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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 29, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: elderly ( 12 ), impersonation scam, isolation, paypal ( 11 ), paypal scam ( 13 ), Scams ( 1,355 )   

  Scam Victim Loses $800K in a Year 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scams are evolving into more sophisticated, emotionally manipulative schemes, exploiting trust and fear over extended periods. A recent heartbreaking case in Lincoln, Nebraska, highlights the alarming extent to which scammers can operate undetected, draining not just financial resources but also the emotional well-being of their victims.

  A 79-year-old woman fell prey to a scam that began innocuously, an attempt to dispute an unauthorized PayPal transaction. This simple act, meant to protect her finances, set off a catastrophic series of events. In what is becoming an increasingly familiar tactic, a scammer contacted the woman, posing as someone investigating her claim. Rather than offering help, this individual ensnared her in an elaborate scheme that lasted over a year.

  Throughout this time, the scammer slowly but methodically isolated the woman, ensuring she stayed dependent on them for resolution. Each interaction with the fraudster appeared necessary, a means to resolve what seemed like an escalating crisis. The scammer convinced the victim that ongoing payments, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 at a time, were essential for the supposed investigation to continue.

  Payment methods like Bitcoin and gift cards were deliberately chosen to make the transactions difficult to trace and recover. By the end of 2023, the woman had already lost $400,000. But the deception did not end there. By the time police were involved, her losses had reached a staggering $800,000.

  What makes this story especially tragic is not only the financial loss, but the psychological isolation the scammer imposed. Over the course of a year, the victim became more and more reliant on the scammer, cut off from potential sources of support and advice. The scammer’s tactics ensured that any skepticism or outside intervention was avoided, perpetuating the cycle of deceit. Scammers often exploit vulnerabilities, including the fear of embarrassment or distrust in official channels, to keep victims silent.

  Lincoln Police underscored the importance of quick action in such situations, urging those who suspect fraud to report it immediately and break all contact with scammers. This case is a reminder that even seemingly legitimate inquiries, like disputing a PayPal charge, can become a gateway to complex scams. PayPal itself emphasizes that it will never ask for sensitive personal information, such as passwords or SMS codes, through unofficial channels like emails or phone calls.

  This story also highlights the critical need for loved ones to stay engaged, especially with elderly family members, who are often targeted due to their trusting nature and unfamiliarity with new forms of financial fraud. Recognizing the signs of isolation and frequent unexplained financial transactions can make the difference between preventing further loss and enduring the emotional toll that follows such scams.

  As scams become increasingly sophisticated, fostering open conversations about fraud is essential. Victims should know they are not alone and that help is available. Early intervention can save not just money but also prevent the devastating isolation that allows these fraudsters to operate for months, or even years.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 23, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: call forwarding, impersonation scam, phone scam ( 46 ), Scams ( 1,355 )   

  A Modern Scam Using Classic Phone Technology 

  

  By Greg Collier

  There was a time when dialing a few numbers on your landline could activate all kinds of convenient features. Remember *69? It was the go-to for identifying the last caller. *67 was every prankster’s friend, temporarily blocking your number from showing up on caller ID. Those star codes were an early taste of what we now take for granted with smartphones, quick shortcuts to control how our calls worked. Although landlines may have largely faded from daily use, some of these codes remain, quietly embedded into mobile networks today. But what was once a helpful feature is now being exploited in a way few would expect.

  Among the lingering * codes are *72 and **21, both still active in many cellular services. They allow users to forward calls from their phone to another number. It’s a practical function if you’re traveling or temporarily want another person to handle your calls. However, what was designed for convenience has become a tool for deception. Scammers have found ways to manipulate these codes to steal personal information and commit financial fraud, taking advantage of the trust we place in what feels familiar.

  Imagine receiving a phone call from someone posing as a representative from your bank, with just enough personal details to sound legitimate. They warn you about an urgent issue with your account and offer a quick solution: dial *72, followed by a ten-digit number, to ‘secure’ your line from suspicious activity. It sounds easy enough, and in the moment, with alarm bells ringing in your head, you might not think twice. But what actually happens when you follow those instructions?

  That simple string of numbers forwards all your incoming calls to a number controlled by the scammer. This means every call you receive, whether it’s a friend checking in or your bank calling to verify a suspicious transaction, gets rerouted. Worse still, if a scammer intercepts a call that contains a two-factor authentication code or a password reset link, they can easily access your financial accounts, email, or other sensitive platforms. The process is invisible to the victim, who only realizes too late that they’ve been locked out of their own information.

  If you find yourself in this situation, the good news is that turning off call forwarding is straightforward. On Verizon, dialing *73 disables it, while T-Mobile users can enter ##21#. But as with most scams, prevention is key. Awareness of these old * codes and how they can be abused today is essential to avoiding trouble.

  The lingering presence of these codes on modern networks serves as a reminder that even outdated technology can become a liability. Just as those old landline tricks once helped us control our phones, they now provide a pathway for modern criminals. The tools may be familiar, but the way they’re being used today is anything but.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam, phantom hacker scam ( 3 ), pop-ups ( 26 ), Scams ( 1,355 ), tech support scam ( 49 )   

  Phantom Hacker Scam is a Threat to Your Finances 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the ever-evolving world of online crime, a new scam has emerged, targeting unsuspecting individuals under the guise of helping them. The FBI has recently highlighted the Phantom Hacker scam, a sophisticated three-pronged attack designed to trick people into handing over their money voluntarily.

  It all begins with a simple email or pop-up ad. The message alerts you to an issue with your computer and provides a phone number for tech support. When you call, a scammer on the other end will ask you to download a remote access program so they can ‘assist’ with the issue.

  Once you’ve allowed remote access, the scammer doesn’t address any problems. Instead, they create new ones. They claim your bank account has been compromised and instruct you to take steps to safeguard your money. This is where the scam shifts into its second phase. You receive a second phone call from someone posing as your bank’s security department, urging you to move your funds into a ‘crypto wallet’ for safekeeping.

  In the final phase, a third call comes from someone claiming to represent the government. This imposter will tell you that your crypto wallet is also compromised, but they can help by transferring your funds into a ‘safe wallet’. In reality, this so-called safe wallet belongs to the scammer, and your money is now gone.

  The name Phantom Hacker fits because victims believe they’ve been hacked, when in fact, they’ve been manipulated into transferring their money to the scammers. The scam doesn’t rely on advanced hacking techniques, just deception and social engineering.

  Unfortunately, this scam disproportionately targets older individuals, particularly those over 60. If you encounter unexpected pop-ups or emails, avoid engaging with them. Instead, contact your bank or tech support directly using verified phone numbers. Awareness is your best defense against falling victim to these tactics.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: debt collectors ( 10 ), impersonation scam, medical bills ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,355 )   

  Protect Yourself From Medical Billing Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An Indiana resident recently faced an all-too-common frustration, scam calls disguised as legitimate business interactions. It began with what appeared to be a call from a collection agency regarding an unpaid medical bill. The call seemed convincing at first, especially considering recent blood work, but doubts surfaced when the agent refused to provide specific details, such as the doctor’s name or the date of service. Instead, the agent demanded immediate payment, threatening legal action if the bill wasn’t settled.

  Despite the pressure, the man and his wife took the right steps. They paused and double-checked with their insurance company and doctors, only to find no record of an outstanding bill. The situation escalated when the collection agency asked for a credit card number or check, to be mailed to a post office box in Florida. This raised significant red flags, as it became increasingly clear that the situation was a scam.

  Scammers are growing more sophisticated, often adopting the names of legitimate businesses. In this case, a reputable diagnostics company had its name misused by fraudsters. Medical billing scams are designed to exploit the complexity of healthcare systems, preying on people who are understandably confused by their bills. These fraudsters often apply pressure by threatening legal action, hoping to catch their victims off guard.

  Thankfully, the family never sent the payment. Instead, they did their research, verifying with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and finding that this was a known medical billing scam. Scammers can use tactics like spoofing phone numbers and mimicking local area codes to make their calls seem more legitimate.

  If you receive a call about an unfamiliar medical bill, take time to verify the details. Contact your doctor, insurance company, or hospital directly, rather than engaging with the caller. Legitimate collection agencies will provide clear information about the debt, and you should never be rushed into making a payment without confirmation. Debt collectors are required to provide what’s known as a debt verification letter. These letters are supposed to detail exactly where the supposed debt originated.

  As scammers continue to evolve, so must our defenses. Verifying claims, not giving in to scare tactics, and guarding personal information remain key to protecting yourself from fraud. Keep in mind that even though these scams can be frustrating and concerning, staying informed and cautious can make all the difference in avoiding financial loss.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: donation scam, funeral home scam ( 5 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,355 )   

  Scammers Target Families with Funeral Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, two separate incidents have highlighted a disturbing trend: scammers are targeting grieving families, preying on their vulnerability during times of profound loss. These scams, which involve either phone calls or fake social media accounts, have surfaced in different parts of the country, exploiting the emotional weight of funeral arrangements to steal money.

  In one case, a fake Facebook account was created in the name of a recently deceased Georgia police officer, falsely offering a livestream of the funeral service and soliciting donations. Investigators believe the scammer gathered information from the funeral home’s website to make the fraudulent account seem legitimate.

  Another scam involved phone calls to families in Alabama who had recently lost a loved one. Posing as representatives of a funeral home, the callers demanded payment for services. In one instance, the scammer almost managed to steal a large sum before the family became suspicious and contacted the funeral home. Fortunately, no money was lost in this case, but the situation underscores the importance of vigilance during emotionally difficult times.

  These incidents reveal how scammers manipulate personal information easily accessible online to exploit grieving families. Funeral homes have been quick to respond, ensuring that their clients know they will never request payment by phone or through social media. Unfortunately, tracking the culprits behind these scams is difficult, particularly when the calls or accounts originate from outside the country.

  Families dealing with loss are encouraged to be cautious and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately. Funeral homes are also reminding families to verify any communication they receive related to payments and to rely on established, secure methods for handling financial transactions.

  These scams are not only financially damaging, but also emotionally devastating for families already coping with profound grief. It is essential to raise awareness about this troubling trend and to help protect those who may be at risk.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bank scam ( 70 ), bitcoin atm ( 24 ), elderly ( 12 ), impersonation scam, robbery ( 11 ), Scams ( 1,355 )   

  Elderly Victim Robbed During Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A recent incident in Houston, Texas, highlights the growing threat of scams targeting the elderly, leaving victims vulnerable to devastating financial losses. In July, an 80-year-old woman fell prey to a sophisticated scheme that ended with her losing $76,000.

  The scam began with a phone call from an individual posing as a bank employee, warning the woman that her bank had been hacked. This person instructed the victim to transfer her funds to a cryptocurrency kiosk for safekeeping. To further the scam, the victim was convinced to download an app that allowed the scammer to take control of her phone remotely.

  Following these instructions, the victim went to a convenience store to deposit $19,000 into a cryptocurrency kiosk. Sadly, while at the location, she was robbed of the cash by two unidentified males who grabbed the envelope and ran off. It remains unclear whether they were directly connected to the scam or simply taking advantage of the situation.

  What makes this case particularly alarming is that, even after the robbery, the scammer contacted the victim again. Despite having just lost a significant amount of money, the victim was manipulated into returning to the same location to deposit another $19,000. Over the course of four days, the elderly woman withdrew a total of $76,000 under the scammer’s instructions.

  In addition to the direct theft, the scammer provided coaching on what to tell bank employees when questioned about the large withdrawals. The victim was advised to claim the money was needed for home repairs, with the implication that even the bank staff couldn’t be trusted.

  There were several key warning signs in this scam that others should be mindful of to avoid falling victim. The scam began with an unsolicited phone call from someone posing as a bank employee, which is a common tactic used to catch victims off guard. Legitimate financial institutions typically don’t initiate calls out of the blue regarding account issues, making this the first red flag. The scammer then created a sense of urgency, pressuring the victim to transfer her money into a cryptocurrency kiosk under the guise of protecting her funds. It’s important to remember that banks or financial institutions will never ask customers to make transfers like this to safeguard their accounts.

  Another critical sign of deception was the request for the victim to download a remote access app, which allowed the scammer full control of her phone. No credible business or bank would ever ask for such invasive access to a personal device. Additionally, the scammer coached the victim to lie to bank employees if questioned about the withdrawals, further isolating her and fostering distrust in those who could have helped. When someone advises lying to a financial institution, it’s a clear indication of foul play.

  The repeated demands for large cash withdrawals over a short period should have also raised concern. Such behavior is unusual and suspicious, particularly when accompanied by the insistence that even bank employees couldn’t be trusted. This sowing of mistrust is a classic scam tactic, used to manipulate victims into relying solely on the scammer’s instructions.

  Recognizing these signs, unexpected calls, urgent financial requests, remote access demands, secrecy, and isolation, can help prevent falling prey to similar schemes. Always take the time to verify claims through trusted channels before taking any action.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 4, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bitcoin atm ( 24 ), hostage ( 3 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,355 )   

  Elderly Scam Victim Held Hostage by Deceit 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the quiet town of Covington, Louisiana, a routine welfare check by a St. Tammany Parish deputy revealed the terrifying reality of modern scams. For six hours, a 74-year-old woman found herself at the mercy of scammers who manipulated her into draining her bank account and held her as an emotional hostage, threatening her security.

  It all began when the woman, concerned about a potential fraudulent charge, contacted what she believed was a legitimate Apple Security number she found online. The call connected her to scammers who claimed that someone was attempting to purchase a $12,000 gold bar using her bank account. They offered to help prevent the transaction—but only if she followed their instructions.

  From that moment, the scammers took control of her day and life. They directed her to withdraw nearly $11,000 from her bank account and purchase gift cards, which were quickly cashed out by the criminals. To tighten their grip, they had her click on a link that allowed them to remotely access her phone, enabling them to monitor her every move. They could see, hear, and control everything, effectively cutting her off from any communication with her family. Any attempt to reach out, they warned, would endanger her loved ones.

  As the woman drove around, terrified and confused, the scammers continued to issue commands. She was directed to deposit more money into a Bitcoin machine at a gas station, despite being low on fuel, hungry, and without her medication. It was only the intervention of a concerned employee at the Bitcoin machine that finally raised the alarm. Sensing something was wrong, the employee questioned why she was trying to deposit money, and the woman began to realize the depth of the deception.

  When the deputy arrived for the welfare check, he found a woman on the brink, physically and emotionally drained. She recounted her ordeal, and the deputy quickly understood the gravity of the situation. His timely intervention saved her from losing even more than the nearly $11,000 she had already handed over to the scammers.

  The parish has seen an alarming rise in scams targeting local residents. These scams are sophisticated, often using the names of real officials to add legitimacy to their lies. The criminals exploit fear and urgency, convincing victims that they owe money for things like missed jury duty or that their bank accounts are under threat. Even those familiar with such tactics are not immune to these predatory practices.

  Unfortunately, these scams are difficult to trace and prosecute, especially when the perpetrators operate from other countries. They use fake phone numbers that appear as official government agencies on caller IDs, making it nearly impossible for victims to discern the truth.

  This woman’s story is a stark reminder that anyone can fall victim to these scams, regardless of age or experience. The emotional toll of such an encounter is profound, often leaving victims not only financially depleted but also deeply embarrassed. However, speaking out about these experiences serves as a vital warning to others.

  It’s crucial to remember that no legitimate government agency will ever ask for money over the phone. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and verify the information through official channels. Awareness and education are the first lines of defense against criminals who prey on the vulnerable.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 29, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: college ( 17 ), FTC ( 15 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,355 ), unpaid tuition   

  Scam Calls Target Students Over Unpaid Tuition 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a warning to college students and their parents about a growing scam that targets those paying tuition. Imagine receiving a call from someone claiming to be from your school’s financial aid office, telling you that your tuition bill hasn’t been paid. The caller might threaten to drop your classes unless you send money immediately. While this may cause alarm, it’s essential to pause and think carefully, you could be dealing with a scammer.

  These scammers pose as school officials, often claiming that financial aid has fallen through or that your transcripts are being held until the balance is paid. Their goal is to create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to act without verifying the legitimacy of the claim. However, a legitimate school office would never try to scare you into making a payment over the phone.

  If you receive such a call, it’s crucial not to panic. Scammers rely on the fear of missing out on classes or having academic records withheld to trick you into making hasty decisions. Instead of responding immediately, take the time to verify the situation through secure channels. Most schools post tuition bills on secure student portals, where you can safely check your balance and make payments. If you’re still uncertain, contact the financial aid or billing office directly using a phone number you know is legitimate.

  Remember, scammers can manipulate caller ID to make it appear as if the call is coming from your campus. Don’t trust what you see on the screen, and never give out your bank or credit card information over the phone to an unknown caller. If someone pressures you to pay with cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or gift cards, it’s almost certainly a scam.

  The FTC urges anyone who encounters this scam to report it. By spreading the word, you can help protect others from falling victim to these deceptive tactics. Always verify through trusted sources before making any payments, especially when it comes to something as important as education.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: elder scam ( 7 ), gold bars ( 9 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,355 ), seniors ( 9 )   

  Gold bar scams are still on the rise 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The golden years, a time meant for relaxation and enjoyment, are being overshadowed by a growing and sinister threat in the Washington D.C. area, gold bar scams.

  These scams often start with something as innocuous as a pop-up ad online or a fraudulent phone call. Posing as law enforcement officers, scammers convince their victims to convert their life savings into gold bars, supposedly for ‘safekeeping’. Once the gold is handed over, it disappears, leaving victims with shattered finances and a sense of betrayal.

  The scale of the scam in the D.C. area alone is alarming, with victims ranging in age from 61 to 94. Some have lost their entire life savings, with individual losses reaching into the millions. The criminals behind these scams are sophisticated, preying on the trust and sensibilities of their targets, making them believe they are dealing with legitimate federal agents.

  This problem isn’t confined to one area. Across the nation, similar scams have been reported, with a significant number of complaints related to couriers collecting gold bars from unsuspecting victims. The money, once handed over, is often laundered and sent overseas, making recovery nearly impossible and leaving victims and their families to deal with the consequences.

  The emotional and financial toll on the victims and their families is profound. The sense of security and trust that should define the golden years is being eroded by these heartless schemes. Many victims are left feeling isolated and vulnerable, questioning their judgment and struggling with the loss of their financial stability.

  To protect against these scams, it’s crucial to be cautious. Recognizing that legitimate federal agents will never ask for money in the form of gold bars is key. It’s also important to be wary of unfamiliar phone calls or online ads that could be the first step in a scam. Sharing this information with elderly loved ones and encouraging open communication about any suspicious contacts can help prevent these devastating losses.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 1, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bank fraud ( 23 ), bank scam ( 70 ), Chase ( 14 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,355 )   

  Couple recovers life savings after bank scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A retired couple from Buford, Georgia, has finally regained their life savings after falling victim to a sophisticated cyber scam. Their journey to justice was fraught with frustration and dead ends, but their perseverance has paid off.

  The scam began when the couple received text messages purportedly from their bank’s fraud department, warning that a debit card had been compromised. Concerned, they called the number provided, believing they were contacting Chase Bank. Instead, they unwittingly connected with scammers who, within 20 minutes, drained their bank account of nearly $50,000.

  Despite immediately reporting the fraudulent transaction, the couple was initially met with skepticism and dismissal. The bank claimed that they had either authorized the transactions or benefited from them.

  For months, the couple faced bureaucratic roadblocks. The police hadn’t assigned a detective to their case, and a federal watchdog group offered no assistance. The bank, meanwhile, considered the case closed.

  Frustration finally caught the attention of an assistant district attorney. With help, the case was brought to detectives who accessed the crucial phone records. These records revealed that scammers had called the bank, impersonating the couple and authorizing the large money transfers.

  The new evidence prompted the bank to conduct a third-party review, leading to the reversal of their previous decision. The stolen funds were restored to the couple’s account.

  If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, obtaining your phone records and presenting them to both the police and your bank can be crucial steps toward recovery.

  However, this case also raises important questions. Why do banks often accuse victims of benefiting from scams? Why does it frequently take media involvement before banks offer refunds to the victims? The journey to justice for scam victims should be more straightforward, highlighting the need for banks to prioritize customer protection and trust.