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  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , , , the comm   

    New Online Scam Draws Teens into Hacking 

    By Greg Collier

    The FBI has issued a warning to parents about a troubling new online scam that is pulling teenagers into the world of cybercrime. Investigators say cybercriminals are using social engineering tactics to connect with young people through video games and chat platforms such as Discord. Many of these teenagers do not fully understand that they are being manipulated into participating in schemes designed to break into corporate networks and steal sensitive data.

    At the center of this threat is an emerging online ecosystem referred to as the “comm,” short for community. It functions as a space where young participants seek recognition by carrying out hacks. Rather than being tied to a single website, this activity thrives in a decentralized structure, making it difficult for authorities to track. The FBI describes it as a loosely connected online world where reputation is built not through personal identity but through technical exploits.

    The appeal lies in the sense of status gained from demonstrating technical skills. Many of these individuals are teenagers with the ability to navigate complex systems, and they see successful hacks as a way to boost their credibility within the community. What may start as online friendships and gaming conversations can quickly shift into illegal activity, often without the young participants recognizing the seriousness of what they are being drawn into.

    This latest threat can be viewed as the teenage counterpart to the task scam that has been defrauding job seekers. While task scams prey on adults searching for stable employment by luring them into fake online jobs that ultimately drain them of money, the comm exploits teenagers’ desire for belonging and recognition in digital spaces. Both operate on psychological manipulation. In one case, victims are promised financial security, and in the other, they are promised prestige within a peer-driven community. Despite targeting different groups with different promises, the underlying tactic is the same. Scammers identify a vulnerability, exploit it through carefully crafted illusions, and leave victims with consequences they never intended.

    Both the comm and task scams highlight how technology has simply given new tools to old methods of deception. Fraudsters have always relied on trust, urgency, and the promise of reward to exploit their victims. Whether it is money, status, or belonging, the hooks remain the same, even as the platforms evolve. Readers should remain cautious and remember that if an opportunity or community feels too rewarding too quickly, it is worth questioning before becoming invested.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on August 28, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , , , , technical support scam   

    FBI: Phantom Hacker Scam Drains Life Savings 

    By Greg Collier

    The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center has issued a warning about a sharp increase in so-called “Phantom Hacker” scams that are targeting older Americans and causing many victims to lose their life savings. This scheme is a more advanced form of the traditional tech support scam, using multiple layers of deception to convince victims they must move their money in order to keep it safe.

    Reports indicate that scammers impersonate customer support representatives, financial institutions, and even U.S. government agencies. Victims are told their accounts have been compromised by foreign hackers and are pressured to transfer money into fraudulent accounts controlled by the scammers. Often, the stolen funds include retirement accounts and long-term savings.

    Between January and June 2023, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received more than 19,000 reports related to tech support scams, representing losses of more than $542 million. Nearly half of these victims were over the age of 60, and those cases accounted for two-thirds of the total reported losses. As of August 2023, the amount lost to such scams was already 40 percent higher than the total losses reported in all of 2022.

    The operation of these scams often begins with a fraudulent technical support alert that instructs the victim to call a phone number. Once contact is made, scammers gain remote access to the victim’s computer and pressure them to open financial accounts, pretending to check for fraudulent activity. From there, victims are passed to imposters posing as representatives of banks or government agencies who continue to escalate the deception until the victim transfers funds. Scammers may even use official-looking government documents or letterhead to reinforce the illusion of legitimacy.

    Beyond the financial theft, these scams often exploit social vulnerabilities. Victims are frequently told not to share details with family members or financial institutions, which creates secrecy and isolation. This manipulation makes it harder for others to intervene before the money is lost. At the same time, many of the funds stolen in these cases are routed overseas, placing them beyond the reach of U.S. law enforcement and making recovery nearly impossible. This cross-border nature of the crime underscores why prevention is far more effective than attempting to reclaim stolen assets after the fact.

    The FBI advises the public to remain cautious against unsolicited communications claiming to provide technical support or financial security. Government agencies do not ask citizens to move money to “safe” accounts, nor do they request payments through wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid cards.

    Anyone who has been targeted by such scams is encouraged to report the incident to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at http://www.ic3.gov or contact their local FBI field office. Providing details such as the methods of contact, email addresses, websites, and financial account information involved can help investigators track and combat these operations.

    The FBI stresses that raising awareness is a critical part of preventing further victimization. By recognizing the warning signs and reporting suspicious activity, the public can play a role in reducing the financial harm caused by Phantom Hacker scams.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 9, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , ramp and dump,   

    Beware the Ramp-and-Dump Investment Scam 

    By Greg Collier

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation is warning the public about a growing online scam known as the “ramp-and-dump.” This scheme involves criminals manipulating stock prices through social media engagement and messaging apps, often targeting retail investors across the United States.

    The scam starts with seemingly innocent social media ads or unsolicited messages promoting so-called investment clubs. These clubs, which may include fake profiles or bots, are designed to lure individuals into private conversations on secure messaging platforms. Within these groups, scammers pose as legitimate brokers or financial analysts to build trust and push specific stocks.

    The mechanics of the scam are simple but effective. The perpetrators secretly hold large amounts of a low-cost stock. They then encourage group members to buy into that stock, gradually driving up its price. Once the price has risen enough, the scammers sell their shares for a profit, causing the stock’s value to crash and leaving unsuspecting victims with significant losses.

    This type of fraud closely resembles the pig butchering scam. Both involve establishing a false sense of community or connection before financially exploiting the victim. In pig butchering, this often takes the form of a fake romantic or friendly relationship. In ramp-and-dump scams, the manipulation happens under the guise of financial collaboration and shared investment opportunities.

    According to the FBI, there has already been a sharp increase in complaints related to ramp-and-dump scams this year. Many victims were initially contacted through messages that appeared accidental or casual, only to be drawn into more elaborate schemes once trust was established. The fraud often includes promises of high returns, urgent calls to action, and false assurances meant to reduce suspicion.

    The FBI warns that any request for personal or financial information under the pretense of investment should be treated with caution. Scammers may use that information to open fraudulent accounts or launder money through unsuspecting individuals.

    Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to this scam is encouraged to report it through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 2, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , PHI, ,   

    Fake Health Investigators Target You 

    By Greg Collier

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued a warning about a new wave of scams where cybercriminals impersonate health fraud investigators. As detailed in a report from Bleeping Computer, these schemes are designed to trick both patients and healthcare providers into surrendering sensitive data, including medical and financial records.

    According to a recent advisory from the agency, fraudsters are posing as legitimate health insurers or members of investigative teams. Victims are contacted through emails or text messages crafted to appear authentic. The goal is to pressure individuals into sharing protected health information or personal financial details. In some cases, the messages claim the recipient must provide reimbursements for supposed overpayments or services not covered by insurance.

    The messages typically mimic the language and branding of trusted healthcare entities, making them difficult to distinguish from genuine communications. Once the information is obtained, it can be used for a range of criminal activities, including identity theft and insurance fraud.

    Federal agencies recommend taking caution with any unsolicited messages requesting personal or medical information. They advise verifying the authenticity of such communications by contacting the insurer directly. Security experts also emphasize the importance of strong passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication to protect against account breaches.

    The healthcare sector remains a frequent target of these attacks. In a separate notice, the Department of Health and Human Services highlighted how attackers are using social engineering to exploit IT help desks at healthcare organizations. By gaining internal access, they can reroute financial transactions through business email compromise tactics, often with devastating results.

    As impersonation scams evolve, public awareness and vigilance remain key defenses. Verifying communications and safeguarding personal data can help prevent falling victim to schemes that increasingly blur the line between real and fake.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 2, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , , ,   

    Scammers Peddling Fake Health Plans 

    Scammers Peddling Fake Health Plans

    By Greg Collier

    The FBI is warning the public about a widespread scam involving fraudulent discount medical insurance plans. These deceptive schemes are targeting people who are searching for affordable healthcare coverage. Many victims have lost money and received no actual insurance benefits in return.

    These scams typically begin with an unsolicited phone call, email, or text message. The person on the other end poses as a representative from a legitimate insurance provider and offers what sounds like an unbeatable deal. They may promise full medical or dental coverage, the ability to see your current doctor, or even additional perks like help with groceries and gas. The catch is that you have to act quickly. The supposed discount is only available for a short time, creating pressure to make an immediate decision.

    Once people agree and submit their payment, the promised insurance never materializes. Some only discover the truth after trying to use the policy for a medical visit, only to be told they are not insured and must pay out of pocket. Others are misled about refunds or cancellation terms and find themselves unable to stop recurring charges.

    The FBI reports that these scams are not isolated incidents. A recent case in Washington state resulted in a cease-and-desist order against a company operating under several names. The business received more than 100 complaints for misrepresenting coverage, charging unauthorized fees, and denying refunds.

    These operations often use language that resembles official communications, which makes the pitch seem legitimate. Victims are rushed through the process and discouraged from reading the fine print. By the time the deception is uncovered, the damage is already done.

    Consumers are strongly urged to avoid any health insurance or benefit offer that arrives through an unsolicited phone call or message. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Take the time to verify companies through official channels and never give out payment or personal information under pressure.

    These scams are evolving quickly and spreading across the country. The cost of falling for them can be both financial and personal. With millions already lost, awareness remains the best defense.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on April 23, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , , , ,   

    FBI Warns of Scam Recovery Scam Surge 

    FBI Warns of Scam Recovery Scam Surge

    By Greg Collier

    The FBI’s Denver office has issued a public warning about a new wave of fraud cases involving impersonators claiming to work for the Internet Crime Complaint Center. Between December 2023 and February 2025, over one hundred reports were filed from individuals who were contacted by scammers pretending to be affiliated with the FBI’s online crime division.

    The scammers typically reach out via email, phone, social media, or encrypted messaging apps. Their targets are often people who have already lost money to fraud. In some cases, the fraudsters embed themselves in online communities designed to support scam victims, using fake identities to pose as fellow victims. From there, they gain trust and recommend contacting someone they claim is a high-ranking IC3 official.

    The end goal is always the same. Once trust is established, victims are guided to send personal and financial information through private messaging platforms. The promise is that their stolen funds can be recovered. Instead, they are defrauded again, sometimes for even greater amounts.

    It is important to understand that there is no such thing as a scam recovery service. No legitimate agency will offer to retrieve lost funds in exchange for payment. The Internet Crime Complaint Center does not contact victims directly via social media, private messages, or encrypted apps. It does not request payment or refer victims to third-party entities promising financial recovery. Any outreach claiming to do so is a scam in itself.

    People who have experienced a scam or suspect fraudulent contact are encouraged to report the incident through the official IC3 website. Reports should include details about the individual or entity that initiated contact, the means of communication, any financial transaction records, and a description of what occurred.

    Above all, if someone claims they can help you get your money back for a fee, they are part of the scam. Do not give them money, and do not give them your trust.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on March 14, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , , ,   

    FBI Warns: Toll Text Scam Sweeping the U.S. 

    FBI Warns: Toll Text Scam Sweeping the U.S.

    By Greg Collier

    The latest wave of scams preying on unsuspecting Americans has taken the form of fraudulent road toll collection texts, prompting the FBI to issue a public warning. These deceptive messages claim that recipients have outstanding toll balances, threatening fines or even suspension of driving privileges if they fail to make immediate payment. But rather than being legitimate notices from state toll authorities, these texts are part of a growing cybercrime operation designed to steal personal and financial information.

    This type of scam falls under ‘smishing’, a variant of phishing that relies on SMS messages rather than emails. The scammers’ approach is alarmingly effective. Messages appear authentic, often using official-sounding language and formatting that mirrors legitimate toll collection agencies. The scam is spreading rapidly, shifting from state to state with nearly identical wording in each new location.

    Authorities are urging recipients not to engage with these messages. The FBI recommends reporting them through its Internet Crime Complaint Center and then deleting them without responding. Unfortunately, the fraudsters behind this scheme have refined their methods to circumvent certain smartphone security features. For example, while Apple restricts clickable links in texts from unknown senders, these scammers prompt users to reply with ‘Y’ to re-establish communication, bypassing this safeguard.

    A cybersecurity analysis revealed that bad actors have registered over 10,000 domains to facilitate these scams, targeting toll services and package delivery systems across multiple states and even into Canada. The scale of this operation suggests a level of coordination that goes beyond the typical small-scale scam.

    Historically, the most frequently reported phone scam involved fraudulent jury duty claims, where scammers would impersonate court officials and demand immediate payment under the threat of arrest. However, at least anecdotally, the toll text scam appears to have surpassed it in prevalence. With so many Americans accustomed to electronic toll payments, these fraudulent messages often seem credible at first glance, increasing the likelihood of engagement.

    The unfortunate reason this scam is becoming so common is simple, it’s working. Scammers wouldn’t keep running these schemes if they weren’t succeeding in tricking victims into handing over their personal and financial information. Every person who falls for the scam encourages criminals to expand their operations, making it even more widespread.

    The best defense remains skepticism. State agencies do not request payments through unsolicited text messages, and any demand for financial information via text should be treated with extreme caution. As the scam continues to evolve, staying informed is key to avoiding falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on February 13, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , , ,   

    Florida Fights Back Against Toll Scam 

    Florida Fights Back Against Toll Scam

    By Greg Collier

    Scammers are becoming increasingly deceptive in their efforts to steal personal and financial information, and one of the more widespread schemes involves fraudulent text messages about unpaid toll fees. These messages often claim the recipient has an outstanding balance and must make an immediate payment to avoid hefty fines. The links provided in these messages lead to fake websites designed to harvest sensitive details such as credit card numbers and driver’s license information.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been warning the public about these scams, which have been reported in multiple states. With thousands of complaints already filed, law enforcement agencies across the country continue to urge drivers to stay alert. This type of scam, known as ‘smishing’, uses deceptive text messages to trick individuals into clicking fraudulent links. The goal is to create a sense of urgency, convincing victims to act quickly before they have time to verify whether the claim is legitimate.

    Although this scam has targeted drivers nationwide, Florida has been hit particularly hard due to its extensive toll road network. Many residents and tourists have received text messages claiming to be from SunPass, the state’s toll collection system. In response, authorities in Florida have worked aggressively to combat the threat. Hundreds of fraudulent websites imitating SunPass have already been shut down as part of a coordinated effort to protect consumers.

    Despite the progress made in Florida, scammers continue to adapt their methods, and similar schemes remain active in other parts of the country. The key to avoiding these scams is recognizing that no legitimate toll agency will send text messages demanding payment. Official toll operators communicate through secure online accounts, mailed invoices, and authorized customer service channels.

    Anyone receiving a suspicious text about unpaid tolls should avoid clicking any links and instead check their account directly through the official website of their toll provider. Reporting these fraudulent messages to law enforcement and consumer protection agencies also helps authorities track and shut down new scam operations as they emerge.

    As digital threats continue to evolve, staying informed is the best defense. Scammers rely on fear and urgency to manipulate their victims, but by remaining cautious and verifying any unexpected messages, drivers can protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on February 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , FBI, , , Operation Black Pistol, ,   

    Doctors Targeted in New FBI Scam Warning 

    Doctors Targeted in New FBI Scam Warning

    By Greg Collier

    Across Connecticut and the rest of the country, a scam is putting healthcare professionals in the crosshairs of criminals who exploit fear and authority. The FBI and DEA are raising alarms about fraudulent arrest warrants being used to extort doctors, veterinarians, and other licensed medical professionals. With real examples of victims losing anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, this scheme serves as a reminder that even the most educated individuals can be deceived.

    The scam revolves around an official-looking document, supposedly a federal indictment, accusing the target of drug trafficking. The fraudulent warrant references something called “Operation Black Pistol”, a non-existent law enforcement effort meant to add a veneer of credibility. Along with this paperwork, scammers impersonate actual agents from federal agencies, pressuring their targets to act quickly and in secrecy.

    One of the most effective tactics employed by these criminals is their ability to create a sense of urgency and isolation. Victims are told not to consult with attorneys or even speak to their loved ones. They are ordered to remain on the phone with the scammer until the money is sent. Sometimes in the form of wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or even physical cash. This relentless manipulation plays on fear, making even experienced professionals second-guess their instincts.

    A crucial detail exposing the fraud is the inclusion of investigative details in the supposed indictment. Genuine court documents do not contain references to ongoing operations or the names of undercover efforts. Furthermore, no legitimate law enforcement agency will ever demand payment to make an arrest warrant ‘go away’. The idea that federal charges could be dismissed in exchange for money should immediately raise suspicions.

    What makes this scam particularly alarming is that it successfully targets individuals with advanced degrees and rigorous professional training. The fact that medical professionals, people trained in science, logic, and critical thinking, are falling victim illustrates just how convincing and well-crafted these schemes can be. If individuals in such highly respected fields can be deceived, it underscores that anyone, regardless of their background, can become a target.

    While healthcare professionals are the primary focus of this particular scam, the tactics used are not new. Similar schemes have been deployed against the general public, with scammers impersonating law enforcement, IRS agents, or even court officials. The common thread in all these cons is the element of fear, convincing the victim that immediate action is required, or severe consequences will follow.

    Authorities emphasize that if something seems suspicious, the best course of action is to disconnect the call and verify the claim directly with the actual agency in question. Official law enforcement agencies do not solicit payments over the phone, and no real government investigator will demand secrecy or prohibit someone from seeking legal advice.

    Scammers are constantly evolving their methods, adapting old tricks into new forms. The fact that they are now targeting respected medical professionals with fabricated legal threats is a troubling escalation. However, awareness is the best defense. Whether you’re a doctor, a business owner, or an ordinary citizen, skepticism is a powerful tool against fraud. Staying informed, questioning high-pressure demands, and verifying any unexpected claims with legitimate sources can make all the difference in avoiding financial and emotional devastation.

     

  • Geebo 8:01 am on October 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: FBI, , ,   

    Missing Persons Case Leads to Scam Arrest 

    Missing Persons Case Leads to Scam Arrest

    By Greg Collier

    Earlier this month, a complex fraud scheme unfolded in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, highlighting the dangers of scams involving individuals posing as government agents. Local police were initially called to assist in a missing persons case originating from Anoka County, Minnesota. The missing individual was located at a hotel in Eau Claire, where they revealed a disturbing story. They had traveled to Wisconsin to hand over $32,000 to someone they believed was a federal agent.

    The victim soon realized they had been deceived and reported the scam to the authorities. Thanks to their description of the suspect, police quickly apprehended the individual while they were inside the hotel. The $32,000 was recovered, and the suspect was charged with felony theft by false representation. This case serves as a stark reminder of how scammers exploit trust, often posing as credible figures to coerce victims into handing over large sums of money.

    Around the same time, another victim in Eau Claire fell prey to a similar scheme. After receiving an email about renewing an antivirus program, they were contacted by someone claiming to be from various government agencies, including a consumer protection organization and a federal bureau. The scam escalated to the point where a so-called ‘courier’ visited the victim’s home to collect $29,500 in cash, which the victim withdrew from their bank. A second payment was made after the victim was told the initial transaction failed, bringing the total loss to $60,000.

    Both incidents demonstrate the increasingly sophisticated tactics scammers use to create a sense of urgency and fear. These criminals often employ multiple layers of deception, including impersonating authorities, demanding large payments, and urging victims to keep their interactions secret.

    Government agencies, including federal investigative bureaus, will never contact individuals to demand money or ask for secrecy. Anyone who feels uncertain or suspicious about such a request is advised to take a moment, assess the situation, and contact local authorities for guidance.

    These cases underline the importance of public awareness in preventing future fraud. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to scams that prey on trust and fear.

     

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