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  Geebo 11:18 am on October 5, 2016 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Netflix ( 15 ), Pasadena, tax ( 3 )   

  Is there a Netflix tax coming soon? 

  

  Since the start of the commercial internet there have been runors and urban legends about certain taxes. There was one that said that the US Postal Service was going to tax every email sent in order to make up for lost revenue. That turned out to be untrue. Then there were rumors that the goverment would be adding taxes to the internet itself, however the government passed the Internet Tax Freedom Act which prevented that. Now there is talk of a tax on Netflix. Is this another urban legend or false alarm? Maybe not.

  With cable prices rising out of control many households are cutting the cord and using online streaming services like Netflix. The more that people start using Netflix rather than cable the more revenue that cable loses. Most cable companies have financial agreements with municipalities to make them the exclusive cable provider of that location. So in turn the more that people Use Netflix that’s money that’s being taken out of the pockets of city governments. At least one city is looking to make up that revenue and Netflix is their target.

  The city of Pasadena, California, is considering taxing Netflix to make up budgetary shortfalls. The proposed tax would only be a dollar but that’s not really the point. This kind of tax requires a public vote which would more than likely defeat the tax. However, the city is saying that the public approved this tax back in 2008 when they voted for a utility tax.

  If Pasadena were allowed to enact this tax it would set a dangerous precedent. Want to watch YouTube instead of TV? That could be a tax. Want to use an antenna to get free broadcast TV? That could be a tax too. Want to use our own site, Geebo? Well that could be a tax to make up revenue that’s being lost from local newspapers.

  The whole cord cutting movement was born out of the fact that consumers have limited choice when it comes to cable providers. If municipalities were to allow multiple cable companies in their area to promote competition then maybe cable priced wouldn’t be so astronomical. Unfortunately cities are very unwilling to give up well established revenue streams without taxing something new that they probably don’t even begin to understand.

   

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  Geebo 9:17 am on November 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: advance fee scam ( 45 ), credit card fraud ( 2 ), fake check ( 48 ), lottery scam ( 13 ), Scams ( 1,367 )   

  Did a Scammer Pay a Victim’s Credit Card Debt? 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In a disheartening tale of deception and financial ruin, a lottery scam with roots in Indianapolis has surfaced, leaving victims across state lines in a wake of financial devastation. This scam, which preys on the hope and trust of unsuspecting individuals, has taken thousands of dollars from victims, including an elderly Florida resident who lost more than $40,000.

  The scam unfolds with a seemingly innocuous phone call or text message, proclaiming an improbable windfall. A lottery win, despite the recipient never purchasing a ticket. The allure of an $8 million jackpot is dangled before the victim, often with the claim that they need to pay taxes or fees upfront to secure their winnings. But behind the promise of fortune lies a sinister intent, to extract personal information or outright steal money.

  The experience of one elderly victim underscores the complex and deceptive nature of these schemes. An Indianapolis man, posing as a representative of a national lottery, convinced the victim that her prize was genuine. He even manipulated her finances in an unprecedented way, paying off her credit card debts with fraudulent checks to gain her trust. It was only after the payments were reversed that the victim realized the extent of the fraud.

  In this particular case, the use of fake checks to pay off victims’ debts is a new twist. The scammers’ ability to provide temporary financial relief gives their operation an air of legitimacy, which can lower the victim’s defenses. This deceptive strategy has not been widely reported before, highlighting the evolving methods used by fraudsters to exploit their victims.

  Adding to the distress, the victim was persuaded to send thousands of dollars in cash via courier services to an Indianapolis address. She believed the funds were covering necessary taxes on her winnings. The culprits, however, used multiple aliases and addresses, making it nearly impossible to track the stolen money.

  The victim’s ordeal has left her with significant debt, a ruined credit score, and an unrelenting quest for justice. Despite reporting the crime to multiple agencies, she remains burdened by the aftermath.

  Authorities urge anyone who receives a suspicious call or message about lottery winnings to verify the claims independently. Legitimate lotteries do not demand payment of fees or taxes upfront, nor do they contact winners without prior participation in a contest. This is commonly known as the advance fee scam.

  While the victim’s financial losses may never be recovered, her story could save others from falling victim to similar schemes. As scams grow more sophisticated, so too must our collective efforts to expose and prevent them.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 22, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: advance fee scam ( 45 ), Ina Kenoyer, inheritance ( 6 ), poison, Scams ( 1,367 ), Steven Riley Jr.   

  Scam Victim Poisoned Over Fake Inheritance 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scams are often associated with financial loss, embarrassment, and frustration, but their impact can sometimes reach far deeper, leading to actions driven by fear, betrayal, and desperation. While most scams don’t end in tragedy, the case of Steven Riley Jr., who was fatally poisoned by his partner after falling for a fake inheritance scheme, highlights the lethal potential of deception.

  In this instance, Riley believed he was about to inherit $30 million from a distant relative, an offer presented to him through an email from someone posing as a lawyer. However, this promise of wealth was nothing more than a carefully crafted advance fee scam. Scammers behind such schemes lure victims with the promise of a large inheritance, but the payout never materializes. As the deception unfolds, the supposed lawyer or intermediary typically demands fees, often labeled as taxes, processing charges, or legal expenses, before releasing the funds. Victims who trust the scammer often make payment after payment, believing the reward is just within reach.

  Riley was poised to meet the so-called lawyer at an airport to finalize the transfer, convinced the inheritance was real. The scammer likely intended to escalate the scheme by demanding further payments once trust was established. Unfortunately, Riley never got the chance to realize he was being conned.

  The fallout from this scam took a disturbing turn when Riley’s girlfriend, Ina Kenoyer, poisoned him, believing he intended to leave her once he secured the inheritance. Their relationship had deteriorated over time, and the promise of sudden wealth acted as a final breaking point. Fueled by a sense of betrayal and entitlement, Kenoyer poisoned Riley with antifreeze, masking it in sweet tea. She delayed his access to medical care, insisting he was suffering from heat stroke, until it was too late. The scam set the stage for a tragic sequence of events that ended with Riley’s death and Kenoyer’s arrest for murder.

  Though this case may seem extreme, it serves as a powerful reminder of how scams can push people toward desperate, even deadly, actions. Scams often play on human emotions such as greed, trust, fear, or hope, drawing victims into webs of deceit. In some cases, the psychological strain can drive individuals to actions they never would have considered under normal circumstances. In Riley’s case, the lure of wealth and the belief that it was slipping away resulted in a tragic betrayal.

  The tragedy of this case is not just in the loss of life, but in the realization that scams can lead to far more than financial ruin. They can fracture relationships, erode trust, and, in rare but devastating cases, drive people to irreversible decisions. Raising awareness about the tactics used in these scams is essential to preventing future harm. Recognizing the red flags, such as unsolicited emails promising sudden wealth, can help individuals avoid falling into the same traps.

  Scams thrive in the shadows of hope, desperation, and greed. This case stands as a stark reminder that falling for them can have consequences far beyond what anyone might expect.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 18, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gift card draining ( 3 ), gift cards ( 101 ), Scams ( 1,367 )   

  State warns of gift card scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Police in New Hampshire are raising the alarm about a sophisticated gift card scam that’s preying on consumers nationwide. This crime is executed with remarkable efficiency, making it difficult for victims to detect until it’s too late.

  The scam begins in retail stores, where suspects remove hundreds of gift cards from shelves. These cards are then mailed to other conspirators, who meticulously open them to access the information inside. Once this information is documented, the cards are sent back to other conspirators who discreetly return them to store shelves, making them appear untouched.

  This sets a trap for unsuspecting shoppers. As soon as funds are added to these gift cards, the scammers, who monitor the cards closely, immediately spend the money. This leaves the consumer with a worthless gift card and an unpleasant surprise.

  During an investigation, police detectives discovered over $100,000 worth of Apple products in a New Hampshire, apartment. These items are believed to have been purchased using information from the stolen gift cards. Gift cared scammers then sell the products, making themselves a substantial profit.

  This scam is not limited to New Hampshire. It is part of a larger, nationwide problem. New Hampshire’s tax-free status makes it an especially attractive target for scammers.

  To protect yourself from gift card scams, always inspect the back of the card for signs of tampering. It’s a good idea to take a handful of cards from the rack and compare their markings. Scammers often place tampered cards at the front, so consider choosing one from the middle of the pack instead. When purchasing gift cards, use a credit card whenever possible, as it offers better protection against loss compared to cash or a debit card. If you find that a card you received has been emptied, try contacting the customer service number on the back of the card. While recovering the money or getting a refund may be difficult, it’s worth seeking assistance from customer service.

   
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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 ( 1,367 )   

  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 12, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: home buying ( 5 ), real estate ( 127 ), Scams ( 1,367 ), zillow ( 15 )   

  $1M home offered for $10K in scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A Kansas City couple recently discovered that their luxurious 5,300-square-foot ranch home had been fraudulently listed for sale on Zillow. The scam became evident when friends began inquiring if they were selling their nearly million-dollar home for a mere $10,200.

  Despite the home’s actual market value being around $1.2 million, the fraudulent listing presented a too-good-to-be-true offer, claiming it was part of a charitable gesture to help first-time buyers. The listing further attempted to restrict access to real estate professionals, lenders, and attorneys, aiming to scam potential buyers directly.

  Unfortunately, this scam is not new. Real estate scammers often list high-value homes for sale online at a fraction of their actual price. They typically claim to own multiple properties and present the low price as a way to assist first-time homebuyers, purportedly for tax benefits. However, these scammers specifically target first-time buyers without representation from a realtor, bank, investor, or attorney. They also request payments through platforms like Venmo or Cash App, adding to the fraudulent nature of the scheme.

  In this instance, in Kansas City, the fraudulent listing invited interested buyers to contact a phone number associated with a Las Vegas area code and requested a $200 advance payment through an online banking app, just to take a tour of the home.

  This led to scam victims knocking on their door, expecting a home tour. The couple’s attempts to resolve the issue included providing proof of ownership to Zillow, yet responses from the site were slow. After the local newspaper became involved, Zillow removed the listing.

  If you’re a first-time homebuyer, remember that a homeowner offering a home at a steep discount for a tax write-off is not a legitimate practice. Anyone making such claims in a real estate listing is likely trying to scam you. Avoid making any payments through platforms like Venmo, Cash App or Zelle, as recovering funds from these platforms is nearly impossible once the payment is made.

  To protect yourself from deceptive property listings, verify information with the county’s tax assessment office. This resource will provide you with the necessary details to identify the legitimate homeowner, ensuring a secure and informed home buying process.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 31, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: contract for deed, home buying ( 5 ), real estate ( 127 ), Scams ( 1,367 )   

  Avoiding risky home-buying practices 

  

  By Greg Collier

  For those navigating the home-buying market, it’s crucial to be aware of potential pitfalls, particularly when considering a ‘contract for deed.’ This method involves an agreement where the home buyer makes payments over time directly to the seller, rather than securing a traditional mortgage. While this can seem like an attractive option, it carries significant risks.

  The primary concern with a ‘contract for deed’ is the reduced level of protection for buyers compared to standard mortgages. This makes it easier for unscrupulous individuals to exploit the situation. Minnesota’s Attorney General has issued a warning, emphasizing the need for caution and understanding when entering into such contracts. It is essential to fully understand the terms of a ‘contract for deed’ and to be aware of your rights and responsibilities before signing.

  Ensure that the seller has paid the home’s property taxes and that the property is not in foreclosure. Unpaid taxes or foreclosure status can lead to serious complications down the line.

  Determine if the contract includes a balloon payment, and if so, understand the amount and due date. This lump sum payment can catch buyers off guard and create financial strain.

  Before entering into a contract, have a clear plan to pay off the entire amount. Additionally, account for annual property taxes and maintenance costs.

  Obtain a professional home appraisal and inspection. This step ensures you are not overpaying and that the property is in good condition.

  Be prepared to handle repair costs, property taxes, and general upkeep once the contract is signed. These expenses can add up quickly and need to be factored into your budget.

  Check the interest rate being charged by the seller and compare it with rates from lenders. Ensuring the rate is competitive can save you money in the long run.

  Record the contract with the county recorder’s office within four months of signing. This step may provide additional protections under the law.

  If you find yourself a victim of a scam, report it immediately. Many individuals feel ashamed when they realize they have been scammed, but remember that con artists are skilled professionals. Reporting these incidents helps protect others and can prevent future scams.

  In summary, while a ‘contract for deed’ might seem like a viable alternative to traditional home financing, it comes with substantial risks. Thoroughly understanding the contract and being cautious about the details can help you avoid potential pitfalls and make informed decisions in your home-buying journey.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: healthcare ( 39 ), identity theft ( 107 ), insurance fraud ( 5 ), medical identity theft, Scams ( 1,367 )   

  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.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: guns ( 14 ), impersonation scam ( 146 ), IRS ( 24 ), Scams ( 1,367 ), tax scam ( 11 )   

  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.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 29, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: advance fee scam ( 45 ), government scams ( 6 ), grants ( 15 ), identity theft ( 107 ), Scams ( 1,367 ), TikTok ( 10 )   

  When old scams become new: TikTok scam promises free money 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A prevalent scam frequently encountered on Facebook is the government grant scam. This usually occurs when scammers gain unauthorized access to someone’s Facebook account. They then exploit this access to send messages to the victim’s friends, claiming they’ve received a significant government grant and anyone can apply. These messages include a link for recipients to purportedly apply for the grant.

  In this scam, the trick lies in scammers posing as government representatives who then request payment from victims under false pretenses, often citing processing fees or taxes. This deceptive practice is commonly referred to as the advance fee scam, where individuals are asked to pay money upfront in order to receive promised funds.

  When a social network emerges with a predominantly young audience, scammers adapt their tactics to better appeal to this demographic. They might tweak the scam’s messaging, incorporating language and content that resonates with younger users.

  According to the Better Business Bureau, scammers on TikTok are luring users with the promise of a $6,400 government grant, targeting individuals earning less than $50,000 annually. Given the economic challenges many young people face today, this offer may seem particularly appealing to a significant portion of the younger population.

  In the TikTok scam, perpetrators use videos featuring individuals who purport to have successfully applied for and received the grant. However, these individuals are often victims of the scam themselves. As part of the deception, scammers may condition the release of the promised payment on the victim creating their own video endorsing the legitimacy of the grant program.

  The BBB also reports the scam on TikTok might not necessarily be seeking payment from victims, but rather aiming to harvest their personal data.

  If a grant or financial assistance program requires payment upfront, question its legitimacy. Legitimate government grants typically do not require payment in advance. Avoid providing personal or financial information to unknown individuals or entities online, especially in response to unsolicited messages or requests. Take the time to research any offers or opportunities thoroughly before taking action. Look for reviews, feedback, or reports from trusted sources to validate the legitimacy of the offer. Lastly, Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true, especially if they promise large sums of money for minimal effort or qualifications.