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in Robocalls / Phone Scams
einpresswire.com
· 2026-07-28
Montana State Auditor James Brown warned that elder fraud targeting seniors over 60 has surged dramatically, with reports of $100,000+ losses increasing sevenfold from 2020-2024, and his office received 54 fraud complaints in 2026 with three-quarters involving victims over 60. Common scams include romance schemes, grandparent impersonation, and fake tech support, with perpetrators manipulating emotions and creating urgency to pressure victims into sending money via gift cards or cryptocurrency. Montana's auditor's office has blocked over $2 million in fraud losses this year and provides up to $50,000 in restitution through a security fraud fund.
markets.businessinsider.com
· 2026-07-28
HUMAN Security identified FunFoneFarm, a fraud-enabling ecosystem combining physical and virtual phone farms with AI-enhanced software that allows scammers to automate and scale common fraud schemes including pig-butchering, romance scams, and fake account creation. The hardware and software are sold through open and dark web marketplaces, with operators able to manage large numbers of devices through AI-assisted interfaces, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for fraudsters. The operation represents a growing threat in the "agentic era" where AI automation enables bad actors to conduct sophisticated scams at scale with minimal overhead.
pcmag.com
· 2026-07-28
College students face targeted "freshman fraud" scams including phishing emails with malware, fake financial aid offers using forged school letterhead, and loan forgiveness schemes that request personal information or upfront fees. Cybercriminals view universities as "trophy targets" due to the perceived naivety of students and the ease of accessing .edu email addresses, with 80 college and university breaches in 2024-2025 exposing email addresses, passwords, phone numbers, and social security numbers.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-07-28
HUMAN Security identified FunFoneFarm, a fraud-enabling ecosystem that combines AI-enhanced management software with physical and virtual phone farms sold through dark web marketplaces, allowing threat actors to easily scale common scams including pig-butchering operations, romance scams, and fake account creation. The system lowers the barrier to entry for fraudsters by automating device management and victim engagement through natural language interfaces, enabling small numbers of operators to control large device fleets without requiring extensive teams or infrastructure. The technology demonstrates how AI agents can operate at greater scale and autonomy in the agentic era, making fraud schemes as accessible as paying an upfront hardware cost.
malwarebytes.com
· 2026-07-28
A 2025 Malwarebytes survey found that nearly half of people encounter scams on their phones daily, with victims experiencing harassment, blackmail, data exposure, and financial loss, prompting the company to rebuild its Mobile Security product with enhanced scam detection features. The research revealed that approximately half of smartphone users falsely believe their device's built-in security is sufficient protection, while Malwarebytes detected over 800,000 distinct Android malware strains in the past year with expectations to exceed 1 million in 2026. The rebuilt Mobile Security includes AI-powered Scam Guard, enhanced text and call filtering, malware scanning, and privacy tools designed to combat increasingly sophisticated phone-based
northshoredailypost.com
· 2026-07-28
Blessing scams targeting elderly Chinese residents in Vancouver have doubled in 2026, with 13 reported incidents resulting in losses exceeding $300,000 in cash, gold, and jewelry compared to six incidents totaling $200,000 in 2025. Criminals approach victims, use cultural fears and manipulation to convince them their families face curses, then escort them to retrieve valuables which are switched for worthless items like cornstarch through sleight of hand. The Vancouver Police Department believes the suspects operate internationally and most crimes have occurred in east and southeast Vancouver, with investigators seeking the public's help identifying wanted suspects.
ministrywatch.com
· 2026-07-28
Human trafficking networks lure victims abroad with fraudulent job offers and force them to conduct online scams including romance fraud and cryptocurrency schemes from compounds under threat and violence. Several ministries including Atlas Free, A21 Campaign, Love Justice International, and The Exodus Road work across prevention, investigation, repatriation, and survivor recovery to combat this trafficking cycle, with recent rescues including survivors from Uganda, Thailand, Sierra Leone, and Brazil. One scam type alone—"pig butchering" fraud—has stolen an estimated $3 trillion worldwide according to Interpol.
thevibes.com
· 2026-07-28
Malaysian police dismantled two major transnational scam syndicates operating from luxury properties in Forest City, arresting over 330 suspects in the country's largest coordinated crackdown on illegal call centers. The networks allegedly targeted victims across China, Indonesia, Japan, the United States, and Europe through romance scams, investment fraud, cryptocurrency schemes, and impersonation plots, with elderly individuals among primary targets. Police seized approximately RM2 million worth of electronic equipment and are investigating suspects for cheating and immigration violations.
techcrunch.com
· 2026-07-28
Three users collectively lost $1.8 million after downloading a fraudulent cryptocurrency wallet app called Sparrow Wallet from Apple's App Store, with individual losses ranging from $120,000 to $875,000. The plaintiffs are suing Apple for negligence, arguing the company failed to adequately review apps despite marketing the App Store as secure and trustworthy, and citing previous complaints that Apple allowed fake Sparrow Wallet apps to remain on the platform. The lawsuit challenges Apple's core competitive argument that its tight control over the App Store makes it safer than competitors and requests a jury trial to recover lost funds and damages.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-07-28
Three users filed a lawsuit against Apple claiming they lost over $1.8 million after downloading a fraudulent crypto wallet app called Sparrow Wallet through the App Store, with individual losses of $875,000, $840,000, and $120,000. The plaintiffs allege Apple failed in its App Store review process by allowing the fake app to pass security screening, contradicting Apple's marketing claims that its platform offers superior safety compared to competitors. The lawsuit challenges Apple's primary competitive argument that its exclusive control over the App Store makes it inherently more secure than rival platforms.
dailypress.net
· 2026-07-28
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection warns consumers to be vigilant against back-to-school scams, which increase during this busy shopping season. Common scams include fraudulent online ads with steep discounts, fake websites mimicking legitimate retailers, textbook scams targeting college students, and phishing attempts. The agency recommends verifying website URLs, using credit cards for online purchases, avoiding suspicious social media ads, and pausing before responding to urgent offers that seem too good to be true.
wcti12.com
· 2026-07-28
The New Bern Police Department is warning of a rising trend in scam calls targeting seniors, where fraudsters impersonate Medicare and IRS officials to create panic and extort personal information or immediate payment. Legitimate government agencies will not threaten, demand payment, or request Social Security or Medicare numbers over the phone.
neusenews.com
· 2026-07-28
A 21-year-old New York man, Ravi Punia, was extradited to North Carolina and charged with defrauding an elderly Lenoir County resident through a federal impersonation scam in May 2026. The victim was tricked into sending money via wire transfers, mailed cash, and Apple gift cards after scammers falsely claimed her bank accounts were compromised. Punia faces charges including obtaining property by false pretenses, possession of stolen goods, and identity fraud.
abc11.com
· 2026-07-28
Americans aged 60 and older lost nearly $8 billion to scams in the past year, with fraudsters targeting seniors' access to investment accounts and home equity through increasingly sophisticated methods. Scammers exploit seniors' increased social media use to build trust and convince victims to transfer funds through fake authority calls impersonating banks or requesting purchases of assets like gold. Experts recommend ignoring unsolicited communications and verifying information directly through official institution websites rather than clicking provided links.
keystonenewsroom.com
· 2026-07-28
Pennsylvania residents lost $3.8 billion to online scams and cyber crimes in 2025, representing a 33.6% increase from 2024 and averaging $712 per household. The most common scams originated on social media platforms, particularly Meta services like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, which were used in 81% of scam attempts nationally. This surge reflects a broader national trend, with Americans losing approximately $148.2 billion to online scams in 2025, tripling since 2021.
dw.com
· 2026-07-28
An estimated 300,000 people are trapped in online scam centers across Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, where they are trafficked and coerced into defrauding primarily Western victims through forced call center work after being lured by false job advertisements on social media. Victims, recruited from countries including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, and Kenya, are stripped of travel documents and forced into criminal schemes that caused $114 billion in losses across East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand in 2025, with Chinese syndicates identified as the major organizational force behind these operations.
wilx.com
· 2026-07-28
Scammers in Mason, Michigan are using AI-generated voice technology to impersonate family members and convince older adults to send money urgently, with one common variant claiming a relative has been arrested and needs $15,000 immediately. The city is warning residents to verify such claims by contacting loved ones directly through trusted phone numbers and to never send money or personal information based solely on phone calls.
unionleader.com
· 2026-07-28
Store owners at Varney Street Quick Stop in Manchester thwarted three cryptocurrency scams in a single month, preventing seniors from losing a combined $17,000. Scammers typically target elderly customers through phone calls impersonating authorities like the CIA, convincing them to deposit large sums into bitcoin ATMs while staying on the line to guide the transaction. In response, New Hampshire passed legislation in November setting a $2,000 transaction limit at crypto kiosks and implementing a 48-hour hold on first transactions, effective December 16.
doj.state.or.us
· 2026-07-28
Robocalls cost Americans nearly $2 billion in losses last year, with over 29.6 billion scam robocalls and texts received, prompting a coalition of 50 state attorneys general to urge the FCC to strengthen "Know Your Customer" rules requiring phone companies to better verify and vet their customers to prevent scammers from accessing the communications network. The effort is part of Operation Robocall Roundup, which has already sent warning letters to 37 smaller voice providers and expanded to crack down on four of the largest intermediate voice service providers for allowing suspected illegal robocalls onto the U.S. telephone network.
abc11.com
· 2026-07-28
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson joined a bipartisan group of state attorneys general urging the FCC to strengthen "Know Your Customer" rules to prevent scammers from accessing legitimate telephone numbers and making illegal robocalls. Americans received over 29.6 billion scam calls and texts last year and lost nearly $2 billion to these scams, prompting calls for phone companies to suspend or terminate callers using their networks for unlawful purposes.
wcti12.com
· 2026-07-28
A bipartisan coalition of 50 attorneys general, led by North Carolina's Attorney General Jeff Jackson, is urging the FCC to strengthen "Know Your Customer" rules for phone companies to better identify and stop customers using networks for illegal robocalls. Americans lost nearly $2 billion to robocall scams last year, receiving over 29.6 billion scam calls and texts, prompting the effort to require phone companies to verify customers are legitimate and suspend those conducting unlawful activities. The push is part of Operation Robocall Roundup Phase 2, which has sent warning letters to major voice service providers accused of allowing illegal robocalls onto the U.S. telephone network.
foxcarolina.com
· 2026-07-28
The Oconee County Sheriff's Office warned residents about two law enforcement impersonation scams: one targeting individuals with fake arrest warrants for missed jury duty demanding payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency, and another targeting families of detained inmates who are told they must pay fees for ankle monitor release. Both scams use callers posing as law enforcement or detention center employees to pressure victims into sending money.
wengradio.com
· 2026-07-27
The Bradenton Police Department's Elder Fraud Unit has investigated over $11.4 million in financial losses from scams targeting seniors aged 60 and older since forming in early 2024, with a sharp rise in sophisticated cryptocurrency fraud. Detectives have created the "Five P's" warning system to help seniors identify common scam tactics: scammers Pretend to be someone familiar, create fake Problems, offer unearned Prizes, apply intense Pressure to act quickly, and demand specific payment methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency. The department offers a free large-print resource guide at bradentonpd.com/elder-fraud-unit to help families educate seniors about these fraud schemes.
mysuncoast.com
· 2026-07-27
The Bradenton Police Department's Elder Fraud Unit, formed in early 2024, has investigated cases totaling over $11.4 million in losses to senior citizens aged 60 and older during 2024 and 2025. The unit warns of rising scams targeting seniors, particularly cryptocurrency-related fraud where stolen funds are difficult to recover, and has created a free resource guide to help residents identify common fraud indicators known as "the five P's."
groundup.org.za
· 2026-07-27
A journalist posed as a job seeker to expose a romance/employment scam syndicate, losing approximately R4,000 (about $220 USD) after responding to fake Amazon job advertisements on TikTok that redirected to WhatsApp and Telegram. The scam, operated by a China-based syndicate using AI-generated ads and fake company names, used multiple handlers and progressively escalated requests for deposits while promising quick earnings from "order processing" work. Despite reporting to police and banks, authorities failed to assist in recovering the funds or shutting down the operation.
springfieldnewssun.com
· 2026-07-27
Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson launched the Romance Imposter Scams Forensic Initiative, establishing a dedicated hotline (1-855-961-SCAM) for residents to report romance scams targeting seniors, who are often manipulated into sending money to fraudsters posing as romantic interests. Romance scams are particularly devastating because they exploit trust and emotional vulnerabilities, leaving victims financially devastated and emotionally isolated, with many cases going unreported due to victim shame and reluctance to seek help. The initiative aims to coordinate with law enforcement, provide forensic investigation, and offer educational resources to victims and their families to prevent additional losses.
dailyguidenetwork.com
· 2026-07-27
Daniel Yusif, an alleged accomplice of Frederick Kumi (Abu Trica), has been granted extradition from Ghana to the United States to face charges related to an $8 million romance scam targeting elderly Americans. The criminal network used online dating sites, AI-driven video platforms, and fake identities to defraud victims, primarily widows and divorcees, who sent money via wire transfer between April 2023 and November 2025. Both defendants face up to 20 years in prison if convicted of wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy charges.
oecd.ai
· 2026-07-27
A 65-year-old Japanese woman lost approximately 1.85 million yen in a romance scam where fraudsters used AI-generated images and deepfake video calls to impersonate Elon Musk on social media. The scammers built trust with the victim and convinced her to make multiple wire transfers despite police warnings. The case demonstrates how generative AI technology is enabling more convincing and sophisticated elder fraud schemes.
it-online.co.za
· 2026-07-27
South Africa recorded the highest rate of suspected digital fraud in Africa, with 3% of consumer transactions flagged as potentially fraudulent and digital banking fraud surging 86% year-on-year with R1.9 billion in losses, driven by scams like SIM-swap fraud, investment schemes (including one that defrauded 2,000 South Africans of R492 million), and AI-enabled impersonation schemes operating on trusted social platforms. A third of fraud victims report the scams originated on legitimate e-commerce or social platforms rather than fake sites, with 46% encountering fraud first on social media, while 88% of South Africans believe they can spot scams
consumer.ftc.gov
· 2026-07-27
Scammers impersonate VA officials and promise to help veterans apply for benefits or obtain disability ratings in exchange for fees, exploiting the fact that legitimate VA applications are completely free. The FTC warns that unsolicited calls, texts, emails, or social media messages offering to expedite claims or unlock "missing" benefits are fraudulent schemes, as the VA and legitimate Veterans Service Organizations never charge for these services. Victims should report suspected scams to the FTC and their state attorney general.
mininggazette.com
· 2026-07-27
The Michigan State Police is warning residents of a phone scam where callers impersonate MSP officers, claiming victims missed court dates or committed violations and demanding immediate payment to avoid arrest. Scammers use high-pressure tactics and request payment via gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash, though the legitimate MSP never solicits payments or personal information by phone. Residents should hang up on suspicious calls, avoid sharing personal information, and report fraudulent contact to authorities.
antislavery.org
· 2026-07-27
Scam centres operating worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asia, exploit trafficked individuals and forced laborers who are coerced into committing cyberfraud through threats of violence, torture, and death. These heavily securitized compounds can house tens of thousands of workers who endure physical and psychological abuse, wage theft, debt bondage, and inhumane living conditions while being forced to defraud victims out of money. The article emphasizes that while scam victims suffer significant financial losses—with Britons losing over £620 million to fraud in the first half of 2025—the exploited workers themselves are also crime victims requiring protection, rehabilitation, and legal safeguards to prevent criminalization for acts committed under
qz.com
· 2026-07-27
Facebook Marketplace has become a target for scammers using tactics like fake listings, fraudulent payments, identity theft, and impersonation schemes to exploit buyers and sellers. The article provides five expert-backed tips to reduce fraud risk: verify seller profiles for legitimacy, be wary of unusually low prices or rushed deals, stay within Facebook's messaging system and use secure payment methods, avoid overpayment refund scams and requests for sensitive information, and take precautions when meeting in person. Following these safety practices can help protect both money and personal information on the platform.
consumer.ftc.gov
· 2026-07-27
Scammers impersonate VA officials and offer to help veterans apply for benefits or obtain disability ratings in exchange for fees, exploiting veterans' need for assistance during military transitions. The VA and legitimate accredited representatives never charge for benefits applications or claims assistance, making any fee request a red flag for fraud. Veterans should report suspected scams to the FTC and their state attorney general.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-07-26
A 70-year-old retiree lost over $2,400 to a sophisticated Amazon impersonation scam after receiving calls from fraudsters who claimed suspicious activity was detected on his account and used a second "verification" caller to build credibility. The scammers gained his trust by referencing personal details about his family, repeatedly instructing him to hang up and reconnect, and warning that his IP address was compromised—tactics that convinced him they were legitimate Amazon employees protecting his account. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming to be from Amazon or other companies, never allow callers to direct your actions (especially accessing bank accounts), and verify any suspicious activity by contacting the company directly using a number from their official website rather than one provided by the caller.
newsbreak.com
· 2026-07-26
A retired journalist lost his entire life savings of $270,000 to a romance scam that gradually evolved into a fake gold-investment scheme, exploiting his trust and professional skepticism. This type of fraud—where scammers build emotional connections before pitching fraudulent investments—is one of the fastest-growing consumer crimes in the U.S., with billions lost annually according to FTC data. To protect yourself, be wary of romantic interests who quickly pivot to investment opportunities, verify any trading platform independently with regulators, and never transfer large sums of money to someone you've only met online, regardless of how legitimate their investment pitch sounds.
mirror.co.uk
· 2026-07-26
Martin Lewis is urging UK bank customers to use the 3-digit number 159 to verify they're speaking with their legitimate bank, as fraud cases have surged to over 4 million incidents annually with nearly £1.3 billion stolen in 2025. Criminals are increasingly sophisticated, using AI and social engineering tactics to manipulate victims into revealing sensitive information that empties accounts and creates massive debts. The actionable advice: if you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from your bank, hang up and dial 159 to reach an official switchboard that will connect you to your bank's genuine number—this protects you even if scammers spoof your phone line.
theguardian.com
· 2026-07-26
Scammers are sending fake Spotify payment notification emails that direct users to cloned websites designed to steal login credentials, personal information, and payment details. Victims who click these convincing phishing links and enter their information have had their stolen card details used for fraudulent purchases, with one victim experiencing unauthorized charges totaling over £469. To protect yourself, verify emails by checking the sender address carefully, avoid clicking links in unsolicited emails, and instead go directly to the official Spotify website or app to update payment information; consider using virtual credit cards for online subscriptions to limit potential damage.
finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-07-26
Scammers are using Apple's FaceTime to impersonate bank representatives and steal login credentials by asking victims to share their screens during video calls that appear legitimate. The scheme typically begins with a text or call claiming suspicious account activity, then escalates to a FaceTime video call where the fraudster convinces the victim to log into their bank account while screen-sharing. To protect yourself, never share your screen with unsolicited callers, remember that legitimate banks will never ask you to log in during a call, and hang up any suspicious calls—instead, contact your bank directly using the number on your statement.
kbtx.com
· 2026-07-26
Federal authorities conducted a nationwide crackdown called "Operation Signal Break" targeting illegal "SIM farms" in Texas and five other states, which are operations that use thousands of SIM cards to send phishing and scam text messages while hiding their true origin. These scam operations cost Americans approximately $15 million annually, and the investigation has resulted in seizing over 500,000 SIM cards, nearly 1,900 SIM boxes, and more than $700,000 in illegal proceeds linked to Chinese criminal organizations. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited text messages asking for personal information or directing you to click links, and report suspicious texts to the FTC or your mobile carrier.
sbs.com.au
· 2026-07-26
Joseph Sukkar, a cybersecurity professional, fell victim to scammers impersonating the Australian Taxation Office who called claiming he had tax debts and convinced him to transfer $7,000, though his bank was able to recover the money. Scams have become increasingly sophisticated and are on the rise, with tax season being a particularly vulnerable time as people are mentally preoccupied with filing returns and expecting ATO communications. To protect yourself, verify unexpected tax-related calls by hanging up and contacting the ATO directly using an official number, never transfer money based on unsolicited phone calls, and remain skeptical even if a number matches a saved contact.
ksby.com
· 2026-07-26
In 2025, military members, veterans, and their families lost over $684 million to scams, with impostor schemes being the most common—including fake calls from banks like Navy Federal Credit Union or USAA attempting to redirect victims to move their money. Another major threat is "claim sharks," fraudulent companies charging veterans $15,000-$30,000 to file VA benefits claims that legitimate county veterans services offices provide for free. To protect yourself, hang up on unsolicited calls claiming to be from your bank and call the institution directly using a known number, and always seek free assistance from accredited veterans service offices rather than paying private companies for benefits help.
newsbreak.com
· 2026-07-26
A San Diego man was charged with defrauding a retiree of $1.49 million by posing as a tech-support agent and convincing the victim their bank account was compromised, then directing them to deposit cash into Bitcoin ATMs and wire funds to purchase gold bars. Federal prosecutors say this scheme is part of a growing pattern targeting older Americans, combining cryptocurrency and precious metals to create nearly irreversible losses. To protect yourself: be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming account problems, never move money through Bitcoin ATMs or precious metals purchases based on phone instructions, and always verify requests directly with your bank before taking action.
wdbo.com
· 2026-07-26
Financial scams targeting older adults are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with fraudsters using AI-generated voice calls to exploit vulnerabilities like accumulated savings and fixed incomes, particularly as victims experience age-related cognitive changes. According to Florida State University researchers, seniors are especially at risk due to isolation and reduced ability to verify caller authenticity. Experts recommend treating urgent requests for money as a red flag—anyone asked to send funds immediately should pause, slow down, and consult a trusted person before taking action.
newsbreak.com
· 2026-07-26
Naabanyin Aniagyei-Cobbold, a 30-year-old Connecticut man, was sentenced to nine years in federal prison in March 2026 for operating Alpha Distributions LLC, a money-laundering operation that funneled over $1.5 million in romance scam proceeds from victims across multiple states. The scheme involved creating fake romantic relationships to defraud victims, then routing stolen funds through domestic accounts to obscure their origin, with Aniagyei-Cobbold taking a cut before moving money forward. He was ordered to pay $1,554,442.46 in restitution and his harsh sentence reflects a trend of federal judges treating domestic
thestar.com.my
· 2026-07-26
Youth in Malaysia are increasingly vulnerable to sophisticated scams including fake job offers, phishing campaigns, romance scams, and money mule recruitment, with young adults aged 21-30 recording the highest number of telecommunications fraud victims at 8,789 individuals in 2025. Malaysians lost RM2.97 billion to scams last year, with criminals now using AI-generated deepfakes, voice cloning, and personalized messages to deceive victims. Experts emphasize the need for tailored cyber safety education teaching verification literacy, AI literacy, and privacy awareness to help youth recognize and resist these increasingly sophisticated threats.
thegazette.com
· 2026-07-26
This article discusses a BBB study on AI and customer service rather than a specific fraud case. The BBB reports receiving over 100,000 complaints since 2021 related to AI and automation, with over 90% of nearly 20,000 business reviews mentioning AI expressing negative sentiment, primarily from customers frustrated with inability to reach human representatives in online retail and tech industries. The study warns that while AI is increasingly used by legitimate businesses, it also serves as a tool for scammers, and recommends consumers learn to distinguish between legitimate automated services and fraudulent schemes.
eccalifornian.com
· 2026-07-26
Scammers are targeting older adults with a "bank investigator" fraud scheme, calling victims and claiming their bank accounts are at risk due to alleged internal investigations involving dishonest employees or FBI involvement. Victims are pressured to withdraw their savings and deposit them into accounts controlled by the scammers, often under threat of secrecy. Law enforcement agencies warn that legitimate banks and investigators never ask people to move money or keep financial matters secret, and victims should hang up and call their bank directly using the number on their card.
uk.finance.yahoo.com
· 2026-07-26
A Milwaukee woman posed as a landlord named Quincy Jones on Zillow and scammed four families out of over $7,700 by collecting cash for rent on a property she didn't own and was actually facing eviction from. The fraudster, Yasmin Halimah Hameed, used an "identity verified" listing to gain trust, collected payments in cash, and then either locked victims out or ghosted them without providing keys. Zillow removed the fraudulent listing within days and blocked the account, but the incident highlights risks of rental scams even on legitimate platforms.
spectrumlocalnews.com
· 2026-07-26
The Rensselaer County Sheriff's Office is warning of a phone scam where callers impersonating "Investigator Crawford" demand immediate payment for alleged unpaid jury duty fines or citations, instructing victims to purchase gift cards and provide the card numbers over the phone. One victim lost approximately $1,500 following the scammer's instructions. The sheriff's office clarified they do not employ anyone by that name and urge residents to hang up, avoid sharing personal information, and report such calls immediately.