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  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Virtual kidnapping scammers posing as schools 

    Virtual kidnapping scammers posing as schools

    By Greg Collier

    In a virtual kidnapping scam, fraudsters make deceptive phone calls to victims, claiming they have kidnapped a family member. They often play a recording of a distressed voice, creating panic. The scammer then threatens violence or death unless a quick ransom payment is made to them. Importantly, no actual kidnapping has occurred. It’s all manipulation and coercion.

    In a recent alarming development, a Pennsylvania school district has issued a warning to parents and community members regarding a new version of the virtual kidnapping scam. This time, the scam involves perpetrators posing as school officials and claiming that a child has been abducted from school premises.

    According to the Superintendent, the scam begins with a distressing phone call from a number resembling that of the school district. The caller starts the conversation with what appears to be the voice of the victim’s child, followed by an adult claiming that the child has been kidnapped from the school grounds. Adding to the sense of urgency, the scammer often incorporates background sounds of a child crying to heighten the emotional impact.

    In a recent incident, a cautious parent confronted with this harrowing scenario maintained composure and promptly contacted the school. Fortunately, the school staff swiftly verified the child’s safety, reassuring the distressed parent and coordinating communication between them.

    The key takeaway from this alarming episode is the importance of remaining calm and knowing how to respond if faced with a similar situation. There are crucial steps for individuals to take if they receive such a call.

    Contact your child directly or reach out to the school to confirm their location and safety. Prompt verification is essential to dispel any doubts and ensure swift action if necessary.

    If uncertainty persists or foul play is suspected, do not hesitate to contact emergency services by dialing 911. Time is of the essence in such situations, and swift intervention is vital to ensuring the safety of the child.

    Parents can also take proactive measures to safeguard personal information by reviewing and adjusting privacy settings on social media accounts. Limiting the information accessible to potential scammers reduces the risk of falling victim to such fraudulent schemes.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 8, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    The jury duty scam is more dangerous than it seems 

    The jury duty scam is more dangerous than it seems

    By Greg Collier

    Typically, in a jury duty or arrest warrant scam, fraudsters adopt the guise of law enforcement or judicial authorities to coerce their victims into parting with their money. The common narrative involves the perpetrators informing their targets of an outstanding warrant for their arrest, often fabricated under the pretext of missed jury duty obligations. Typically, these scams unfold over the phone, with the scammers demanding payment through channels that are difficult to trace, such as gift cards or cryptocurrency.

    What sets these scams apart is the absence of direct physical interaction between the victim and the scammer, creating an illusion of safety despite the financial loss incurred. However, scammers are now employing more aggressive intimidation tactics to extract larger sums from their victims.

    In Iowa, three individuals stand accused of orchestrating a fraudulent jury duty scheme that has reportedly victimized numerous residents in The Hawkeye State. In a chilling instance, a victim recounted receiving a call from three men who claimed she was the subject of a federal warrant for failure to appear and contempt of court. Purporting to be deputies from the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, two of the men, along with a third posing as a bail bonds agent, pressured the victim into believing she needed to surrender herself immediately to prove that the courts had not served her.

    Under the guise of urgency, the scammers insisted she pay $5,000 promptly. They further deceived her by asserting that payment could not be made at the bail bonds office due to its location on federal property, a restriction purportedly tied to her warrant status. Succumbing to the pressure, the victim met one of the men behind the bail bonds office and handed over $5,000. She was then directed to the Pottawattamie County Jail to validate her bond payment. However, upon arrival, she realized she had fallen prey to a scam.

    Although the victim emerged physically unscathed from this ordeal, it’s crucial to recognize that situations like these have the potential to escalate into violence with alarming ease. Fortunately, education serves as a potent antidote to such scams, offering individuals the tools they need to protect themselves from falling prey to deceitful tactics.

    First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that legitimate police departments or law enforcement agencies will never contact individuals by phone regarding an outstanding warrant. Protocol dictates that individuals with active arrest warrants will be approached in person by law enforcement officers. Secondly, it’s essential to recognize that law enforcement personnel or agents will never solicit money over the phone. Any such request is a clear indicator of a scam. Lastly, it’s important to debunk the misconception that bail bonds offices are situated on federal property. While they are commonly located in close proximity to courthouses, bail bonds offices typically operate on private property.

    If anyone receives a suspicious call fitting the description of these scams, the best course of action is to terminate the call immediately. Legitimate law enforcement agencies do not arrest individuals for simply hanging up on a phone call. After ending the call, it’s advisable to reach out to your local police department and inform them of the incident. They are equipped to provide guidance and can confirm whether the call was indeed a scam, offering reassurance and potentially taking steps to investigate further.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 7, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , ipad, , ,   

    iPad scam costs victim $58,000 

    iPad scam costs victim $58,000

    By Greg Collier

    Scams have become increasingly sophisticated, preying on the unsuspecting and vulnerable. A recent incident in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, serves as a reminder of the dangers lurking online. A 68-year-old woman found herself ensnared in a scam, where she lost a staggering $58,000 to cunning fraudsters. What began innocuously with a pop-up message on her iPad spiraled into a nightmare orchestrated by individuals masquerading as federal agents.

    The victim received a pop-up message regarding security on her device. Concerned, she dialed the provided number. She unwittingly set off a chain of events that would leave her financially devastated.

    The woman was coerced into believing she was implicated in illicit activities, including money laundering. The fraudulent caller, posing as a federal agent, employed intimidation tactics to manipulate her into compliance. With calculated precision, the scammer instructed her to withdraw substantial sums of money from her bank accounts under the guise of safeguarding her finances. To evade suspicion, she was advised to fabricate plausible explanations for the large withdrawals, such as purchasing a car or furniture.

    The Better Business Bureau of South Dakota, shed light on the way these scammers operate. By employing threats and intimidation, they exploit psychological vulnerabilities, leaving victims feeling defenseless and coerced. The BBB likened the experience to facing a metaphorical gun pointed at one’s head, highlighting the sheer ruthlessness of these criminals.

    Amidst the distressing narrative, there emerged crucial lessons and insights for safeguarding against such schemes. The BBB emphasizes the importance of caution when encountering pop-ups or unsolicited messages online. Rather than succumbing to the allure of quick fixes, individuals should exercise discernment and seek assistance from reputable sources within their community for technical support.

    Furthermore, victims should seek guidance from trusted sources in the event of suspicious phone calls or encounters. Whether reaching out to a friend, contacting law enforcement, or consulting one’s bank, swift action can mitigate potential harm and prevent irreversible financial loss.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 6, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    The hidden crisis of how scammers prey on vulnerable welfare recipients 

    By Greg Collier

    In our interconnected world, where technology and communication thrive, the specter of scams looms ominously. Contrary to the common perception that only the affluent fall prey, the truth is stark. Scammers operate with ruthless efficiency, targeting the most financially vulnerable among us. No one, regardless of their financial status, is immune to these dangers. 

    In December, a 70-year-old California woman found herself in an unthinkable situation at the checkout line of a grocery store. Despite having diligently saved her monthly benefits from the federal food assistance program, she was told she had only $6 in her account. What she discovered next was that someone had gained unauthorized access to her food stamp card, siphoning off over $4,000. Her ordeal is just one example of a pervasive issue affecting countless welfare recipients across the country.

    For individuals like this, who rely on public benefits such as food stamps and cash assistance, the threat of exploitation is relentless. Scammers employ illegal skimming devices to lift payment card data from unsuspecting victims, using the information to create fake payment cards and drain their accounts. These schemes target various card-based payments, including welfare programs that use electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards.

    Unlike credit and debit cards issued by banks, EBT cards lack fraud protection, leaving recipients vulnerable to digital theft. The outdated technology of EBT cards, which lack chip technology, exacerbates this vulnerability. Despite the prevalence of skimming schemes, the transition to more secure payment structures has been slow, hindered by logistical challenges and a lack of federal mandate.

    Victims of skimming often endure days without groceries, resorting to food banks, skipping meals, or borrowing money to survive. The emotional toll is equally devastating, with victims facing anxiety and fear over their financial security. Many are left without recourse for their losses.

    Before swiping your EBT card at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals, inspect the card reader for any signs of tampering or unusual attachments. Look for loose parts, adhesive residue, or anything that seems out of place. If something looks suspicious, use a different machine or report it to the store or relevant authorities.

    When entering your PIN at an ATM or checkout terminal, shield the keypad with your hand or body to prevent anyone from observing or recording your PIN.

    Regularly review your EBT card account statements and transaction history for any unauthorized or suspicious activity. Report any discrepancies or unauthorized transactions to the issuing agency or bank immediately.

    Consider changing your PIN regularly, especially if you suspect your card may have been compromised. Choose a unique and strong PIN that is not easily guessable.

    If your EBT card is lost or stolen, report it to the issuing agency or bank immediately to have the card deactivated and prevent unauthorized use. Prompt reporting can help minimize the risk of fraudulent transactions.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Gold increasingly demanded as payment in scams 

    Gold increasingly demanded as payment in scams

    By Greg Collier

    In a time when digital transactions dominate, gold, the age-old symbol of wealth and stability, seems like a relic of the past. However, recent trends suggest otherwise. Surprisingly, gold is making a comeback, not on the trading floors of Wall Street, but in the shadowy realms of online scams. From fraudulent investment schemes to sophisticated phishing tactics, scammers are increasingly demanding gold as payment.

    An 80-year-old woman from Cherokee County, Georgia, found herself embroiled in a sophisticated fraud scheme that cost her more than $150,000. It all began with a seemingly innocuous call from an individual posing as an Amazon employee, expressing concern about a purported unauthorized purchase.

    Initially, when the victim received the call, she was eventually redirected to an individual claiming to be an employee of the U.S. Treasury Department. This imposter persuaded the woman to procure $1,500 worth of gift cards and disclose their details over the phone. Subsequently, after the gift card funds were transferred, the caller instructed the woman to wire $50,000 to a bank in New York.

    Following the suspect’s directives, the woman was later instructed to purchase 40 ounces of gold from a nearby distributor. She complied, acquiring the gold valued at approximately $100,000, and handed it over to an individual she believed to be a Treasury employee at a local establishment, according to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.

    The extent of the deception became apparent when the victim finally confided in a family member, prompting swift action from authorities. In a meticulously planned sting operation, investigators apprehended a 27-year-old suspect from Ontario, Canada. However, the suspect’s arrest only scratched the surface of a larger criminal network spanning across continents, with ties to India and the United Kingdom.

    With older Americans increasingly becoming targets of financial exploitation, law enforcement agencies stress the importance of skepticism when dealing with unsolicited requests for money or personal information. Remember, legitimate organizations will never request payment in the form of cash, gold, cryptocurrency, or gift cards over the phone. All of these forms of payment are largely untraceable once they leave your possession. If someone you don’t know personally asks for any of these as a type of payment over the phone, it should raise immediate suspicion.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 2, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    The latest romance scam targeting online daters 

    By Greg Collier

    In the digital age, finding love online has become increasingly common. However, with the rise of online dating comes the unfortunate reality of romance scams. The FBI has recently issued a warning about a new and sophisticated scam targeting users of online dating services. This scam not only preys on the hopes of finding love but also aims to deceive and defraud unsuspecting victims.

    The scam begins innocently enough, with scammers creating fake personas on dating apps. These individuals go to great lengths to establish trust with their victims, engaging in conversations and building rapport. Once a connection is established, the scammers then attempt to move the conversation to an encrypted chat platform, purportedly for safety reasons.

    Under the guise of protecting against online predators, the scammers provide a link to a website offering a “free” verification process. This website appears legitimate but employs scare tactics to persuade users to sign up.

    The verification process is nothing more than a ploy to trick victims into signing up for costly monthly subscription fees on a private, low-quality dating site. These fees are often hidden and may appear on users’ credit card statements without their knowledge. Additionally, the personal information entered during the verification process, including email addresses, phone numbers, and credit card details, is harvested by the scammers for further nefarious purposes.

    The FBI warns that these scams can escalate, with scammers using social engineering tactics to manipulate victims into divulging more information or even clearing out their bank accounts. This tactic is known as the pig butchering scam. This type of fraud can have devastating financial and emotional consequences for victims.

    It’s crucial to verify the legitimacy of any websites or services before providing any sensitive information. Look for red flags such as unsolicited links, requests for payment or personal information, and poor grammar or spelling.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 1, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , title theft   

    Title Theft: The shocking crime robbing property owners blind 

    Title Theft: The shocking crime robbing property owners blind

    By Greg Collier

    In the heart of Houston, Texas, a tale of land theft has rattled the very foundations of property ownership. A landowner was recently devastated to learn that her cherished plot of land had been illicitly transferred to another party without her knowledge or consent.

    This story is not an isolated incident but rather a symptom of the growing criminal trend of title theft. This insidious form of fraud sees rightful property owners stripped of their assets, often resulting in substantial financial losses and profound emotional distress.

    Through a web of falsified documents, fake identities, and dishonest transactions spanning continents, these criminals exploit vulnerabilities in the property registration system to perpetrate their crimes. In the victim’s case, the paper trail led all the way to Austria, where a fake notary and fraudulent documents facilitated the transfer of her land to an unknown recipient.

    Efforts to combat title theft have been met with mixed success. Legislative measures aim to bolster protections for property owners by mandating stringent verification procedures for title transfers.

    County clerks play a pivotal role in safeguarding against title theft, with initiatives such as photo ID verification serving as crucial deterrents to fraudulent transactions. Yet, as evidenced by the victim’s ordeal, gaps in the enforcement of such measures persist, highlighting the need for greater collaboration between law enforcement agencies, legal professionals, and regulatory authorities.

    In the face of this ever-evolving threat, property owners are advised to take proactive steps to protect their assets. Utilizing resources such as property transaction alerts, offered by some county clerks, can provide an early warning system against unauthorized activities. Additionally, investing in title insurance and home title monitoring services can offer an added layer of security against potential losses resulting from title theft.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on April 30, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers prey on the elderly with hospice care fraud 

    Scammers prey on the elderly with hospice care fraud

    By Greg Collier

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a stark warning about a disturbing trend in Medicare fraud involving the enrollment of unsuspecting individuals into hospice care, often without their knowledge or consent.

    Reports flooding into the FBI’s Houston office paint a troubling picture of scammers manipulating the healthcare system for their financial gain. The FBI says they have received a significant uptick in complaints.

    What sets this scam apart is its brazen exploitation of individuals nearing the end of their lives. Scammers, masquerading as healthcare providers, are enrolling predominantly elderly victims into hospice care unnecessarily. The repercussions are grave, both financially and medically, as victims find themselves saddled with exorbitant bills for services they neither wanted nor needed.

    The consequences extend beyond financial strain. Victims may experience delays or denials of essential medical care due to being erroneously enrolled in hospice. As the FBI emphasizes, this fraudulent activity can have dire, potentially life-threatening consequences, depriving individuals of timely access to vital healthcare services.

    Unraveling the intricate web of deceit reveals a network of collaborators complicit in this exploitation. Behind the scenes, unscrupulous healthcare providers, often aided by complicit physicians and recruiters posing as legitimate marketers or sales representatives, orchestrate these fraudulent enrollments.

    The FBI offers practical advice to shield yourself or a loved one from falling victim to such scams. If an unfamiliar caller solicits sensitive details, refrain from divulging any information or confirming existing data. Remember, legitimate healthcare providers will not initiate contact in such a manner.

    Telemarketing calls can serve as a gateway for fraudsters. If you receive an unsolicited call regarding healthcare services, exercise caution and promptly disconnect the call.

    By heeding the FBI’s cautionary advice, we can collectively combat Medicare fraud and safeguard the well-being of our communities’ most vulnerable members.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on April 29, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: party, party rental, party supplies,   

    Don’t give party scammers a reason to celebrate 

    Don't give party scammers a reason to celebrate

    By Greg Collier

    While the convenience of online rental services can make party planning a breeze, it’s essential to tread carefully to avoid falling victim to rental scams. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) continues to receive reports of party hosts being tricked by rental companies that fail to deliver on their promises. Let’s delve into how these scams work and explore ways to safeguard yourself against them.

    You’re excitedly planning your event and begin searching for rental supplies online. You come across what appears to be a legitimate website or social media account offering the items you need. The vendor assures you that they can reserve the rentals for your desired date – but there’s a catch. They require you to pay a deposit upfront and may ask for personal details through a contact form.

    The day of the event comes, and there’s no sign of your rented tent, furniture, or other supplies. Panic sets in as you attempt to contact the vendor, only to be met with excuses or, worse, radio silence. You realize you’ve been scammed when your attempts to reclaim your money prove futile. Sadly, this scenario isn’t as uncommon as you might think, judging by the complaints received by the BBB.

    Here are some tips to help you navigate the rental process safely. Before committing to a rental, thoroughly vet the company. Check their website for accurate contact information, and peruse consumer reviews on third-party websites. Search for the business name alongside the terms “scam” or “complaints” to uncover any red flags.

    Listings solely advertised on social media should raise a red flag. Legitimate businesses typically provide multiple avenues for communication, including phone and in-person interactions. If a vendor insists on conducting all transactions via social media, proceed with caution.

    Approach with skepticism if a rental business initiates contact through messaging apps without prior interaction. Legitimate companies may use messaging apps for communication, but unsolicited messages should be treated with caution. Verify the business’s legitimacy and ensure they have a functional website and contact information.

    While rental agreements may require personal details, exercise caution when sharing sensitive information. Verify the legitimacy of the company before divulging personal and financial data to avoid potential identity theft or fraud.

    Before finalizing any rental agreement, thoroughly review the contract terms. Ensure that the delivery date, cost, and payment details are accurate and clearly outlined. Retain a signed and dated copy of the contract for your records.

    Pay close attention to how the rental company requests payment. Beware of requests for payment through cryptocurrency, payment apps, or wire transfers, as these methods offer little recourse in case of fraud. Whenever possible, use a credit card for rental payments, as it provides added protection against fraudulent charges.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on April 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Beware of smishing: The rise of text message toll scams 

    By Greg Collier

    In an era where digital communication is ubiquitous, scams have adapted to exploit every possible avenue, including text messaging. Recent reports from various states across the US indicate a surge in smishing scams, particularly targeting drivers with fake toll payment demands. These scams, a fusion of SMS (short message service) and phishing, aim to deceive recipients into sharing sensitive personal information or making fraudulent payments. Let’s delve deeper into this growing trend and explore ways to safeguard against such deceitful schemes.

    Smishing, short for SMS phishing, leverages text messages to trick individuals into divulging personal information or making payments to fraudulent entities. The recent wave of smishing scams targeting toll road users follows a similar pattern across different states.

    Victims receive text messages purporting to be from toll collection services, such as state tollway authorities or tolling agencies like E-ZPass or SunPass. The messages claim the recipient owes a specific amount for unpaid tolls, often accompanied by threats of additional late fees if not paid promptly. Scammers include links in the messages, supposedly directing recipients to settle their balances. However, these links lead to counterfeit websites designed to harvest personal and financial information. Despite variations in content and targeted states, the core strategy remains consistent, preying on the urgency and fear of incurring penalties to coerce victims into taking immediate action.

    To combat smishing attempts and protect against falling victim to these scams, it’s essential to remain vigilant and adopt proactive strategies.

    Rather than clicking on embedded links, independently verify the authenticity of any outstanding toll charges by accessing official toll service websites or contacting customer service directly. Avoid engaging with suspicious texts or providing personal information.

    Be wary of unsolicited text messages, especially those urging urgent actions or containing grammatical errors and inconsistencies. Trust your instincts and err on the side of caution when encountering unexpected requests for payment or personal details.

    Report smishing attempts to relevant authorities, such as the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker. By reporting such incidents, you safeguard yourself and contribute to efforts to combat cybercrime and protect others from falling prey to similar scams.

    The proliferation of smishing scams targeting toll road users underscores the importance of exercising caution and skepticism in today’s digital landscape. By verifying the legitimacy of messages, and promptly reporting suspicious activity, individuals can fortify their defenses against fraudulent schemes.

     

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