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  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 28, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Unwanted deliveries: A twist in Amazon scams 

    By Greg Collier

    This spring, a concerning trend is on the rise, catching many Amazon customers off guard: receiving packages they never ordered. What might initially seem like a harmless mistake is, in fact, part of a more insidious scam that is becoming increasingly pervasive.

    For many, it starts with an unexpected delivery. It could be anything from patio chair cushions to child’s toys arriving unannounced on your doorstep. This might sound like an innocuous inconvenience, but for some, it’s much more than that.

    Take, for example, a disabled veteran who is finding these unsolicited deliveries particularly burdensome. Receiving numerous boxes that he struggles to move due to his condition has turned a minor nuisance into a significant hassle. The items range from patio chair cushions to various fabric-related products, cluttering his home and adding unnecessary stress to his daily life.

    This situation isn’t unique. Another individual experienced a similar issue, receiving a calligraphy pen and even a child’s scooter, all without ordering them. This phenomenon is known as the brushing scam. It’s an attempt by unscrupulous third-party sellers to boost their ratings on Amazon by sending out unsolicited items to unsuspecting individuals. By doing so, they can post fake positive reviews to bolster their product’s visibility and credibility.

    According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), this is not an isolated incident. They have received reports from thousands of people across the country experiencing these random deliveries. The items sent can be bizarre and varied, making it clear that these packages are not simply misplaced orders but part of a calculated strategy.

    While it might be tempting to dismiss this as a victimless crime, the reality is more concerning. The very fact that these scammers have access to your name and address indicates that your personal information is in the wrong hands. This should not be taken lightly.

    Here’s what you should do if you find yourself on the receiving end of this scam. Contact Amazon or the respective retailer to inform them about the unsolicited items. Immediately update your password for the site to enhance your account’s security. You should also enable two-factor authentication, as this provides an extra layer of security to your account.

    Remember, legally, you are not obligated to return these deliveries. However, reporting them to Amazon’s fraud website is a prudent step. This helps prevent further misuse of your information and ensures you are not mistakenly charged for items you never ordered.

    In conclusion, while receiving unexpected packages might seem like a minor inconvenience, it is part of a larger, more troubling scheme. By taking the necessary precautions and staying informed, you can protect your personal information and help curb this growing threat.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 24, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Navigating the rise in puppy scams 

    By Greg Collier

    The joy of welcoming a new furry friend into the family can quickly turn to heartbreak when faced with deceitful online puppy scams. These fraudulent schemes are on the rise across the nation, leading to significant financial and emotional losses for countless hopeful pet owners. According to the Better Business Bureau, nearly $2 million was lost to these scams in 2022 alone, with an average loss of $850 per family or individual.

    The tactics used by these scammers are particularly insidious, as they prey on the emotional bonds prospective pet owners form with the animals they believe they are purchasing. A recent incident involving a Louisiana family highlights the devastating impact of these scams and underscores the importance of being cautious when searching for a new pet online.

    After losing their beloved pet, the family decided it was time to bring a new puppy into their lives. They turned to an online breeder they found in a Facebook group, drawn by positive reviews and an attractive price of $500. Initially, everything seemed legitimate. The breeder communicated regularly and provided testimonials from other satisfied customers.

    However, the situation quickly changed. The breeder informed the family that the puppy needed to be transported from Houston with a personal pet nanny, requiring an additional $150. Then, the story shifted again. The breeder claimed the dog needed to be flown in a climate-controlled aircraft, a significantly more expensive option. As the demands for more money grew, the breeder’s communication became increasingly uncooperative, sending only blurry photos and videos that raised further suspicions.

    Realizing they had been scammed, the family ultimately lost $650. This experience is, unfortunately, all too common. Scammers rely on the emotional investment of their victims, using it to manipulate and extract more money.

    To help others avoid falling victim to similar schemes, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers some practical advice. Whenever possible, work with local breeders you can visit in person or consider adopting from local animal organizations. This reduces the risk of falling for an online scam and allows you to see the living conditions and care provided to the animals.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 23, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Fake job offers targeting college students 

    By Greg Collier

    In the heart of North Carolina, a college student’s promising summer opportunity turned into a financial nightmare. The student, nearing the completion of her junior year at North Carolina A&T, received what seemed to be a golden opportunity via email. She was offered a paid research position with a weekly salary of $450. The email appeared legitimate, even mentioning a real professor’s name and containing the university’s logo, which made the offer seem trustworthy.

    Despite her attempts to verify the legitimacy of the opportunity, the student fell victim to an elaborate scam. After being “hired,” she received a check for $2,400, purportedly for office supplies necessary for the remote research role. Following instructions, she deposited the check and transferred the money through the payment app Zelle to a supposed sales representative who would provide the supplies. It wasn’t until her bank notified her that the check was fake that she realized she had been swindled. Now, she faces a $2,400 debt to the bank, with no recourse to recover the funds.

    This incident highlights a recurring issue that continues to affect students not only at North Carolina A&T but across the nation. The scam, which impersonates faculty members and advertises too-good-to-be-true job offers, preys on students’ aspirations and financial vulnerabilities.

    To protect against such scams, there are several key warning signs to watch for.

    Genuine job opportunities typically require a formal application process, including interviews. Be wary of offers that come out of the blue, especially if they promise high pay with minimal effort.

    Scrutinize the sender’s email address. In the student’s case, the scammer used a generic email provider rather than an official university address ending in .edu. This is a significant red flag.

    If a job offer involves sending money to a third party or purchasing supplies upfront, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate employers provide the necessary resources directly or reimburse expenses through official channels.

    Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pushing targets to act quickly without due diligence. Take your time to verify any offer thoroughly before committing.

    Students should also be aware of resources available to them for verifying job offers. Universities often provide career services that can help students validate employment opportunities. Additionally, students can report suspicious job offers to their university’s IT department or the Better Business Bureau.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 22, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    A Microsoft employee is not coming to your home to collect money 

    A Microsoft employee is not coming to your home

    By Greg Collier

    For years, scams thrived in the digital shadows, but the landscape is shifting. Traditionally safe havens like our homes are no longer immune, with a troubling rise in scammers taking a physical approach. Preying on the vulnerable and unsuspecting, these fraudsters are turning up on doorsteps, demanding cash or valuables under false pretenses. This aggressive tactic adds a frightening new layer to the ever-evolving world of scams. These personal invasions intensify the financial impact and significantly heightens the emotional distress experienced by the victims.

    For example, a new and particularly insidious fraud scam has emerged in Asheville, North Carolina, catching the attention of both local law enforcement and cybersecurity experts. According to the Asheville Police Department (APD), suspects are now posing as Microsoft employees after hacking into victims’ personal computers. This scam stands out due to its in-person element, which is becoming less of a rarity in the realm of fraud.

    The scheme typically begins with a pop-up message on the victim’s computer, falsely claiming that the system has been locked or frozen. The message prompts the victim to call a number purportedly linked to Microsoft. Once contact is made, the scammers, posing as Microsoft representatives, instruct the victims to withdraw cash from their bank accounts. In a bold escalation, an individual claiming to be a Microsoft employee then arrives at the victim’s residence to collect the money, setting this scam apart from more common remote fraud tactics.

    Microsoft, along with other large technology companies, does not send representatives to individuals’ homes to collect payments or resolve technical issues. These companies operate through official communication channels such as verified emails, phone calls from authenticated support centers, and secure online platforms. Any request for personal information, financial details, or payments through home visits is not a legitimate practice of these companies.

    Never trust unsolicited tech support calls or pop-ups. Verify company representatives directly. If someone claims to be from Microsoft (or any other company), don’t give out personal information or money. Look up the company’s official contact details and reach out directly.

    The emergence of scammers coming directly to victims’ homes introduces a new level of danger and urgency in combating fraud. This approach not only threatens financial security, but also poses significant personal safety risks. Allowing an unknown individual into one’s home under false pretenses can lead to confrontational or even violent encounters. It is crucial to remain cautious and skeptical of any unexpected visitors claiming to represent companies or requesting personal information.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 21, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , traffic accident   

    Police impersonators target new victims 

    Police impersonators target new victims

    By Greg Collier

    As we’ve mentioned before, scams can be likened to living organisms, constantly evolving into more sophisticated schemes. One prime example is the police impersonation scam. The most common variant of this is the jury duty scam, where scammers pose as local police officers and inform victims of a supposed arrest warrant for missing jury duty. The victims are then coerced into making payments to avoid arrest. Recently, a new iteration of the police impersonation scam has emerged, targeting a very specific group of individuals.

    In the aftermath of car accidents, the last thing one expects is to become a target for scammers. Yet, this is a stark reality for many unsuspecting individuals. A recent scam has surfaced in Wake Forest, North Carolina, preying on those involved in car crashes, exploiting their desire to settle matters quickly and lawfully.

    The scam is simple yet effective. One victim received a call claiming to be from the Wake Forest Police Department. Scammers obtain personal details, possibly from public records, about recent car accidents.
    They then contact victims, referencing the accident and using stolen information to appear genuine.
    The scammer invents a story, like a missed court date, and pressures the victim to send money immediately to resolve the issue.

    The most alarming aspect of this scam is the request for payment through cash apps to settle supposed missed court dates or fines. This should raise immediate red flags, as no legitimate law enforcement agency would ever solicit fines or warrant payments via such methods. In this instance, the victim lost $400 to the scammers.

    If you receive a call about a supposed legal issue related to a car accident, be cautious. If unsure, ask for the caller’s name, badge number, and department. Verify the information by calling the police department directly, not using any numbers provided by the caller.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 20, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Couple loses $70,000 to social media crypto scam 

    By Greg Collier

    In the era of digital currencies and online investments, the allure of quick profits can sometimes overshadow the need for caution. This is a lesson painfully learned by a Durham, North Carolina, couple who found themselves scammed out of more than $70,000 over six months. The couple’s ordeal began innocently enough, with the hopes of funding home improvements and purchasing a new car, but it quickly turned into a financial nightmare.

    The story starts when they discovered a supposed investment opportunity through social media posts. These posts, which appeared to be from a relative, showcased luxurious purchases supposedly made through Bitcoin mining transactions. Intrigued and optimistic, they decided to explore this investment further, envisioning it as a pathway to achieve some of their financial goals.

    After clicking on a link in one of these posts, they were contacted via Instagram by someone claiming to be an investment coach. This individual guided them through the initial steps of investing, starting with a $3,500 investment. To their delight, the supposed profits appeared to skyrocket in a short period, jumping from $3,500 to an astounding $54,000. This seemingly successful outcome encouraged further investments.

    Throughout several months, 0they diligently deposited thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin ATM, all the while receiving messages from the investment coach indicating their funds were growing significantly. At one point, their account purportedly held over $159,000. However, when they attempted to withdraw the funds, the situation took a dark turn.

    They were informed that a cash carrier would deliver the funds in person, but this delivery never occurred. Suspicion grew, and a visit to the bank revealed even more alarming news. Scammers had gained access to the couple’s bank account, initiating numerous unauthorized transactions to Cash App accounts created in their names.

    The couple had never set up these Cash App accounts and were unaware of the transactions until the bank informed them. They traced the breach back to the information they had provided while setting up their online investment profile, which included sensitive personal and banking details. This data allowed the scammer to open the fraudulent Cash App accounts and siphon away their money.

    Despite reporting the fraud to both their bank and the police, the couple was informed that the stolen $70,000 was unrecoverable.

    They later discovered that the relative whose posts had initially inspired the investment was also a victim. Their social media account had been hacked, and the posts were part of the scammers’ strategy to deceive friends and family.

    This unfortunate experience highlights a crucial lesson: social media is no place to seek or take financial advice. The platforms are rife with misinformation, deceptive schemes, and fraudulent accounts designed to exploit the unwary. Investment opportunities touted through social media should be approached with extreme caution and thoroughly vetted through reputable financial advisors and verified sources. Always remember that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Protecting your financial well-being means staying informed, skeptical, and vigilant against the ever-evolving tactics of scammers.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , medical identity theft,   

    Medical identity theft prevents crucial treatment 

    Medical identity theft prevents crucial treatment

    By Greg Collier

    Imagine receiving a cancer diagnosis, only to discover that your path to treatment is obstructed by an identity theft scam. This was the reality for a patient at a free clinic in Brevard County, Florida. She had canceled her legitimate health insurance because she couldn’t afford the copays, and was depending on the clinic’s partnership with a top-tier cancer hospital to access the necessary care through an indigent care program.

    When the clinic attempted to enroll her in the hospital’s financial assistance program, they discovered that someone had stolen her social security number and taken out a fraudulent insurance policy in her name. This policy was used by the scammer to earn a commission, with the premiums being paid using a tax credit and sent to a fake address. As a result, the hospital’s system showed she already had insurance, disqualifying her from the assistance program she desperately needed.

    The fraudulent policy cost the patient precious time. She went months without any cancer treatment, a critical period when early intervention is paramount. The volunteer-led clinic realized the extent of the problem and sought help from the cancer hospital. However, the fraudulent policy blocked this route.

    Upon uncovering the scam, the clinic’s director filed a fraud report and managed to get the fake policy canceled. They are now working diligently to expedite her access to the cancer treatment she needs. Despite this progress, the delay has already had serious implications for her health.

    Medical identity theft can be difficult to prevent entirely, especially for those who are already vulnerable. However, there are several proactive steps individuals can take to help protect themselves from such scams.

    Request a copy of your medical records annually from your healthcare providers to ensure there are no inaccuracies or unfamiliar services listed. Shred documents containing personal information, such as medical bills, insurance statements, and other records that include your SSN or medical details. If contacted by someone claiming to be from a healthcare provider or insurance company, verify their identity by calling the organization directly using a known phone number. Carefully review any Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements you receive from your insurance provider. Look for unfamiliar services or charges and report any discrepancies immediately.

    By taking these precautions, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims of medical identity theft and be better prepared to address any issues swiftly if they arise.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    TikTok is no place to buy Ozempic 

    By Greg Collier

    In recent years, the weight loss industry has witnessed a dramatic surge in the popularity of prescription medications like Ozempic. Originally developed to manage diabetes, these drugs have gained a reputation for their significant weight loss benefits, leading to skyrocketing demand and consequent shortages. Unfortunately, this booming market has also attracted the attention of scammers, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, where unscrupulous operators are exploiting vulnerable consumers by offering these drugs at lower prices and without the necessary prescriptions.

    Investigations by online safety experts were conducted from February through April, have unveiled a troubling trend. Researchers scrutinized dozens of TikTok profiles that purported to sell weight loss drugs such as Ozempic. The investigation revealed a shocking reality. Nearly every transaction was a scam. These scams often employed misleading testimonials and before-and-after photos to lure unsuspecting buyers. However, all these claims were fabricated, designed to prey on individuals desperate to lose weight.

    Researchers said it was not difficult to find several dozen operators offering Ozempic. In every case that they found, they were scams. Despite assurances of authenticity and acceptance of payments through services like Zelle, PayPal, and Venmo, no products were ever delivered to the buyers.

    It was determined that there are three main risks associated with this scam. Firstly, consumers are defrauded of their money. Secondly, there is a danger of receiving counterfeit drugs, which can be harmful. Lastly, even if the genuine drug is obtained, using it without a doctor’s supervision can be dangerous.

    The allure of rapid weight loss can drive individuals to take risks, but the rise of scams on social media highlights the need for caution. Consumers must remain vigilant, verify the legitimacy of sellers, and consult healthcare professionals before using prescription medications.

    For years, online pharmacies have promised convenience and affordability, enticing countless consumers with the allure of easy access to medications. However, this seemingly modern solution harbors a longstanding, insidious threat. Many of these online pharmacies operate as dangerous scams, preying on unsuspecting individuals by selling counterfeit, expired, or mislabeled drugs. The consequences are dire, ranging from ineffective treatment to severe health complications. As the digital marketplace for pharmaceuticals continues to expand, it’s imperative to recognize the enduring dangers these scams pose and take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from their harmful impact.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Armed IRS scammer meets victim in parking lot 

    Armed IRS scammer meets victim in parking lot

    By Greg Collier

    In recent years, scammers have grown increasingly bold in their efforts to extort money. While many scams continue to be executed online or over the phone, a new and more audacious group of scammers is now showing up at meetings with victims to collect their illicit gains in person. This brazen approach significantly heightens the danger for victims, particularly when firearms are involved.

    This week, a 51-year-old Michigan woman was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. She was allegedly involved in an elaborate scam aimed at intimidating victims into believing they were under investigation for tax fraud.

    The mastermind behind the scam was a man the suspect met online. He initiated the scheme by sending a text message to the victim, purportedly from the IRS, claiming the victim was under investigation for filing a fraudulent tax return. The victim was then threatened with a federal arrest.

    The scammer provided the suspect with fake documents, including an FBI arrest warrant and an IRS receipt. She delivered these documents to a parking lot, where she was tasked with collecting $60,000 from the victim. In return, she was promised $2,500 of the proceeds.

    To make the charade seem more convincing, the suspect carried an authentic police badge issued to someone else in Michigan. Most alarmingly, she was armed with a fully loaded firearm, which she kept in a holster.

    Whenever a firearm is involved in a situation like this, the outcome can be highly unpredictable and potentially violent. The best protection against such scenarios is to recognize the typical signs of a scam.

    In this particular scenario, it’s important to remember that the IRS will never call, text, or email you. If there is an issue with a tax return, the IRS will only communicate through a letter sent by mail. Additionally, they will never send someone to meet you to collect a payment, especially not in a parking lot. Anyone claiming to be from the government and arranging to meet you for money is a scammer.

    It is recommended that anyone who engages with a message like this should contact their local police immediately.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 14, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    FTC issues Social Security impersonation scam warning 

    By Greg Collier

    One of the most sensitive pieces of personal information is a Social Security number. If a malicious individual were to obtain someone’s Social Security number through illegal means, it could lead to financial devastation due to identity theft. While identity theft is a serious crime, it is important to note, as per the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), that no one can commit a crime using your Social Security number alone. This might sound perplexing, so let us clarify.

    The FTC recently issued a warning about impersonation scams. As the name suggests, these scams involve scammers pretending to be a government agency to extort money from their victims. In this case, scammers are impersonating the Social Security Administration (SSA).

    Scammers will call their victims, claiming to be from the SSA, while spoofing the SSA’s phone number on caller ID. They tell the victim that their Social Security number has been used in a crime, such as money laundering or drug trafficking, and that an arrest warrant has been issued for the Social Security cardholder.

    However, the scammers will pretend to want to help the victim. They advise the victims to protect their money from being seized by law enforcement by withdrawing it from the bank and converting it to gold. Then, an “agent” of the SSA will come by to collect the gold for safekeeping.

    In the FTC’s latest warning, they emphasize that this is nothing more than a scam. They clarify that no one can use your Social Security number to commit crimes in your name. They also stress that anyone who instructs you to buy gold, withdraw cash, and give it to someone is a scammer.

    If someone receives a call like this, the FTC advises them to hang up and report it on the FTC’s Report Fraud webpage. They also recommend that if someone is coming to your home to collect money or gold, you should contact your local police department.

     

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