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2,544 results in Identity Theft
6abc.com · 2025-12-08
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging hosted a community awareness event featuring experts and a romance scam survivor who lost $39,000 to an online perpetrator named "Tony." The event highlighted the most common financial exploitation tactics targeting older adults, including gift card and cryptocurrency demands, and emphasized that isolation and emotional manipulation are key vulnerabilities that scammers exploit. Experts advised older adults to be cautious of unsolicited contacts, avoid sharing personal information, and report suspected abuse to PCA's 24/7 helpline at 215-765-9040.
Romance Scam Identity Theft General Elder Fraud Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
postandcourier.com · 2025-12-08
The Internal Revenue Service issued a warning about rising impersonation scams targeting seniors in South Carolina, where fraudsters pose as IRS or other government officials to steal personal information and money through phone calls, emails, and texts. Scammers use tactics including spoofed caller IDs, false claims of tax debts or prizes, pressure for immediate payment via gift cards or wire transfers, and threats of arrest or deportation. The IRS advises that it does not initiate contact via phone, email, or text about tax issues, and victims should hang up immediately and verify communications by calling 800-829-1040.
Lottery/Prize Scam Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Medicare Fraud Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App
lexingtonchronicle.com · 2025-12-08
The Internal Revenue Service issued a warning about rising impersonation scams targeting senior citizens in South Carolina, where fraudsters pose as government officials (IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare) to steal personal information and money. Scammers use tactics such as caller ID spoofing, fabricated urgent debts or prize claims, threats of arrest or deportation, and demands for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency to pressure victims into immediate action. The warning is part of broader World Elder Abuse Awareness Day efforts and the IRS's ongoing Security Summit partnership to educate seniors and protect them from these schemes.
Lottery/Prize Scam Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Medicare Fraud Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App
spectrumnews1.com · 2025-12-08
Elder fraud cases in the United States increased significantly in 2023, with over 100,000 scam complaints resulting in nearly $3.5 billion in losses—an 11% increase from the prior year. Kentucky residents reported over 900 instances of elderly scams in 2023 totaling $13 million, with 2024 tracking at $12.7 million already. The FBI advises seniors to review financial statements, shred personal documents, avoid clicking unknown links, and contact authorities or trusted family members if contacted by unfamiliar people, as scammers increasingly use tech support schemes, romance fraud, and data breaches.
mk.co.kr · 2025-12-08
A South Korean victim lost 70 million won to an international romance and investment scam that used AI-generated deepfakes of Elon Musk to establish trust before soliciting cryptocurrency transfers. The "pig slaughter" scam is part of a global criminal operation involving 120,000-220,000 forced workers across Myanmar and Cambodia who perpetrate phishing, romance, investment, and shopping scams targeting victims worldwide, with Chinese authorities blocking $157 billion in fraud since 2021—larger than Ethiopia's GDP.
nestpensions.org.uk · 2025-12-08
Fraud accounts for approximately 40% of all crime in the UK, affecting around 3 million people annually, with individuals now more likely to experience fraud than any other type of crime. The article provides protective measures including reporting suspicious activity to Action Fraud, forwarding phishing emails to Nest Pensions, and maintaining updated account information through regular logins to prevent unauthorized access.
oakridger.com · 2025-12-08
A study by Badcredit.org analyzing Federal Trade Commission data found that 78% of Gen Z and Millennials report receiving fraudulent debt collection calls or emails, with 28% expressing concern about becoming victims. Georgia leads states with the highest rate of debt collection scams (77.8 per 100,000 people), while Atlanta, Georgia has the highest rate among cities (102.9 per 100,000), and Memphis, Tennessee ranks fifth among cities most affected. Legitimate debt collectors must provide valid debt information within five days and cannot harass, threaten, or contact consumers more than seven times weekly, while common scam tactics include phishing, identity theft, and mobile
tryondailybulletin.com · 2025-12-08
The IRS issued a warning about impersonation scams targeting North Carolina seniors, where fraudsters pose as government officials or IRS representatives to steal personal information and money through phone calls, emails, and text messages. The warning was part of a broader awareness effort around World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to educate older adults about these scams and encourage collaboration among federal agencies, state tax authorities, and tax professionals to protect vulnerable populations.
mishtalk.com · 2025-12-08
AI tools like ChatGPT are enabling scammers to create convincing phishing emails, imitate voices and identities, and automate fraud schemes that bypass traditional red flags like poor grammar. Criminals can now use AI to target larger groups with personalized information, forge identification documents, and rapidly test stolen passwords across multiple platforms, making these scams significantly harder for individuals and banks to detect. Financial institutions like JPMorgan Chase are deploying AI-based fraud detection systems and increasing customer education, while experts recommend protective measures such as credit freezes and password hygiene to mitigate risk.
Inheritance Scam Tech Support Scam Phishing Identity Theft Medicare Fraud Wire Transfer Check/Cashier's Check Money Order / Western Union
pennwatch.org · 2025-12-08
The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities is hosting educational presentations throughout July 2024 for seniors, employees, and the general public on financial fraud prevention and investor protection. Topics include avoiding identity theft, selecting investment professionals, preventing elder financial fraud, recognizing common scams, and cybersecurity best practices, with sessions held at libraries, government offices, and community organizations across Pennsylvania.
consumerfinancemonitor.com · 2025-12-08
On June 14, 2024, President Biden declared June 15th World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, prompting FinCEN to remind financial institutions to vigilantly identify and report elder financial exploitation. FinCEN's analysis of 155,415 suspicious activity reports revealed approximately $27 billion in EFE-related suspicious activity between June 2022 and June 2023, while the FBI's 2023 Elder Fraud Report documented over $3.4 billion in losses affecting more than 101,000 victims aged 60 and over, with tech support scams being most prevalent and investment scams causing the greatest financial harm. FinCEN and the
staysafeonline.org · 2025-12-08
The FBI reported nearly 10,000 Americans fell victim to real estate scams in 2023, losing over $145 million, with one in four home buyers and sellers targeted by fraudulent activities. The article outlines five common real estate scams including wire transfer fraud (where criminals intercept payment instructions), predatory lending targeting vulnerable populations like seniors, and mortgage/foreclosure relief scams that demand upfront fees without delivering services. Protection strategies emphasize verifying payment instructions through secure channels, consulting trusted financial advisors, avoiding pressure tactics, and educating all parties involved in real estate transactions about fraud risks.
Phishing Identity Theft Robocall / Phone Scam Deed Theft General Elder Fraud Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Check/Cashier's Check
wheninmanila.com · 2025-12-08
Romance scams are rapidly increasing globally, particularly in Southeast Asia, affecting both direct victims and those trafficked into perpetrating the scams. The Online Alerto Facebook community provides free resources to help people recognize red flags—such as rapid declarations of love, requests to move communication off dating apps, avoidance of in-person meetings, and requests for money—and offers protective strategies including reverse image searches, video call verification, and careful social media scrutiny. Users are advised to maintain skepticism about offers that seem too good to be true and to never share financial information or inappropriate photos with unverified online contacts.
malaya.com.ph · 2025-12-08
Online romance scams are surging in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia, with perpetrators using dating apps to quickly build emotional connections, move victims to private channels, and solicit money or personal information for potential blackmail. The Facebook awareness group Online Alerto educates users on red flags—including rapid declarations of love, financial requests, inconsistent information, and reluctance to meet in person—and recommends protective measures such as reverse image searching and cautious information sharing. These scams affect both direct victims and individuals coerced into participating in fraudulent schemes.
jdsupra.com · 2025-12-08
On June 14, 2024, President Biden declared June 15th World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, prompting FinCEN to remind financial institutions to identify and report elder financial exploitation (EFE). Between June 2022 and June 2023, approximately $27 billion in EFE-related suspicious activity was reported through Bank Secrecy Act filings, with the FBI's 2023 data showing that individuals aged 60 and over reported over $3.4 billion in fraud losses (averaging $34,000 per victim), with tech support scams being the most commonly reported type and investment scams causing the greatest financial harm. Financial institutions are expecte
itpro.com · 2025-12-08
Nearly two-thirds of finance professionals have been targeted by deepfake fraud, with 44% actually falling victim, according to new research by Medius. Cybercriminals are using AI-generated audio impersonating C-suite executives to trick finance employees into making unauthorized payments to fraudulent suppliers, with a notable case in which Arup's employee transferred £20 million to scammers. The research reveals critical vulnerabilities: 80% of finance workers said they would authorize payments based on a CEO or CFO's call, yet only 16% prioritize deepfake protection and just 5% are aware of defensive technology being used.
otdowntown.com · 2025-12-08
Nelson Counne stole $1.8 million from at least five women using romance scam tactics between 2012 and his 2024 conviction, posing as a wealthy art dealer named "Nelson Roth" or "Justin Roth" and promising investment opportunities and financial support that never materialized. After pleading guilty to Grand Larceny in the Second Degree and Scheme to Defraud in the First Degree, he was sentenced to up to eight years in prison, with prosecutors noting he used the stolen money to repay victims who detected fraud while recruiting new victims. The scammer had no actual wealth, properties, or passport—only an "expertly craf
canada.ca · 2025-12-08
This is an informational resource page from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) outlining how to recognize, report, and protect oneself against tax-related scams, fraud, and identity theft. The CRA provides guidance on identifying common scams, verifying legitimate CRA communications, protecting personal accounts, recognizing tax schemes, and reporting suspected tax cheating or evasion through various confidential channels. The page also details the CRA's enforcement mechanisms, including criminal investigations and international collaboration through partnerships like the J5 alliance to combat tax crime.
nbcboston.com · 2025-12-08
Millions of people are receiving unsolicited packages of random items as part of a "brushing scam," where unscrupulous online retailers use real names and addresses to place fake orders and then post fraudulent positive reviews to boost their product ratings and achieve verified merchant status. While the scam itself may appear harmless, it indicates that personal data has been compromised through data breaches or dark web sources, potentially exposing victims to further fraud. Recipients should confirm the package wasn't a gift, contact the seller, change passwords, monitor accounts, consider credit freezes, and report the incident to the FTC.
cbsnews.com · 2025-12-08
Job scams increased 118% in 2023, costing job-seekers over $70 million, with scammers using artificial intelligence and legitimate company names to create fake LinkedIn postings or pose as recruiters offering unrealistic salaries like $1,200 per day for remote work. These criminals attempt to extract personal information—including bank account details—by requesting more data than a typical job application requires. To protect yourself, verify the company independently, research any unsolicited job offer before engaging, and be skeptical of positions promising high pay for simple tasks or claiming to let you be your own boss.
indiatoday.in · 2025-12-08
PAN card fraud—where scammers misuse individuals' Permanent Account Numbers to commit identity theft, open fraudulent accounts, secure unauthorized loans, or file fake tax returns—is rising in India, with recent high-profile victims including actor Rajkummar Rao and actress Nagma Morarji who lost Rs 1 lakh. To protect yourself, regularly monitor credit reports, bank statements, and tax filings for unauthorized activity, and report suspected misuse immediately to police (FIR), your bank, and the Income Tax Department through their e-filing portal or by contacting your Assessing Officer.
fortune.com · 2025-12-08
In 2023, identity crimes overall declined 16%, but job scams on legitimate platforms like LinkedIn surged 118%, with scammers creating fake job postings and interviews to collect sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers and driver's license numbers. While job scams represented only 9% of total identity theft cases (with Google Voice scams leading at 60%), the ITRC noted that criminals are becoming more effective and damaging through AI-assisted tactics, resulting in fewer reported victims but greater impact per incident, with 30% of victims being seniors aged 65 and older.
1011now.com · 2025-12-08
**Summary:** Phishing—where scammers impersonate financial institutions via phone, text, or email to steal personal information—is the leading cause of data breaches. Financial coach Cherry Dale advises people to be suspicious of any unsolicited communication asking for account numbers or clicks on links, and to recognize that pressure to act quickly is a common scammer tactic. If uncertain about a caller's legitimacy, hang up and call the number on your debit or credit card directly, and report any confirmed scam attempts to your financial institution.
justice.gov · 2025-12-08
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Washington seized over $1 million in collectible stamps purchased with stolen money from a fraud scheme targeting seniors and vulnerable populations. The scheme involved two phases: victims were first defrauded by scammers impersonating government agents (FBI, SEC, DOJ) who claimed their accounts were breached and demanded they transfer funds for safekeeping, and some of those stolen funds were then funneled through romance scam victims via cashier's checks to purchase the stamps. The government has identified 28 victims defrauded of hundreds of thousands of dollars collectively, and seized stamps will be liquidated with proceeds returned to victims
theintermountain.com · 2025-12-08
The IRS has issued a warning about impersonation scams increasingly targeting seniors, where fraudsters pose as government officials (IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare) via phone calls, emails, and text messages to steal personal information and money. Scammers use pressure tactics, fake caller IDs, and demands for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, often threatening arrest or deportation to coerce immediate compliance. The IRS advises seniors to hang up on unexpected calls claiming tax issues, verify communications directly at 800-829-1040, and never provide sensitive information or make payments without confirming legitimacy through official channels.
Lottery/Prize Scam Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Medicare Fraud Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App
valleytimes-news.com · 2025-12-08
Police Chief Denise McCain and representatives from the FBI, Better Business Bureau, and other agencies presented at an East Alabama Regional Planning Commission Summit to educate seniors about fraud targeting older adults. The presentation covered common scams including jury duty imposters, tech support blackmail, grandparent scams using AI-generated voices, lottery scams, and IRS fraud, emphasizing that older adults with good savings and credit are lucrative targets who often delay reporting due to shame or uncertainty about where to report. Key prevention advice included never providing information over the phone, calling loved ones directly to verify requests, and immediately reporting blackmail to police.
wcvb.com · 2025-12-08
A Massachusetts man lost $12,000 after a scammer posing as a helpful stranger swapped his debit card for a fake one at a Bank of America ATM in Dedham on Friday, then made unauthorized withdrawals and cashed checks in his name. A nearly identical scam occurred the same day in East Boston, where a woman also lost $12,000 in the same manner at another Bank of America ATM. Experts believe these incidents are part of an organized crime ring using ATM card-swapping tactics, though police have not confirmed if the cases are connected.
techbullion.com · 2025-12-08
The IRS has issued a warning about escalating scams targeting seniors, who are particularly vulnerable to impersonation, phishing, spoofing, and lottery scams that exploit trust and create urgency. Common tactics include fraudsters posing as IRS agents via phone, email, or text to threaten legal action or extract personal information and money through gift cards or wire transfers. The IRS recommends seniors verify caller identity before sharing information, report suspicious activity to the IRS and FTC, and stay informed about scam tactics to protect themselves from financial exploitation.
ksltv.com · 2025-12-08
This educational article highlights that scammers target people of all ages in Utah, with imposter scams (posing as IRS, Social Security, businesses, or charities) being the most common fraud method, accounting for nearly 20% of all scams in the state. While Utah ranks 36th nationally for fraud rates, the article emphasizes that scam risks are rising yearly and warns that once money is lost to fraud, recovery is unlikely. The piece advises readers to stay informed about common scam tactics to protect themselves and their families, particularly during Elder Abuse Awareness Month.
ourtownny.com · 2025-12-08
Nelson Counne, a NYC romance scammer operating under aliases "Nelson Roth" and "Justin Roth," was sentenced to up to eight years in prison after pleading guilty to grand larceny and scheme to defraud charges for stealing $1.8 million from at least five women between 2012 and at least 2014. Counne posed as a wealthy art dealer and promised investment opportunities and financial security to his victims, who he manipulated into providing their savings, credit cards, and bank account access while he used their money to repay earlier victims and maintain his fraudulent persona. The investigation revealed Counne never owned property, a passport, or legitimate wealth—all funds came from
cnet.com · 2025-12-08
Americans lost $10 billion to fraud in 2023, with scammers increasingly using sophisticated tactics to steal banking information and money. The article outlines ten common banking scams—including check fraud, phishing, fake websites, automatic withdrawal schemes, and government imposter scams—and provides protective measures such as verifying URLs directly with banks, never clicking unsolicited links, and avoiding upfront fee requests. Knowing these common strategies helps consumers recognize and avoid fraudulent schemes before criminals can access their accounts and funds.
examiner-enterprise.com · 2025-12-08
This article is not relevant to the Elderus fraud research database. It is a community events listing for Bartlesville, Oklahoma, featuring recreational and cultural activities such as farmers markets, museum exhibits, animal attractions, and family entertainment. It contains no information about scams, fraud, elder abuse, or financial exploitation.
sandhillsexpress.com · 2025-12-08
Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers' office warned nonprofits about donation refund scams targeting charitable organizations, where fraudsters posing as donors submit large fraudulent checks (often five figures or more) and then request partial refunds, causing financial losses when the original checks bounce. Similar scams occur with stolen credit cards, where scammers request refunds to different cards and the nonprofit receives chargebacks. The Attorney General recommended nonprofits educate staff about fraud recognition, verify unusual donor requests directly, research unfamiliar donors before processing refunds, and issue card refunds only to the original card used.
lokmattimes.com · 2025-12-08
A 57-year-old man in Thane lost Rs 10 lakhs in June 2024 after a scammer contacted him via WhatsApp claiming his Skype ID was compromised and convinced him to share his screen for verification. The fraudster then manipulated him into transferring the money by falsely claiming to be a bank representative checking 25 active accounts. Thane police registered an FIR against the unknown accused under cheating and cybercrime sections.
publicnewsservice.org · 2025-12-08
Connecticut residents should be aware of common summertime scams, including utility company impostor scams where scammers pose as employees to obtain banking information through fake home energy audits, paving scams involving large deposits for driveway work that is never completed or is substandard, and vacation rental fraud where properties advertised online do not exist. To protect themselves, consumers should verify utility company visits by calling the company directly, research contractors thoroughly, use credit cards for unfamiliar vendors, and avoid payment apps like CashApp outside official platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.
yahoo.com · 2025-12-08
**AI-Powered Scams and Protective Measures** This educational piece identifies two primary AI-enabled scams targeting vulnerable individuals: voice cloning of family members to solicit emergency financial assistance, and personalized phishing emails using AI-generated text customized with stolen personal data to increase credibility. The article recommends verifying suspicious communications by contacting the person through normal channels, avoiding attempts to detect fake voices, treating unknown contacts as suspicious, and remaining skeptical of personalized messages that reference recent purchases or locations.
backendnews.net · 2025-12-08
Online Alerto, a Facebook community page, serves as an educational resource to help users in Southeast Asia recognize and avoid romance scams through shared experiences and digital literacy guidance. The platform identifies common red flags in love scams—such as rapid declarations of love, requests for money, avoidance of in-person meetings, and attempts to isolate victims—along with manipulation tactics scammers use. Online Alerto recommends protective strategies including reverse image searches, video call verification, social media consistency checks, and use of dating app identity verification features to help users safely navigate online dating.
occrp.org · 2025-12-08
Internet fraud losses in the United States exceeded $12.5 billion in the past year, a 22% increase from the previous year, with common scams including identity theft, phishing, romance scams, and investment fraud. INTERPOL's Operation First Light arrested 3,950 suspects and identified 14,643 potential suspects worldwide while intercepting $135 million in cash and seizing assets worth over $120 million. International collaboration has proven effective in combating cybercrime, including one case where coordination between Singapore, Hong Kong, and local banks prevented a 70-year-old victim from losing $281,200 in savings.
candgnews.com · 2025-12-08
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido held an educational workshop in June to inform the public—particularly seniors—about common scams and fraud tactics, highlighting how personal information shared online is often sold to third parties and exploited by scammers. The workshop identified four key components scammers use (pretend, payment, prize/problem, and pressure) and covered various fraud methods including spoofing, phishing, vishing, and impersonation of authorities, banks, and tech support. Lucido recommended using "opt out" selections when filling out forms and published a 30-page guide called "S.C.A.M.S." to help prevent identity theft and financial fraud in
heraldguide.com · 2025-12-08
The Sheriff's Office reports a surge in scams and identity theft cases involving cryptocurrency, romance schemes, impersonation of law enforcement and government agencies, and grandparent extortion. The office provided guidance on common red flags including unsolicited requests for gift cards, wire transfers, remote computer access, and personal financial information, emphasizing verification of caller identity and avoidance of pressure tactics promising prizes or threatening legal action.
lawrencecountypress.com · 2025-12-08
The IRS warned Mississippi seniors about rising impersonation scams where fraudsters pose as government officials (IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare) via phone calls, emails, and texts to steal personal information and money. Scammers pressure victims into immediate payments using unconventional methods like gift cards, wire transfers, and cryptocurrency by creating false urgency through threats of arrest, deportation, or claims of unpaid taxes. The IRS advises recipients of unsolicited calls to hang up immediately, verify communications through official channels at 800-829-1040, and report scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.
Lottery/Prize Scam Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Medicare Fraud Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App
cnet.com · 2025-12-08
In 2023, Americans lost $10 billion to fraud, with scammers employing increasingly sophisticated tactics that are difficult to detect. The article identifies 10 common banking scams—including check fraud, phishing, fake prize offers, advance fee schemes, and government imposter scams—and provides protective strategies such as verifying URLs before clicking links, never sharing banking details unsolicited, and using secure check writing practices. The key defense is awareness: recognizing these common schemes and understanding that legitimate institutions rarely request sensitive information through unsolicited messages or calls.
indiatoday.in · 2025-12-08
An X user shared screenshots of how he outsmarted a romance scammer who attempted to extract Rs 1,000 (approximately $12 USD) via Google Pay by posing as a dating app match. Instead of sending the requested amount, the user convinced the scammer to send Rs 20 first as a "test transaction," then blocked the scammer after receiving the money. The incident highlights the prevalence of dating app scams, which typically involve fake profiles building emotional connections before requesting money for emergencies or other expenses, and underscores the importance of skepticism, identity verification, and trusting one's instincts when using dating platforms.
rd.com · 2025-12-08
Work-from-home job scams are fraudulent job postings designed to steal personal information or trick applicants into paying upfront fees for fake background checks, training, or equipment. According to the Better Business Bureau, approximately 14 million job seekers encounter these scams annually, resulting in over $2 billion in losses. To protect yourself, job applicants should verify company legitimacy through official websites, watch for red flags like requests for payment before employment or overly quick hiring processes, and be cautious of positions advertised on social media or through direct messages rather than official job boards.
Investment Fraud Tech Support Scam Phishing Identity Theft Home Repair Scam Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Check/Cashier's Check
bartlesvilleradio.com · 2025-12-08
Elder Care in Bartlesville is offering free educational seminars to the community in July, including a July 17 presentation by ARVEST Bank's VP on identifying and protecting against identity theft and fraud, and a July 31 "Tech Talk" session with tech expert Amanda French. More information about these and other Elder Care events is available at AboutElderCare.org/events or by calling 918-336-8500.
secureworks.com · 2025-12-08
The film "Thelma" depicts a 93-year-old woman who loses $10,000 to a grandson impersonation scam, reflecting a real crisis: the FBI reported over 101,000 elder fraud victims aged 60+ in 2023, with tech support, romance, confidence, and investment scams being the most common types. Social engineering attacks exploit human psychology and create artificial urgency to manipulate victims into divulging sensitive information or making payments, and victims often experience lasting emotional harm including shame and loss of confidence. Key prevention strategies include educating oneself about scams, trusting instincts when requests seem unusual, verifying the identity of callers, an
foxnews.com · 2025-12-08
In 2023, Americans over 60 lost $3.4 billion to scams—a 10.6% increase from 2022—with 101,068 reports filed, according to FBI IC3 data. Criminals obtained victims' personal information through data brokers and used it to perpetrate tech support scams (18,000 victims, $589.8 million lost), investment fraud (6,400 victims, $1.2 billion lost), and romance scams (6,700 victims, $356.9 million lost). The article advises seniors to use data removal services, place fraud alerts with credit agencies, and remain cautious of phishing
indiatoday.in · 2025-12-08
An X user shared a story of successfully turning the tables on a romance scammer who attempted to con him out of Rs 1,000 via Google Pay by posing as a dating app match. The user outsmarted the scammer by pretending payment failed twice, then convincing the scammer to send Rs 20 first as a "test," after which he blocked them. The article outlines common dating app scams including romance scams, location scams, and fake investment schemes, while offering protective measures such as identity verification, skepticism toward early money requests, and use of app security features.
marbleheadcurrent.org · 2025-12-08
A 72-year-old Marblehead woman fell victim to a tech support scam where fraudsters posed as federal investigators and convinced her that hackers had compromised her computer and identity, ultimately persuading her to withdraw $7,500 and mail it to California wrapped in foil and bubble wrap. Thanks to quick action by Marblehead Police, the package was intercepted and returned before delivery, allowing the victim to recover her money. The scam illustrates how perpetrators manipulate victims through urgency and fear, targeting their emotions rather than logic, and police emphasize that residents should never call numbers on suspicious pop-ups or provide personal information over the phone.
ibsintelligence.com · 2025-12-08
AI-powered fraud is escalating rapidly, with deepfake fraud attempts jumping 3,000% year-over-year in 2023 as malicious actors exploit accessible generative AI tools to conduct sophisticated scams at scale. Key emerging threats include deepfakes targeting high-profile figures and biometric systems, increasingly convincing phishing and smishing attacks that exploit AI-generated authentic-appearing content, and social engineering schemes leveraging AI—all of which require businesses and individuals to remain vigilant and deploy AI-based defensive systems to keep pace with evolving fraud tactics.