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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 30, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: arrest warrant ( 26 ), DNA scam ( 6 ), dna test, jury duty scam ( 32 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  DNA Test Hoaxes Are The New Jury Duty Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The Idaho State Police (ISP) is warning residents about a new phone scam targeting individuals with alarming claims related to DNA testing. Callers impersonate law enforcement officers, falsely asserting that recipients must undergo DNA testing to avoid arrest. These scammers use fear and urgency to coerce victims into making payments, often leaving them distressed and confused.

  This scam follows a familiar pattern seen in other fraudulent schemes, such as the long-standing jury duty and arrest warrant scams. In those versions, scammers tell victims they have missed jury duty or have outstanding warrants, demanding immediate payment to avoid jail time. The DNA test hoax mirrors these tactics by introducing the false narrative of a missed appointment, further heightening the sense of alarm.

  One victim reported receiving a voicemail stating they needed to submit a DNA sample in response to certified mail, with instructions to contact the ISP Bureau of Criminal Investigation for clarification. Soon after, the victim received another call alleging they had missed the required DNA appointment, leading to a supposed arrest warrant. Payment was demanded to ‘resolve’ the fabricated situation. In a separate incident, a scammer impersonated a law enforcement officer, telling a woman that her son had failed to complete a mandatory DNA test. This false claim was used to justify an arrest warrant, and the scammer requested funds under the guise of a bond payment.

  These scams exploit fear and undermine public trust in legitimate programs like the ISP’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), which lawfully collects DNA from convicted offenders to support investigations. Misleading calls like these can deter cooperation with real law enforcement efforts and create confusion about proper DNA collection procedures.

  The ISP reminds the public that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand payment or threaten arrest over the phone. Scammers commonly request payment via gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or money transfer apps, clear indicators of fraudulent intent.

  Though these calls have been reported in Idaho, similar scams could emerge in other parts of the country. Scammers often use different variations of these schemes to target people in multiple regions. Questioning unexpected calls and reporting suspicious activities to local authorities are key steps in protecting yourself and others from fraud. Public awareness is essential to disrupt these operations and maintain trust in law enforcement and legitimate investigative programs.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 18, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: ankle monitor ( 2 ), inmate scam ( 6 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  False Promises of Freedom: Exploiting Families of Inmates 

  

  By Greg Collier

  A new scam has surfaced in Johnson County, Kansas, targeting families with loved ones in jail. The scammers promise release through the installation of an ankle monitor for $600, claiming it will allow inmates to serve time under house arrest. However, the Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning, emphasizing that only a court order can place someone under house arrest, and all legitimate payments are processed through the courts.

  Unfortunately, scams like these are not unique to Johnson County. Across the U.S., scammers target families desperate for any chance to help their loved ones in the criminal justice system. These schemes exploit both emotional vulnerability and a lack of understanding about the legal process. Scammers often present their offers as urgent and legitimate, pushing victims to act before they have time to verify the information.

  It’s crucial to recognize that not all individuals in jail are dangerous offenders. Many are awaiting trial, serving short sentences for non-violent offenses, or struggling with unpaid fines. These individuals are people with families, mothers, fathers, children, and friends, who want to see them safe and home.

  Scammers exploit this love and concern. They prey on the fact that families often feel powerless in navigating the legal system, and the idea of bringing a loved one home, even temporarily, is irresistible. However, falling for these scams can leave families in worse financial trouble, and their loved ones remain behind bars.

  The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that court-ordered house arrest cannot be purchased over the phone. If you receive a call demanding payment for the release of a loved one, hang up and contact your local police department directly.

  To stay safe from similar scams, consider these tips. If you receive unexpected requests for payment, call your local jail or sheriff’s office directly. Scammers rely on emotional manipulation. Take a moment to verify the information before taking action. Also, knowing where your family member stands in the legal process can help you spot fraudulent claims.

  Scammers thrive in environments of fear, confusion, and emotional distress. We must acknowledge that people in jail are not just statistics. They also have families who love them. Addressing this scam requires more than vigilance; it demands compassion. Families deserve better than to be preyed upon, and those incarcerated deserve a fair and transparent system, not false promises of freedom for a price.

  Communities can fight back by staying informed, spreading awareness, and supporting one another in difficult times. If you know someone with a loved one in jail, share this information with them and encourage them to be cautious. Together, we can prevent these scams from spreading and protect the most vulnerable among us.

  By being compassionate, we can work to ensure that no one falls victim to these heartless schemes.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: arrest warrant ( 26 ), pandemic loans, police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  Pandemic Loans Exploited in Arrest Warrant Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scammers have found a way to exploit yet another avenue, This time it’s pandemic loans. In a sophisticated twist on the classic arrest warrant scam, criminals are now using detailed information about loans granted during the pandemic to make their schemes more convincing. These scams involve impersonating law enforcement officials, creating a sense of urgency, and pressuring victims to pay large sums of money to avoid arrest.

  This version of the scam usually begins with a phone call from someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer, often using local sheriff’s offices as a cover. The caller informs the target that they have a warrant for failing to appear in court, usually related to a pandemic-era loan they allegedly received. What makes this scam particularly deceptive is the inclusion of specific information, such as the loan number, the loan amount, and even the name of the issuing bank.

  This scam preys on fear, confusion, and the complex nature of pandemic relief programs. Many individuals received financial assistance during the pandemic, often with complex terms and documentation. The scam exploits the anxiety that recipients might have missed an important notice or misunderstood the terms of their loan. Additionally, by providing detailed information that appears legitimate, the scammers build trust and catch their targets off guard.

  Victims are typically instructed to make immediate payments to resolve the supposed legal issue, with threats of arrest if they don’t comply. Some may even receive fake paperwork to add credibility to the scheme. These documents, at first glance, look authentic but often contain small errors, such as incorrect court names or postal tracking numbers that don’t align.

  This scam is another example of how scammers are leveraging social engineering techniques to gain trust. The use of official-sounding titles, detailed knowledge of personal loans, and realistic-sounding voicemails creates a sense of urgency. Scammers may also follow up with emails or certified mail, further enhancing the illusion of legitimacy.

  Law enforcement will never demand money over the phone or threaten arrest for missed payments. Taking time to verify the legitimacy of such claims and closely examining any accompanying paperwork can prevent costly mistakes. Scammers thrive on fear and urgency, and by remaining calm and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to these deceptive schemes.

  This new variation on the arrest warrant scam highlights the lengths to which scammers will go to exploit public programs and personal fears. Pandemic relief loans, meant to help during difficult times, have now become tools for deception. Staying informed, scrutinizing unsolicited communication, and verifying all claims independently are essential to avoiding these traps. Remember, legitimate law enforcement agencies will never demand immediate payments or threaten you over the phone. Awareness is the first line of defense against falling victim to these evolving scams.

   
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  Geebo 8:01 am on October 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: FBI ( 24 ), missing person ( 8 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  Missing Persons Case Leads to Scam Arrest 

  

  By Greg Collier

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

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

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

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

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

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

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 8, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: extortion ( 17 ), ICAC, police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 ), sextortion ( 4 )   

  ICAC Task Force Impersonation Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The Attorney General’s Office in South Dakota is issuing another warning about a scam, this time involving impersonators claiming to be from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The scammer calls individuals, accusing them of inappropriate online behavior with a minor and, in a disturbing twist, claims the child has attempted suicide. The victim is then told they face arrest unless they agree to pay the supposed medical expenses of the child. The demands for payment typically range from $1,000 to $8,000 and come with the added pressure of requiring immediate action.

  In some cases, scammers make their story seem even more credible by sending text messages with photos of the victim’s property. These images make it appear as though the victim has been under investigation by the ICAC Task Force, heightening fear and urgency. However, authorities have made it clear that the ICAC Task Force does not operate by contacting citizens to demand money. The inclusion of property photos is also a known scare tactic, often pulled from readily available sources like Google Street View. This method of intimidation has been used in other extortion schemes, where scammers manipulate publicly accessible data to make their threats appear more real.

  It’s important to recognize that this kind of scam can happen anywhere. Scammers exploit technology and public information to create a sense of danger and immediacy. They rely on fear to push individuals into paying quickly, hoping the urgency will prevent victims from questioning the situation. These extortion attempts can happen to anyone, using familiar tactics designed to make the victim feel isolated and vulnerable.

  If a call or message seems suspicious, it’s essential to step back and avoid acting out of fear. Taking time to verify the claims, consulting trusted sources, and reaching out to law enforcement can prevent falling into a scammer’s trap. Avoid providing financial or personal information over the phone or online without careful consideration.

  For those who think they may have been targeted, contacting the proper authorities is critical. Staying informed and cautious is the best defense against these types of fraudulent schemes that prey on fear and manipulation.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 25, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: blackmail ( 4 ), dating apps ( 2 ), extortion ( 17 ), online dating ( 8 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  Dating site scam blackmails victims 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Connecting with others has become easier than ever. However, this convenience comes with its own set of risks. Recently, there has been an alarming increase in scams involving imposters pretending to be law enforcement officials. These scammers target unsuspecting victims, often through dating apps, coercing them into parting with their money.

  Recently, in South Carolina, a warning was issued about scammers posing as members of an internet crimes task force or local police. These fraudsters start by luring victims on dating apps, where men believe they are chatting with a woman. Once the conversation progresses, the scam takes a sinister turn. Victims are accused of interacting with a minor and are then approached by scammers posing as a “parent” or “investigator.” They demand money in exchange for dropping the supposed charges. Alarmingly, the scammers have gone as far as using a real investigator’s information to seem more legitimate.

  Legitimate law enforcement officials never request money in exchange for dropping charges. Anyone receiving such calls should report them to local law enforcement agencies.

  A similar scam recently unfolded in Nebraska, where a man lost over $2,000 after befriending a woman on a dating app. After receiving unsolicited photos, he was contacted by someone claiming to work with the police, stating that the girl’s father would not press charges if he paid a sum of money. Trusting the caller, the victim wired the money to an online account.

  These incidents underscore the need for caution in our digital interactions. It is essential to verify the identity of individuals you interact with online, especially if they ask for money. Be wary of unexpected messages or calls, particularly those involving threats or requests for money. Avoid sharing personal or financial information with people you meet online, even if they seem trustworthy. If you receive a suspicious request, contact local authorities directly to verify its legitimacy. Staying informed about common scams and how they operate is your best defense against fraudsters.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: arrest warrant ( 26 ), gag order ( 3 ), jury duty scam ( 32 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  Why ‘gag orders’ are red flags to a scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In many scams, perpetrators attempt to isolate their victims from friends and family, often virtually. Scammers frequently keep their victims on the phone while guiding them through the payment process. This tactic is particularly common in police impersonation scams, such as the jury duty scam or the grandparent scam. To prevent victims from contacting others, these impostors may threaten arrest, falsely claiming a ‘gag order’ is in place. While most people have heard of gag orders, this is not how they actually work.

  A gag order in US courts is a legal directive that restricts individuals, typically those involved in a legal proceeding, from discussing or disclosing certain information related to the case. These orders are issued by judges to ensure a fair trial by preventing the potential for prejudicial pretrial publicity and protecting the privacy and rights of the parties involved.

  Gag orders are issued by a court, typically signed by a judge and bearing official court insignia or letterhead. Official court orders are usually delivered through formal channels such as registered mail, a court official, or legal representative. If a gag order is delivered via email, text message, by phone call or any informal method, it’s likely fake.

  For example, in Northern Kentucky, police have issued a warning about scammers posing as law enforcement officers who extort money from victims under the pretense of legal fines. These scammers claim that a gag order is in place, threatening that discussing the matter with anyone else could worsen the victim’s legal situation.

  Scammers often rely on fear and urgency. Once a gag order is mentioned over the phone, there’s an overwhelming chance the caller is a scammer. Do not make any payments or provide personal information. Gag orders are not communicated or enforced over the phone. Politely hang up the phone. Engaging further could give the scammer more opportunities to manipulate you. Contact your local law enforcement agency or a legal professional to verify the legitimacy of the claim. Use official contact information, not the numbers provided by the caller. If possible, take note of the caller’s number, any names they use, and specific details of the conversation.

  By taking these steps, you can protect yourself and help authorities combat these fraudulent activities.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on July 12, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: jury duty scam ( 32 ), police impersonation scam, scam awareness, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  Police erect billboards about jury duty scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As we frequently note, the jury duty scam appears to be the most prevalent scam in America today. Every day, we encounter news stories from various municipalities alerting their residents about scammers impersonating police officers to extort money from their victims.

  As you may be aware, the jury duty scam involves criminals posing as law enforcement officers who contact individuals claiming they have missed jury duty and face immediate arrest. The scammers typically demand that the victims pay a fine immediately, often through untraceable methods such as gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, to avoid arrest.

  However, one city has decided to take a stand against the jury duty scam by implementing an innovative approach to curb this fraudulent activity. The Norfolk, Virginia, Sheriff’s Office is issuing a stern warning to residents about an ongoing jury duty scam targeting unsuspecting individuals.

  The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office explained that while this scam isn’t new, its frequency is increasing. Scammers are targeting everyone, but the elderly are particularly vulnerable. The reason for the uptick is the scam’s success, with scammers extorting thousands of dollars from people.

  In response to numerous reports, the Sheriff’s Office has developed a proactive action plan. This includes placing warnings on billboards and posters at local businesses to alert people about the scam. Locations such as pharmacies, grocery stores, and kiosks now feature posters reminding residents that they won’t be arrested for missing jury duty and that the Sheriff’s Office would never call asking for money.

  The Sheriff’s Office advises anyone receiving a jury duty scam call to take a simple step: hang up and report it to the police department.

  According to Virginia Code, if a juror fails to appear, the penalty is a fine ranging from $50 to $200. Most states have similar laws.

  Please remember, no legitimate authority will demand immediate payment or threaten arrest over the phone.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 28, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: gold bars ( 10 ), impersonation scam ( 158 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 )   

  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.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on June 14, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: CISA, impersonation scam ( 158 ), police impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,429 ), U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency   

  Why do scammers pose as the CISA, and what is it? 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scammers are never above impersonating any branch of the government. Most commonly, they pose as the IRS, the Social Security Administration, or the FBI. Now, it appears scammers are posing as an obscure office of the government to further their fraudulent schemes.

  The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is a federal agency within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for enhancing the security, resilience, and reliability of the nation’s cybersecurity and critical infrastructure. Overall, the CISA plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s critical infrastructure and ensuring that the United States can effectively prevent, respond to, and recover from diverse threats and hazards.

  In a recent notice on its site, the CISA is warning Americans that phone scammers have begun impersonating the agency. Just like with other similar scams, this one involves the person pretending to be from CISA asking the caller to send cash, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to them.

  The CISA’s warning does not go into detail how exactly their agency is being used in scams, but it’s not difficult to imagine what scammers might try. For example, the scammers may claim that the victim has a warrant out for their arrest for supposedly accessing illicit content on the internet. Then the scammers could tell the victim the warrant could be resolved if the victim makes a payment. As mentioned above, this is usually requested through non-traditional means like gift cards or cryptocurrency.

  Like all law enforcement impersonation scams, the CISA wants to remind everyone that no legitimate government agency will ever ask for payment in cash, cryptocurrency, or gift cards over the phone. If you receive such a request, it’s a scam.

  For more information on how to stay safe from scams and to report suspicious activity, visit the official CISA website.