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  Geebo 9:00 am on February 21, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: blackmail ( 4 ), email ( 7 ), extortion, Scams ( 1,429 ), sextortion ( 4 )   

  Urgent Warning: Nationwide Extortion Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Across the country, a pervasive online extortion scam is finding its way into email inboxes, preying on fear and uncertainty. Authorities in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, are warning residents to be vigilant as this scam continues to spread. While the messages may appear convincing and even alarming, they are nothing more than fraudulent attempts to manipulate victims into paying money to cybercriminals.

  The scam typically involves an email claiming that the recipient has been caught visiting adult content websites. The sender alleges they have used the recipient’s own webcam to capture compromising images and threatens to release them unless a ransom is paid. To increase the sense of urgency, the email often includes personal details such as a phone number or home address, making it appear more credible. However, officials stress that these emails are entirely fraudulent and should not be engaged with under any circumstances.

  These types of extortion scams have been reported nationwide, with the FBI’s most recent crime report documenting more than 48,000 cases last year alone. Fraudsters use various tactics, from fake threats of exposing personal information to romance scams designed to manipulate individuals into sending money. Many of these scams rely on personal data that has been leaked or sold on the dark web, making it easier for criminals to craft convincing messages.

  Authorities urge recipients to recognize the warning signs of such scams. Fraudulent emails typically lack specific details about the alleged wrongdoing, fail to provide evidence, and demand urgent payment, often in untraceable forms such as Bitcoin, gift cards, or wire transfers. Additionally, the messages frequently contain grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and unrealistic ultimatums.

  To protect against these scams, cybersecurity experts recommend never responding to suspicious emails. Instead, mark them as spam or junk, delete them immediately, and report them to the appropriate authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. Security precautions such as enabling two-factor authentication, using strong passwords, and installing security software can also help safeguard personal information. Covering a computer’s webcam when not in use can provide an extra layer of privacy and peace of mind.

  Scammers rely on fear and intimidation to pressure victims into complying with their demands. By staying informed, individuals can avoid falling prey to these fraudulent schemes. If an email claims to have compromising information, remain calm, do not engage, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. With continued awareness and proactive cybersecurity measures, these scams can be rendered ineffective, preventing more individuals from becoming victims of online extortion.

   

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  Geebo 9:00 am on December 20, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: elder fraud ( 6 ), extortion, Police ( 9 ), Scams ( 1,429 ), tech support scam ( 51 )   

  Unraveling a $1M Scam with No Justice 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A deeply troubling case has emerged, showcasing the devastating impacts of financial scams on vulnerable individuals. In Smithfield, North Carolina, private investigators tracked down suspects believed to have defrauded a 98-year-old military veteran of nearly $1 million. Despite uncovering significant evidence, law enforcement agencies have not pressed charges, raising questions about the challenges of prosecuting such crimes.

  The incident began innocuously in late 2023 when the elderly woman encountered a fake computer virus alert. A phone number displayed on her screen led her to scammers posing as helpful technicians. Under the guise of resolving a non-existent problem, they gained remote access to her computer, learning extensive details about her life, including her military background and academic achievements. Armed with this information, they wove a manipulative narrative, falsely accusing her of possessing illegal material and pressuring her to pay them to avoid prosecution.

  The woman was coerced into withdrawing funds and sending cashiers checks totaling over $800,000. The scheme’s sophistication and psychological manipulation reflect the expertise of the perpetrators. By the time her family intervened, the scammers had drained nearly all her savings and were urging her to sell her home to provide more money.

  Private investigators were able to trace some of the checks to physical addresses in North Carolina, tied to businesses and individuals allegedly involved in the operation. Surveillance revealed significant home renovations and luxury upgrades at these addresses, raising suspicions about the origins of the funds. Yet, despite clear leads and documented evidence, no arrests have been made.

  This situation underscores the difficulties inherent in prosecuting financial scams. While the investigators consider this case relatively straightforward, scams of this nature often involve transnational networks. Criminal organizations based overseas rely on U.S.-based collaborators to launder stolen funds, creating layers of separation that complicate legal accountability. Even when specific individuals or entities are identified, building a prosecutable case demands clear evidence of intent and direct involvement in the overarching scam. Local participants may claim ignorance or present plausible deniability, asserting that they were unaware of the criminal origins of the funds.

  Jurisdictional challenges further hinder the pursuit of justice. State, local, and federal agencies often struggle to coordinate effectively in addressing crimes spanning multiple locations. Additionally, limited resources and the complexity of financial crime investigations can discourage authorities from pursuing cases perceived as arduous or unlikely to yield successful prosecutions.

  For victims, the road to restitution is often bleak. Once funds are transferred into the intricate channels of a scam network, recovering them becomes nearly impossible. The emotional and financial toll on victims is immense, as evidenced by the profound impact this ordeal has had on the elderly veteran’s health and well-being.

  The broader lesson from this tragedy is the urgent need for greater public awareness, enhanced legal frameworks, and improved collaboration among law enforcement agencies to combat such crimes. Scammers are highly skilled at exploiting trust and vulnerability, proving that no one is immune from their tactics. While prevention is key, ensuring that perpetrators face consequences is essential to deterring future crimes and delivering justice to victims. Without systemic changes, similar stories will continue to unfold, leaving countless others to bear the devastating costs of financial fraud.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on December 4, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: dating apps ( 2 ), extortion, online dating ( 8 ), police impersonation scam ( 71 ), Scams ( 1,429 )   

  Holiday Scammers Target Dating App Users 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As the holiday season approaches, many people find themselves seeking connection and companionship. No one wants to be alone during this festive time, but the desire for intimacy and warmth can make people more vulnerable to scams, particularly those that prey on trust and fear. A concerning scam has recently emerged in the Hilton Head Island, South Carolina area, targeting unsuspecting individuals on dating apps. Fraudsters are impersonating law enforcement officers, exploiting fears of legal trouble, and pressuring victims into sending money.

  In a recent incident reported to Beaufort County deputies, a North Carolina resident fell victim to this deceptive scheme. The victim had been chatting with a woman on a dating app whose profile claimed she was 20 years old. After the exchange of risqué photos, although the victim reportedly did not send any himself, he received a call from someone posing as a local investigator. The caller claimed the woman was actually underage and involved her so-called “father” in the conversation, further fabricating a story about therapy expenses and demanding payment. The victim, frightened by the false accusations, sent thousands of dollars before realizing it was a scam.

  This scheme is not new, but its prevalence highlights the importance of vigilance, especially during a season when people may feel more emotionally vulnerable. Fraudsters often use intimidation tactics, posing as authority figures and even using real names of law enforcement officials to appear credible. Their goal is to create a sense of urgency that pushes victims to act before they have time to think critically.

  While connecting with others online can be a wonderful way to meet people, it’s essential to stay cautious and protect yourself. Scammers rely on panic and embarrassment to manipulate their targets, so staying calm and informed is your best defense.

  Never send money to someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer or anyone pressuring you to pay to avoid legal trouble. Real police officers will not demand immediate payments or use threats to resolve situations. Additionally, always verify the identity of anyone claiming to be in a position of authority. You can independently contact the agency they claim to represent using official contact information.

  Be cautious about sharing personal information or engaging in intimate conversations with people you’ve just met online. While the allure of a connection can be strong, take the time to verify the person’s identity through safe channels.

  Using trusted digital platforms for transactions and setting strong privacy controls on your social media and communication apps can also provide an added layer of security. If you suspect you’re being targeted, document the interaction and report it to law enforcement. Reaching out early can help stop the scam from escalating and protect others in your community.

  The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, togetherness, and warmth. No one deserves to feel isolated during this season, but it’s crucial to balance the desire for connection with awareness of potential risks. Scammers exploit loneliness and vulnerability, but staying informed and cautious can help you avoid falling victim to their schemes.

  If you or someone you know encounters a suspicious situation online, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, genuine relationships are built on trust and mutual respect, not fear or coercion. Protect yourself this holiday season so you can focus on building connections that bring happiness, not harm.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 8, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: extortion, ICAC, police impersonation scam ( 71 ), Scams ( 1,429 ), sextortion ( 4 )   

  ICAC Task Force Impersonation Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The Attorney General’s Office in South Dakota is issuing another warning about a scam, this time involving impersonators claiming to be from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The scammer calls individuals, accusing them of inappropriate online behavior with a minor and, in a disturbing twist, claims the child has attempted suicide. The victim is then told they face arrest unless they agree to pay the supposed medical expenses of the child. The demands for payment typically range from $1,000 to $8,000 and come with the added pressure of requiring immediate action.

  In some cases, scammers make their story seem even more credible by sending text messages with photos of the victim’s property. These images make it appear as though the victim has been under investigation by the ICAC Task Force, heightening fear and urgency. However, authorities have made it clear that the ICAC Task Force does not operate by contacting citizens to demand money. The inclusion of property photos is also a known scare tactic, often pulled from readily available sources like Google Street View. This method of intimidation has been used in other extortion schemes, where scammers manipulate publicly accessible data to make their threats appear more real.

  It’s important to recognize that this kind of scam can happen anywhere. Scammers exploit technology and public information to create a sense of danger and immediacy. They rely on fear to push individuals into paying quickly, hoping the urgency will prevent victims from questioning the situation. These extortion attempts can happen to anyone, using familiar tactics designed to make the victim feel isolated and vulnerable.

  If a call or message seems suspicious, it’s essential to step back and avoid acting out of fear. Taking time to verify the claims, consulting trusted sources, and reaching out to law enforcement can prevent falling into a scammer’s trap. Avoid providing financial or personal information over the phone or online without careful consideration.

  For those who think they may have been targeted, contacting the proper authorities is critical. Staying informed and cautious is the best defense against these types of fraudulent schemes that prey on fear and manipulation.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 10, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: cheating spouse scam ( 2 ), extortion, Scams ( 1,429 ), sextortion ( 4 )   

  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 September 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: extortion, Google Maps, Scams ( 1,429 ), sextortion ( 4 )   

  Extortion Scams Now Include Home Photos 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A long-standing and troubling scam has taken a disturbing turn, with sextortion fraudsters now leveraging personal details, including photos of victims’ homes, to increase their intimidation. Traditionally, these scams revolved around false claims that hackers had accessed victims’ webcams to capture compromising footage. Today, scammers are incorporating even more personal information, such as the victim’s full name, address, and an image of their home, often sourced from online mapping tools like Google Maps. These new tactics are designed to make the threats feel more real and urgent.

  Victims typically receive emails that address them by name, with threatening messages that include an image of their home or street. The fraudsters claim to have hacked into the victim’s computer and recorded sensitive videos through the webcam, threatening to release these to the victim’s contacts unless a ransom, usually around $2000, is paid via Bitcoin. To push victims into immediate action, the scammers often provide a QR code for easy payment and set a strict deadline, usually 24 hours. The email’s tone is aggressive, warning the recipient not to discuss the situation with anyone or risk the immediate release of the supposed video footage.

  What sets this new wave of sextortion apart is the personalized nature of the threats. The inclusion of a home address and a street photo heightens the anxiety for many victims, making the scam feel more credible. In reality, much of this information is publicly available, but its use in these emails serves as a calculated move to enhance the psychological pressure. The message, often accompanied by intimidating language, leads recipients to believe they are under constant surveillance, even though the threats are entirely fabricated.

  The scam has been reported in several parts of the country, with police departments from various cities warning residents about this evolving threat. Recent cases have emerged in both large cities and smaller communities, from Massachusetts to Connecticut and beyond. Local law enforcement agencies are issuing alerts to inform residents of the scam’s tactics, urging them not to panic or fall victim to the intimidation. The widespread reports suggest that scammers are targeting people indiscriminately, using the same scare tactics across different regions, relying on fear and urgency to elicit payments. These reports have prompted cybersecurity experts and authorities, including the FBI, to remind the public of the importance of staying vigilant and avoiding interactions with such emails.

  To counter these threats, it’s important to recognize that scammers rely on creating a sense of urgency and fear. Keeping calm and refraining from engaging with these emails is crucial. If you receive such an email, avoid opening any attachments or clicking on suspicious links. Covering or disabling webcams when not in use can provide additional peace of mind, as scammers frequently claim to have accessed these devices. Reporting the scam to authorities, including the FBI, is an important step in addressing the issue.

  Ultimately, sextortion scams continue to adapt and evolve, but they remain rooted in the same tactics of intimidation and fear. Public awareness of these schemes and proactive cybersecurity practices can help reduce the impact of these scams. Although the threats may feel personal and frightening, understanding the nature of these scams is key to defusing their power. If you encounter such an email, remaining calm, protecting your privacy, and reporting the incident can make a critical difference in preventing these scams from succeeding.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 22, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: blackmail ( 4 ), Cheating ( 3 ), college ( 17 ), extortion, Scams ( 1,429 ), tutor ( 2 )   

  Fraudulent Tutors Become Blackmailers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  If you’re a college or high school student seeking help with homework or test preparation, be cautious. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is sounding the alarm about a rising number of scams involving fraudulent tutors. Instead of providing academic assistance, these scammers exploit students who hire them to complete assignments, using the situation to engage in extortion.

  The scam begins when a student enlists a tutor to handle their assignments or help them cheat on tests. Rather than delivering the promised services, the scammer demands payment upfront, only to later threaten the student with exposure unless additional money is paid. After the initial payment, the scammer often continues to demand more, citing bogus reasons like extra research needs. As a result, students can end up losing thousands of dollars, while receiving no academic help whatsoever.

  The BBB stresses that hiring someone to complete your schoolwork constitutes cheating. For students who need legitimate tutoring to understand their class material, there are ways to avoid falling prey to these cons. First, consider asking friends, family, or teachers for recommendations. Schools often have resources, including other students, who offer tutoring at little to no cost, making them a reliable place to start.

  Additionally, it’s wise to verify the credentials of any potential tutor by asking for references. Contacting those references provides insight into their experiences and the results they’ve seen, helping you make an informed decision. Before starting any tutoring sessions, it’s also essential to agree on availability and rates upfront. While fees might increase for extra sessions ahead of a big test, these should be discussed in advance to avoid unexpected demands, which are often signs of a scam.

  In your quest for academic support, it’s important to be cautious. Taking the time to find a trustworthy tutor helps you learn and ensures that you won’t be taken advantage of by scammers looking to profit from your education.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 25, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: blackmail ( 4 ), dating apps ( 2 ), extortion, online dating ( 8 ), police impersonation scam ( 71 ), Scams ( 1,429 )   

  Dating site scam blackmails victims 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Connecting with others has become easier than ever. However, this convenience comes with its own set of risks. Recently, there has been an alarming increase in scams involving imposters pretending to be law enforcement officials. These scammers target unsuspecting victims, often through dating apps, coercing them into parting with their money.

  Recently, in South Carolina, a warning was issued about scammers posing as members of an internet crimes task force or local police. These fraudsters start by luring victims on dating apps, where men believe they are chatting with a woman. Once the conversation progresses, the scam takes a sinister turn. Victims are accused of interacting with a minor and are then approached by scammers posing as a “parent” or “investigator.” They demand money in exchange for dropping the supposed charges. Alarmingly, the scammers have gone as far as using a real investigator’s information to seem more legitimate.

  Legitimate law enforcement officials never request money in exchange for dropping charges. Anyone receiving such calls should report them to local law enforcement agencies.

  A similar scam recently unfolded in Nebraska, where a man lost over $2,000 after befriending a woman on a dating app. After receiving unsolicited photos, he was contacted by someone claiming to work with the police, stating that the girl’s father would not press charges if he paid a sum of money. Trusting the caller, the victim wired the money to an online account.

  These incidents underscore the need for caution in our digital interactions. It is essential to verify the identity of individuals you interact with online, especially if they ask for money. Be wary of unexpected messages or calls, particularly those involving threats or requests for money. Avoid sharing personal or financial information with people you meet online, even if they seem trustworthy. If you receive a suspicious request, contact local authorities directly to verify its legitimacy. Staying informed about common scams and how they operate is your best defense against fraudsters.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 27, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: extortion, Scams ( 1,429 ), virtual kidnapping ( 47 )   

  Recent news has increased this one scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  We have no doubt that you know about the recent story of the four Americans who were mistakenly kidnapped in Mexico, with two of the victims dying in the attack. Since scammers always seem to have their fingers on the pulse of the news, this story has led to a resurgence in the virtual kidnapping scam.

  Virtual kidnapping is a phone scam where scammers pretend to have kidnapped a loved one and demand a ransom. They use high-pressure tactics and psychological manipulation to make the victim believe their loved one is in danger.

  One of the more common versions of the virtual kidnapping scam is when the scammers claim to be from a drug cartel. The scammers will say that the victim’s loved one came across something they weren’t supposed to see, and now they’re being held for ransom.

  Typically, the scammers will demand that the victim wires money or pays via cryptocurrency to secure the safe release of their loved one.

  Kidnapping scammers employ a number of tricks to make their claims seem more legitimate. They often spoof the phone number of the victim’s loved one to make the call look like it’s coming from the loved one’s phone. They may use background noise or even play pre-recorded sounds of someone screaming or crying to make the victim believe that their loved one is in danger. More recently, some scammers have even used AI-generated clones of the loved one’s voice.

  It’s important to note that in most cases, the victim’s loved one is not actually in danger and is not being held captive. However, the scammers can use psychological manipulation to convince the victim otherwise and extort money from them.

  If you receive a call from someone claiming to have kidnapped a loved one, it’s important to remain calm and verify the situation before taking any action. Try to get in touch with the supposed victim directly, or reach out to other family members to confirm their safety. You should also report the incident to the police immediately.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on March 16, 2023 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: AI voice ( 11 ), extortion, Scams ( 1,429 ), virtual kidnapping ( 47 ), voice cloning ( 25 )   

  AI voice used in kidnapping scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Just over a week ago, we posted about scammers using AI technology to clone a victim’s loved one’s voice for a grandparent scam. It seems that this technique of scammers cloning voices isn’t going away anytime soon. Just recently, AI voice cloning was used in a virtual kidnapping scam in Oklahoma, where the victim lost $3000 to a scammer.

  Virtual kidnapping is a type of scam where a person receives a call or message claiming that their loved one has been kidnapped and demanding a ransom payment for their release. However, in most cases, the supposed victim is actually safe and not in any danger.

  Previously, in most virtual kidnapping scams, the scammers would do almost all of the talking, but they would have someone else in the background crying and screaming, who they claimed was the kidnap victim.

  In this most recent scam, the scam victim thought she was talking to her son and even said that the person on the phone sounded just like her son.

  It started like most virtual kidnapping scams do. The victim received a phone call from an unknown caller who told the woman they had kidnapped her adult son. The caller insinuated that the woman’s son interrupted a drug deal that cost the caller a lot of money. So, if the woman didn’t pay the money that was supposedly lost, they were going to harm her son. Typically, when the victim asks to speak to their loved one, the scammers will make excuses. However, this time, the victim spoke with someone who sounded just like her son.

  Panicked, the woman went to Walmart to wire $3000 to someone in Mexico. The scammer kept her on the phone the entire time. After making the payment, the impostor got back on the phone to say that the kidnappers were letting him go. The scammer’s told her they would drop her son off at that Walmart, but he never appeared. Finally, she was able to get a hold of her son on the phone, who had been at work the entire time.

  The virtual kidnapping scam has been using fear to get victims to pay a phony ransom for years. But now, with the voice cloning technology, the scammers have stepped up the fear to another level. The scammers only need about a minute of your loved one’s voice to be able to clone it. They usually take the voice from recordings that can be found on social media.

  But even if it sounds like a loved one on the phone, the same old precautions should be used. If you receive a call like this, try to have someone contact the person who’s supposedly been kidnapped. When they put your loved one on the phone, ask them a question that only they would know the answer to. Or have a family code word set up in advance that’s only to be used if the loved one is in danger.