significant amount of cash from another victim. Both suspects have been charged with conspiracy to commit theft by deception over $10,000.

  Protecting yourself from scams like the one described requires awareness, and proactive measures. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

  If you receive a call, email, or message claiming to be from a government agency (such as the IRS) or a financial institution, do not provide any personal information. Instead, independently verify the contact by calling the official number listed on the agency’s or institution’s official website.

  Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt hasty actions. Be suspicious of any unsolicited communication that demands immediate action or payment.

  Notify your financial institution immediately if you believe your account has been compromised or if you have been instructed to make unusual transactions.

  If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam, report it to local law enforcement or the appropriate federal agency, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 27, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: front desk scam ( 3 ), hotel scam ( 6 ), hotels ( 5 ), pizza delivery ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,363 ), vacation ( 9 )   

  How a pizza can steal your vacation money 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As summer vacation season is upon us, it’s important to be aware of potential scams targeting travelers. Consumer watchdog groups have identified two prevalent schemes that prey on people staying in hotels. By being aware of these tactics, you can protect yourself and your finances from fraudsters.

  Imagine this: after a long day of sightseeing, you return to your hotel room hungry and tired. You find a flyer under your door advertising a nearby pizza place or room service menu. It seems convenient, so you call the number to place an order. However, instead of a delicious pizza, you get scammed.

  This scam involves criminals distributing fake flyers with enticing offers. When you call to order, they take your credit card information, but never deliver the food. Instead, they use your credit card details for fraudulent purchases.

  Here are some steps to avoid such a scam. Hotels typically provide information about nearby restaurants at the front desk or in the room’s welcome packet. Use Google to check if the pizza place is legitimate. Ensure the phone number matches the one listed online. If you’re ordering room service, use the button on your room phone to connect directly to the hotel’s service, rather than relying on unsolicited flyers.

  Another common scam targets hotel guests with a late-night phone call, usually around 3 a.m. The caller, pretending to be from the front desk, claims there’s an issue with your reservation or payment information. They ask you to confirm your credit card details to resolve the problem immediately.

  The goal is to catch you off guard while you’re half-asleep, hoping you’ll provide your credit card information without thinking.

  If you receive a call like this, use the hotel phone in your room to contact the front desk and verify if there’s really an issue. More than likely, the front desk will tell you there is no issue.

  You can also tell the caller you’ll address the problem at the front desk during normal hours. This tactic buys you time to think clearly and thwarts the scammer’s plan.

  Consumer watchdogs recommend never giving out credit card or personal information to someone who contacts you unsolicited. Here are some additional tips to stay safe.

  Use a credit card with fraud protection. In case your information is stolen, having robust fraud protection can help mitigate the damage. Keep an eye on your statements. Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Stay informed. Being aware of common scams can help you recognize suspicious activity and avoid becoming a victim.

  Vacations are meant for relaxation and enjoyment, not dealing with the aftermath of a scam. By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself from common hotel scams and ensure your trip remains memorable for all the right reasons.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cryptocurrency ( 51 ), FBI ( 22 ), law firm ( 2 ), recovery scam ( 6 ), recovery service ( 8 ), Scams ( 1,363 )   

  Crypto recovery scams torment victims says FBI 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The rapid expansion of cryptocurrency has brought with it a growing number of scams. In response to this alarming trend, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued warnings about an increase in fraudulent schemes where criminals pose as law firms or legal representatives offering to help victims recover lost digital assets.

  Fraudsters, often posing as lawyers from fictitious law firms, reach out to victims via social media, email, or other messaging platforms. They claim to have special authorization to investigate and recover funds lost in cryptocurrency investment scams. To appear legitimate, these so-called lawyers assert that they are collaborating with well-known government agencies such as the FBI or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), or they might reference real financial institutions and money exchanges.

  Victims, desperate to recover their lost funds, are duped into providing sensitive personal information, paying upfront fees, or even covering nonexistent taxes and additional fees purportedly associated with the recovery of their funds.

  If you’ve been the target of a cryptocurrency scam, or any other type of scam, it might be wise to refrain from discussing your experience on social media. Scammers specializing in recovery frauds actively search for individuals who have been previously scammed. It’s common for our blog posts or social media updates about scams to attract comments from individuals pretending to be victims who claim they successfully retrieved their funds through a recovery service. These comments are often another layer of the scam, aiming to lure in more victims.

  If someone unknown contacts you while claiming they can recover your stolen cryptocurrency, be extremely cautious. Do not divulge personal or financial information, and avoid sending any money.

  Remember, legitimate law enforcement agencies do not charge fees to investigate crimes. If you are approached by someone claiming to be affiliated with agencies like the FBI, consider verifying their identity through official channels.

  Treat unsolicited offers with suspicion, especially those that promise guaranteed returns or claim to recover lost funds for a fee.

  If you suspect that you have been targeted by a scam or have already fallen victim, it is crucial to report the incident. The FBI encourages anyone affected to file a detailed report with the IC3 at http://www.ic3.gov, including as much information as possible about the contact method, the identity of the fraudster, and any financial transactions that occurred.

  As technology evolves, so do the tactics of those looking to exploit it. The latest alerts from the FBI serve as a critical reminder of the importance of diligence in the face of offers that seem too good to be true. Always exercise caution and prioritize the security of your personal and financial information to avoid falling prey to these sophisticated scams.