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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 22, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: police impersonation scam, police scam ( 40 ), Scams ( 1,599 )   

  Impersonating the Law for Profit 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An alarming case unfolded in Clay County, Kentucky, when an individual from Ohio was taken into custody on charges of fraud and impersonating law enforcement. Authorities reported that the suspect contacted a local woman on September 17, claiming she was facing criminal charges and demanding money.

  The situation escalated while the victim was in contact with the sheriff’s office. A deputy overheard a man instructing her over the phone to return home, wait until no one else was present, and expect him to arrive. Later that same day, the suspect appeared at her residence, where he was confronted by family members before fleeing.

  Deputies located him shortly afterward, and the vehicle he was driving had been marked to resemble an unmarked police car, which added to the ruse. Authorities also learned from the victim’s son that money had already been taken.

  This case underscores the dangers posed by impersonation scams that target vulnerable individuals in moments of fear and confusion. The outcome in this instance may have been far worse if the woman had been alone when he arrived at her home. Who knows what could have happened if she had faced him without the protection of her family?

  Across the United States, fraud involving impersonation has been rising sharply. Reports to enforcement agencies show that scams impersonating government officials or law enforcement occur frequently and cost victims large sums. Older adults have lost tens of millions of dollars in recent years to schemes in which fraudsters pretend to represent trusted institutions and demand payment under threat of legal action. These schemes are growing more sophisticated. Tactics now often involve spoofed caller ID information so that the fraudster’s number appears to be that of a legitimate agency. Communications by email or text also have increased as means of initiating contact. The tools available to criminals, including those that replicate voices or identities via artificial intelligence, raise the stakes for unsuspecting victims.

  When responding to suspicious contacts, keep in mind that real law enforcement will never demand immediate payment via wire transfer or gift cards. Nor will they instruct someone to wait until no one else is present so an officer can come by without proper verification. It is advisable to remain calm, hang up, and reach out directly to the agency in question using a trusted phone number or website. Personal information should not be shared with unverified callers. Verification of identification is also crucial, whether the request is by phone, in person, or by electronic communication.

  This incident offers a clear example of how impersonation scams can escalate if not interrupted. It also offers lessons about what protective measures individuals may take to avoid becoming victims.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 15, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: identity theft ( 129 ), jury duty scam ( 37 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 )   

  Fake Jury Duty Sites Steal Your Identity 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scam artists continue to adapt their methods, and one of the most common schemes circulating today is the jury duty scam. This long-running tactic has seen many variations over the years, but a new twist has emerged in Wisconsin that raises the stakes by targeting both money and personal identity.

  Traditionally, this scam involves a phone call from someone pretending to be an authority figure. The caller claims the recipient has missed jury duty and now faces arrest or a significant fine. The tone is often urgent, creating fear and confusion that push victims into making quick decisions. While these calls are not new, recent reports show scammers are now supplementing their threats with fake websites. These sites are designed to look official and can trick people into sharing sensitive personal information. Victims are sometimes told to enter details such as their birth date or Social Security number in order to determine the amount they supposedly owe. In some cases, the scammers claim that thousands of dollars are due for failing to appear for jury service.

  The persistence of the jury duty scam is tied to its ability to exploit trust in legal institutions and fear of legal consequences. Reports of this fraud have surfaced in many states over the years, showing that no region is immune. Scammers target a wide range of people, from younger adults who may not yet understand jury procedures to older individuals who may be more inclined to believe a caller claiming to represent the courts. Beyond the immediate demand for payment, the risks extend to long-term identity theft. Victims may later discover fraudulent credit accounts opened in their names, complications with tax filings, or even false criminal records, all of which can create years of stress and financial damage.

  The addition of fraudulent websites makes the scam especially dangerous. While previous versions largely focused on extracting immediate payments, this variation introduces the risk of long-term identity theft. Once personal information is provided, it can be used or sold, leading to problems that may linger for years. That kind of damage goes far beyond the loss of money, forcing individuals into the ongoing burden of monitoring and protecting their identity.

  It is important to remember that legitimate jury summonses or failure-to-appear notices are always sent through the mail. Courts do not issue arrest threats over the phone or demand payment through unconventional means such as cryptocurrency kiosks. Anyone receiving a suspicious call should avoid engaging, hang up, and independently verify information by contacting the local court using official contact details. Above all, consumers should never visit websites provided in unsolicited calls, texts, or emails.

  This latest twist underscores how scams evolve in order to stay effective. Raising awareness within families and communities is a critical step toward reducing the number of victims. By sharing knowledge of these tactics, people can recognize the warning signs and resist high-pressure demands. The jury duty scam remains one of the most widespread frauds in circulation today, and knowledge is the best defense against its changing forms.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bail bonds scam ( 7 ), bail bondsman ( 3 ), bail scam ( 16 ), inmate scam ( 11 ), jail scam ( 2 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 ), Zelle ( 74 )   

  Families Warned of Rising Jail Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Law enforcement agencies in different states are warning the public about scams that specifically target families of individuals who have recently been arrested or are being held in jail. These schemes are designed to exploit the stress and urgency that families feel when dealing with an arrest.

  In Burke County, Georgia, authorities reported that scammers have been monitoring law enforcement websites for recent arrests. Once they identify someone who has been detained, they contact the individual’s relatives while pretending to be a bondsman. The callers then demand money over the phone, insisting that payment is required to secure release. After money is sent, the scammer disappears. Local officials emphasize that legitimate bonding companies do not operate in this way and that payments should only be arranged directly with licensed professionals or through the detention center.

  A similar warning has been issued in Peoria County, Illinois. In this case, the fraudulent calls come from individuals pretending to be ranking members of the sheriff’s office. Family members of detainees are told that bail can be secured through payment applications such as Zelle, with promises of home detention and eventual dismissal of charges. Scammers attempt to build credibility by claiming that computer systems are unavailable and that cash payments cannot be accepted. Authorities in Peoria County have clarified that they do not contact families to demand bail money and have urged residents to report any such calls.

  These cases highlight how scammers are exploiting the availability of public arrest information and the confusion that often surrounds the bonding process. By inserting themselves between families and the justice system, they can take advantage of situations where people are most vulnerable. Officials in both states are reminding the public that all financial transactions related to bonding should be verified directly with licensed companies or detention centers. Families who receive suspicious calls are encouraged to contact law enforcement to confirm the legitimacy of any claims.

  What is striking about these cases is how they reflect the evolution of older forms of bail bond fraud. Scams involving promises of quick release or special arrangements have existed for years, but the ability to instantly access arrest records online has given fraudsters new opportunities. Families are now being contacted almost immediately after an arrest becomes public information, allowing criminals to strike when emotions are at their highest.

  Another concerning element is the shift toward digital payment systems. The use of applications like Zelle allows money to move instantly and makes it difficult for victims to recover funds once a transaction is complete. Unlike traditional methods of fraud that might involve face-to-face contact, these scams rely on the speed and convenience of digital transfers to eliminate traceable interactions. This not only reduces the risk of exposure for the scammer but also increases the likelihood that victims will lose their money permanently.

  Together, these factors show how technology is being leveraged to give old scams new life. Families already under pressure to navigate the criminal justice system are being placed in even more difficult positions by criminals who rely on fear and urgency to succeed.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on August 5, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: fake websites ( 15 ), identity theft ( 129 ), jury duty scam ( 37 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 )   

  Jury Duty Scam Gets a Tech Upgrade 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The jury duty scam has been a persistent threat for years, often beginning with a phone call from someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer. The caller accuses the recipient of failing to report for jury duty and threatens immediate arrest unless a fine is paid. These calls can be very convincing, with scammers using spoofed caller IDs to make it appear as if the call is coming from a local police department. Victims are often pressured into making quick payments using gift cards, wire transfers, or mobile payment apps. The urgency and fear created by the call are intended to override a person’s judgment, making them more likely to comply.

  A new variation of this scam is now emerging, according to a warning from the Federal Trade Commission. Instead of instructing targets to make a payment directly over the phone, scammers are directing them to visit a fraudulent website. This site is designed to mimic an official government page, complete with realistic-looking seals and professional design elements. The individual is asked to enter sensitive personal information, including their date of birth and Social Security number, under the pretense of verifying their identity or calculating a fine. In some cases, the site demands payment through non-traditional methods such as cryptocurrency or through so-called government kiosks, which do not actually exist.

  This approach allows scammers to collect personal data as well as money, potentially leading to both financial loss and identity theft. The presence of a convincing website may give the impression of legitimacy, especially to individuals who are unfamiliar with how official government sites operate.

  Once this personal information is collected, the consequences can extend far beyond the initial scam. Scammers may use the data to open fraudulent credit accounts, file false tax returns, or even commit medical identity theft. Victims often do not realize their identity has been compromised until they receive collection notices, are denied credit, or encounter issues with government agencies. The damage can take years to fully resolve.

  Anyone who receives such a call should avoid engaging with the caller or visiting the provided website. If there is any concern about jury duty status, the appropriate course of action is to contact the local court directly using a verified phone number or official website.

   
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  Geebo 8:01 am on July 17, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: ICE ( 3 ), Immigration ( 14 ), Immigration and Customs Enforcement ( 3 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 )   

  Scam Calls Target Immigrants in Texas 

  

  By Greg Collier

  With the current complexity of immigration laws in the United States, many individuals, especially those in vulnerable communities, may find their legal status not only difficult to understand but also a source of fear for their personal safety. This uncertainty creates a dangerous opening for scammers who seek to exploit those fears for financial gain.

  In a recent warning issued by the Austin, Texas, Police Department, residents are being cautioned about scam calls from individuals impersonating either local law enforcement officers or agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These callers are reportedly claiming that the person being contacted is facing fraudulent criminal charges or unspecified immigration violations. The tone of the calls is designed to induce panic, pressuring the recipient into complying out of fear of arrest or deportation.

  What makes this scam particularly insidious is its appearance of legitimacy. Police have identified that many of these calls originate from numbers with a 512 area code, specifically those beginning with the prefix 974. Authorities have stated clearly that any calls appearing with this number format should be treated as fraudulent and reported immediately.

  It is important to emphasize that these types of scams are not limited to areas along the Southern Border. Communities across the country have reported similar schemes, with scammers adapting their tactics to exploit local area codes and regional law enforcement terminology in an effort to appear credible.

  Individuals should remain cautious of unsolicited phone calls, especially those involving threats related to immigration status or legal trouble. Law enforcement agencies and immigration officials do not conduct official business in this manner, particularly when it comes to demanding immediate responses or payments. Anyone who receives such a call should not engage with the caller and should instead report the incident to local authorities or relevant federal agencies.

  As long as confusion persists around immigration policy and enforcement, scammers will continue to take advantage of that uncertainty. Staying informed and vigilant is key to protecting oneself and one’s community.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 3, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: ankle monitor ( 4 ), apple pay ( 3 ), house arrest scam, inmate scam ( 11 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 ), Zelle ( 74 )   

  Fake Jail Release Scams Spreading 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Authorities in multiple jurisdictions are alerting the public to a growing trend of scams that exploit families of recently arrested individuals. These schemes have been reported in both Jones County, Mississippi and Essex County, New Jersey, with scammers attempting to extract large sums of money by offering fraudulent release options.

  In Mississippi, the scam involves callers reaching out to relatives of inmates at the county’s adult detention facility. The callers claim the inmate can be released on house arrest in exchange for a payment. The requested amounts vary but have reportedly ranged from several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Payment is typically demanded through debit cards or digital cash transfer services.

  In New Jersey, a similar approach is being used, but with a different narrative. Scammers are posing as law enforcement officers or court personnel, contacting families and demanding bail payments through mobile apps such as Apple Pay or Zelle. One report indicated a victim sent thousands of dollars after being convinced the money was required to secure a loved one’s release.

  Officials have emphasized that these claims are entirely false. Under current legal frameworks, particularly in jurisdictions that have adopted criminal justice reforms, cash bail is often no longer required in the manner suggested by these scams. No legitimate release process involves unsolicited requests for money through digital platforms.

  Residents are advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious calls or messages. Families of incarcerated individuals are encouraged to verify any claims directly with the appropriate legal or correctional authorities before taking action.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 13, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: arrest scam ( 4 ), Customs and Border Protection ( 2 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 )   

  Fake Border Agent Scam Hits Midwest 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A telephone scam that first gained traction in Texas has now reached the Kansas City metro area, with multiple reports surfacing in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. Authorities are warning that this scam is not confined to one region and could target individuals anywhere in the country. Local law enforcement is urging residents to remain cautious after receiving calls from individuals falsely claiming to be agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

  The fraudulent callers typically allege that a car has been rented in the victim’s name and was discovered near the Southern border with drugs inside. The scenario is intended to alarm the recipient and prompt a panicked response, often leading to further demands for personal information or money. In some cases, the scammer escalates the deception by claiming that an arrest warrant has been issued or that federal agents are en route.

  Officials emphasize that U.S. Customs and Border Protection does not contact individuals by phone to accuse them of crimes or request personal data. Any legitimate investigations involving the agency would be conducted through formal procedures and never involve threats or immediate financial demands. Victims are sometimes instructed to pay using wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards, all of which are red flags for fraud.

  These scams can appear convincing, particularly because callers may use spoofed numbers to mimic government lines. Caller ID is not trustworthy in these situations, and community members are advised to exercise caution, regardless of how credible the call may seem.

  Residents who receive such calls should not engage with the scammer and should never provide personal or financial information. Instead, they are encouraged to independently look up the official contact number for U.S. Customs and Border Protection and call directly to verify any suspicious claims. Using a callback feature or redialing the original number could lead to further contact with the perpetrator.

  The Excelsior Springs Police Department continues to monitor these reports and stresses that public awareness is the best defense against such schemes. Anyone who believes they may have been targeted is encouraged to report the incident to local authorities. Staying informed and skeptical of unsolicited claims can help prevent falling victim to this increasingly widespread scam.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 6, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gift cards ( 107 ), Immigration and Customs Enforcement ( 3 ), international students ( 4 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 )   

  ICE Scam Drains Students of Thousands 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A recent case out of Indiana highlights the growing threat of scammers impersonating federal immigration agents, specifically targeting vulnerable international students with alarming levels of detail and psychological pressure. The incident has once again raised concerns about how fraudsters exploit fear, confusion about U.S. immigration procedures, and trust in authority to steal thousands of dollars from unsuspecting victims.

  The scam began with a phone call claiming to be from Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The caller insisted that the student was in violation of immigration laws, citing vague administrative errors that required immediate resolution. The scammer provided a name, badge number, and even directed the student to the official government website to verify a spoofed office phone number, giving the call a thin veneer of credibility.

  As the call progressed, a second individual posed as a local police officer, allegedly confirming that a warrant was in place unless ICE validated the student’s case. The scammers demanded that the student remain on the phone, warning that any attempt to hang up or contact someone else would worsen the situation. Over the course of several hours, the student was emotionally manipulated and coerced into purchasing $5,000 in gift cards, believing they were bond payments to avoid deportation and arrest.

  This type of fraud is not new, but it continues to evolve in sophistication. In this case, the scammers had detailed personal information, including the student’s academic history, immigration status, and point of entry into the country. Such information is often obtained through data breaches, phishing attempts, or other illicit means, adding a layer of legitimacy that can trap even the most cautious individuals.

  Scams involving impersonation of immigration officials have become increasingly common in the United States, especially in the years following heightened immigration enforcement efforts. These scams often exploit cultural differences and unfamiliarity with American legal systems, making international students a frequent target. Victims are made to feel isolated and powerless, sometimes being told their phones are under surveillance and that contacting others could lead to further legal trouble.

  The financial loss alone can be devastating. Many international students live on tight budgets, balancing tuition, rent, and everyday expenses without local family support. In addition to the emotional toll, scams like these can create long-term financial instability, especially when the stolen funds come from borrowed money or credit cards.

  This case also underscores the need for greater awareness and education about how legitimate government agencies operate. Federal agencies do not request payment via gift cards, nor do they threaten arrest over the phone without prior written notice. Any demand for personal information, money transfers, or secrecy is a strong indicator of fraud.

  The student in this case is now speaking out to help warn others in similar situations. Her story is a stark reminder that even highly educated individuals can fall victim when fear is weaponized and authority is impersonated. As long as these scams continue to exploit systemic confusion and personal vulnerabilities, raising awareness remains the most effective line of defense.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 4, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: inmate scam ( 11 ), jail ( 2 ), jail scam ( 2 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 )   

  New Jail Scam Targets Inmates’ Families 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A new scam targeting the families of jail inmates has emerged in Colorado, raising concerns among law enforcement and correctional officials. The scam was first reported in Eagle County in late May and has prompted warnings to the public about deceptive tactics aimed at exploiting emotional vulnerability and confusion surrounding the jail system.

  In this particular scheme, a family member of an inmate received a phone call from someone posing as a legal or jail official. The caller claimed that their loved one had already appeared before a judge and was eligible for release, but only after completing a required class. The caller then demanded a payment of $1,000, which they stated was the bond amount needed for the inmate to proceed with the class and secure release. When the family member began questioning the legitimacy of the request, the scammer responded with verbal pressure and emotional manipulation, insisting that a responsible person would comply for the sake of their relative.

  Fortunately, the targeted individual ended the call and contacted the local sheriff’s office directly, where it was confirmed the call was fraudulent. Law enforcement has since shared details of the incident to warn others and help prevent further victimization.

  This is not the first time families of incarcerated individuals have been targeted by financial scams. Previous incidents have included fraudulent offers promising early release in exchange for money, or requiring payment for GPS monitoring devices that were supposedly necessary for home detention. In all these variations, the scam relies on convincing families that immediate action is necessary and that payment will somehow influence or accelerate the legal process.

  Law enforcement officials stress that no legitimate agency will ever call and demand money over the phone in exchange for someone’s release. Bail procedures and requirements are handled through the courts and jail system with clearly documented protocols, not through unverified calls demanding payment.

  Anyone who receives a call of this nature is encouraged to avoid engaging with the caller and instead contact their local law enforcement agency directly. Verifying the status of an inmate or the requirements for their release should always be done through official channels, not through unsolicited phone calls. Scammers are adept at exploiting urgency and emotion, but vigilance and verification can help prevent financial and emotional harm.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 22, 2025 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Immigration and Customs Enforcement ( 3 ), international students ( 4 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,599 ), U.S. Customs and Border Protection ( 8 )   

  Visa Scam Targets Foreign Students 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scammers are once again exploiting confusion and fear to prey on vulnerable populations. The FBI’s Atlanta office is warning that international students legally studying in the United States are being targeted in a sophisticated scam designed to extort money under the threat of deportation.

  This warning comes at a time when Immigration and Customs Enforcement has faced scrutiny for canceling and then walking back the cancellation of hundreds of student visas. Scammers appear to be aware of this uncertainty and are using it to make their schemes more convincing. They are impersonating officials from legitimate government agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Some even fabricate names of fake agencies or pose as representatives from U.S. universities, often using phony websites that mimic official ones to add an extra layer of deception.

  Victims are being told they are in violation of their visa status and face serious consequences, unless they pay fines immediately. These fines are described as fees for legal representation, university registration, or immigration processing. So far, students from countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Jordan have been most frequently targeted.

  This is another example of how scammers stay attuned to current events and seize opportunities where trust is already fragile. By weaponizing bureaucratic confusion, they not only cause financial harm but also jeopardize the academic and immigration status of their victims. The FBI is urging international students to remain vigilant, question unsolicited contact from supposed government officials, and report suspicious activity through appropriate channels.

  International students who suspect they are being targeted should not act hastily out of fear. Verification of claims and careful scrutiny of communication can help prevent falling victim. Government agencies do not typically demand immediate payment over the phone or through unofficial platforms. As always, awareness remains a critical line of defense.