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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 146 ), Scams ( 1,368 ), 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 ( 1,368 ), 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 ( 1,368 )   

  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 ( 10 ), impersonation scam ( 146 ), police impersonation scam ( 64 ), Scams ( 1,368 )   

  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 ( 1,368 ), 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 ( 1,368 )   

  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.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 25, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 146 ), military romance scam ( 10 ), romance scam ( 70 ), Scams ( 1,368 )   

  Recognizing romance scams in a military town 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Jacksonville, Florida, has a significant military history and continues to have a strong military presence today. It is home to several major military installations. The area’s military roots can be traced back to World War II, when the need for naval air operation bases led to the development of Naval Air Station Jacksonville. This installation became a central hub for naval aviation training and operations.

  So it should come as no surprise that Jacksonville, like many other military town, is vulnerable to military romance scams. One of the more common tactics romance scammers use is impersonating military service members. They craft believable stories and manipulate emotions to exploit people, often leading to requests for money. If you suspect that someone you’ve met online might be a scammer posing as a military member, here’s how to spot the fakes and protect yourself.

  Scammers frequently use stolen photos of real military personnel. If you’re doubtful about a profile, a reverse image search can be your first line of defense. This allows you to see if the photo appears elsewhere on the internet, perhaps on multiple profiles under different names, which is a red flag.

  Take the individual’s name and add terms like “scam” or “imposter” to your search query. This can reveal if others have reported similar experiences or if the person has been flagged as a scammer. This step can provide you with crucial information that might save you from falling into a trap.

  The most glaring red flag is when they ask for money. Scammers will weave elaborate tales of need, but the story always ends with them asking for your financial help. If your online acquaintance asks for money, such as emergencies, equipment, or even plane tickets, be very skeptical. Remember, genuine connections do not start with a financial transaction.

  If they request money through non-traditional channels like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrencies, it’s almost certain that you’re dealing with a scammer. These methods are preferred by fraudsters due to the difficulty of tracing and retrieving funds once they’re sent.

  Scammers often have reasons why they can’t meet in person or appear on a video call. They might claim to be stationed overseas or in a highly secure area. If you find inconsistencies in their stories or continuous excuses that keep them from meeting you face-to-face, it’s likely a scam.

  Scammers are adept at forming quick emotional connections. Talks of love and marriage can come too quickly when someone has ulterior motives. Be cautious of someone who professes deep feelings without ever having met you, as this is a common tactic used to lower your defenses.

  Always approach online relationships with caution, especially if the person claims to be a military service member stationed overseas. Use the tools and tips above to verify their identity. Protecting your heart and your wallet starts with skepticism and verifying the authenticity of those you meet online. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 24, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Amazon ( 108 ), brushing scam ( 23 ), Scams ( 1,368 ), TEMU ( 3 ), unwanted packages   

  Temu gets in on brushing scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The brushing scam has plagued Amazon users for some time now. The brushing scam is a fraudulent practice where unscrupulous sellers send unsolicited packages to individuals to manipulate product ratings and reviews on e-commerce platforms, mainly Amazon. These sellers use real individuals’ personal information to place orders for their own products. They then ship low-cost items to the addresses of these unsuspecting recipients.

  After the delivery, the seller posts positive reviews under the customer accounts, artificially boosting the product’s ratings and visibility. This scam not only confuses recipients, who receive items they never ordered, but also undermines the integrity of online marketplaces by inflating product ratings and reviews, ultimately deceiving genuine consumers.

  Now, along with third-party sellers from Amazon, it appears as if similar sellers from TEMU are getting in on the act. TEMU is an e-commerce platform that connects buyers and sellers globally, offering a wide range of products including electronics, fashion, home goods, and more. TEMU has faced criticism for issues related to product quality and customer service.

  Users have reported receiving items that do not match descriptions and experiencing delays in shipping, raising concerns about the platform’s reliability and transparency. Additionally, TEMU’s marketplace structure has been scrutinized for potentially prioritizing seller profits over consumer protection, highlighting the need for more stringent oversight and better support systems for both buyers and sellers.

  Recently, a family in Illinois found dozens of boxes from TEMU on their doorstep, containing items like military hats and cameras. These individuals, like many others, had not ordered these items, prompting confusion and concern.

  If you find yourself on the receiving end of an unsolicited package from Amazon, Temu, or any other retailer, the Better Business Bureau recommends the following steps to protect your personal information. Contact the retailer and ask them to investigate any fraudulent purchases associated with your account. If possible, reach out to the retailer and request the removal of any phony reviews written in your name.

  Review your online e-commerce accounts for any recent orders you did not make. Update the passwords for your online accounts to enhance security and enable two-factor authentication. Lastly, keep an eye on your credit reports and credit card statements for any unusual activity.

  By taking these measures, you can protect yourself from the deceptive practices of brushing scams and safeguard your personal information. If you receive an unexpected package, remember that you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you address the issue.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 21, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: elder fraud ( 5 ), elderly ( 12 ), landscaping, Scams ( 1,368 ), seniors ( 9 )   

  Elderly victim threatened in landscaping scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A 79-year-old Navy veteran from the San Diego area recently fell victim to a landscaping scam that cost him $15,000. This unsettling incident serves as a warning to the community about the dangers of door-to-door offers, especially targeting seniors.

  The man was approached last month by a group of landscapers offering to make some improvements for what seemed like a good price. He explained that he felt coerced into paying the scammers after they intimidated him.

  The crew, led by a man who claimed they were working in the neighborhood, offered to mulch the man’s lawn for $10 a bag. Estimating the job would require about 40 bags, he agreed to the service. However, shortly after, three additional trucks arrived, and the crew began unloading a massive amount of mulch. The man was instructed to stay inside to avoid being “in the way.”

  To his shock, just one hour later, he received an invoice for $19,000, allegedly for 1,900 bags of mulch. When he questioned the invoice, the scammers became increasingly aggressive. Fearing for his and his wife’s safety, he negotiated the amount down to $15,000 and was instructed to write two checks to different people for $7,500 each.

  Despite the financial loss, the man is speaking out to prevent others from falling victim. A spokesperson from the District Attorney’s office expressed concern about the scam, noting that it involved local suspects potentially targeting seniors. The spokesperson urged anyone who feels they have been the victim of any elder abuse to report it to local law enforcement.

  By following these steps, you can help protect yourself from landscaping scams and ensure that you receive legitimate and fair services. Avoid making immediate decisions when approached by door-to-door salespeople offering services. Politely decline and take the time to research the company before agreeing to any work.

  If asked to go inside or away from the work area, be cautious and periodically check the progress. If you feel pressured or suspect fraud, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement immediately.

  While it might be tempting to accept offers from door-to-door service providers, it’s crucial to exercise caution and due diligence. Unsolicited services often come with high risks of fraud and exploitation, especially targeting vulnerable individuals. Protect yourself by researching and verifying businesses, and always consult trusted sources before making decisions. Remember, safeguarding your home and finances starts with being informed and suspicious against unsolicited offers.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 20, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bank scam ( 70 ), customer service ( 50 ), duplicate purchase, impersonation scam ( 146 ), Scams ( 1,368 ), tech support scam ( 50 )   

  Victim falls to duplicate purchase scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In a world increasingly dependent on digital communication, tech support scams have become alarmingly sophisticated. This was the unfortunate reality for an Orlando resident, who recently fell victim to such a scam, losing $2500 in the process. Despite the scammers not getting away with any money, the ordeal continues as he struggles to get a refund from the merchant.

  The victim was simply trying to share photos between his phone and computer when he encountered a pop-up warning about a problem with his Microsoft account. The pop-up directed him to an online chat for assistance, where things quickly took a sinister turn.

  He initially believed the support was legitimate. The online chat session led him to a supposed Microsoft specialist who called him and convinced him to allow remote access to his computer. What seemed like a routine tech support call soon escalated into a high-stress scam scenario.

  The scammer, posing as a tech support specialist, claimed that the victim’s computer and phone had been compromised, and there was likely an issue with his bank account. He was then connected with another scammer pretending to be a bank manager, who falsely claimed that $7000 had been stolen from his account through the purchase of gift cards.

  The fake bank manager suggested a dubious solution: to make a duplicate purchase of the gift cards, which would allegedly trigger an account alert and allow him to cancel both transactions. Despite feeling uncomfortable, the victim was desperate to secure his funds. He purchased ten $250 gift cards from a local store, totaling $2500.

  When the scammers asked the victim to read the numbers on the back of the gift cards, he finally realized something was amiss. Fortunately, he hadn’t scratched off the PINs or given the scammers any card numbers.

  However, the situation worsened when he sought a refund from the merchant. The company froze the cards, which he initially thought was part of the refund process. Despite this, he has been unable to get his money back or even use the cards, which remain frozen.

  If you ever receive unexpected contact from someone claiming to be from tech support or a financial institution, the best course of action is to end the call and directly contact the company using verified contact information. It’s also important to note that financial banks will never request a withdrawal of funds in such situations.

  It’s crucial to remember that legitimate banks will never ask you to make duplicate purchases or buy gift cards to resolve issues with your account. Such requests are clear red flags of a scam. Always verify any unusual instructions directly with your bank through official contact methods to protect yourself from fraud.