Greg's Corner

Updates from March, 2025 Toggle Comment Threads | Keyboard Shortcuts

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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Amazon ( 110 ), government scams ( 7 ), money laundering ( 12 ), police impersonation scam ( 74 ), Scams ( 1,454 )   

  Posing as Feds: A $125K Amazon Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In early March, a 71-year-old resident of Sequim, Washington, fell prey to a calculated and manipulative scheme, losing $125,000 to individuals posing as federal agents. What began as a simple phone call spiraled into a series of orchestrated encounters, ultimately leading to a substantial financial loss.

  The deception started when the victim was contacted by someone claiming to represent Amazon’s fraud department. The caller alleged that her account had been compromised and, in a carefully crafted escalation, connected her with another individual who introduced himself as a federal investigator. The so-called agent presented an alarming scenario. The victim was accused of being entangled in a money laundering operation and needed to prove her innocence by transferring money to the government.

  Under the weight of fear and urgency, the woman was directed to withdraw large sums of cash and place them into a lockbox. Over three separate meetings at a local business, she handed over the money to an individual she believed to be a government agent. Each time, she was given a single dollar bill as supposed confirmation of the exchange. It wasn’t until her bank manager noticed the unusual withdrawals that the scam unraveled. Law enforcement was alerted, and detectives launched an investigation.

  On March 12, authorities set up a sting operation. With the victim’s cooperation, another delivery of $40,000 was planned. This time, when the money was set to change hands, law enforcement intervened. A 35-year-old woman from Tacoma, identified as the driver involved in the scheme, was arrested. Through an interpreter, she was questioned and later booked on charges of extortion and attempted theft. The case remains open as investigators work to identify additional suspects.

  To avoid falling victim to such scams, caution is crucial. Government agencies and legitimate organizations will never demand cash payments, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency to resolve alleged legal issues. If someone claims to be an official investigator and pressures you to send money, it’s a red flag. Independently verifying claims by contacting the agency directly, rather than through provided phone numbers, can prevent costly mistakes. When in doubt, consulting a trusted financial institution or law enforcement agency before taking action can make all the difference.

  Local authorities continue to warn residents about these deceptive practices, urging anyone who suspects fraudulent activity to seek immediate guidance. In an era where technology makes scams more convincing than ever, awareness and skepticism remain the best defenses against financial exploitation.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 14, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: FBI ( 25 ), impersonation scam ( 165 ), Scams ( 1,454 ), smishing ( 13 ), tolls ( 7 )   

  FBI Warns: Toll Text Scam Sweeping the U.S. 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The latest wave of scams preying on unsuspecting Americans has taken the form of fraudulent road toll collection texts, prompting the FBI to issue a public warning. These deceptive messages claim that recipients have outstanding toll balances, threatening fines or even suspension of driving privileges if they fail to make immediate payment. But rather than being legitimate notices from state toll authorities, these texts are part of a growing cybercrime operation designed to steal personal and financial information.

  This type of scam falls under ‘smishing’, a variant of phishing that relies on SMS messages rather than emails. The scammers’ approach is alarmingly effective. Messages appear authentic, often using official-sounding language and formatting that mirrors legitimate toll collection agencies. The scam is spreading rapidly, shifting from state to state with nearly identical wording in each new location.

  Authorities are urging recipients not to engage with these messages. The FBI recommends reporting them through its Internet Crime Complaint Center and then deleting them without responding. Unfortunately, the fraudsters behind this scheme have refined their methods to circumvent certain smartphone security features. For example, while Apple restricts clickable links in texts from unknown senders, these scammers prompt users to reply with ‘Y’ to re-establish communication, bypassing this safeguard.

  A cybersecurity analysis revealed that bad actors have registered over 10,000 domains to facilitate these scams, targeting toll services and package delivery systems across multiple states and even into Canada. The scale of this operation suggests a level of coordination that goes beyond the typical small-scale scam.

  Historically, the most frequently reported phone scam involved fraudulent jury duty claims, where scammers would impersonate court officials and demand immediate payment under the threat of arrest. However, at least anecdotally, the toll text scam appears to have surpassed it in prevalence. With so many Americans accustomed to electronic toll payments, these fraudulent messages often seem credible at first glance, increasing the likelihood of engagement.

  The unfortunate reason this scam is becoming so common is simple, it’s working. Scammers wouldn’t keep running these schemes if they weren’t succeeding in tricking victims into handing over their personal and financial information. Every person who falls for the scam encourages criminals to expand their operations, making it even more widespread.

  The best defense remains skepticism. State agencies do not request payments through unsolicited text messages, and any demand for financial information via text should be treated with extreme caution. As the scam continues to evolve, staying informed is key to avoiding falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 13, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: deed transfer ( 14 ), foreclosure ( 3 ), foreclosure assistance, property rights, real estate ( 132 ), Scams ( 1,454 )   

  Arizona’s Fight Against Foreclosure Fraud 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Arizona is taking a strong stance against an alleged real estate fraud scheme that has impacted homeowners facing foreclosure. A newly filed lawsuit in Maricopa County accuses multiple individuals and companies of orchestrating a deceptive operation that took advantage of those in financial distress.

  The legal complaint details how the accused parties approached struggling homeowners under misleading pretenses, posing as representatives from a charitable organization. Once trust was established, homeowners were pressured into signing documents that transferred legal interests or ownership of their properties to the defendants. These agreements, described as fundamentally unjust, allegedly contained illegal clauses that stripped homeowners of their right to cancel the transaction.

  Authorities argue that this practice persisted for nearly a decade, affecting hundreds of Arizona residents. The lawsuit also implicates title companies and law firms that allegedly played a role in enabling the scheme. According to the complaint, these entities knowingly participated, motivated by the significant profits generated through these fraudulent transactions.

  The legal action seeks to impose a permanent ban on the defendants, preventing them from engaging in any real estate dealings within the state. This case underscores the commitment to holding accountable those who exploit vulnerable homeowners, reinforcing efforts to protect families from financial deception and fraud.

  For homeowners facing foreclosure or financial hardship, awareness is key to avoiding similar scams. If an unfamiliar company or individual approaches offering foreclosure assistance, it is crucial to verify their legitimacy. Government agencies, certified housing counselors, or reputable legal aid organizations are the best sources for foreclosure relief programs.

  Homeowners should be especially cautious of any deal that requires signing over property rights, even temporarily. Before signing any document related to homeownership, it is wise to consult a trusted real estate attorney or financial advisor. If a contract includes language restricting cancellation rights, that is a major red flag.

  Scammers often rely on urgency and pressure tactics. If someone insists that immediate action is required, homeowners should take a step back and seek independent advice. No legitimate foreclosure assistance program will require secretive or rushed decision-making.

  If fraud is suspected, homeowners should report concerns to state authorities, such as the attorney general’s office. Acting quickly can help prevent further harm and hold deceptive operators accountable.

  With the right precautions, homeowners can better protect themselves from schemes designed to take advantage of financial hardship, ensuring that their hard-earned equity remains secure.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 12, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bait and switch ( 2 ), missing person ( 9 ), Police ( 10 ), Scams ( 1,454 ), social media ( 85 )   

  Missing Police Officer Scam Goes Viral 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Social media has become a powerful tool for spreading information, but it has also become a breeding ground for deception. In Jacksonville, North Carolina, police recently confirmed that a viral Facebook post about a missing officer was nothing more than a scam. The post falsely claimed that a female officer disappeared and was in need of medical assistance. However, authorities quickly debunked the claim, stating that no such officer exists in their department. The name in question closely resembles that of a real officer from another state, who is completely fine.

  What makes this scam particularly troubling is its widespread reach. Similar posts have surfaced across the country, appearing as far as California and Georgia. They all follow the same pattern: an alarming story designed to stir emotions and prompt immediate action. People see the post, feel compelled to share it, and unknowingly help scammers spread their deception even further.

  This particular hoax is part of a larger trend of scams that manipulate public concern by fabricating urgent, distressing stories. In the past, similar tactics have been used with fake reports of missing children, lost pets, and even claims of dangerous criminals lurking in neighborhoods. The goal is always the same, to generate widespread attention and engagement. Once a post goes viral, scammers will often edit it to include fraudulent links, requests for money, or even malware designed to steal personal information.

  Authorities and consumer protection agencies warn social media users to be cautious before sharing such posts. Hallmarks of these scams include comments being disabled, vague details that don’t align with official reports, and the absence of verification from reputable news sources or law enforcement. A quick reverse image search or a visit to the official pages of police departments and news outlets can often expose the falsehood before it gains traction.

  As scammers continue to evolve their tactics, public vigilance remains the best defense. While it’s natural to want to help in an emergency, taking a moment to verify information before sharing can prevent further spread of misinformation and protect individuals from falling victim to fraud. The digital age has made it easier than ever to stay informed, but it has also made it essential to question what we see before passing it along.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 11, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: File Converters, identity theft ( 110 ), malware ( 28 ), Scams ( 1,454 )   

  The Hidden Risks of Online File Converters 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Converting a document into a different format seems like a simple task, until it isn’t. Many online services promise to do the job quickly and for free, making them an easy choice for those in a hurry. But the FBI is warning that these shortcuts could come with a heavy price.

  Cybercriminals have found a new way to exploit these online tools, embedding malware into downloaded files. While the converter may appear to function as expected, delivering the desired file type, it can also serve as a gateway for hackers to steal personal information. Once installed, malware can grant unauthorized access to sensitive details such as email credentials, banking information, and even social security numbers. Some cases have even led to full-scale ransomware attacks.

  Authorities say this type of scam is on the rise, appearing in cities across the country. Reports from Colorado indicate that cybercriminals are actively using file conversion services to compromise both personal and business networks. The first warning signs of an attack often come from antivirus software flagging an issue, IT departments detecting malware, or users noticing unusual changes to their online accounts.

  What makes these scams particularly dangerous is their international reach. Many perpetrators operate from abroad, making it difficult to track them down and prosecute. This means prevention is the best defense. Experts advise keeping antivirus software updated and scanning any file downloaded from the internet before opening it. Most importantly, taking a moment to verify the safety of an online tool before using it can make all the difference.

  For those who suspect they’ve fallen victim to this scam, immediate action is crucial. Changing passwords from a secure device, contacting banks to monitor account activity, and reporting the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center are key steps to mitigating the damage.

  While online file converters can be tempting, the risks they pose should not be underestimated. A few extra moments of caution can help users avoid becoming the next target of cybercrime.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 10, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gift cards ( 103 ), New Hampshire ( 3 ), recovery scam ( 7 ), Scams ( 1,454 )   

  Rare Chance to Recover Gift Card Scam Losses 

  

  By Greg Collier

  For those who have fallen victim to gift card fraud in the past year and a half, there may be a rare opportunity to recover lost funds. Federal authorities have launched a restitution program targeting a global fraud operation that funneled millions of dollars through New Hampshire.

  This initiative, led by federal investigators and prosecutors, is an effort to return money to victims who unknowingly purchased fraudulent gift cards or were coerced into sending them as part of scams. While scams of this nature are unfortunately common, restitution opportunities are not. It is important to recognize this as an exception rather than the rule. In most cases, once money is lost to fraud, it is nearly impossible to retrieve.

  Authorities uncovered a sophisticated scheme in which fraudulently obtained gift cards were used to purchase high-end electronics, primarily Apple products, which were then resold overseas. Investigators linked the operation to a warehouse in Salem, New Hampshire, where millions of dollars in goods were seized. Those involved in the fraud have pleaded guilty and await sentencing, but law enforcement is now turning its attention to the victims, seeking to provide some measure of financial relief.

  Victims who had funds stolen through this scam between October 1, 2023, and January 11, 2024, may be eligible to submit claims for restitution. Specifically, those who purchased gift cards from major retailers such as Apple, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy should provide their gift card numbers and proof of purchase to federal investigators before the June 30 deadline.

  It is essential to remain cautious when dealing with scams and potential recovery offers. Outside of official government channels like this one, anyone claiming they can recover lost money is likely running a scam themselves. Fraudsters frequently target those who have already been scammed, preying on their desperation to recover funds. Legitimate restitution efforts are rare and always handled by law enforcement, not private individuals or companies offering to ‘get your money back’ for a fee.

  As fraud schemes become more sophisticated, public awareness remains one of the strongest defenses. Anyone affected by this scam is encouraged to share their experience, helping others recognize red flags before falling victim. Staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activity can make a difference in preventing further financial losses within the community.

  For those who believe they may qualify for restitution, contact Homeland Security Investigations via HSINewEnglandVictimAssistance@ice.dhs.gov with the required documentation before June 30.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on March 7, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: DOGE ( 2 ), impersonation scam ( 165 ), Scams ( 1,454 ), smishing ( 13 ), text scam ( 27 )   

  New $5K Scam Uses DOGE & Gov’t Promise 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A new scam is making the rounds via text message, luring victims with the promise of a $5,000 federal subsidy. Authorities in Crawford County, Kansas, are warning residents to stay vigilant as scammers attempt to trick recipients into handing over personal information under the guise of government assistance.

  The fraudulent message claims that recent budget cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency have freed up money for distribution. It instructs recipients to reply with a confirmation, reopen the message, and click a provided link. This is an attempt to bypass security settings and increase engagement. The scammers promise that after submitting personal details, a check will be deposited directly into the recipient’s bank account or mailed within days.

  Officials have confirmed that this is a scam. Legitimate government agencies do not distribute funds in this manner, nor do they request sensitive information via unsolicited text messages. Anyone receiving such a message should delete it immediately and block the sender if possible. If there’s any uncertainty about a suspicious message, local law enforcement agencies can provide guidance, and reports can also be filed through official fraud reporting channels.

  This scam is just one example of how fraudsters exploit official-sounding names to appear legitimate. By invoking the ‘Department of Government Efficiency’, scammers create a sense of credibility, making their scheme more convincing. Similar tactics have been used in the past, and it’s likely that more scams will emerge using fabricated agencies or misleading government affiliations. Staying cautious of unsolicited financial offers, especially those that pressure quick action or request personal information, is essential in avoiding these ever-evolving threats.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on March 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: classic cars, money transfer ( 8 ), Scams ( 1,454 ), used car ( 38 )   

  Dream Car Scam: A Costly Online Trap 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The excitement of finally finding a dream car can quickly turn into heartbreak when scammers are involved. A man from Virginia learned this lesson the hard way after losing thousands of dollars in what he believed was a legitimate online purchase from a Cleveland, Ohio, area car dealer.

  For years, he had saved up for a classic car, a lifelong goal inspired by his father’s passion for collecting them. When he found a listing for the perfect vehicle, one that even matched the model of his father’s first car, he thought fate had finally brought him to the right deal. The price was significantly lower than expected, making it feel like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

  The seller, who claimed to be a reputable broker, provided everything needed to make the deal seem authentic, contracts through an electronic signing service, a bill of sale, company documents, and a series of detailed photographs. Feeling secure, the buyer took out a loan and transferred the money, expecting his dream car to arrive shortly after.

  But the car never showed up. The seller became unreachable, and the website that had hosted the listing vanished. The realization set in, he had been scammed. The financial hit was devastating, forcing him to cash out his retirement savings just to recover from the loss.

  This case is far from unique. Experts in the auto industry warn that online car scams are becoming more sophisticated. Fraudulent sellers go to great lengths to create the illusion of legitimacy, making it crucial for buyers to remain vigilant.

  Those familiar with the industry advise that one of the most important steps a buyer can take is to directly communicate with or meet the seller whenever possible. Researching a seller’s history, reading reviews, and searching for any signs of suspicious activity can prevent a financial disaster. It’s also wise to approach any unusually low price with skepticism, questioning why a vehicle is being sold for much less than market value.

  Visual clues in photos can sometimes reveal red flags. If a listing claims to be from one region, but the background in the pictures doesn’t match that location, it’s worth investigating further. Another important step is verifying vehicle documents before any money changes hands. Requesting the VIN and checking a car’s history through services like CARFAX can help confirm whether a listing is legitimate. While running such reports may come with a small fee, it’s a minor expense compared to what scammers can steal.

  For those navigating the world of online car buying, caution is key. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. The best defense against falling victim to fraud is thorough research, skepticism, and taking extra steps to verify a seller’s credibility. While this Virginia buyer’s dream car never arrived, he hopes that sharing his experience will prevent others from making the same costly mistake.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on March 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Canada ( 3 ), grandparent scam ( 72 ), Scams ( 1,454 ), Vermont ( 2 )   

  Grandparent Scam Busted: $21M Fraud Exposed 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A recent federal indictment has brought attention to a sophisticated and deeply troubling scam targeting older Americans. Authorities in Vermont have charged 25 individuals in connection with a nationwide ‘grandparent scam’, which defrauded seniors of more than $21 million. This scheme, orchestrated from call centers in Canada, manipulated victims into believing their loved ones were in urgent legal trouble, prompting them to send large sums of money.

  The grandparent scam preys on emotions, using fear and urgency to override rational thinking. Callers often pose as a grandchild or another close relative, claiming to be in distress, frequently citing an arrest or legal issue requiring immediate bail money. The scam is effective because it exploits a grandparent’s instinct to help their family without hesitation. Criminals use personal details obtained from social media or other sources to make their deception more convincing. Once a victim agrees to send money, the funds are often funneled through complex laundering operations, sometimes involving cryptocurrency, making recovery nearly impossible.

  In this particular case, a federal grand jury in Vermont unsealed an indictment charging the suspects with fraud and money laundering. The charges stem from an operation running between 2021 and mid-2024, during which call centers in and around Montreal targeted seniors across the United States. Law enforcement agencies in both countries collaborated to dismantle the network, with Canadian authorities raiding multiple locations where some of the accused were caught in the act of making fraudulent calls. The case highlights the scale of the problem, with victims spanning Vermont and over 40 other states.

  Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of public awareness as a defense against such scams. Older adults and their families can take proactive steps to prevent falling victim. One of the most effective strategies is verifying any distress call before taking action. If someone claiming to be a relative calls asking for money, the best response is to hang up and contact the supposed family member directly. Scammers rely on panic and urgency, so taking a moment to confirm the facts can prevent financial loss. Additionally, setting up family code words can help authenticate real emergencies.

  Government agencies and consumer protection organizations urge the public to remain skeptical of unsolicited calls requesting money. It is essential to educate seniors about these tactics and encourage them to consult a trusted friend or family member before responding to urgent financial requests. Law enforcement continues to investigate and prosecute those behind these frauds, but the best protection remains awareness and vigilance.

  The Vermont indictment serves as a reminder of both the persistence of fraudsters and the power of international cooperation in bringing them to justice. While some of those charged face significant prison sentences, the real victory will come when potential victims recognize these scams before any money is lost.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on March 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gold ( 2 ), gold coins, impersonation scam ( 165 ), Scams ( 1,454 ), social security ( 30 )   

  Gold Coin Scams: A Growing U.S. Threat 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, financial scams have evolved into increasingly sophisticated operations, targeting vulnerable individuals with elaborate deception. One alarming trend that has surfaced across the United States is scams that demand gold, where victims are tricked into purchasing and handing over gold under the guise of government intervention. Law enforcement agencies have reported an increasing number of cases where individuals, particularly seniors, are manipulated through fear and coercion into parting with their life savings.

  One such case recently unfolded in Clark County, Washington, where a woman in her 70s fell victim to a highly orchestrated scam. The fraudsters initiated contact by posing as government officials, claiming that fraudulent activity had been detected involving her Social Security number. Over time, they convinced her that in order to protect her financial assets, she needed to transfer them through an official process. Adding another layer of credibility, the scammers even staged a phone call from an individual impersonating a local police officer to validate the fraudulent claims.

  The scheme ultimately led the victim to withdraw the majority of her liquid assets, convert them into gold coins, and hand them over to a supposed undercover agent. The false promise that her assets would later be reissued to her ensured that she continued following their instructions without suspicion. By the time she realized what had happened, the perpetrators had vanished without a trace. In total, the victim lost $500,000 to the scammers.

  Gold has become an increasingly attractive target for scammers because, unlike digital transactions, it is nearly impossible to trace once it leaves the victim’s possession. Once gold is physically handed over, it can be melted down, resold, or transported without the same level of oversight as traditional banking methods. This makes it particularly appealing to criminals who want to avoid the risk of detection through electronic transactions or wire transfers.

  This method of deception is not isolated to one region. Other cases across the country have demonstrated similar patterns, where scammers exploit online vulnerabilities or impersonate trusted institutions to gain access to financial assets. Victims are often instructed to keep their interactions private, warned that speaking to others could compromise the security of the supposed investigation. This tactic effectively isolates them, preventing intervention from family members or financial advisors who might otherwise recognize the scam.

  Authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance when receiving unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming to be from government agencies. No legitimate government office will ever request payments in gold, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. If such a request is made, it is a clear indicator of fraud. Verifying claims through direct contact with the agency in question, by independently looking up their phone number rather than using a provided contact, is a crucial step in preventing financial loss.

  As financial fraud continues to evolve, spreading awareness remains one of the most effective defenses against these types of scams. Checking in with elderly family members and ensuring they are aware of these tactics can make a significant difference in preventing future cases. Law enforcement agencies remain committed to investigating these crimes, but prevention is key in stopping scammers before they succeed.