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  • 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
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    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.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Rideshare driver thwarts grandparent scam 

    Rideshare driver thwarts grandparent scam

    By Greg Collier

    In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the routine of driving for rideshare services. But for a Lyft driver based in North Carolina, one particular ride turned into a harrowing experience that shed light on a pervasive scam targeting older adults, the grandparent scam.

    The driver received a request to pick up a woman, who claimed to be picking up important paperwork from a home in Pamlico County. Little did the driver know, she was about to be unwittingly drawn into a scheme that preys on the vulnerability of older individuals.

    Upon arriving at the passenger’s home, the driver encountered a 79-year-old man who seemed distressed and shaky as he attempted to count out a substantial sum of cash. His story unfolded as the driver listened in disbelief. Earlier that day, the man had received a call from someone claiming to be his grandson, alleging he was in trouble and needed bail money. The caller claimed to have suffered a broken nose, stitches in his lip, and a broken leg from a car crash. Additionally, authorities discovered an open bottle of alcohol in his vehicle.

    Believing the voice on the other end of the line, the grandfather rushed to withdraw $6,500 from his bank, which he entrusted to the driver to deliver to the supposed authorities.

    As the driver embarked on their journey, a series of red flags began to unfurl. The woman’s insistence on tracking her movements, coupled with the urgency of the situation, raised suspicions in the driver’s mind. Sensing something amiss, they made the courageous decision to intervene, reaching out to the man’s actual grandson, who revealed he was safe and sound, far from any jail cell.

    What the driver uncovered was a classic case of the grandparent scam, a nefarious ploy that preys on the love and concern of grandparents for their grandchildren. The perpetrators, armed with personal information gleaned from social media and sophisticated technology, exploit the trusting nature of their victims, leaving devastation in their wake.

    Despite their misgivings, the driver bravely stepped forward, urging the rideshare service to take proactive measures to educate drivers about the signs of potential scams and provide support in navigating such situations.

    This incident further highlights the danger often faced by rideshare drivers at the hands of scammers. Just last month, an 81-year-old man from Ohio tragically shot and killed an innocent Uber driver, mistakenly believing the driver was involved in a grandparent scam. In similar scenarios, other unsuspecting rideshare drivers have been confronted by law enforcement officers who mistakenly assumed the drivers were the perpetrators, especially after they had picked up money from the scam victims.

    The experiences of drivers like the North Carolina driver underscore the urgent need for rideshare services to take proactive measures in recognizing and addressing scams. As vital members of their communities, rideshare drivers often find themselves on the front lines of these schemes, unwittingly entangled in fraudulent activities. By implementing robust training programs, providing real-time support, and fostering open communication channels, rideshare companies can empower their drivers to identify and respond effectively to suspicious situations.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 10, 2024 Permalink | Reply
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    Rental scam targets migrants 

    By Greg Collier

    A Denver homeowner’s journey began innocuously enough, with a knock on her door from a migrant seeking to rent her home. Bewildered, she turned him away, only to encounter similar hopefuls in the days that followed. These migrants, deceived by online listings and duplicitous promises, arrived at her doorstep, wallets lighter and dreams shattered.

    The migrants had been victimized by rental scammers. As awareness of rental scams grows among American consumers, the scammers are shifting their focus to those who may be unfamiliar with such schemes. Regrettably, newcomers to our country are perceived as ideal targets by these scammers.

    Armed with stolen identities and falsified documents, rental scammers lure unsuspecting victims with promises of affordable housing, only to vanish into the digital ether once their pockets are lined with ill-gotten gains. Through WhatsApp messages and social media platforms like Facebook, they cast their net wide, preying on the desperate and the hopeful.

    Despite the frustration and helplessness she feels, the homeowner refuses to be a passive bystander in this fight against exploitation. By filing a complaint with the Denver Police and raising awareness about these fraudulent activities, she epitomizes the spirit of community activism.

    Yet, amidst the darkness, glimmers of hope emerge. Activists’ tireless efforts to educate and empower migrants through outreach initiatives exemplify the resilience of the human spirit. By equipping individuals with the tools to recognize and report scams, she instills a sense of agency in the face of adversity.

    At its core, the fight against rental scams transcends borders and boundaries. It is a testament to our collective humanity, a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility to protect the vulnerable among us.

    If you’re interested in supporting the migrant community in your area, there are numerous ways you can assist them in steering clear of rental scams.

    Please consider sharing information about common rental scams targeting migrants through social media, community forums, and local outreach events. You can also offer guidance and support to migrants who may be navigating the rental market for the first time in the US. Share tips on how to verify the legitimacy of rental listings.

    Many migrants may face language barriers when communicating with landlords or navigating rental agreements. Offer language assistance or connect them with interpreters or bilingual resources to ensure they fully understand their rights and obligations.

    Encourage individuals to report any suspicious rental listings or encounters with potential scammers to local law enforcement agencies, consumer protection authorities, or housing advocacy organizations. Prompt reporting can help prevent further victimization and protect others from falling prey to similar scams.

     

  • 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
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    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.

     

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