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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 2, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: online dating ( 7 ), romance scam ( 70 ), Scams, subscription fees ( 5 )   

  The latest romance scam targeting online daters 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the digital age, finding love online has become increasingly common. However, with the rise of online dating comes the unfortunate reality of romance scams. The FBI has recently issued a warning about a new and sophisticated scam targeting users of online dating services. This scam not only preys on the hopes of finding love but also aims to deceive and defraud unsuspecting victims.

  The scam begins innocently enough, with scammers creating fake personas on dating apps. These individuals go to great lengths to establish trust with their victims, engaging in conversations and building rapport. Once a connection is established, the scammers then attempt to move the conversation to an encrypted chat platform, purportedly for safety reasons.

  Under the guise of protecting against online predators, the scammers provide a link to a website offering a “free” verification process. This website appears legitimate but employs scare tactics to persuade users to sign up.

  The verification process is nothing more than a ploy to trick victims into signing up for costly monthly subscription fees on a private, low-quality dating site. These fees are often hidden and may appear on users’ credit card statements without their knowledge. Additionally, the personal information entered during the verification process, including email addresses, phone numbers, and credit card details, is harvested by the scammers for further nefarious purposes.

  The FBI warns that these scams can escalate, with scammers using social engineering tactics to manipulate victims into divulging more information or even clearing out their bank accounts. This tactic is known as the pig butchering scam. This type of fraud can have devastating financial and emotional consequences for victims.

  It’s crucial to verify the legitimacy of any websites or services before providing any sensitive information. Look for red flags such as unsolicited links, requests for payment or personal information, and poor grammar or spelling.

   

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  Geebo 8:00 am on May 1, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: deed transfer ( 13 ), forged title ( 3 ), real estate ( 127 ), Scams, title theft   

  Title Theft: The shocking crime robbing property owners blind 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the heart of Houston, Texas, a tale of land theft has rattled the very foundations of property ownership. A landowner was recently devastated to learn that her cherished plot of land had been illicitly transferred to another party without her knowledge or consent.

  This story is not an isolated incident but rather a symptom of the growing criminal trend of title theft. This insidious form of fraud sees rightful property owners stripped of their assets, often resulting in substantial financial losses and profound emotional distress.

  Through a web of falsified documents, fake identities, and dishonest transactions spanning continents, these criminals exploit vulnerabilities in the property registration system to perpetrate their crimes. In the victim’s case, the paper trail led all the way to Austria, where a fake notary and fraudulent documents facilitated the transfer of her land to an unknown recipient.

  Efforts to combat title theft have been met with mixed success. Legislative measures aim to bolster protections for property owners by mandating stringent verification procedures for title transfers.

  County clerks play a pivotal role in safeguarding against title theft, with initiatives such as photo ID verification serving as crucial deterrents to fraudulent transactions. Yet, as evidenced by the victim’s ordeal, gaps in the enforcement of such measures persist, highlighting the need for greater collaboration between law enforcement agencies, legal professionals, and regulatory authorities.

  In the face of this ever-evolving threat, property owners are advised to take proactive steps to protect their assets. Utilizing resources such as property transaction alerts, offered by some county clerks, can provide an early warning system against unauthorized activities. Additionally, investing in title insurance and home title monitoring services can offer an added layer of security against potential losses resulting from title theft.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 30, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: healthcare ( 39 ), hospice ( 2 ), medical fraud ( 2 ), medicare ( 17 ), Scams   

  Scammers prey on the elderly with hospice care fraud 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a stark warning about a disturbing trend in Medicare fraud involving the enrollment of unsuspecting individuals into hospice care, often without their knowledge or consent.

  Reports flooding into the FBI’s Houston office paint a troubling picture of scammers manipulating the healthcare system for their financial gain. The FBI says they have received a significant uptick in complaints.

  What sets this scam apart is its brazen exploitation of individuals nearing the end of their lives. Scammers, masquerading as healthcare providers, are enrolling predominantly elderly victims into hospice care unnecessarily. The repercussions are grave, both financially and medically, as victims find themselves saddled with exorbitant bills for services they neither wanted nor needed.

  The consequences extend beyond financial strain. Victims may experience delays or denials of essential medical care due to being erroneously enrolled in hospice. As the FBI emphasizes, this fraudulent activity can have dire, potentially life-threatening consequences, depriving individuals of timely access to vital healthcare services.

  Unraveling the intricate web of deceit reveals a network of collaborators complicit in this exploitation. Behind the scenes, unscrupulous healthcare providers, often aided by complicit physicians and recruiters posing as legitimate marketers or sales representatives, orchestrate these fraudulent enrollments.

  The FBI offers practical advice to shield yourself or a loved one from falling victim to such scams. If an unfamiliar caller solicits sensitive details, refrain from divulging any information or confirming existing data. Remember, legitimate healthcare providers will not initiate contact in such a manner.

  Telemarketing calls can serve as a gateway for fraudsters. If you receive an unsolicited call regarding healthcare services, exercise caution and promptly disconnect the call.

  By heeding the FBI’s cautionary advice, we can collectively combat Medicare fraud and safeguard the well-being of our communities’ most vulnerable members.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 29, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: party, party rental, party supplies, Scams   

  Don’t give party scammers a reason to celebrate 

  

  By Greg Collier

  While the convenience of online rental services can make party planning a breeze, it’s essential to tread carefully to avoid falling victim to rental scams. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) continues to receive reports of party hosts being tricked by rental companies that fail to deliver on their promises. Let’s delve into how these scams work and explore ways to safeguard yourself against them.

  You’re excitedly planning your event and begin searching for rental supplies online. You come across what appears to be a legitimate website or social media account offering the items you need. The vendor assures you that they can reserve the rentals for your desired date – but there’s a catch. They require you to pay a deposit upfront and may ask for personal details through a contact form.

  The day of the event comes, and there’s no sign of your rented tent, furniture, or other supplies. Panic sets in as you attempt to contact the vendor, only to be met with excuses or, worse, radio silence. You realize you’ve been scammed when your attempts to reclaim your money prove futile. Sadly, this scenario isn’t as uncommon as you might think, judging by the complaints received by the BBB.

  Here are some tips to help you navigate the rental process safely. Before committing to a rental, thoroughly vet the company. Check their website for accurate contact information, and peruse consumer reviews on third-party websites. Search for the business name alongside the terms “scam” or “complaints” to uncover any red flags.

  Listings solely advertised on social media should raise a red flag. Legitimate businesses typically provide multiple avenues for communication, including phone and in-person interactions. If a vendor insists on conducting all transactions via social media, proceed with caution.

  Approach with skepticism if a rental business initiates contact through messaging apps without prior interaction. Legitimate companies may use messaging apps for communication, but unsolicited messages should be treated with caution. Verify the business’s legitimacy and ensure they have a functional website and contact information.

  While rental agreements may require personal details, exercise caution when sharing sensitive information. Verify the legitimacy of the company before divulging personal and financial data to avoid potential identity theft or fraud.

  Before finalizing any rental agreement, thoroughly review the contract terms. Ensure that the delivery date, cost, and payment details are accurate and clearly outlined. Retain a signed and dated copy of the contract for your records.

  Pay close attention to how the rental company requests payment. Beware of requests for payment through cryptocurrency, payment apps, or wire transfers, as these methods offer little recourse in case of fraud. Whenever possible, use a credit card for rental payments, as it provides added protection against fraudulent charges.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 146 ), Scams, smishing ( 5 ), text scam ( 23 ), tolls ( 3 )   

  Beware of smishing: The rise of text message toll scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In an era where digital communication is ubiquitous, scams have adapted to exploit every possible avenue, including text messaging. Recent reports from various states across the US indicate a surge in smishing scams, particularly targeting drivers with fake toll payment demands. These scams, a fusion of SMS (short message service) and phishing, aim to deceive recipients into sharing sensitive personal information or making fraudulent payments. Let’s delve deeper into this growing trend and explore ways to safeguard against such deceitful schemes.

  Smishing, short for SMS phishing, leverages text messages to trick individuals into divulging personal information or making payments to fraudulent entities. The recent wave of smishing scams targeting toll road users follows a similar pattern across different states.

  Victims receive text messages purporting to be from toll collection services, such as state tollway authorities or tolling agencies like E-ZPass or SunPass. The messages claim the recipient owes a specific amount for unpaid tolls, often accompanied by threats of additional late fees if not paid promptly. Scammers include links in the messages, supposedly directing recipients to settle their balances. However, these links lead to counterfeit websites designed to harvest personal and financial information. Despite variations in content and targeted states, the core strategy remains consistent, preying on the urgency and fear of incurring penalties to coerce victims into taking immediate action.

  To combat smishing attempts and protect against falling victim to these scams, it’s essential to remain vigilant and adopt proactive strategies.

  Rather than clicking on embedded links, independently verify the authenticity of any outstanding toll charges by accessing official toll service websites or contacting customer service directly. Avoid engaging with suspicious texts or providing personal information.

  Be wary of unsolicited text messages, especially those urging urgent actions or containing grammatical errors and inconsistencies. Trust your instincts and err on the side of caution when encountering unexpected requests for payment or personal details.

  Report smishing attempts to relevant authorities, such as the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker. By reporting such incidents, you safeguard yourself and contribute to efforts to combat cybercrime and protect others from falling prey to similar scams.

  The proliferation of smishing scams targeting toll road users underscores the importance of exercising caution and skepticism in today’s digital landscape. By verifying the legitimacy of messages, and promptly reporting suspicious activity, individuals can fortify their defenses against fraudulent schemes.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 25, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam ( 146 ), phantom hacker scam ( 3 ), pop-ups ( 26 ), Scams   

  Protecting yourself and loved ones from the Phantom Hacker scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scams lurk around every virtual corner, preying on unsuspecting victims with cunning sophistication. Among these, the “Phantom Hacker” scam has emerged as a particularly insidious threat, targeting the elderly, and leaving devastation in its wake. Recently, the Phoenix office of the FBI shed light on this alarming scheme.

  The Phantom Hacker scam is as intricate as it is deceitful. It often commences with a seemingly innocuous pop-up message alleging a compromised computer, typically masquerading as a communication from reputable entities like Microsoft. From there, victims find themselves engaging with imposters posing as customer support representatives.

  These scammers, operating in organized groups akin to call centers, employ a range of tactics, including phone calls and email addresses sourced from the dark web. Once they gain access to a victim’s computer, they exploit their trust, coaxing them into revealing sensitive financial information under the guise of addressing purported security breaches.

  Having gained insight into their victim’s financial accounts, the scammers orchestrate a seamless transition, with a fake representative from the victim’s bank reaching out to confirm the alleged compromise. This orchestrated charade culminates in the directive for victims to empty their accounts, transferring funds to a purportedly secure “safe wallet,” often through cryptocurrency ATMs.

  Prevention remains the most effective defense against falling victim to such scams. The FBI, alongside other cybersecurity experts, offers practical tips to safeguard against phishing attempts and fraudulent schemes.

  Avoid clicking on unsolicited pop-ups or links in emails or text messages, especially from unknown sources. Refrain from dialing phone numbers provided in suspicious messages. Instead, independently verify the legitimacy of purported contacts through official channels. Never download software or grant access to your computer to unfamiliar individuals, regardless of their claims or affiliations.

  Promptly report any suspected scams to relevant authorities, such as the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), to facilitate swift intervention and potential recovery of lost funds. Although, recovery is often more the exception than the rule.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 24, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: recovery scam ( 6 ), recovery service ( 8 ), romance scam ( 70 ), Scams   

  Romance scam victim falls victim to second scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  The quest for love has transcended physical boundaries, with countless individuals turning to the internet in hopes of finding their soulmate. However, this modern-day fairytale is not without its dark side.

  A widow from Long Island, who sought companionship during the isolating times of the pandemic, found herself ensnared in a romance scam that cost her a staggering $468,000.

  The scam began with a seemingly charming engineer from the Philippines, who, over six months, gained the widow’s trust and affection. But as their relationship progressed, so did his requests for money, under the guise of protecting them both from harm. It was only after nearly half a million dollars had vanished that the widow realized the bitter truth of the deception.

  However, the ordeal didn’t end there. In a desperate attempt to recover her losses, the widow turned to online support groups, only to fall victim to another layer of fraudsters posing as FBI agents promising to retrieve her funds. These individuals purported to be agents affiliated with the Internet Crime Complaint Center, an entity known for investigating online scams. Despite their assurances of no upfront fees for their assistance, the victim soon found herself sending money to these deceitful impostors posing as investigators.

  Regrettably, this scenario is all too familiar. Scammers actively target individuals who share their scam experiences on social media platforms. They often exploit these posts by leaving comments suggesting that they successfully retrieved their lost funds with the help of a supposed recovery service. However, these purported recovery services are nothing more than additional scams in disguise. Similar to other scam tactics, they manipulate victims by continuously demanding money under the guise of securing the promised recovery. Despite assurances of results, they never deliver on their promises, leaving victims further deceived and financially exploited.

  Scam recovery services should be approached with extreme caution, as they are typically illegitimate operations. The reality is that the only credible entity with a chance of potentially recovering funds for scam victims is law enforcement. However, even this prospect is often slim and contingent upon various factors. It’s crucial to recognize that legitimate law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, will never initiate contact with a scam victim via social media without prior solicitation. Furthermore, they will never request money from a victim. Awareness of these red flags can help individuals avoid falling deeper into the clutches of scammers posing as saviors.

  As a general rule, never send money to someone you’ve met online, especially if they pressure you or concoct elaborate tales to justify their request. If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scammer, reach out to trusted friends, family members, or authorities for guidance and assistance.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 23, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bank robbery ( 3 ), scam victims ( 4 ), Scams   

  Elderly scam victim accused of robbing bank 

  

  By Greg Collier

  While technology connects us in unprecedented ways, it also exposes vulnerable populations to new risks. The recent case of a 74-year-old woman suspected of robbing a bank in Ohio, sheds light on the dark reality of online scams targeting the elderly.

  Prior to her alleged crime, the woman might have fallen victim to an online scam. According to police, she had been in communication with individuals online who may have been deceiving her. The circumstances surrounding the victim’s involvement in the scam remain ambiguous. It’s uncertain whether the victim was coerced by the scammers to rob the bank or if she did so by her own volition. Scammers often employ tactics such as threats to force victims into giving them money, prompting them to sell assets or take out loans. Alternatively, the victim may have resorted to desperate measures to survive after losing money to scammers.

  The victim’s story took a dramatic turn when she allegedly entered a local credit union, brandishing a gun and demanding money from employees. Walking away with $500, she was later apprehended at her residence. Her admission to the crime, captured on body camera footage, left little doubt about her involvement.

  What makes this case particularly poignant is the potential exploitation of an elderly individual who may have been manipulated into criminal behavior. The intersection of age-related vulnerabilities and sophisticated online scams highlights the urgent need for increased awareness, vigilance, and support systems for seniors.

  Elderly individuals are often targeted by scammers due to factors such as social isolation, cognitive decline, and limited familiarity with modern technology. Fraudulent schemes, ranging from fake lottery winnings to phony investment opportunities, can quickly ensnare unsuspecting seniors, leading to devastating financial losses and, in extreme cases, legal repercussions.

  It’s worth considering whether the victim hesitated to confide in her family about falling prey to the scam out of embarrassment. Often, scam victims are reluctant to seek help due to the fear of ridicule from their loved ones or community. This sense of isolation can exacerbate financial losses, potentially leading to desperate measures. While resorting to bank robbery represents an extreme manifestation of such behavior, it’s a scenario that shouldn’t be dismissed outright.

  Additionally, there’s the unsettling possibility that the bank robbery itself could have spiraled into a tragic outcome. In any crime involving firearms, the potential for violence is omnipresent, posing risks to the victim, the perpetrator, and innocent bystanders alike. A single misstep could have drastically altered the narrative, resembling incidents like the case where a man, suspecting an Uber driver of involvement in a scam, allegedly shot the driver. Such volatile situations underscore the precarious nature of criminal acts and their potential repercussions.

  This narrative underscores the importance of destigmatizing the experience of scam victims and promoting an environment where they feel empowered to seek assistance. Early disclosure by scam victims has the potential to mitigate financial losses and prevent incidents like the one that unfolded at the bank in Ohio. By encouraging victims to come forward without fear of judgment or ridicule, we can create pathways to intervention and support that ultimately safeguard individuals and communities from further harm.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 22, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Facebook Marketplace ( 62 ), rental car ( 6 ), Scams, vandalism ( 3 )   

  Is your car being listed for rent on Marketplace? 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Most of us are no strangers to the home rental scams that infest online classifieds. These scams involve fraudsters listing properties they don’t own, aiming to deceive unsuspecting renters into paying upfront fees like deposits or first month’s rent. Now, imagine that same scheme, but with cars as the target. That’s the crux of today’s narrative.

  In Broward County, Florida, several families have experienced unsettling encounters as strangers unexpectedly appeared at their doorsteps. These individuals believed they had rented cars from the residents, as advertised on Facebook Marketplace. However, upon the residents’ investigation, they discovered their vehicles listed for rent on the platform, unbeknownst to them. Similar to the notorious home rental scam, it’s suspected that the scammers have duped renters into paying upfront deposits under false pretenses.

  Unfortunately, in certain cases, when prospective renters are refused access, their frustration boils over and manifests in destructive acts directed towards the vehicles. Numerous residents have recounted instances where their cars fell victim to severe vandalism after they rejected individuals who had fallen prey to the scam. One family shared the distressing account of vandals wielding a monkey wrench against their car shortly after they turned away two men.

  Adding to the complexity is the allegation that Facebook/Meta is sluggish in addressing the fraudulent listings, if they address them at all. Despite the concerted efforts of affected residents to flag and remove these deceptive postings, many persist, exacerbating the cycle of victimization.

  If this scam is allowed to continue, how long will it be before someone turns their ire to the car’s owner? To effectively combat fraudulent listings like those plaguing Broward County, platforms like Facebook Marketplace should implement more stringent verification processes for users posting listings, particularly for high-value items like cars. This could include requiring additional forms of identification or proof of ownership before allowing listings to go live.

  They must also prioritize the swift removal of fraudulent listings once they are reported. Timely action is crucial to mitigate the impact on affected users and prevent further victimization.

  By implementing these measures, Marketplace can significantly reduce the prevalence of fraudulent listings and enhance the safety and trustworthiness of its platform.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on April 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: military ( 12 ), military romance scam ( 10 ), romance scam ( 70 ), Scams   

  Military man charged in romance scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Romance scammers frequently adopt the identities of military personnel, ranging from newly enlisted recruits to high-ranking officers. This impersonation offers scammers a convenient excuse for avoiding face-to-face meetings with their victims, claiming they are stationed abroad and unable to return to the US for extended periods. But what unfolds when the perpetrator behind the deception is actually a member of the military themselves?

  The recent case of a soldier, stationed at Fort Liberty, underscores the pervasive threat of romance scams and the devastating impact they can have on victims. The story unfolds with the 33-year-old active-duty service member, pleading guilty to three counts of money laundering in September after being accused of orchestrating a sophisticated romance scam operation. Operating under various aliases and personas, the soldier allegedly preyed upon the trust of unsuspecting individuals by impersonating love interests, diplomats, customs personnel, and fellow military members.

  Romance scams like this often involve building a false sense of intimacy and trust with their victims before exploiting them financially. In this case, the soldier is accused of manipulating victims into divulging personal information and gaining access to their inheritance and property. The funds obtained were then laundered through personal bank accounts across state lines and through contacts overseas, leaving a trail of financial devastation in his wake.

  What makes this case particularly egregious is the fact that the soldier carried out these fraudulent activities while serving as an active-duty soldier at Fort Liberty, formerly known as Fort Bragg. This betrayal of trust not only tarnishes the reputation of the military but also highlights the vulnerability of individuals, including seniors and military veterans, to such nefarious schemes.

  A US Attorney even commented that the fact that an Army service member was involved in romance scams while serving as a soldier is appalling.

  If someone claiming to be a service member approaches you romantically, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from a potential romance scam. Request their official military email address, and do a reverse image search of any photos they use in their communications.

  Watch out for inconsistencies in their story, such as frequent excuses for not being able to meet in person or reluctance to provide specific details about their military service. Be cautious if they quickly profess love or ask for money or personal information.

  Engage in conversation about their military experience, unit, or deployment. Legitimate service members are often proud to discuss their service and can provide details about their duties, base, or deployment history.

  If something feels off or too good to be true, it’s important to listen to your intuition. Take a step back and reassess the situation before proceeding further.

  If you suspect that you’re being targeted by a romance scammer impersonating a service member, report the individual to the relevant authorities. This may include contacting the military branch they claim to belong to or reporting the incident to online platforms where you encountered them.

  By asking questions, and verifying information, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a romance scam perpetrated by someone claiming to be a service member. It’s essential to prioritize your safety and well-being in any online interaction.