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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 10, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cheating spouse scam, extortion ( 16 ), Scams ( 1,386 ), sextortion ( 3 )   

  The Cheating Spouse Scam Has Returned 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Following recent reports of a nationwide sextortion scam, a new variation of the scheme is now emerging. This time, the scammers are targeting married couples, falsely accusing one spouse of infidelity. These threatening messages claim that the recipient’s spouse has been hacked and that sensitive data, including personal files, social media activity, and even dating app histories, has been stolen from their devices. The email suggests that this information proves the spouse is cheating and offers the recipient full access to it via a website link.

  What makes these emails particularly concerning is their use of personal names that aren’t commonly associated with individuals online. In several cases, recipients reported seeing maiden names, second last names, or even pet names in the messages—details they had not shared widely. Despite the humor, the source of the data remains a mystery. The exact origins of the information are unclear, but it appears likely that scammers have been mining personal details from publicly available sources or past data leaks.

  Those who tried to investigate the links in the emails reported suspicious activity. Some were prompted to log in, raising concerns about phishing attempts, while others suspected the links were designed to distribute malware. Regardless of the intent, it is essential to recognize these emails as scams.

  Sextortion schemes have become increasingly common over the past few years, and most people now recognize these threats for what they are. Even so, they can still cause distress to recipients, particularly when personal details are involved.

  If you receive an email like this, remember that it is a scam designed to exploit your emotions. The information presented is false, and you should not click on any links or respond. Simply delete the email and, if concerned, monitor your accounts for any unusual activity.

  Protect your data, and always be cautious when unsolicited emails claim to have sensitive information.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 7, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Cheating ( 3 ), cheating spouse scam, infidelity letter scam, mail fraud ( 22 ), Scams ( 1,386 )   

  Scam letter accuses victim of infidelity 

  

  By Greg Collier

  We try to keep our stories as family-friendly as possible. So, please excuse us if we verbally dance around certain topics. However, today’s scam was just too good of a story to pass up. It’s an old scam that predates the internet, and we’re pretty sure it was featured on multiple detective shows from the 1970s and before.

  It’s called the ‘infidelity letter scam’ or the ‘cheating spouse scam’. It typically involves sending a letter to a spouse, alleging that their partner is engaging in an extramarital affair. The scammer aims to create doubt, suspicion, and conflict within the relationship, often with the intention of extorting money or causing emotional distress.

  The letter may contain false evidence, fabricated details, or anonymous claims about the alleged infidelity. The scammer might demand a payment to keep the information confidential or threaten to expose the affair publicly if the recipient does not comply.

  This recently happened in a Houston, Texas neighborhood, where 10 residents have come forward saying they received these letters. In this instance, the letter was supposedly written by a woman named Gina. The letter also included a picture of Gina’s license and Social Security card as proof of authenticity. Unfortunately, whoever’s card they used is also a victim, as that person has a documented claim of identity theft.

  The letter goes on to ask for ‘a reasonable offer’ for the letter writer’s confidentiality. The money is supposed to go to the medical bills for the child the supposed cheating spouse had with the letter writer.

  Of course, the accusations aren’t true, but thanks to social media, it’s not difficult for scammers to find victims and write them by name.

  It’s important to be cautious if you receive such a letter. Seek evidence or clarification before making any decisions. If you suspect a scam, report it to the relevant authorities, such as local law enforcement, to help prevent others from falling victim to the scam.