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  • Geebo 8:00 am on April 23, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    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 April 18, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Jury Scam Costs Houston Victim $12K 

    Jury Scam Costs Houston Victim $12K

    By Greg Collier

    A growing scam in Texas is proving that education and common sense are no match for professional manipulation. A woman working at her downtown Houston office recently fell victim to a scheme that continues to evolve in both sophistication and psychological pressure. This wasn’t a case of someone being naive. It was a calculated crime that preyed on trust, fear, and the illusion of authority.

    It began with a phone call that appeared to come from a legitimate source, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. The caller claimed the victim had missed jury duty and now had an arrest warrant. He claimed to be a sheriff’s deputy and spoke with the precision and confidence of someone in law enforcement. He even spoofed the phone number so it looked like the call came from a known non-emergency line. This tactic erased what little doubt she might have had. And that is what made the next few hours so dangerous.

    The victim followed instructions to avoid what she believed would be a swift arrest. She was told to withdraw money to pay a bond and meet a supposed bail bondsman at a nearby parking garage. Surveillance footage later confirmed her account. A man dressed to appear official approached her car with a clipboard. She handed over twelve thousand dollars in cash. He walked away and never returned.

    The call didn’t end there. Once the first handoff was complete, the scammer escalated the con, insisting on a second round of money for a different, higher bond. He kept control by telling her to ignore her husband’s calls, suggesting he could be charged for interfering with a federal investigation. The victim, still shaken, proceeded to another bank. This time, the teller sensed something was wrong. Through written notes, the victim learned the truth. She had been scammed.

    What makes this case particularly chilling is not just the amount of money lost. It’s how meticulously the scam was constructed. From the spoofed number to the psychological tactics, this was not a random phishing attempt. This was a performance. It was executed by someone who understood how to create fear and who to imitate to make it believable.

    This scam has become a clear threat not just to the vulnerable, but to anyone who believes they could spot a con when it starts. The reality is that criminals who rehearse their scripts, tailor their personas, and study the systems they exploit can trick anyone. Law enforcement warns that these individuals are persuasive and convincing, often targeting people at their most distracted or anxious moments.

    The illusion of authority is powerful. When that illusion is weaponized, even the most cautious person can be caught off guard. And in cases like this, the consequences are more than financial. The emotional toll is immense. The sense of violation and humiliation that follows can linger far longer than the sting of a missing bank balance.

    Scams like this are not just clever crimes. They are dangerous. They erode trust in public institutions. They use the symbols of safety and order as a disguise for exploitation, and they are only growing bolder. Recognizing that no one is immune is the first step in defending against them.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on March 21, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , police impersonation scam,   

    The Jury Duty Scam Is Still Here, And Still Working 

    By Greg Collier

    The headlines may be dominated by the toll text scam lately, but that doesn’t mean other schemes have gone away. One of the most persistent, and unfortunately, still effective, scams is the jury duty con. It recently surfaced again in Ross Township, Pennsylvania, where a local resident lost over $8,000 to someone impersonating a law enforcement officer.

    The scammer called from a number that appeared legitimate, with a caller ID that mimicked the local sheriff’s office. The victim was told they had missed jury duty and that an arrest warrant had been issued. The pressure was immediate and intense. In order to avoid being taken into custody, the victim was instructed to pay a fine, in this case, over $8,000 in bitcoin. Believing the caller was a real deputy and that the consequences were real, the victim complied. The funds were traced to an overseas crypto exchange, but by then, the money was gone.

    Similar calls are being reported in other nearby counties, where scammers are posing as officers, complete with fabricated names and badge numbers. They’re telling people they’re in contempt of court for not showing up for jury duty and that the only way to avoid arrest is to pay a fine, often on the spot and in cash-like alternatives such as cryptocurrency or apps like Venmo. Victims are even told to stay silent because of a so-called gag order, further isolating them and increasing the pressure.

    These scams keep happening for one reason, they still work. Scammers know they only need a few people to fall for the lie to make the effort worthwhile. By casting a wide net, calling dozens or even hundreds of people, they can strike gold with just one or two hits. Even with public awareness campaigns, people continue to be taken in, particularly when the scam uses fear and urgency to overwhelm rational thinking.

    Law enforcement has made it clear. They do not contact people by phone to demand payment for missed jury duty. They don’t accept payments through apps, gift cards, or crypto, and they certainly won’t ask you to keep silent about a call. But these warnings don’t reach everyone, or they come too late.

    As attention shifts to new digital frauds, it’s important not to forget about the scams that have been around for years and show no sign of stopping. If someone calls you demanding money for a missed civic duty, take a breath, hang up, and report it. These scams only persist because they continue to work, and spreading the word is one way to make them stop.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on March 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Posing as Feds: A $125K Amazon Scam 

    Posing as Feds: A $125K Amazon Scam

    By Greg Collier

    In early March, a 71-year-old resident of Sequim, Washington, fell prey to a calculated and manipulative scheme, losing $125,000 to individuals posing as federal agents. What began as a simple phone call spiraled into a series of orchestrated encounters, ultimately leading to a substantial financial loss.

    The deception started when the victim was contacted by someone claiming to represent Amazon’s fraud department. The caller alleged that her account had been compromised and, in a carefully crafted escalation, connected her with another individual who introduced himself as a federal investigator. The so-called agent presented an alarming scenario. The victim was accused of being entangled in a money laundering operation and needed to prove her innocence by transferring money to the government.

    Under the weight of fear and urgency, the woman was directed to withdraw large sums of cash and place them into a lockbox. Over three separate meetings at a local business, she handed over the money to an individual she believed to be a government agent. Each time, she was given a single dollar bill as supposed confirmation of the exchange. It wasn’t until her bank manager noticed the unusual withdrawals that the scam unraveled. Law enforcement was alerted, and detectives launched an investigation.

    On March 12, authorities set up a sting operation. With the victim’s cooperation, another delivery of $40,000 was planned. This time, when the money was set to change hands, law enforcement intervened. A 35-year-old woman from Tacoma, identified as the driver involved in the scheme, was arrested. Through an interpreter, she was questioned and later booked on charges of extortion and attempted theft. The case remains open as investigators work to identify additional suspects.

    To avoid falling victim to such scams, caution is crucial. Government agencies and legitimate organizations will never demand cash payments, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency to resolve alleged legal issues. If someone claims to be an official investigator and pressures you to send money, it’s a red flag. Independently verifying claims by contacting the agency directly, rather than through provided phone numbers, can prevent costly mistakes. When in doubt, consulting a trusted financial institution or law enforcement agency before taking action can make all the difference.

    Local authorities continue to warn residents about these deceptive practices, urging anyone who suspects fraudulent activity to seek immediate guidance. In an era where technology makes scams more convincing than ever, awareness and skepticism remain the best defenses against financial exploitation.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on March 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , jail, police impersonation scam, ,   

    Jail Release Scam: Fake Ankle Monitor Fees 

    By Greg Collier

    Scammers are constantly finding new ways to prey on people, and one of the latest schemes targets individuals who have recently been released from jail. Reports have surfaced across the United States, including in Blount County, Tennessee, where law enforcement officials have warned about fraudulent phone calls demanding payment for an ankle monitor. These calls claim that failure to pay will result in re-arrest, creating a sense of urgency and fear.

    Authorities have made it clear that these calls are completely illegitimate. Any conditions related to release, including the use of an ankle monitor, are determined before an individual leaves jail. Official agencies will never call afterward to demand additional payments, nor will they request money over the phone or ask anyone to meet at a random location to settle fees.

    Despite these warnings, scammers continue to find victims by exploiting confusion and fear. Their methods often involve posing as law enforcement officials and using official-sounding language to convince people to comply. With personal information sometimes readily available through public records, these criminals can make their claims seem even more convincing.

    To protect against such scams, people are encouraged to remain skeptical of unsolicited calls demanding money, especially those that use threats or intimidation. Officials recommend ignoring such calls and using call-blocking apps to filter out potential scams. If there is ever doubt about the legitimacy of a call from law enforcement, individuals should directly contact the agency using a verified phone number rather than engaging with the caller.

    Unfortunately, scams like these are not isolated to one location. They have been reported in multiple states and take on different forms. The best defense against such fraud is awareness and caution. By staying informed and recognizing the warning signs, people can avoid becoming victims and help spread the word to others who may be at risk.

     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on February 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , police impersonation scam,   

    Jury Duty Scam: Don’t Fall for This Hoax! 

    By Greg Collier

    A fraudulent phone scam targeting individuals with threats of arrest for missing jury duty is once again making the rounds, prompting warnings from the Department of Justice. This scheme, designed to induce panic and urgency, has left many victims in Metro Detroit questioning its legitimacy, until they recognize the red flags.

    Scammers orchestrating this con go to great lengths to appear credible. They impersonate law enforcement officers, spoof official phone numbers, and even set up automated phone menus to create an illusion of authenticity. Their goal is to pressure individuals into making immediate payments, often through cryptocurrency kiosks or prepaid cards, by convincing them they are facing serious legal consequences.

    The scam preys on the fear of law enforcement repercussions. Victims receive a call from someone claiming to be from the sheriff’s department, asserting that they have missed jury duty and are now subject to legal penalties. The caller, maintaining a professional and authoritative demeanor, insists that the matter must be resolved immediately to avoid an arrest warrant.

    For those unfamiliar with legal procedures, the tactics can be highly convincing. Victims describe feeling disoriented and pressured as the scammers weave their deceptive narratives. The threats of escalating the matter from a civil infraction to a criminal case keep the targets engaged, afraid of the potential fallout.

    However, subtle inconsistencies often betray the scam. Some victims, upon questioning the caller for specific details, such as the address where the supposed jury summons was served, discover discrepancies that expose the fraud. Others seek validation by consulting friends or family members, who quickly recognize the telltale signs of a scam.

    Authorities emphasize that legitimate law enforcement agencies and court systems do not operate in this manner. Missing jury duty, while a serious matter, does not result in immediate arrest without due process. Courts communicate official notices through mail, and any penalties require a formal appearance before a judge, not an impromptu payment over the phone.

    Despite repeated warnings, the scam persists because it continues to ensnare victims. The urgency, the use of official-sounding language, and the impersonation of law enforcement make it difficult for unsuspecting individuals to distinguish the fraud from reality.

    Public awareness remains a key defense against these schemes. Individuals who recognize the scam are encouraged to report it to local law enforcement. By exposing these fraudulent operations, the cycle of deception can be disrupted, preventing others from falling into the same trap.

    Authorities stress that skepticism is crucial when dealing with unsolicited calls demanding payment. When in doubt, individuals should independently verify claims by directly contacting official agencies, rather than relying on the phone numbers provided by the caller. As long as these scams continue to target communities, spreading awareness remains an essential tool in combatting their success.

     

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

    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 9:00 am on January 30, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Scammers Target Immigrants with Fake Fees 

    Scammers Target Immigrants with Fake Fees

    By Greg Collier

    In the wake of heightened immigration enforcement, authorities are warning about an emerging scam targeting vulnerable individuals. Scammers, posing as law enforcement officers or government officials, attempt to exploit fears of deportation by demanding money in exchange for supposed protection or relief. This scheme follows a well-documented pattern seen in other fraudulent operations, where bad actors take advantage of fear and uncertainty to extract money from their victims.

    These scams typically involve phone calls or messages claiming that a person, or their family member, is at risk of deportation. The scammers, using sophisticated technology such as phone number spoofing, make their calls appear to come from legitimate agencies. They pressure their targets into paying fees, often through untraceable methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. In some cases, they go further, falsely promising expedited citizenship or legal residency for a price. Authorities stress that these offers are fraudulent, as legitimate legal processes never involve direct payments to individuals over the phone.

    Law enforcement officials emphasize that no government agency or police department will ever demand money in exchange for halting deportation proceedings or offering legal status. Any such request should be considered a red flag. Those receiving these calls are encouraged to hang up immediately, avoid engaging with the scammers, and report the incident to law enforcement.

    To protect against these scams, individuals should verify any official-sounding claims directly with the appropriate government agency. Checking official websites, consulting trusted legal professionals, and avoiding unsolicited requests for payment can help prevent falling victim to these deceptive tactics. Community organizations and immigration attorneys can also offer guidance on legitimate pathways to citizenship and legal status, ensuring that those seeking assistance are not misled by false promises.

    As with past scams targeting seniors and disaster victims, fraudsters continually adapt their tactics to exploit new situations. Raising awareness and staying informed is crucial in preventing financial and emotional harm. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls or messages to help prevent further victimization.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wjlFOl4e7o
     

  • Geebo 9:00 am on January 9, 2025 Permalink | Reply
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    Brazen Jury Duty Scam Run From Jail 

    Brazen Jury Duty Scam Run From Jail

    By Greg Collier

    In a disturbing example of increasingly sophisticated scams, a Sarasota woman recently lost over $12,000 to a scheme orchestrated by an inmate in a Georgia prison. The scam, which involved impersonation of law enforcement officials, utilized advanced tactics to manipulate the victim into transferring funds under the guise of resolving a fabricated legal issue.

    The incident began with a phone call to the victim from what appeared to be the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. The caller claimed to be a sheriff and alleged that the woman had missed jury duty, resulting in a warrant for her arrest. To avoid immediate arrest, the victim was instructed to pay a fine at a so-called ‘Bonding Transition Center’. This supposed center was, in reality, a Bitcoin ATM.

    The victim complied, depositing over $12,000 into three cryptocurrency accounts as directed. Unbeknownst to her, these funds were swiftly transferred into a Bitcoin wallet controlled by the scammer. Within a day, the money was dispersed into various accounts, making recovery nearly impossible.

    Law enforcement uncovered that the mastermind behind the scam operated from a prison cell using a smuggled phone. The inmate coordinated with an accomplice outside the prison to manage the funds and procure prepaid phones, which were delivered to the inmate via drone.

    This scam is not an isolated incident. Officials report at least 30 victims in Sarasota alone, with losses exceeding $100,000. The perpetrators use fear and urgency to pressure victims, often convincing them to remain on the phone until the ‘fine’ is paid. The caller ID is spoofed to appear as if the call is coming from a legitimate law enforcement agency, adding a veneer of credibility.

    Scammers commonly claim to represent law enforcement or court officials, alleging that the victim failed to report for jury duty. They threaten arrest and demand immediate payment of a fine to resolve the issue. The scammers often possess detailed personal information about their targets, such as home addresses or birthdates, lending an air of legitimacy to their claims.

    Victims are typically directed to pay using unconventional methods, such as cryptocurrency ATMs, prepaid gift cards, or wire transfers, which are difficult to trace and nearly impossible to recover.

    To avoid falling victim to scams like these, it’s crucial to understand how legitimate agencies operate. Law enforcement or courts will never call to demand payment over the phone or threaten arrest for missed jury duty without prior notice. Payments for fines or penalties are never collected through unconventional means like Bitcoin ATMs or gift cards.

    Remaining vigilant and informed is the best defense against these scams, which prey on fear and urgency to manipulate victims. Law enforcement continues to investigate and prosecute these cases, but public awareness is vital to prevent further losses.

     

  • Geebo 9:16 am on December 31, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , parking tickets, police impersonation scam,   

    Parking Ticket Scams on the Rise! 

    Parking Ticket Scams on the Rise!

    By Greg Collier

    Parking scams are becoming an increasingly concerning issue in cities across the country. These schemes, designed to trick unsuspecting drivers into providing sensitive financial information, have already been reported in multiple locations and could potentially spread to other urban areas.

    The scam typically targets individuals using popular parking systems in metropolitan regions. In one variation, drivers receive a fraudulent text message claiming they have an outstanding parking citation. The message often includes a link, encouraging recipients to pay immediately to avoid additional fees. While it may appear legitimate at first glance, clicking on these links can expose individuals to malware, ransomware, or phishing attempts.

    Cities affected by this scam, such as Charlotte and Milwaukee, have emphasized that they do not notify drivers of parking violations through text messages with embedded payment links. Official notifications, in most cases, are issued through traditional means, such as paper citations left on vehicle windshields or letters sent via the postal service. For drivers who are unsure about the authenticity of a parking ticket, cities provide secure websites where payment and citation details can be verified.

    The broader concern is the likelihood of this scam expanding to other regions. With technology playing an integral role in parking systems, bad actors may see this as an opportunity to exploit similar systems elsewhere. Drivers in any city that relies on mobile apps, text-based parking services, or online payment portals should be wary of unsolicited messages related to parking fines.

    The consequences of falling for such schemes can be severe. Providing payment information through fraudulent links can lead to unauthorized transactions, and in some cases, devices can become compromised by malicious software. Individuals who suspect they have been targeted or have accidentally engaged with one of these messages are advised to contact their financial institutions immediately to secure their accounts.

    Urban areas must remain proactive in addressing these threats. Public awareness campaigns, clear communication about legitimate notification methods, and accessible verification resources can help curb the impact of these scams. Drivers, on their part, should remain cautious and skeptical of any unexpected messages related to parking citations, particularly those that urge immediate payment.

    As this issue evolves, it’s clear that vigilance is key. By staying informed and relying on official channels, drivers can protect themselves from falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams.

     

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