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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 13, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: elder scam ( 7 ), gold bars ( 10 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,368 ), 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 ( 1,368 )   

  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.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: FBI ( 22 ), gold bars ( 10 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,368 )   

  FBI warns elderly about gold scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, a distressing trend has emerged across Montgomery County, Maryland, where senior citizens have been targeted by sophisticated scams involving gold bars. These scams are not isolated incidents, but part of a larger nationwide trend that has seen seniors losing millions of dollars to criminals posing as government officials or representatives from reputable organizations.

  These scams have resulted in significant financial losses nationwide in just the latter half of last year. The methods of these scammers are alarmingly consistent. They often impersonate tech support, financial, or government officials, claiming that the victim’s financial accounts have been compromised. The scammers then pressure the victims into converting their assets into cash or valuables, such as gold or silver, supposedly to protect them from hackers. Once the conversion is complete, the scammers arrange to collect the assets, sometimes even sending couriers to the victim’s home.

  Montgomery County has been a particular hotspot for these scams. One particularly heartbreaking case involved an elderly retiree who lost nearly $1 million after being tricked by individuals posing as federal agents. This all began with a simple click on a pop-up ad that warned of spyware. The scammers convinced her to convert her life savings into gold bars and hand them over to a courier. Fortunately, she realized the deception before handing over more than $2 million in additional assets.

  Another recent case involved an elderly man from Bethesda who was similarly deceived by a caller pretending to be from a government agency. Over nine trips to a local gold store, he converted over a million dollars into gold bars. It was only after seeing a news report about similar scams in the area that he contacted the police, who then set up a sting operation and arrested the suspect.

  Authorities have made several arrests in connection with these scams. A suspect from Brooklyn, New York, was apprehended when he attempted to collect a box of supposed gold bars handed over by an undercover detective posing as a victim. In another case, another suspect was arrested following the sting operation involving the Bethesda man. These arrests are part of ongoing efforts to combat this surge in scams targeting vulnerable seniors.

  The FBI and local authorities have issued warnings to help protect seniors from falling prey to these scams. They emphasize the importance of verifying any calls claiming to be from government officials or businesses, as they would never ask you to convert your assets into gold or other valuables. It is crucial to guard personal information and be cautious online, avoiding unknown ads or pop-ups and not allowing unknown individuals access to your computer. If you suspect you have been contacted by a scammer, report the incident to the FBI or reach out to relevant hotlines for assistance.

  These scams are not limited to Montgomery County; they are part of a troubling national trend. Reports of similar scams have surfaced across the country, with seniors being particularly vulnerable. The scale and sophistication of these operations highlight the urgent need for nationwide awareness and preventive measures. By understanding that these threats exist beyond local communities, we can work together to protect seniors from falling victim to these deceptive schemes.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam, medicare ( 17 ), new medicare card ( 5 ), Scams ( 1,368 )   

  Medicare is NOT issuing new plastic cards 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, many individuals have reported receiving phone calls about needing to update their Medicare cards to new plastic ones with chips, often accompanied by requests for personal details. Unfortunately, these calls are part of a scam that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has noted is currently seeing a spike.

  Medicare cards are paper, and the agency has no plans to issue plastic cards. Any call suggesting the need to upgrade to a plastic card is a clear red flag. Treat your Medicare card like a credit card. Never share your Medicare number over the phone, especially if you did not initiate the call. Medicare will never call you to verify your card number or request personal information.

  If you receive a call from someone asking for your Medicare number or offering a new card, hang up immediately. Then, call Medicare directly using the number on your official paperwork or their official website to verify if any changes are needed.

  Be cautious if a caller asks you to pay for a new card or offers additional benefits in exchange for personal information. Medicare cards are free, and any request for payment is a scam.

  If you believe you have been targeted by a Medicare scam, report it immediately to the FTC and your local authorities. Additionally, you can contact Medicare directly to report suspicious activity.

  Scammers are continually devising new ways to exploit vulnerable individuals. By understanding how Medicare operates and recognizing the signs of fraud, you can safeguard your personal information and benefits. Always verify calls claiming to be from government agencies and report any suspicious activity to protect yourself and others from falling victim to these scams.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: identity theft ( 107 ), impersonation scam, process server ( 2 ), Scams ( 1,368 )   

  Scammers pose as process servers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Process servers play a crucial role in the legal system by ensuring that all parties receive proper notification of legal actions against them, which is a fundamental aspect of due process. They deliver various legal documents, such as subpoenas, summons, complaints, and court orders, to defendants, witnesses, and other parties involved in a legal proceeding.

  They ensure that the delivery of documents follows the legal requirements and procedures set forth by the jurisdiction where the case is being heard. This is crucial to ensure that the served party’s legal rights are upheld.

  Sometimes, finding the person to be served can be challenging. Process servers may need to use investigative skills to locate individuals who are avoiding service or have moved to an unknown address. Process servers typically do not call the parties they are serving to demand personal information. However, scammers have exploited the public’s lack of knowledge about process servers.

  According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), scammers are posing as process servers and calling their victims over the phone. The caller claims there’s a lien on the victim’s home, or that they’re being taken to court over unpaid bills.

  Additionally, the scammers may claim you or a family member are a person of interest in a matter that requires immediate attention, while hiding behind the lie that federal law prohibits them from sharing any additional information about the matter.

  From there, the scammer will ask a victim to confirm sensitive personal information, such as their date of birth, address, or Social Security number. If a victim asks too many questions, the scammer may become angry and threaten further action.

  Again, process servers do not call their targets in advance. The element of surprise is crucial to effectively serving legal documents, ensuring the recipient cannot avoid the service. They do not have the authority to arrest individuals, enforce court orders, or take any action beyond delivering legal documents. They cannot compel individuals to comply with legal documents they serve.

  These Scammers may already have some personal information from previous scams or data breaches. Avoid providing additional details unless you are sure of the caller’s legitimacy. Be cautious with questions that require a simple yes or no answer.

  You should also avoid providing any information about friends and family members, as these scammers may be targeting someone you know rather than you directly. Instead, hang up the phone and notify the family member about the call you received. This way, they can be on the lookout for other scams and take action to protect their personal and financial information if it’s at risk or has been stolen.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 11, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bail scam ( 15 ), grandparent scam ( 69 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,368 )   

  Police warn of phone scam targeting the elderly 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The Chesterfield County, Virginia, Police Department is alerting the community about a troubling cell phone scam after an elderly couple fell victim to it earlier this week. In this case, the scammer posed as the attorney of the couple’s great nephew, leading to a significant financial loss for the unsuspecting victims.

  The caller informed the elderly couple that their great nephew had been involved in a car accident, resulting in the death of his passenger. The scammer then claimed that the nephew was in jail and required bail money. Under this false pretense, the couple was instructed to withdraw a substantial amount of money from their bank and wait at home for further instructions.

  The couple withdrew the money and returned home. Shortly after, someone arrived at their house to collect the money and took it to an unknown location. Often, the person collecting the money is an unwitting rideshare driver, making the scam not only financially devastating for the victims but also dangerous for the driver. We’re reminded of the Uber driver who was shot and killed by a scam victim earlier this year.

  These types of scams, known as grandparent scams, specifically target older individuals due to their trusting nature. Scammers exploit this trust, leading victims to act on the false information before verifying it.

  To avoid falling prey to such scams, verification is crucial. If you receive such a call, contact your relatives directly to verify their situation. Additionally, be cautious of unknown phone numbers and do not feel obligated to answer them.

  The Chesterfield Police Department shared essential tips with residents to help them avoid being scammed. A lawyer will not call you from jail to get someone out, especially if they just got arrested, nor will they send a courier to pick up bail money. Your family members should be able to make a phone call to you. A lawyer or bondsman will not be at the jail with them.

  If someone you know has been arrested and calls you, they will use a system that identifies them as an inmate at that facility. Always verify the identity of the caller by asking specific questions.

  Scammers are convincing and use scare tactics. If you feel uncomfortable, hang up the phone. Couriers are often unaware they are involved in a scam. If one shows up, call the police. No legitimate entity will ask for payment in cash, gold, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.

  Lastly, Let unknown calls go to voicemail. If it’s important, they will leave a message.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam, missing pets ( 11 ), Scams ( 1,368 )   

  Missing pet scams rise after 4th 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Following the recent Fourth of July celebrations over the past weekend, many pets have gone missing due to excessive fireworks in their areas. Unfortunately, scammers are exploiting the anxieties of pet owners during this time. Roanoke, Virginia, provides a prime example of how these scams are unfolding.

  The Roanoke Valley SPCA has reported a surge in calls about missing pets during this time. Losing a pet is every owner’s nightmare. The hope that comes with a call saying their beloved animal has been found can quickly turn to despair when it’s revealed to be a scam.

  Recently, two residents contacted the shelter after receiving suspicious calls. The scammer, posing as a third-party representative for the Roanoke Valley SPCA, claimed that their pets had been found but were injured in car accidents. The scammer said the dogs needed treatment for dislocated shoulders and requested the owners’ credit card information to cover the medical expenses. Victims were pressured and threatened with losing custody of their pets if they did not comply.

  The Roanoke Valley SPCA assures that pets will never be held hostage and emphasizes that they do not take in or treat stray animals. The organization would never ask for credit card payment over the phone or hold a pet for ransom.

  Posting about missing pets on social media can make pet owners targets for scammers due to the publicly accessible information and detailed descriptions shared in these posts. Desperate and emotionally vulnerable, owners often include contact information, making it easy for scammers to reach out and exploit their distress. Scammers use emotional manipulation, claiming the pet is injured or needs immediate medical attention, to pressure owners into quick payments. While social media can help in finding lost pets by reaching a large audience, it also increases the risk of scammers seeing the posts and taking advantage of the situation.

  To avoid being scammed when looking for a missing pet, owners should share information in trusted community groups, avoid posting personal contact details publicly, and verify claims by asking specific questions only someone with the pet would know. Be skeptical of anyone requesting money upfront for the pet’s return, and report suspicious contacts to authorities. Ensure pets are microchipped and have ID tags, and stay informed about local scams by following animal shelters and veterinary offices for alerts and advice. These precautions can help protect owners from scams while effectively utilizing resources to find their lost pets.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 5, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: craigslist ( 129 ), Facebook Marketplace ( 62 ), impersonation scam, online shopping ( 33 ), Scams ( 1,368 ), shipping containers ( 2 )   

  Farmers scammed buying shipping containers 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An Arizona farm owner decided to expand their barn using shipping containers due to their durability and resistance to wind and water. Seeking convenience, they turned to online marketplaces like Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to find suitable containers. Their search led them to a seller claiming to represent a company selling shipping containers.

  After researching the company and finding positive reviews, the buyer communicated with a man through Facebook Messenger. The man’s prompt responses and attentiveness built a sense of trust. However, when it came time to make the purchase, several red flags emerged.

  To proceed, nearly $2,700 needed to be paid upfront. The buyer preferred to pay with a credit card for added protection, but the man insisted on a check made out to an individual instead of the business. Although this raised suspicions, the man’s explanations seemed plausible, and the payment was made.

  The problems began when the delivery date approached. The buyer faced constant delays, excuses, and a demand for an additional $3,500 in insurance. Growing increasingly uneasy, they decided to contact the container company directly using the information on their official website.

  The response was a devastating blow. The real container company had no record of the order, invoice, or any knowledge of the man they were communicating with. The buyer had been dealing with scammers impersonating the legitimate company to defraud consumers on third-party websites.

  This experience highlights the importance of thorough verification when making large purchases. Here are key takeaways to protect yourself from similar scams.

  Always contact the company directly using information from their official website. Never rely solely on contact details provided by the seller.

  Be wary if a company insists on communicating only through messaging platforms. Legitimate businesses typically offer multiple communication channels, including phone and email.

  Whenever possible, pay with a credit card, which offers better fraud protection. Be cautious of sellers requesting payment through irreversible methods like cashier’s checks or wire transfers.

  Check reviews on multiple websites and search for any reports of scams or imposters. Include terms like “scam” or “fraud” in your search.

  If a seller pressures you to make a quick decision, take a step back. Consider your options carefully before committing.

  If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, report it immediately. Contact your local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Prompt reporting can help authorities track and combat fraudulent activities.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,368 ), shut off scam ( 17 ), utility scam ( 31 )   

  Extreme heat gives rise to utility scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  With the current high heat temperatures hitting the region, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing a warning to residents to be on high alert for utility scams. These scams tend to spike during extreme weather events when people are more reliant on their utilities, such as air conditioning, making them more vulnerable to threats of service termination.

  Scammers often pose as employees of water, electric, and gas companies, employing various tactics to deceive both residents and business owners. They typically contact potential victims via phone calls, texts, or by knocking on doors.

  The most common utility scam is the shut-off scam. This scam involves scammers posing as representatives from the power company when contacting their victims over the phone. They threaten to terminate the victim’s electric service due to an alleged past-due balance, insisting that the service will be disconnected within 15 to 30 minutes unless an immediate payment is made. These scammers often demand payment through unconventional methods such as gift cards, and in some cases, they have instructed victims to use Bitcoin ATMs for payment.

  However, the BBB is now reporting that some utility scammers are taking it one step further by showing up to the doors of their victims. Posing as utility employees, scammers may show up at your door in what appears to be a credible uniform. They might claim that your meter is malfunctioning and needs immediate replacement at your expense, or that they need access to your property to make necessary repairs or conduct an energy audit. The true intent is often to steal items or gather personal information.

  The BBB emphasizes that requests for prepaid debit cards, gift cards, digital wallet apps, or wire transfers are significant red flags. Pressure for immediate payment and personal information is another warning sign. To protect yourself, you can follow these steps.

  If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and call the customer service number listed on your utility bill. Do not allow anyone into your home or business unless you have a scheduled appointment or have reported a problem directly to your utility company.

  If you believe you have been targeted or have fallen victim to a scam, contact your local police and report the incident to BBB Scam Tracker.

  By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your personal information and finances from falling into the wrong hands.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 28, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gold bars ( 10 ), impersonation scam, police impersonation scam ( 64 ), Scams ( 1,368 )   

  More scammers force victims to buy gold 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In a concerning incident highlighting the ongoing threat of financial scams, two college students from Ohio were recently arrested in Bourbon County, Kentucky, after allegedly scamming an elderly woman out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the FBI, uncovered the elaborate scheme and apprehended the suspects.

  According to the victim, she had been contacted via email and phone by individuals posing as IRS agents and representatives from her financial organization. The scammers convinced her that her account had been hacked, prompting her to withdraw hundreds of thousands of dollars from her bank under the pretext of home remodeling plans.

  Under the scammers’ instructions, the woman deposited a substantial sum at a bitcoin location. But the deception didn’t end there. The perpetrators also persuaded her to wire additional funds to New York to purchase gold bars valued at nearly a quarter of a million dollars. The gold bars were then shipped to her home in Bourbon County, where the scammers intended to collect them.

  Acting swiftly, the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the FBI, intercepted the scammers. Authorities listened to multiple phone conversations that detailed the scheme. When the suspects arrived to retrieve the gold bars, law enforcement officers were ready and took them into custody.

  During questioning, the suspects admitted to committing similar scams in the past, including a case in Ohio where they stole a significant amount of cash from another victim. Both suspects have been charged with conspiracy to commit theft by deception over $10,000.

  Protecting yourself from scams like the one described requires awareness, and proactive measures. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

  If you receive a call, email, or message claiming to be from a government agency (such as the IRS) or a financial institution, do not provide any personal information. Instead, independently verify the contact by calling the official number listed on the agency’s or institution’s official website.

  Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt hasty actions. Be suspicious of any unsolicited communication that demands immediate action or payment.

  Notify your financial institution immediately if you believe your account has been compromised or if you have been instructed to make unusual transactions.

  If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam, report it to local law enforcement or the appropriate federal agency, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI.