Law Enforcement Impersonation

bhaskarenglish.in · 2026-03-22

Gorakhpur Fake IAS MarriageFraud| Father Vows Justice - Bhaskar English

He has married not once, but 25 times. He extorted money by posing as a fake IAS officer and also ruined my daughter's life. He left us with nothing. Every day a new story about hi...

latimes.com · 2026-03-21

Tax scams are on the rise. Here's what to know - Los Angeles Times

This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here. Robocalls, texts and phishing emails from scammers are up this tax season compared with previ...

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

stimson.org · 2026-03-20

Breaking Silos to Beat Scams: Why Holistic Law Enforcement Matters - Stimson Center

In March 2026, Cyber Program Director Allison Pytlak and Southeast Asia Program Deputy Director Courtney Weatherby convened experts from Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, the Philippines, a...

Tech Support Scams Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime

wowt.com · 2026-03-20

Douglas County Sheriff: scammers post fake ads to discredit Bitcoin ATM warning stickers

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - Scammers are now posting fake social media ads featuring a deepfake police officer image in an attempt to discredit warning stickers placed on Bitcoin ATM mach...

Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM

sanfordherald.com · 2026-03-20

Barbecue sex offender charged withfraud| Archives | sanfordherald.com

Joseph J. Turns A Barbecue man who turns 23 on March 30 was arrested March 9 and charged with exploiting an elder trust, financial card fraud and ID theft. Joseph James Turns of ...

Identity Theft

chathamvoice.com · 2026-03-20

Beware the 'Grandparent Scam' - The Chatham Voice

CK Crime Stoppers is reminding residents to stay alert to the “Grandparent Scam,” a fraud tactic that continues to target older adults and vulnerable community members through urge...

Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Gift Cards Cash

foxbusiness.com · 2026-03-19

IRS warns Americans to beware of dangerous new scams this tax season

The IRS released its annual "Dirty Dozen" list of tax scams for the 2026 filing season, warning taxpayers about emerging fraud tactics including phishing emails with fake IRS websites, AI-powered phone scams with spoofed caller IDs, and fake charities exploiting disasters. Criminals are using stolen personal information to access IRS accounts, spreading viral "tax hack" misinformation on social media, and impersonating IRS officials to steal sensitive data and personal identifiable information. The IRS reminds taxpayers that it typically contacts by mail first and urges them to remain vigilant, report suspicious communications, and avoid clicking links from unsolicited messages.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness

nypost.com · 2026-03-19

Tax scams on the rise as April 15 approaches, IRS warns: Here are the 'dirty dozen' hoaxes to avoid

In the midst of tax season, with the April 15 deadline quickly approaching, the Internal Revenue Service is warning taxpayers about scammers out to rip you off. Scams tend to spik...

Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

henricocitizen.com · 2026-03-18

Savvy Senior: Top senior scams and how to avoid them - Henrico Citizen

Dear Savvy Senior,My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now?-...

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Check/Cashier's Check

wric.com · 2026-03-18

Why are fraud scams tough to solve? | WRIC ABC 8News

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Each year, Virginians lose millions of dollars to scammers. The outcome is not only frustrating for victims, but for law enforcement, who face several ...

Romance Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

kslnewsradio.com · 2026-03-18

Tax scams are on the rise. Here's what to know - KSLNewsRadio

Mar 16, 2026, 6:00 AM | Updated: 9:19 pm FILE - The Internal Revenue Service 1040 tax form for 2022 is seen on April 17, 2023. (Jon Elswick, File, AP Photo) (Jon Elswick, File, A...

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

wral.com · 2026-03-17

Tax scams are on the rise. Here's what to know - WRAL

NEW YORK (AP) — Robocalls, texts, and phishing emails from scammers are up this tax season compared to previous years, with artificial intelligence likely increasing fraud attempts...

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

chicagotribune.com · 2026-03-17

Tax scams are on the rise. Here's what to know. - Chicago Tribune

NEW YORK — Robocalls, texts, and phishing emails from scammers are up this tax season compared to previous years, with artificial intelligence likely increasing fraud attempts, acc...

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

aol.com · 2026-03-17

'My mother was tricked by a fraudster pretending to be David Attenborough and gave them ...

Who the hell are you? I don’t recognise you as my mother.” Diane’s son Jim* stormed into her home on a Sunday morning. He had just learnt that she was six months into a relationsh...

Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Cash

canadianaffairs.news · 2026-03-17

Singapore turns tide in evolving fight against scams- Canadian Affairs

Building his cryptocurrency holdings over eight years and helping out defrauded traders, Singaporean investor Mark Koh had thought he was savvy enough to spot a scam. Until he fell...

Crypto Investment Scams Tech Support Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

gulftoday.ae · 2026-03-16

Singapore turns tide in fight against scams- GulfToday.ae

Martin Abbugao, Agence France-Presse Building his cryptocurrency holdings over eight years and helping out defrauded traders, Singaporean investor Mark Koh had thought he was savv...

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

mauinow.com · 2026-03-15

Police warn of 'recovery scams' targeting past fraud victims - Maui Now

The Maui Police Department is warning residents about “recovery scams” where fraudsters pose as investigators or government officials to steal more money from people who have alrea...

Government Impersonation

independent.co.uk · 2026-03-15

'My mother was tricked by a fraudster pretending to be David Attenborough and gave them ...

Who the hell are you? I don’t recognise you as my mother.” Diane’s son Jim* stormed into her home on a Sunday morning. He had just learnt that she was six months into a relationsh...

Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Cash

cherokeephoenix.org · 2026-03-15

Siam Legal International Warns of Call Center Scam Risks After Arrest of 14 Chinese ...

Bangkok, Thailand - March 13, 2026 - PRESSADVANTAGE - Siam Legal International, a Thailand Law Firm, has issued an advisory warning foreign nationals about the increasing threat o...

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime

warwickpost.com · 2026-03-15

Trooper Warwick Arrests March 14: Blackmail,Fraud- WarwickPost.com

WARWICK, RI — Warwick arrests in the area March 6 – 14 included charges for DUI, food stamp fraud and blackmail – exploiting an elder. Here are the basics on those RI State Police...

Financial Crime

thestar.com.my · 2026-03-14

Singapore turns tide in evolving fight against scams | The Star

SINGAPORE: Building his cryptocurrency holdings over eight years and helping out defrauded traders, Singaporean investor Mark Koh had thought he was savvy enough to spot a scam. Un...

Crypto Investment Scams Tech Support Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

bobsullivan.net · 2026-03-14

Gas station hero stops crypto kiosk scams, again and again — bobsullivan.net

Once in a while, a human being does the right thing and you wonder why it took so long I’ve long held the opinion that the only real use case for cryptocurrency is fraud; we can d...

Crypto Investment Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Cash

theguardian.com · 2026-03-14

Fake rooms, props and a script to lure victims: inside an abandoned Cambodia scam centre

Sprawling compound, including mock-up banks and police offices, uncovered by Thai military during border clashes It is as if you have walked into a branch of one of Vietnam’s bank...

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Tech Support Scams Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

2news.com · 2026-03-12

Jury convicts California man in $500,000elder fraud scam | Local News | 2news.com

Investigators say Amit Bhanwala-Singh is a member of a large fraud group that targets older and vulnerable citizens. A California man involved in a large fraud ring has been found...

Romance Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Cash

shorelinemedia.net · 2026-03-12

Top Senior Scams and How to Avoid Them | News | shorelinemedia.net

Dear Savvy Senior, My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now...

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Check/Cashier's Check

dailymaverick.co.za · 2026-03-11

SA's Benjamin Mauerberger embroiled in 'Thailand state capture' accusations, billion-dollar ...

South African-born Benjamin Mauerberger’s name has cropped up in a global scandal involving suspicions of money laundering, human trafficking and organised criminality rooted in Ch...

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Utility Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

newsroom.paypal-corp.com · 2026-03-10

Common Scams and How to Stop Them - PayPal Newsroom

PayPal and Venmo take our commitment to protect our customers very seriously, and we want to arm you with the information you need to stay safe. Scammers are getting smarter, but s...

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Online Shopping Scams Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Payment App

lakecountyexam.com · 2026-03-10

Savvy Senior: Top senior scams and how to avoid them | Crime | lakecountyexam.com

Dear Savvy Senior, My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now...

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Check/Cashier's Check

macaudailytimes.com.mo · 2026-03-09

Total scam losses of MOP300 million last year nearly match 2023 record

PJ director Sit Chong Meng The Judiciary Police (PJ) reported that the number of online fraud cases last year totaled 810, reflecting a downward trend, yet noted that total losses...

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Bank Transfer

wcax.com · 2026-03-09

IRS scams spiking during tax time - WCAX

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - With tax season underway, scammers are wasting no time in trying to get your hard-earned money. Aggressive robocalls have been surging, with criminals imp...

Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

finance.yahoo.com · 2026-03-08

4 Tax Refund Scams To Watch Out For - Yahoo Finance

Tax season is already stressful for many people. The last thing you need is a fake text about your tax refund or a call claiming you owe money. For You: Stimulus Checks in the Fo...

Government Impersonation Phishing Scam Awareness

aol.com · 2026-03-08

Six arrested in gold coin scheme targetingseniors, Friendswood PD says - AOL.com

Suspects who posed as federal employees in order to defraud vulnerable people out of hundreds of thousands of dollars have been arrested, according to the Friendswood Police Depart...

Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime

americanbanker.com · 2026-03-07

True crime, fakeromance: Inside one victim's fight with banks | American Banker

An elderly man with dementia was systematically drained of $337,000 in a sophisticated, Cyprus-based "romance scam" that some banks failed to stop — and instead are retaining high-...

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Identity Theft Medicare Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Deed Theft General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Bank Transfer

miltonnow.ca · 2026-03-07

Police warning ofRomance Scams during Fraud Prevention Month | FM101 Milton Now

Police are reminding residents to stay vigilant against romance scams as part of Fraud Prevention Month, warning that the schemes can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Ro...

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

galvnews.com · 2026-03-06

Six arrested in $2.8 millioneldergold scam; Friendswood police recover $766K

Mudassir Iqbal Lakhani Iqbal Ibrahim Lakhani Samirali Ghabrani Smitaben Thakor Samir Ali Zohaib Muhammad FRIENDSWOOD After months of investigation, six people have been arre...

Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

irs.gov · 2026-03-06

Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2026: IRS reminds taxpayers to watch out for dangerous threats

IR-2026-30, March 5, 2026 WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today announced its annual Dirty Dozen list of tax scams for 2026 that threaten the tax and financial informati...

Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

fox26houston.com · 2026-03-05

Six arrested in $2.8M Texas 'gold bar' scam targetingelderlyvictims | FOX 26 Houston

A Friendswood woman was one of six elder Texans scammed by people who allegedly told them to buy gold to "protect" their assets. FOX 26's Sherman Desselle explains the scheme and s...

Investment Fraud General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

cbsnews.com · 2026-03-05

Fulton County Sheriff's Office warns of scam text claiming recipients owe traffic citation fines

The Fulton County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about a scam message circulating that falsely claims recipients owe money for a traffic citation. In a social media alert, ...

Government Impersonation

yahoo.com · 2026-03-04

Elderlyresidents fall victim to $11K window cleaning scam in Lincoln - Yahoo

(FOX40.COM) — Two teenagers have been arrested in connection with a series of gutter- and window-cleaning scams that targeted elderly residents in Lincoln’s Sun City neighborhood. ...

General Elder Fraud

wxyz.com · 2026-03-03

AG warns of new toll road text scam impersonating 36th District Court in Detroit

(WXYZ) — The Michigan Attorney General's Office is warning residents of a new toll road phishing scam that is impersonating 36th District Court in Detroit. According to the AG's o...

Phishing Scam Awareness Financial Crime

gizmodo.com · 2026-03-01

Minnesota Lawmakers and Police Seek Complete Ban on Crypto ATMs - Gizmodo

Minnesota lawmakers, backed by local police and the Department of Commerce, have introduced legislation to ban crypto ATMs statewide. House File 3642, sponsored by Rep. Erin Koegel...

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Identity Theft General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Cash Payment App

timesrepublican.com · 2026-03-01

Online fraud prevention tips | News, Sports, Jobs - Times Republican

As Chief of Police, our agency remains vigilant in providing information to our community members when we observe increasing crime trends. We look to track these occurrences not on...

Friendship Scams Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards Cash Bank Transfer Payment App Check/Cashier's Check

kucoin.com · 2026-03-01

Minnesota Considers Statewide Ban on Bitcoin Kiosks AmidFraudConcerns | KuCoin

HF 3642 proposes a Minnesota-wide prohibition on cryptocurrency self-service terminals, often marketed as Bitcoin ATMs, by barring the installation and operation of physical kiosks...

Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM

cryptorank.io · 2026-02-28

Cryptocurrency Kiosks Face Devastating Ban in Minnesota asElder FraudCases Surge to ...

Share: BitcoinWorld Cryptocurrency Kiosks Face Devastating Ban in Minnesota as Elder Fraud Cases Surge to $540,000 ST. PAUL, Minnesota — February 2025 — Minnesota legislators ha...

Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Bank Transfer

king5.com · 2026-02-27

'This information needs to be out there': Scammers are mining public records to run a slick ...

To stream KING 5 on your phone, you need the KING 5 app. Next up in 5 Example video title will go here for this video Next up in 5 Example video title will go here for this vid...

Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime

enews.wvu.edu · 2026-02-26

Defend your data: Be aware of tax season scams | E-News | West Virginia University

Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Tax season is here, and so is a surge in phishing attacks, fake IRS messages and tax-related identity theft attempts. Whether you file on your own or...

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams

kolotv.com · 2026-02-26

2 Yerington residents arrested onelderfinancial exploitation charges, police said - KOLO

YERINGTON, Nev. (KOLO) - On Tuesday, Feb. 24, two people were arrested after Yerington Police officers executed a search warrant at a home in the 500 block of Madden Lane as part o...

Identity Theft

straitstimes.com · 2026-02-26

S'pore scam losses fall to $913m in 2025; new trend of victims handing over gold bars to syndicates

Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox The amount lost to scammers also dipped from the record high of $1.1 billion in 2024 to $913.1 million in 2025, the polic...

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

channelnewsasia.com · 2026-02-26

Singapore records 27.6% drop in scam cases in 2025 - CNA

Singapore Government officials impersonation scam cases jumped 123.6 per cent last year, however. There were 37,308 scam cases in 2025, a 27.6 per cent drop from the 51,501 cases...

Friendship Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Online Shopping Scams Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Bank Transfer

asiaone.com · 2026-02-26

Scams and cybercrime cases down in 2025, but government official impersonation ... - AsiaOne

In 2022, Nurul Shifa found a focus group discussion on Telegram that promised rewards for simply sharing her thoughts. However, she soon found herself embroiled in an investment s...

Romance Scams Friendship Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency

amac.us · 2026-02-25

AMAC Participates in SSA “Slam the scam” Initiative to protect seniors

Americans lost over $12.5 billion to scams in 2024, with nearly $3 billion from government imposter scams where criminals pose as Social Security Administration officials to steal money or personal information. Seniors are deliberately targeted through threats of arrest or promises of benefit increases, with scammers demanding payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. The key protection: legitimate government employees will never threaten you or demand immediate payment, so anyone receiving such communications should hang up, ignore it, and report it at ssa.gov/scam.

Government Impersonation Phishing Benefits Fraud General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

abc7chicago.com · 2026-02-24

I-Team Quick Tip: Tax scams | abc7chicago.com

During tax season, the Better Business Bureau is warning about a surge in scams targeting taxpayers through IRS imposter calls and texts, phishing emails, and dishonest "ghost" tax preparers seeking to steal money and personal information. To protect yourself, remember that the IRS never threatens arrest or requests gift cards and wire transfers, so hang up on suspicious calls and don't click links in unsolicited texts or emails. File your taxes early, verify tax preparers through official IRS and BBB websites, and remember that legitimate IRS contact comes by mail.

Government Impersonation Phishing Scam Awareness Wire Transfer Gift Cards

2news.com · 2026-02-24

Authorities warn tax scams are ramping up as filing season begins | Local News - KTVN

# Tax Scam Alert As the 2026 tax filing season begins, authorities warn that scammers are increasingly impersonating the IRS and tax preparers through phone calls, emails, texts, and fake websites to steal personal and financial information, with common tactics including phishing links, false refund promises, and threats of legal action. The scams disproportionately target people unfamiliar with IRS procedures, and the IRS never initiates contact via email, text, or social media or demands immediate payment through gift cards or cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, file your taxes early, verify information directly through irs.gov, avoid clicking unsolicited links, and remember that legitimate IRS contact begins with a letter in the mail.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Benefits Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

aol.com · 2026-02-24

$55M stolen in alleged impersonation scam involving cash, gold and crypto in Texas. How ...

A major fraud ring operating in Texas stole at least $55 million from elderly victims by impersonating federal agents and threatening them with arrest to coerce them into surrendering gold, cash, and cryptocurrency. The scheme is part of a growing crisis of elder fraud, with Americans over 60 accounting for 36% of all fraud reports and losing nearly $2.4 billion to scams in 2024 alone. To protect yourself and elderly relatives, remain skeptical of unsolicited calls or messages from officials making threats, remember that legitimate authorities won't demand payment by gift card or wire transfer, and verify any official claims by contacting the agency directly using a number from their official website.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

finance.yahoo.com · 2026-02-24

Texans lose $55M in alleged gold and crypto impersonation scam. How to spot the warning ...

# Fraud Summary A Texas crime ring stole at least $55 million from elderly victims by impersonating federal agents and threatening them into surrendering gold, cash, and cryptocurrency. The FTC reports that fraud targeting seniors has surged, with people over 60 accounting for 36% of all fraud reports in 2024 and losing approximately $2.4 billion to scams. To protect yourself and older relatives, be wary of unsolicited calls or messages from people claiming to be government officials, especially those creating urgency or threatening arrest—legitimate authorities will never demand immediate payment or asset transfers over the phone.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

abc7chicago.com · 2026-02-23

I-Team Quick Tip: Tax scams- ABC7 Chicago

During tax season, scammers are impersonating the IRS through calls, texts, and emails to steal money and personal information, either claiming you owe taxes or are owed refunds. Vulnerable taxpayers should remember that the real IRS never threatens arrest, demands immediate payment, or asks for gift cards or wire transfers, and will always contact you by mail first. To protect yourself, avoid clicking suspicious links, file your taxes early to prevent identity theft, and verify any tax preparer through official IRS and Better Business Bureau websites before hiring them.

Government Impersonation Phishing Wire Transfer Gift Cards

fox5dc.com · 2026-02-23

How to avoid tax scams this filing season - FOX 5 DC

# Tax Scam Summary During tax filing season, scammers impersonate IRS agents to target taxpayers through phone calls and emails, either demanding immediate payment for supposed back taxes (threatening arrest) or requesting personal information under the guise of issuing refunds. Anyone filing taxes is vulnerable, with college students particularly targeted, and scammers use pressure tactics, fake credentials, spoofed caller IDs, and official-looking emails to appear legitimate. To protect yourself, remember that the real IRS never demands immediate payment, asks for payment via wire transfer or prepaid debit cards, or requests credit card numbers over the phone—hang up on suspicious calls and verify directly with the IRS before responding.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Wire Transfer

finance.yahoo.com · 2026-02-23

Quick Tip: Tax scams- Yahoo Finance

During tax season, the Better Business Bureau is warning of a surge in scams targeting taxpayers through IRS impersonation calls, phishing emails, and fraudulent tax preparers who promise unrealistic refunds and disappear when issues arise. Scammers use tactics like threatening arrest, requesting gift cards or wire transfers, and directing people to malicious links—methods the real IRS never uses, as it communicates only by mail. To protect yourself, verify tax preparers through official IRS and BBB websites, file your taxes early to prevent identity theft refund fraud, and never click suspicious links or provide personal information to unsolicited contacts.

Government Impersonation Phishing Wire Transfer Gift Cards

the-independent.com · 2026-02-23

Scammers created fake courtroom and law firm to prey on immigrants, DOJ says

Colombian scammers set up a fake courtroom and law firm to defraud Spanish-speaking immigrants, including asylum seekers, out of tens of thousands of dollars by impersonating judges, attorneys, and federal officers. At least dozens of victims were affected, with at least one person deported after missing their real court hearings to attend the fraudulent proceedings. To protect yourself, verify any court appearance or legal representation directly with official government websites or by calling your local immigration court, never rely solely on information from unsolicited contacts, and seek help from legitimate legal aid organizations if you cannot afford an attorney.

Tech Support Scams Money Mules / Laundering Financial Crime Wire Transfer

cedirates.com · 2026-02-22

The Heart Scam Economy: How OnlineRomanceFraud is Costing Ghanaian Women ... - CediRates

# Romance Fraud Summary Romance scams are costing Ghanaian women hundreds of thousands of dollars as fraudsters create fake online identities to build trust and then manipulate victims into sending money for fabricated emergencies or investments. A 2025 pan-African cybercrime operation across 14 countries resulted in 260 arrests, with 68 in Ghana alone and 108 identified victims who lost approximately $450,000, though authorities recovered $70,000. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, never send funds to strangers or for unexpected emergencies, and report suspicious activity to local authorities.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Sextortion Online Shopping Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

fox32chicago.com · 2026-02-22

How to avoid tax scams this filing season | FOX 32 Chicago

# Tax Scam Summary During tax filing season, scammers are targeting taxpayers through phone calls and emails impersonating the IRS, using two main tactics: falsely claiming victims owe back taxes and demanding immediate payment via wire transfer or prepaid debit cards, or posing as refund issuers to steal personal information for identity theft. These scams often use sophisticated tactics like fake badge numbers, spoofed caller IDs showing Washington D.C., and official-looking emails with IRS logos to appear legitimate. To protect yourself, remember that the real IRS will never demand immediate payment, require a specific payment method, or ask for credit card information over the phone—hang up and contact the IRS directly through their official website or phone number if you're unsure about a communication.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Wire Transfer

mocoshow.com · 2026-02-22

International Scam Call Centers Linked to Millions in Losses, Local Officials Say

# Fraud Alert Summary International call centers operating from India defrauded hundreds of Americans out of nearly $49 million since 2022 through government impersonation and tech support scams, with Maryland residents losing over $6 million. Law enforcement in Maryland and India dismantled the operations and arrested multiple perpetrators, though authorities warn the scams continue to target vulnerable people, particularly seniors. To protect yourself, authorities advise being skeptical of unsolicited calls, texts, or pop-ups demanding urgent payment, and remember that legitimate government agencies will never call demanding money or threatening arrest.

Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

montclair.edu · 2026-02-21

Taxes Are Inevitable. scams are Avoidable. – Phish Files - Montclair State University

# Tax Scam Summary During tax season, cybercriminals impersonate the IRS, tax software companies, and other trusted organizations to steal personal and financial information through phishing emails, texts, and fake websites—often using urgent language and threats to pressure victims into immediate payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Students, employees, and anyone filing taxes are vulnerable, but you can protect yourself by remembering that the IRS typically initiates contact through official U.S. mail (never email, text, or social media), never demands immediate payment, and never asks for passwords or sensitive information. If you receive a suspicious tax-related message, independently verify it by contacting the IRS directly through IRS.gov rather than clicking any links in the suspicious communication.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App

wehoonline.com · 2026-02-21

Former West Hollywood Man Sentenced inFraudScheme That Preyed on theElderlyand Dead

A West Hollywood man named James Kantor was sentenced to over four years in prison for his role in a fraud scheme targeting elderly and deceased people, where conspirators forged wills and trust documents to steal estates. The scheme began when one member of the group broke into homes of vulnerable people, and after discovering a deceased resident, the conspirators used stolen personal information to fraudulently access and transfer assets. If you have elderly relatives, especially those you're not in frequent contact with, regularly check in on them and monitor their financial accounts and important documents for suspicious activity.

Identity Theft Family Exploitation Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Wire Transfer Bank Transfer Check/Cashier's Check

telegraphherald.com · 2026-02-20

Police: Woman scammed Dubuque bank out of more than $2900 - Telegraph Herald

A Dubuque woman was arrested after police determined she was part of a fraud scheme that targeted local bank accounts by making fraudulent external transfers, withdrawing the money, and disappearing before the transfers were rejected for insufficient funds—resulting in over $2,900 in losses. The scam involved multiple perpetrators establishing new accounts and exploiting the time lag between when deposits appear and when they're verified. To protect yourself, monitor your bank accounts regularly for suspicious deposits or withdrawals, verify any unexpected transfers with your bank before spending the money, and report fraudulent activity immediately to both your bank and police.

Bank Transfer

nola.com · 2026-02-20

Man convicted for stealing millions from widows in scam | News - NOLA.com

A 45-year-old man named Kenneth Akpieyi from Georgia was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison for defrauding more than two dozen women out of over $9 million through an elaborate romance scam. Operating primarily on Facebook and Instagram, Akpieyi posed as military officers, oil rig workers, and other professionals to build trust with vulnerable elderly widows before convincing them to send large sums of money, which he then laundered and spent. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic interests who ask to move conversations to private messaging apps, avoid sending money to people you've only met online, and verify the identities of military personnel or professionals through official channels before trusting them with financial information.

Phishing Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Cash Money Order / Western Union

aarp.org · 2026-02-20

Criminals Pose as Lawyers to Steal From Immigrants - AARP

Scammers are targeting vulnerable immigrants by posing as immigration lawyers and federal agents to steal money for fake legal services, with the American Bar Association reporting more than a dozen cases of impostors falsely claiming to work for them. Victims have lost thousands of dollars, and criminals are using artificial intelligence to create convincing fake documents and even impersonating real attorneys using their actual bar numbers. To protect yourself, verify an attorney's credentials directly through official bar association websites, never pay for immigration services through gift cards or wire transfers, and be skeptical of unsolicited offers on social media—you can also call the AARP Fraud Watch Network helpline at 877-908-3360 for free advice if you suspect you've encountered a scam.

Government Impersonation Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Wire Transfer Gift Cards

rockawaytimes.com · 2026-02-19

Fraud, Romanceand Flowers - THE ROCKAWAY TIMES

Romance scammers and imposter fraudsters cost Americans billions annually—the FTC reported $12.5 billion lost in 2024, though actual losses may exceed $158 billion due to underreporting. These criminals use fake online identities to build trust and emotional connections before requesting money or personal information, with 11 million Americans age 50+ and residents in Rockaway/Broad Channel reporting such schemes, though no age group is immune. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited romantic advances online, especially from people claiming to be overseas with high-profile jobs, and never send money or share personal/financial information with someone you've only met online.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Sextortion Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Money Order / Western Union

wfsb.com · 2026-02-19

Florida man faces 26 charges in phone scam targeting Wallingford resident - WFSB

A Florida man has been arrested on 26 charges for running a phone scam targeting a Wallingford resident who received a fraudulent call impersonating her bank and was tricked into sharing personal information, leading to unauthorized charges on her account. The 31-year-old suspect, Errol Patton from Miami, faces multiple charges including telephone fraud, identity theft, and payment card theft, with some charges specifically related to targeting a victim over 60 years old. To protect yourself, never provide personal or financial information over the phone in response to unsolicited calls—instead, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your statement or their official website to verify any claims.

Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime

6abc.com · 2026-02-18

International car sale scam tied to Buck County used fake images and websites: Police

An international car sales scam based in Romania defrauded a Bucks County man of $34,000 by using fake websites and AI-generated images to sell a non-existent 1969 Camaro. The suspect, Ion Cojocaru, allegedly set up shell companies in the U.S. while operating from Romania, and police believe there may be additional victims as he continues posting similar fraudulent listings online. To protect yourself, be cautious when buying vehicles online—especially from sellers you haven't met in person—and verify authenticity through official channels before sending any money.

Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

ago.mo.gov · 2026-02-18

Attorney General Hanaway Warns Tax Day Scams and Fraud Pose Serious Risks to ...

# Tax Day Scam Warning Summary As tax season approaches, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway is warning residents about a surge in scams targeting taxpayers through fake emails, texts, phone calls, and websites impersonating government agencies and tax services. Scammers use fear and urgency to pressure people into sharing personal information or making immediate payments, though legitimate tax authorities will never demand payment via email or threaten arrest. To protect yourself, verify messages independently through official channels, never share sensitive information unsolicited, and report suspected scams to Missouri's consumer hotline at 800-392-8222 or ago.mo.gov.

Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

rnz.co.nz · 2026-02-17

Auckland woman appears in court for alleged 18-year elaborateromance scam | RNZ News

A 44-year-old Auckland woman has been arrested and charged with defrauding a Dunedin man of over $517,000 through an 18-year romance scam—a rare case since most romance scams are typically perpetrated by offshore criminals. The scheme involved the victim sending money to someone he believed he was in a romantic relationship with but never met in person. Police advise people to be extremely cautious about online relationships and investments, as romance scams almost always begin with online contact where victims are convinced to send money without ever meeting the person face-to-face.

Romance Scams Friendship Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

chicagotribune.com · 2026-02-16

Man accused in Portage TV theft scam is on the lam - Chicago Tribune

A California man named Manpreet Singh was arrested for allegedly stealing nearly $595,000 worth of Vizio televisions from a Portage warehouse in December 2024, but he jumped bail and is now a fugitive. Six employees of a transportation company were charged in the scheme, with the accused ringleader facing trial in April 2024, while two other suspects remain at large. To protect yourself, be cautious about unsolicited offers to buy electronics at steep discounts, verify that deliveries arrive at their intended destinations if you're a business, and report suspicious cargo activity to authorities.

Scam Awareness Financial Crime

yahoo.com · 2026-02-16

FBI warns of romance scams on Valentine's Day - Yahoo

# Romance Scam Summary The FBI is warning people about romance scams, particularly around Valentine's Day, where scammers create fake online identities to build trust and manipulate victims into sending money or sharing sensitive information. To protect yourself, be cautious about what you share online, verify a person's identity through image searches, move slowly in new relationships, and never send money to someone you've only met online. Red flags include people who seem too perfect, ask you to move communication off dating apps quickly, isolate you from friends and family, or constantly make excuses to avoid meeting in person.

Romance Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

fortune.com · 2026-02-15

Romance scam from the front lines of the $16 billion fraud crisis - Fortune

# Romance Scams: A $16 Billion Crisis Romance scams have cost victims billions of dollars by exploiting emotional connections and trust. Scammers typically pose as romantic interests or trusted acquaintances, gradually building relationships before requesting money or accessing bank accounts under false pretenses—such as Kate Kleinert losing her life savings after being manipulated through a fake friendship, and Beth Hyland nearly transferring large sums after believing she was helping a romantic interest. To protect yourself, be suspicious of online relationships that quickly become intimate, never share banking credentials with anyone, verify claims through independent channels, and remember that scammers often use emotional manipulation and urgency to override your judgment.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards Cash Bank Transfer

securitymagazine.com · 2026-02-14

Valentine's Day 2026: Inside the Industrial-Scale Romance Scam Economy

# Valentine's Day Romance Scam Summary Over 630,000 organized cybercriminals are running industrial-scale romance scams targeting millions of Americans on dating apps, with U.S. losses exceeding $1.3 billion annually and individual victims losing an average of $10,000 to $50,000 (often their entire life savings). Unlike the small-time catfishers of the past, these are professional operations with shift workers, quotas, and specialized roles that use fake personas, cryptocurrency exchanges, and VPNs to launder stolen money. To protect yourself, be cautious of anyone you meet online who quickly professes affection, asks for money or financial information, or avoids video calls—and report suspected scams to the FTC and your dating app platform.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Tech Support Scams Sextortion Identity Theft Online Shopping Scams Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency

t2online.in · 2026-02-11

Interview with HelpAge on cybercrime and online safety forseniorcitizens on Safer Internet Day

Senior citizens in India are increasingly falling victim to sophisticated online scams, with cybercrimes against older adults rising 86% in 2025, including "digital arrest" threats, AI-generated bank calls, and deepfake impersonation that exploit their unfamiliarity with technology and tendency to trust authority figures. The problem is acute because India's 15 crore senior citizens have rapidly adopted digital banking and payments out of necessity—especially for pensions and healthcare—but have received little formal training in online safety. Experts recommend that seniors should never share OTPs or personal information in response to unsolicited calls or messages, verify requests by independently contacting their bank or family members, and seek digital literacy training from trusted sources before conducting sensitive transactions online.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

wvlt.tv · 2026-02-10

Scammers in Hamblen County targeting people, businesses as 'fake' detective, sergeant, police say

Scammers in Hamblen County, Tennessee are impersonating police officers named "Detective Scott Davis," calling residents and claiming they missed jury duty and must pay fines via gift card or Cash App to avoid arrest—a tactic that authorities confirm is fraudulent since no such detective exists and law enforcement never requests payment through these methods. Both individuals and businesses have been targeted, with the scammer also attempting to extract employee personnel records from companies. Residents and business owners should hang up on suspicious calls and directly contact the Hamblen County Sheriff's Office at 423-586-3781 rather than calling any number provided by the caller, as legitimate law enforcement will never demand gift card or mobile payment app transfers.

Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Gift Cards Cash Payment App

weau.com · 2026-02-09

La Crosse County Sheriff's Office warns public of scam- WEAU

The La Crosse County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about scam calls claiming they missed jury duty and have an arrest warrant, designed to pressure victims into paying fines or bonds over the phone. These scammers may request payment via gift cards or personal financial information, but legitimate law enforcement will never ask for such payments by phone. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately and contact the sheriff's non-emergency dispatch line at 608-782-7575 to verify, and never share personal details with callers you cannot confirm.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Gift Cards

kmbc.com · 2026-02-08

Liberty police say store clerk stopped crypto ATM scam- KMBC

# Crypto ATM Scam Summary An older man in Liberty, Missouri nearly lost money to scammers who convinced him they were Microsoft support and directed him to send cash through a cryptocurrency ATM to fix a computer virus. A vigilant store clerk noticed the confused customer and intervened, stopping the transaction and alerting police. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited tech support calls, never search for support numbers online (use official company websites instead), and avoid using cryptocurrency ATMs for urgent money transfers, as they are irreversible and frequently targeted by scammers.

Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards Cash

newsweek.com · 2026-02-04

Tax Scams To Watch Out for During IRS Filing Season - Newsweek

# Tax Scam Summary During the 2025 tax season, scammers are increasingly impersonating the IRS and tax agencies to defraud Americans, with nearly one in four people reporting losses to such schemes—totaling an estimated $9.1 billion in 2024 alone. Common tactics include fake agents claiming victims owe back taxes or face arrest, using urgency and official language to pressure people into sending money via untraceable methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, remember that the IRS never threatens arrest, demands same-day payment, or initiates contact via unsolicited calls or emails—if you receive such communication, hang up and contact the IRS directly through its official website or phone number.

Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

cnhi.com · 2026-02-04

Fred Goldenberg: Digital technology takes scamming to new heights - CNHI

Scammers are increasingly using AI-generated voice clones and deepfake technology to impersonate loved ones and government officials, targeting older Americans with devastating results. In 2024 alone, seniors lost nearly $4.9 billion to fraud—a 43% increase from the previous year—with victims over 60 losing an average of $83,000 compared to $19,000 for younger victims. To protect yourself, verify requests for money by contacting family members directly through known phone numbers, be skeptical of emotional urgency or requests for secrecy, and hang up and independently confirm the caller's identity before sending any funds.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

finance.yahoo.com · 2026-02-03

Gold bars, crypto, and cash are fueling new scams. What to watch for. - Yahoo Finance

An FBI investigation shut down an international scam operation with call centers in India that defrauded 660 Americans of over $48 million since 2022 by impersonating government officials and tech support to steal gold bars, cryptocurrency, and cash. Victims, many elderly and concentrated in Maryland, were told their identities or families were in danger, prompting them to drain savings and purchase gold or crypto to "protect" their assets, which they then handed to couriers. To avoid becoming a victim, be skeptical of unsolicited emails or calls claiming government emergencies, never wire money or buy precious metals based on official-sounding threats, and verify any suspicious claims by contacting government agencies directly through official channels.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Cash

harlanenterprise.net · 2026-02-03

scam alert: What Residents Are Seeing Right Now | Harlan Enterprise

Scam attempts have surged in recent months with criminals using AI voice technology, spoofed phone numbers, and fake websites to target residents through schemes like the "Grandparent Scam" (where scammers impersonate grandchildren in distress), fake government impostor calls threatening legal action, and romance scams on dating apps. Victims should hang up on suspicious calls and independently verify emergencies by contacting known phone numbers, never trust callers claiming to represent government agencies demanding immediate payment, and be cautious of people on dating apps who quickly profess deep feelings. The key defense is maintaining skepticism, independently verifying claims, and consulting trusted family members or official agency websites before responding to any urgent requests.

Romance Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

bethesdamagazine.com · 2026-02-03

MoCo residents targeted byfraudschemes warn others to stay vigilant - Bethesda Magazine

Ten individuals have been indicted in connection with government impersonation scams that targeted Montgomery County residents and hundreds of people nationwide, resulting in over $48 million in losses. Senior citizens like an 82-year-old Rockville woman were deceived by fraudulent emails claiming to be from the Social Security Administration, pressuring victims to transfer their savings to overseas accounts or convert funds into gold, cryptocurrency, or cash. To protect yourself, authorities advise being skeptical of unsolicited government communications, never transferring money based on urgent threats, and verifying requests directly through official government channels rather than using contact information provided in suspicious emails.

Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Benefits Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

azag.gov · 2026-02-02

Attorney General Kris Mayes Issues Cryptocurrency ATM Scam Alert, Launches New Fraud ...

# Cryptocurrency ATM Scam Summary Arizona residents lost over $177 million in 2024 to cryptocurrency ATM scams, with scammers primarily targeting older adults through deceptive phone calls, texts, or emails claiming legal trouble or compromised accounts. Attorney General Kris Mayes warns that if someone pressures you to use a cryptocurrency ATM, you're likely being scammed—once money is deposited, it transfers directly to scammers and is nearly impossible to recover. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited contact urging you to withdraw cash or use crypto ATMs, and report scams to the Attorney General within 30 days if you've been victimized.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Bank Impersonation Utility Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Cash Bank Transfer

vinnews.com · 2026-02-02

Federal Authorities Issue Warning: Scammers Posing as Prosecutors and Law Enforcement ...

Federal authorities are warning about a widespread scam where fraudsters impersonate prosecutors and law enforcement officers, contacting people via phone, text, or email to claim they're either fraud victims or suspects in investigations. The scammers use fear and intimidation to pressure victims into sending money or revealing personal information through untraceable methods like wire transfers or prepaid cards. To stay safe, remember that legitimate federal officials never demand money or sensitive information over the phone or through unsolicited messages—if you receive such a call, hang up and contact the FBI or your local law enforcement directly.

Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Wire Transfer

en.clickpetroleoegas.com.br · 2026-02-01

Free Flow toll scams kyrockets: fake websites are charging for Pix payments and bank slips ...

Scammers are targeting drivers using Brazil's new Free Flow electronic toll system by creating fake websites and sending fraudulent Pix payment requests and fake payment slips to steal money from unsuspecting users. The National Land Transport Agency warns that there is no official centralized website or automatic payment slips—each toll section has its own concessionaire with separate official channels. Drivers should only seek toll payment information directly from official channels and be suspicious of unsolicited payment requests to avoid falling victim to this scam.

Tech Support Scams Phishing Scam Awareness

whio.com · 2026-02-01

Local sheriff's office warns residents of new Amazon scam

Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck is warning residents about scams involving callers impersonating law enforcement or Amazon representatives who threaten arrest or claim urgent product recalls to extort money through payment apps, often using caller ID spoofing and real employee names to appear legitimate. Victims are also targeted with phishing text messages claiming to be from Amazon or other companies with links designed to steal personal and financial information. Residents should never click links from unsolicited messages or provide payment when threatened with arrest, as legitimate authorities and companies will never demand sensitive information or payment through unexpected contact.

Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Money Order / Western Union

news10.com · 2026-02-01

Washington County Sheriff's Office warns of phone scam- NEWS10 ABC

# Phone Scam Summary Washington County residents are being targeted by scammers impersonating Walmart Security and law enforcement officials who claim to investigate fraudulent purchases on victims' accounts, then pressure them to pay fines using gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. The scam uses spoofed phone numbers and stolen personal details like partial Social Security numbers to appear credible, but legitimate law enforcement and businesses never request payment or sensitive information over the phone. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately without engaging, and report it to the Federal Trade Commission using official contact numbers you find yourself rather than any numbers provided by the caller.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

the420.in · 2026-01-31

MumbaiSeniorCitizen Duped of ₹1.27 Crore in 'Digital Arrest' CyberFraud- The420.in

An 85-year-old retired scientist in Mumbai lost ₹1.27 crore in a "digital arrest" scam where criminals impersonated police and CBI officials, falsely accusing him of money laundering and threatening arrest and legal consequences for his family. The fraudsters used forged documents, video calls, and psychological pressure to convince the victim to transfer the money in multiple transactions between early December 2025. To protect yourself, verify government officials' identities through official channels rather than phone numbers provided by callers, never transfer money under pressure from alleged law enforcement, and report suspicious calls claiming to be from police or agencies to actual authorities immediately.

Government Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Bank Transfer

cowboystatedaily.com · 2026-01-31

scammers are Draining Millions From Wyomingites Using Crypto ATMs

Scammers across Wyoming have stolen over $4.6 million from residents by convincing victims to deposit cash into cryptocurrency ATMs, which the criminals then use to quickly transfer and hide the money through multiple accounts, making it nearly impossible to trace. The con artists—often operating from overseas—use common scam tactics similar to those from years past (like impersonating Nigerian princes), but now direct victims to crypto ATMs instead of gift cards or money orders. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious if anyone asks you to send money via cryptocurrency ATM or any untraceable payment method, and always verify requests through official channels before sending any funds.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Inheritance Scams Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards Bank Transfer Money Order / Western Union

wdtn.com · 2026-01-31

Montgomery County Sheriff warns against common scams | WDTN.com

The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about increasing scams, including fraudulent calls impersonating law enforcement officials demanding payment for missed court dates, and phishing text messages posing as major companies like Amazon. These scammers use caller ID spoofing and create false urgency to pressure victims into sending money through payment apps or wire transfers. To protect yourself, never click links from unknown sources, don't send money based on unsolicited calls or texts, and always independently verify claims by contacting legitimate agencies directly before taking action.

Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Money Order / Western Union

daytondailynews.com · 2026-01-31

Montgomery County sheriff warns of scams, phishing texts - Dayton Daily News

Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck is warning residents about two prevalent scams: fraudulent calls from people impersonating sheriff's office employees who threaten arrest and demand immediate payment, and phishing text messages posing as Amazon or other companies urging users to click suspicious links. Victims are targeted through fear and urgency, with scammers using caller ID spoofing to appear legitimate, though the sheriff's office clarifies it will never demand payment or threaten arrest by phone. Residents are advised to avoid clicking links in unsolicited texts, never provide sensitive information via text message, and report suspicious calls to stay safe.

Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Money Order / Western Union

globenewswire.com · 2026-01-31

Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyer Explains: Tilak Jewelers in - GlobeNewswire

In January 2026, authorities in Texas seized millions of dollars in cash and gold from two Indian-owned jewelry stores (Saima Jewelers in Frisco and Tilak Jewelers in Irving) as part of an investigation into an elder fraud scheme targeting approximately 200 victims. Scammers contacted elderly people via email, impersonated law enforcement, and convinced them to surrender gold and valuables to avoid arrest; the stolen items were then brought to these jewelry stores to be melted down and resold. To protect yourself, be aware that legitimate law enforcement will never demand payment in gold or valuables via email, and always verify any criminal investigation claims by contacting your local police department directly.

General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

kgun9.com · 2026-01-31

How to make Robocalls almost vanish in 2026 - KGUN 9

# Robocall Scams Summary Robocalls remain a widespread problem affecting millions of Americans, with common scams targeting people with fake loan offers, fraudulent purchase confirmations, and bogus funeral arrangement calls—some victims report receiving 50+ calls per day. To combat this issue, experts recommend using built-in carrier tools (like AT&T Call Protect, Verizon Call Filter, and T-Mobile Scam Shield) and phone features (iPhone's Silence Unknown Callers and Android call screening), along with third-party apps like Nomorobo and RoboKiller, while also following simple practices like never pressing buttons on suspicious calls or sharing personal information. While robocalls may never disappear completely, combining these technological solutions with cautious personal habits can significantly reduce their frequency to manageable levels.

Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

eset.com · 2026-01-30

The most common scams small businesses should be aware of - ESET

Small businesses and freelancers are increasingly targeted by sophisticated scams that exploit their limited resources and busy schedules, with cybercriminals using AI tools to create more convincing schemes at scale. These scams can result in financial loss, data theft, and reputational damage, affecting everyone from solo entrepreneurs to micro-businesses. To protect themselves, small business owners should invest in affordable cybersecurity solutions designed for small offices and take time to learn about common scam tactics to implement preventive measures.

Tech Support Scams Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Wire Transfer Payment App

cbsnews.com · 2026-01-30

Jewelry store raids in Irving, Frisco linked to $55 million gold scam targeting seniors, officials say

Law enforcement in the Dallas-Fort Worth area arrested jewelry store owners accused of laundering over $55 million in gold stolen from elderly victims through a scam that threatened seniors with arrest unless they purchased gold and handed it over to couriers. The scam worked by sending fraudulent emails to seniors claiming they were under federal investigation, pressuring them to buy gold and give it to intermediaries who sold it to the jewelry stores, which then melted it down and resold it or smuggled it out of the country. Seniors should be wary of unsolicited emails or calls threatening legal action and demanding immediate payment in gold or cash—legitimate government agencies never conduct investigations this way—and should verify any such claims by contacting official agencies directly.

Investment Fraud Phishing General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

mk.co.kr · 2026-01-30

The couple's fraud team, which participated in aromance scams (love-child fraud) criminal group in

# Romance Scam Summary A couple in their 30s used deepfake technology to create fake identities and romance scam victims through social media, stealing approximately 12 billion won (about $9 million USD) from 104 victims by convincing them to invest in stocks and cryptocurrencies. The couple operated from a crime complex in Cambodia as part of a larger organized criminal network, and South Korean police have arrested 39 people involved in the scheme and are investigating 83 total members. People should be cautious about unsolicited romantic advances online and avoid get-rich-quick job offers, as scammers often target young adults with promises of easy money.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Financial Crime

inrng.com · 2026-01-30

Pogacar and Ku Coin - The Inner Ring

Cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin hired professional cyclist Tadej Pogačar as a brand ambassador despite the company's troubled regulatory history, including fines in the US, Canada, and Europe, and a guilty plea for failing to implement anti-money laundering protections that allowed it to process billions in suspicious transactions. The company has been linked to facilitating proceeds from darknet markets, ransomware, and fraud schemes, raising questions about why a high-profile athlete would associate with such a platform. For consumers, the key takeaway is to be cautious about endorsements from celebrities or athletes for cryptocurrency platforms and independently verify any crypto company's regulatory standing and history before investing or trading.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

wcbi.com · 2026-01-29

Tax season is here — don't fall for these common scams- WCBI

# Tax Scam Summary As tax season begins, the Federal Trade Commission is warning Americans about phishing and smishing scams that use fake IRS emails and texts to trick people into revealing personal information like Social Security numbers and bank details. Common scams include fraudulent "tax refund approved" messages with malicious links and phone calls from imposters claiming you owe back taxes and need to verify your information. To protect yourself, never click links in unsolicited tax messages, remember that the real IRS won't contact you via text or email, and report suspicious messages to your phone carrier by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM).

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Check/Cashier's Check

mirror.co.uk · 2026-01-28

Anyone with grandparents urged to warn them of 'lifetime savings' call - The Mirror

# Scammers are increasingly targeting grandparents and older adults through phone calls, texts, and emails impersonating family members, police, or banks, with victims losing thousands of pounds in single interactions. Elder fraud has become one of the UK's fastest-growing financial crimes because criminals exploit the trust and psychological vulnerabilities of older people rather than relying on technical hacking, making them attractive targets with substantial lifetime savings and stable incomes. Families are urged to warn their grandparents and elderly relatives about these scams, particularly "grandparent scams" where callers claim to be in urgent need of money, and to be skeptical of unexpected contact from authority figures.

Bank Impersonation Phishing Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

punchng.com · 2026-01-28

Suspected Internet fraudster arraigned for $7000romance scam- Punch Newspapers

A man in Lagos, Nigeria has been arraigned in Federal High Court for allegedly running a romance scam that defrauded two victims of $7,000 between 2019 and 2024. The suspect, Samson Onaolapo, is accused of impersonating an American named Scott Spark via email to convince the victims to send money. To protect yourself from similar scams, be cautious of online relationships that quickly ask for money, verify the identity of people you meet online through video calls or other means, and never send funds to people you haven't met in person.

Romance Scams Inheritance Scams Money Mules / Laundering

cbsnews.com · 2026-01-28

Tax season is here — don't fall for these common scams- CBS News

# Tax Season Scam Warning During tax season, scammers are targeting Americans through phishing emails and text messages that impersonate the IRS, asking recipients to click links and provide sensitive information like Social Security numbers and bank account details in exchange for supposedly processing tax refunds. The Federal Trade Commission warns that the real IRS will never contact you via email, text, or social media for personal information, and similar phone scams involve callers claiming you owe back taxes and trying to connect you with fake "tax resolution officers." To protect yourself, avoid clicking suspicious links, hang up on unexpected tax-related calls, report spam texts by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM), and use only the official IRS "Where's My Refund" tool to check your refund status.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Check/Cashier's Check

kpax.com · 2026-01-28

Tax season is here — don't fall for these common scams- KPAX

# Tax Season Scam Alert Summary During tax season, the Federal Trade Commission is warning Americans about phishing and smishing scams where criminals impersonate the IRS through emails, texts, or calls to trick people into revealing personal information like Social Security numbers and bank account details by promising tax refunds. These scams affect tax filers across the country, with scammers claiming refunds have been "processed" or calling about back taxes owed. To protect yourself, remember that the real IRS will never contact you by text, email, or social media asking for personal information—only scammers do—so don't click suspicious links, hang up on callers claiming to be government officials, and instead use the official IRS "Where's My Refund" tool to check your refund status.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Check/Cashier's Check

41nbc.com · 2026-01-27

Federal officials warn Georgians of scam impersonating prosecutors and law enforcement

Scammers in Georgia are impersonating prosecutors and law enforcement officers to trick people into revealing sensitive financial information or making payments, using tactics like caller ID spoofing and fake badge numbers to appear legitimate. The victims are everyday residents who receive threatening calls, texts, or emails falsely claiming they're suspects in investigations or victims of fraud. If you receive such a contact, do not provide any personal or financial information and report it immediately to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.

Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

wtoc.com · 2026-01-27

scam alert: FBI warns of fake agents, prosecutors demanding money - WTOC

The FBI is warning Americans about scammers impersonating federal agents and prosecutors who contact people via phone, text, and email claiming they're involved in fraud investigations, then demanding money or personal information. These fraudsters—potentially operating from outside the U.S.—exploit fear and intimidation to steal from victims who believe they're complying with legitimate law enforcement requests. To protect yourself, remember that real federal prosecutors and law enforcement will never contact you demanding money or personal details over the phone; if you receive such contact, hang up and report it to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.

Robocalls / Phone Scams

outlookmoney.com · 2026-01-26

India's Scam Problem: How 5 Common Scams Exploit Human Behaviour, Not Technology

India experienced over Rs 22,800 crore in digital scam losses in 2024, with scams succeeding primarily by manipulating human behavior rather than exploiting technology flaws—victims are persuaded to authorize payments, open accounts, or transfer funds under pressure rather than being hacked directly. The article identifies five common scams (including UPI fraud that exploits convenience and routine bias) that prey on psychological vulnerabilities, with criminals using coercion and persuasion to repeatedly extract funds from victims. To protect themselves, consumers should verify requests cautiously, avoid acting under pressure, monitor accounts for unauthorized activity, and remain aware that scammers rely on psychological manipulation rather than sophisticated hacking.

Government Impersonation Benefits Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

cnn.com · 2026-01-26

Ensnared by the global cyberscam vortex, swindler and victims join forces to take down ringleaders

# Article Summary A South Korean man named Dex was tricked into working for a Chinese-run scam operation in Cambodia, where he and hundreds of other Korean speakers were forced to conduct romance and investment fraud against victims in their home country, stealing tens of millions of dollars and devastating families' finances. After escaping, Dex has partnered with victims of the same scam network to help prosecutors build cases against the ringleaders, two of whom were recently extradited to South Korea. For people targeted by such scams, authorities recommend verifying job offers through official channels, being skeptical of unsolicited investment opportunities, and reporting suspicious activity to local law enforcement and financial institutions immediately.

Romance Scams Friendship Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Bank Transfer

ap7am.com · 2026-01-25

China-linked scams stealing billions from US families: Senate - AP7AM

China-linked scam networks operating from compounds in Southeast Asia stole over $4.8 billion from Americans in 2024, with seniors being particularly targeted through romance scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and other sophisticated schemes that exploit vulnerable retirees' life savings. U.S. senators are pushing bipartisan legislation to crack down on these criminal enterprises, which they characterize as a national security threat allegedly enabled by the Chinese government and often staffed by human trafficking victims. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances online, never transfer retirement funds to cryptocurrency, and verify unexpected requests for money by contacting institutions directly through official channels.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Benefits Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

en.yna.co.kr · 2026-01-25

Prosecutors seek arrest warrants for 72 online scams uspects repatriated from Cambodia

South Korea has repatriated 73 suspects from Cambodia who allegedly operated online scam call centers, with prosecutors seeking arrest warrants for 72 of them. The scammers are accused of defrauding approximately 869 South Korean victims of 48.6 billion won (about $33 million) through various schemes including romance scams and fake financial company impersonations. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited contact from unknown people claiming to be from financial institutions or romantic interests, and never send money to people you haven't verified in person.

Romance Scams Financial Crime

berkeleyscanner.com · 2026-01-24

He said her daughter had been in a car crash. It was a scam. - The Berkeley Scanner

A 91-year-old Berkeley woman lost $5,000 in a scam where someone called claiming her daughter had been jailed in a car accident and needed bail money, using a voice in the background impersonating her daughter. The scammer pressured her not to tell anyone and instructed her to withdraw cash and hand it to a man who arrived at her house, though the teller's limit of $5,000 prevented a larger loss. Police advise elderly residents to verify urgent claims by contacting family directly, resist pressure to act quickly, avoid giving money to unverified people, and consider establishing a family password to confirm identities.

Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

thestarnews.com · 2026-01-24

Beware of Artificial Intelligence scams- Chula Vista Star News

# AI Voice Scams Alert Criminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence to clone people's voices from social media posts and videos, then impersonating loved ones or government officials to trick victims into sending money—a trend already affecting families across San Diego County and California. These convincing scams typically involve urgent scenarios like a grandchild needing bail or a child in an accident, made more believable through spoofed phone numbers. To protect yourself, establish a family code word for emergencies, ask personal questions only the real person would know, call back using a known number to verify, resist pressure to act quickly, and never send money based on phone or text requests.

Tech Support Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

news.abplive.com · 2026-01-24

NRI, MBA, ElderlyCouple Among 8 Nabbed In ₹14.8-Crore Digital Arrest Scam- ABP Live

Police arrested eight people, including an NRI, MBA graduate, and an elderly couple, in connection with a ₹14.8-crore "digital arrest" scam that primarily targeted senior citizens with false threats of terror or money-laundering charges. The scammers moved stolen money through nearly 1,000 bank accounts using micro-transactions, converted funds to cryptocurrency, and withdrew cash to avoid detection, making recovery of the funds difficult. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming legal threats, never share banking details or make payments based on such calls, and verify any official charges directly with authorities through official channels.

Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Cash

financialexpress.com · 2026-01-24

From marriage proposals to gift cards: How 'Elon Musk' stole Rs 16 lakh from Mumbai woman

A 40-year-old woman from Mumbai lost over Rs 16 lakh in a romance scam where a fraudster posed as Elon Musk on social media, promised her marriage and relocation to the US, then tricked her into buying Amazon gift cards under the pretense of visa processing fees. The scam operated between October 2025 and January 2026, with an accomplice named "James" requesting increasingly larger payments until the woman became suspicious and stopped. Police have registered a case and advise the public to be wary of unsolicited marriage proposals from celebrities on social media and to never send money or gift card codes to unknown individuals requesting help with visas or travel arrangements.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

asiae.co.kr · 2026-01-24

Police Request Arrest Warrants for All 73 Scam Ring Members Extradited from Cambodia

South Korean police have sought arrest warrants for 73 members of a criminal organization extradited from Cambodia who allegedly defrauded approximately 48.6 billion won (roughly $36 million USD) from 869 victims through schemes including romance scams and fake investment chat rooms. The suspects were arrested upon arrival in Korea and are now being investigated across multiple police agencies, with most facing fraud-related charges. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances online and investment opportunities offered through messaging apps or chat rooms, especially from people you haven't met in person.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

nigerianbulletin.com · 2026-01-24

Nigeria Thailand Police Arrest 11 Nigerian Men in InternationalRomance ScamS yndicate Bust

Thai police arrested 13 men—11 Nigerians and 2 Ivorians—who were running an international romance scam that defrauded victims by creating fake social media profiles and manipulating people into sending money, with one Thai victim losing over 2 million baht. The gang used sophisticated tactics including cryptocurrency and money laundering through local accounts, and police seized phones and computers during a raid in January 2026. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships with people you haven't met in person, especially if they ask for money, and verify identities through video calls before engaging financially.

Romance Scams Inheritance Scams Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

the420.in · 2026-01-24

Fear as a Digital Weapon: Cyber Fraudsters Drain Crores FromElderlyMan, ₹1.02 ... - The420.in

An 80-year-old retired professor in Mumbai was defrauded of ₹4.38 crore through a psychological manipulation scheme where scammers posed as police and government officials, threatening him with arrest for alleged financial crimes linked to his identity. The fraudsters used fake documents, repeated intimidating phone calls, and video calls claiming "digital arrest" to coerce the victim into transferring money, which was later used for money laundering. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming legal threats, verify requests directly with official agencies using known contact numbers, and remember that legitimate authorities won't demand immediate transfers or conduct arrests over the phone.

Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

upi.com · 2026-01-23

73 Koreans repatriated from Cambodia in $33.6 million scam probe - UPI.com

South Korean police repatriated 73 nationals from Cambodia who were allegedly involved in large-scale online scams that defrauded about 869 South Korean victims of $33.6 million, including romance scams using deepfake technology and fake investment schemes. The suspects were arrested upon arrival at Incheon International Airport and transferred to police units for questioning. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic or investment opportunities online, verify the identities of people claiming to be financial experts, and avoid sending money to unknown individuals or schemes, especially those promising quick returns.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Scam Awareness

protos.com · 2026-01-23

Cambodian scam rings facing disruption since kingpin's arrest - Protos

A major crackdown on Southeast Asian scam operations is underway following the arrest of billionaire scam kingpin Chen Zhi, with key money-laundering platforms shutting down and thousands of workers fleeing or being released from Cambodian scam compounds. These operations ran "pig butchering" scams on an industrial scale, using fake romantic relationships and investment opportunities to steal money (often in cryptocurrency) from victims. While the disruption is significant, human rights groups warn that released workers lack support and may be trafficked to new scam locations, highlighting the need for proper victim assistance and protection.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

oconnellfuneralhomes.com · 2026-01-22

Senior Scams Exposed: The Cost of Kindness (Good Grief Podcast)

Scammers are increasingly targeting seniors through schemes like grandparent scams, fake tech support calls, government impersonation, and gift card fraud, exploiting their kindness, trust, and fear. In this podcast episode, St. Croix County Sheriff Scott Knutson discusses why these crimes are difficult to track and why victims often don't report them, emphasizing that awareness and family communication are key to protection. To help protect elderly loved ones, families should stay informed about common scam tactics, maintain open conversations about suspicious contacts, and encourage reporting of fraud attempts to authorities.

Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

insidehalton.com · 2026-01-22

'Grandpa I'm in jail': New surge in grandparent scams hit Ontario - Inside Halton

# Grandparent Scams Surge in Ontario Ontario police are warning seniors about a rising wave of "grandparent scams" where fraudsters call claiming a loved one is in legal trouble and needs immediate money for bail or legal fees. Scammers create urgency to prevent victims from verifying the story, often demanding payment via wire transfer or cryptocurrency, and increasingly use AI technology to mimic victims' family members' voices. To protect yourself, verify emergency claims by contacting your loved ones directly, never send money to unknown accounts without confirmation, and be suspicious of callers who insist you keep the situation secret.

Investment Fraud Phishing Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency

amnews.com · 2026-01-22

Attorney General warns Kentuckians of FTC scam- The Advocate-Messenger

A Frankfort-area senior lost $30,000 in a phone scam where callers impersonated the Federal Trade Commission, claiming the victim's accounts were under investigation and demanding immediate payment. Kentucky's Attorney General warns that scammers commonly target older adults by creating urgency and fear, and emphasized that legitimate government agencies never call demanding money, threatening arrest, or requesting wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and verify any claims by contacting the agency directly through official phone numbers or websites.

Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

siliconcanals.com · 2026-01-22

Elder fraudquadruples in four years as scammers drain billions from retirement savings

Fraud targeting seniors has quadrupled since 2020, with reported losses reaching $2.4 billion annually and actual losses potentially exceeding $81 billion when including unreported cases. Older Americans are disproportionately targeted because they typically have substantial savings, are home more often, and were raised to trust authority figures—vulnerabilities that scammers exploit. Experts recommend that seniors stay skeptical of unsolicited contact, verify requests independently through official channels, and report suspected fraud to the FTC or FBI, while also speaking openly about incidents to reduce shame and help identify patterns.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards Bank Transfer

police.boston.gov · 2026-01-22

BPD Community Alert: Courier Scams- Boston Police Department

Scammers are increasingly using couriers to collect cash and precious metals from victims by impersonating tech support agents, law enforcement, government officials, or bank representatives—tactics that disproportionately target older adults. Common schemes include fraudsters claiming accounts are compromised and instructing victims to liquidate assets or hand over credit cards to couriers, sometimes even having victims cut up cards (which doesn't prevent fraud). To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited contacts requesting money or assets, verify requests directly with official organizations using known phone numbers or websites, and never send cash or valuables via courier; if scammed, contact local police and your bank immediately.

Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud

mk.co.kr · 2026-01-22

South Korean members who commit large-scale scams (fraud) crimes based in Cambodia ...

# Article Summary South Korean police are repatriating 73 fraud suspects from Cambodia—the largest single-case repatriation on record—who stole approximately 48.6 billion won (roughly $37 million USD) from nearly 900 victims in South Korea and Cambodia. The suspects used various schemes including romance scams with deepfake technology, fake investment fraud targeting retirees, and hostage-taking extortion, with some criminals even undergoing plastic surgery to evade capture. **Actionable advice for potential victims:** Be extremely cautious of online romantic partners, especially those asking for money or investment opportunities; verify investment advisors' credentials independently; and report suspicious activity to local authorities immediately, as international cooperation can lead to arrests and asset recovery.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

fox29.com · 2026-01-21

Philadelphia tax scam warning: How to spot fake IRS contacts and protect yourself

# Tax Scam Summary During tax season, scammers impersonate the IRS to steal money and personal information from taxpayers by making false promises of refunds, threatening arrest, or creating fake official-looking messages designed to pressure quick action. To protect yourself, remember that the IRS typically contacts people first by mail through the postal service—not by unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts—and watch out for red flags like promises of large refunds, urgent payment demands, threats of arrest, and suspicious website links with misspelled addresses. If you receive a suspicious tax message, verify it by checking the IRS website directly or searching for the specific notice rather than clicking any links provided.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Scam Awareness Financial Crime

sootoday.com · 2026-01-21

Ontario senior warns of 'sophisticated' scam after being duped for over $10K

# Scam Summary An Ontario senior lost over $10,000 to a highly convincing phone scam where a caller impersonated a government fraud investigator, claimed her cards had been cloned, and eventually convinced her to hand over her debit and credit cards to a person who came to her home. The scammer gained credibility by using the victim's personal information, confirming her address, and citing specific transactions, while also warning her against calling her bank directly. To protect yourself, be suspicious of unsolicited calls claiming fraud has occurred, independently verify by contacting your bank directly using a known phone number, and remember that legitimate authorities will never ask you to hand over your physical cards or sensitive information.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness

aol.com · 2026-01-20

Man Says Scammer Used His Grandson's Name—And He Almost Wired Money Immediately

Scammers are targeting older Americans with increasingly sophisticated "grandparent scams" that combine personal data, emotional manipulation, and sometimes AI voice technology to impersonate family members in fake emergencies. A grandfather nearly wired his life savings after receiving a convincing call claiming his grandson needed bail money, complete with real details like the grandson's name and recent move. To protect yourself, fraud experts recommend asking the caller a question only your real family member would know—scammers typically hang up when challenged this way—and always verify emergencies by calling another trusted family member directly before sending money.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Grandparent Scams Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Bank Transfer Check/Cashier's Check

wrangellsentinel.com · 2026-01-20

Second man sentenced for scamming Petersburgseniorof $129,000 - Wrangell Sentinel

A 25-year-old man was sentenced to a year in jail for his role in an elaborate phone scam that defrauded a Petersburg elderly resident of $129,000, with a third suspect still at large. The scammer impersonated a government agent and convinced the victim that her identity had been stolen, persuading her to wire money in multiple transfers. To protect yourself, be wary of unsolicited calls from people claiming to be government officials asking for money, never wire funds based on such calls, and verify any claims by contacting official agencies directly through known phone numbers.

Government Impersonation Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime

the-independent.com · 2026-01-20

South Korean woman arrested over stabbing attack on man duringdatingapp meet-up

A South Korean woman in her 30s was arrested for stabbing a man in his 40s during their first in-person meeting after connecting on a dating app, leaving him with injuries to his arm and face that are not life-threatening. The incident highlights growing safety concerns around dating apps in South Korea, where romance scams have surged to over 1,500 cases annually, causing financial losses exceeding $7 million. Users should exercise caution when meeting online contacts in person, meet in public places, inform trusted contacts of their whereabouts, and be alert to suspicious behavior or requests for money.

Romance Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

statetimes.in · 2026-01-20

A call that cost a lifetime's savings: Cyber scams tighten grip in JK - Statetimes

# Cyber Scam Summary An elderly couple in Srinagar lost their lifetime savings of 48 lakh rupees to a sophisticated "digital arrest" scam in which fraudsters posing as CBI and telecom authority officials convinced them through WhatsApp video calls that they were under criminal investigation and threatened immediate arrest and asset seizure. The scammers used forged government documents, psychological pressure, and isolation tactics (forbidding contact with family or police) to coerce the victims into transferring money over several days. To protect yourself, verify government agency contact through official channels rather than responding to unsolicited calls, know that real authorities won't demand money transfers or threaten arrest over the phone, and report suspicious communications to police immediately instead of engaging further with the caller.

Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Utility Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Online Shopping Scams Family Exploitation Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Bank Transfer

wrdw.com · 2026-01-19

SAFETY ALERT: scams are on the rise; how you can avoid them - WRDW

# Scams Rising Across the U.S. Americans receive approximately 2.5 million scam and robocalls monthly, with scammers increasingly impersonating law enforcement to threaten arrest or demand payment via gift cards and wire transfers. In the Augusta area alone, ten of 22 counties have reported rising scam activity since November, including impersonations of local agencies like North Augusta Public Safety and major companies like Amazon and Georgia Power. To protect yourself, never provide personal information or payment to callers claiming to be law enforcement, verify suspicious calls by contacting the agency directly, and register your phone number on the Federal Trade Commission's Do Not Call list to reduce scam call volume.

Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Phishing Identity Theft Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App

komu.com · 2026-01-19

Cole County Sheriff's Office warns of potential scam in mid-Missouri - KOMU

# Fraud Alert Summary The Cole County Sheriff's Office is warning residents of a scam where callers impersonate deputies and claim victims have arrest warrants, demanding payment over the phone. Law enforcement will never contact you by phone about warrants or ask for payment, so if you receive such a call, hang up and independently contact your local sheriff's office using an official number to verify. If you've been targeted by this scam, contact the Cole County Sheriff's Office at 573-634-9160.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime

wsaz.com · 2026-01-18

Scammers pose as U.S. Marshals demanding money, threatening arrest - WSAZ

Scammers are impersonating U.S. Marshals and other law enforcement in a widespread fraud scheme, calling or texting victims to demand immediate payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or Bitcoin by threatening arrest for missed court dates or jury duty. These fraudsters often send fake court documents and may pressure victims not to tell family members. To protect yourself, remember that legitimate law enforcement will never call demanding money—if you receive such a call, hang up and call 911 directly to verify any claims.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

chicagotribune.com · 2026-01-18

$788000 lost in Palos Hills in second high-value south suburbs scam in recent months

An elderly Palos Hills resident lost $788,000 in a phone scam involving cryptocurrency and other methods, part of a troubling trend of high-value fraud targeting seniors in the south suburbs. A second victim in the same area lost $19,000 when a scammer impersonated a Chase Bank representative, and similar schemes have cost other residents hundreds of thousands of dollars through fake cryptocurrency investment opportunities. According to the Federal Trade Commission, scams targeting older adults for amounts exceeding $100,000 have increased nearly sevenfold since 2020, making it critical for seniors and their families to verify any unsolicited financial requests directly with their banks using official phone numbers and to be skeptical of pressure to quickly transfer money or invest in cryptocurrency.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Check/Cashier's Check

savingadvice.com · 2026-01-18

January 20th Deadline: Why Thousands ofSeniorsAre Losing This Federal Tax Credit Next Week

Scammers are targeting seniors with fake "urgent" messages claiming they'll lose federal tax credits by January 20th, using artificial time pressure to trick people into revealing personal information or paying bogus fees. The actual IRS filing deadline isn't until April 15, 2026, and legitimate tax credits don't vanish from missing a random mid-January cutoff. To protect yourself, ignore pressure to act immediately—contact the IRS directly through their official website or phone number, verify claims with trusted family members, and remember that the IRS typically initiates contact by mail, not unsolicited calls or emails.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

the420.in · 2026-01-18

SeniorCitizen in Navi Mumbai Duped of ₹4 Crore in Elaborate CyberFraud- The420.in

A retired senior citizen in Navi Mumbai lost over ₹4 crore in an elaborate cyber fraud where scammers impersonated police and investigation officials, using WhatsApp calls and fabricated bank notices to convince him his identity was involved in money laundering and threatening him with arrest if he didn't transfer funds to "secure accounts." The victim eventually realized the deception after noticing suspicious account activity and reported it to authorities. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming to be from officials, never transfer money based on threats or alleged legal issues, and verify any such claims directly with official agencies through their known contact numbers rather than responding to the caller.

Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Bank Transfer

inkl.com · 2026-01-18

Cops Confirm: California's New 'Quiet' Parking Sensors… - inkl

California cities and transit agencies are increasingly using camera-based enforcement to issue parking citations by mail rather than through traditional officer interactions, which has sparked alarm and made the situation ripe for scammers. Criminals are now creating fake parking citations with QR codes designed to steal money and personal information from residents. If you receive a citation, verify it directly with the issuing agency by phone or their official website rather than clicking any links or QR codes in the notice.

Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Scam Awareness

womansworld.com · 2026-01-17

Cybersecurity Expert Names Worst Scams Ever and How to Avoid Them | Woman's World

Cybersecurity experts warn that AI voice cloning scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and dangerous, allowing criminals to impersonate trusted figures like family members, police officers, and bank employees to manipulate victims into sending money or revealing personal information. These scams use emotional pressure tactics and create artificial urgency, with warning signs including demands to keep the call secret, stay on the line, or pay via cryptocurrency, gift cards, or ATM transfers. To protect yourself, establish a family password that must be provided before responding to urgent requests for money or personal information.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Prescription Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Cash Payment App

gulte.com · 2026-01-17

Retired people Losing Crs With Fake Trading Apps - Gulte

Retired people and senior citizens across India are losing large sums of money—sometimes crores of rupees—to fraudulent trading apps and investment scams, with recent cases showing losses ranging from 80 lakhs to over 5 crores. Scammers typically contact victims via WhatsApp and social media, build trust through fake profit screenshots, and trick them into downloading fake trading apps where withdrawals are impossible once money is transferred. To protect yourself and elderly family members, be skeptical of unsolicited investment offers, verify apps through official sources, and avoid downloading software from strangers or unverified links.

Investment Fraud General Elder Fraud

kashmirlife.net · 2026-01-17

ElderlySrinagar Couple Loses Rs 48 Lakh in Fake Digital Arrest Scam | Kashmir Life

An elderly couple in Srinagar lost Rs 48 lakh after scammers posing as CBI and TRAI officials convinced them they were under "digital arrest" for financial fraud, subjecting them to psychological intimidation and continuous video surveillance until they transferred the money. Authorities emphasize that "digital arrest" is not a real legal process and warn that such scams disproportionately target senior citizens, particularly those living alone. People should immediately report suspicious calls to the cyber helpline 1930, never share banking details with callers claiming to be officials, and always verify claims directly through official channels.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

whnt.com · 2026-01-15

BBB Tip: Protect yourself from tax scams in the U.S. | WHNT.com

# Tax Scam Summary Scammers are impersonating the IRS during tax season, either demanding immediate payment for supposed back taxes via wire transfer or prepaid debit card (threatening arrest if you don't comply), or requesting personal information under the guise of issuing refunds—tactics that can lead to identity theft and particularly target college students. These fraudsters use sophisticated tactics like fake badge numbers, spoofed caller IDs showing Washington D.C., and official-looking emails to appear legitimate, but the real IRS always initiates contact by mail first and allows time for questions. To protect yourself, be suspicious of any urgent pressure to pay immediately or share personal information, and remember that legitimate IRS agents won't demand payment by wire transfer or prepaid debit card.

Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Wire Transfer

wxyz.com · 2026-01-15

New tether scam has new twist for metro Detroiters: here's what to watch out for - WXYZ

Scammers in the Detroit area are impersonating jail officials and calling families of recently arrested individuals, claiming their loved ones have been transferred to distant jails and need payment for tether fees to be released. In a new twist on this scheme, a Highland Park woman was told her son would be released on an electronic monitor but needed to pay $1,000, with the scammers sending fake official emails from non-government addresses to request payment. To protect yourself, be suspicious of unexpected calls about jail transfers, verify any requests by calling the actual jail directly using official phone numbers, and watch for red flags like requests to pay via email or non-government email addresses.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Payment App

wbrc.com · 2026-01-15

Pelham Police report 'uptick' in cryptocurrency scams targetingseniors- WBRC

Pelham, Alabama police are warning about a surge in cryptocurrency scams targeting senior citizens, where criminals impersonate law enforcement and threaten victims with arrest or jail time unless they pay in Bitcoin. The scammers use scare tactics and keep victims on the phone to coerce them into cryptocurrency transfers, which are harder to trace and faster than traditional bank transactions. If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from police, hang up immediately and call your local police department directly to verify the claim rather than providing any payment information.

Crypto Investment Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency

wltx.com · 2026-01-15

Orangeburg County warns of scam calls posing as sheriff's deputies | wltx.com

# Scam Summary Orangeburg County residents are being targeted by scammers impersonating sheriff's deputies, using real officers' names, spoofed phone numbers, and fake badge numbers to demand payment for alleged missed jury duty. Victims are threatened with arrest or told to pay fines of thousands of dollars through a website, and callers instruct them not to tell anyone. If you receive such a call, experts recommend hanging up and verifying the claim directly with the actual sheriff's office or by speaking with someone you trust before taking any action.

Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams

cybersecurityventures.com · 2026-01-14

AI-Powered Deepfake Scams Are A Pain In The Wallet - Cybercrime Magazine

AI-powered deepfakes are being weaponized by cybercriminals to deceive employees and executives into transferring large sums of money, with one UK engineering firm losing £20 million after an employee was tricked by a fake video call with a supposed senior officer. Finance professionals are particularly vulnerable, with 53% targeted by deepfake scams and 43% actually falling victim to them, contributing to the estimated $10.5 trillion in global cybercrime losses in 2025. To protect yourself and your organization, experts recommend learning to identify red flags in voice cloning, deepfake videos, and social engineering tactics, which can be done with minimal financial investment.

Tech Support Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud

ibtimes.co.uk · 2026-01-14

The Government Imposter Scam Draining Retirement Accounts: WhyOlderAdults Lost $2.4 Billion

Scammers posing as government officials are draining retirement accounts from older Americans at alarming rates, with adults over 60 losing $2.4 billion to fraud in 2024—a fourfold increase since 2020. These "government imposter" schemes, now the third-largest scam category targeting seniors, trick victims into emptying their 401(k)s and bank accounts by fabricating crises like identity theft or criminal investigations and claiming their money needs to be moved for "protection." To stay safe, older adults should never transfer money based on unsolicited calls or messages, verify requests directly by calling official government agencies using numbers from their official websites, and remember that legitimate government agencies will never ask for emergency fund transfers.

Government Impersonation Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Cash Bank Transfer

the420.in · 2026-01-14

The Many Faces of CyberCrime: Impersonation, Mule Accounts, Insurance Scams Spanning ...

# Cybercrime Summary Digital fraud operations across India are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with criminals using tactics like impersonation, fake accounts, and mobile-based scams to steal money from businesses and individuals. Recent law enforcement actions shut down a cyber fraud ring in Jharkhand and arrested scammers in Karnataka who impersonated a company CEO via WhatsApp to defraud a senior manager of 80 lakh rupees. To protect yourself, verify unexpected financial requests through independent channels (calling the person directly using a known number), never transfer money based solely on digital messages, and report suspicious activity to authorities immediately.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Check/Cashier's Check

fox2now.com · 2026-01-13

Fake arrest threat warning as scams continue in STL area - FOX 2

# Scammers in the St. Louis area are impersonating law enforcement and judges, threatening victims with arrest and demanding thousands of dollars via phone calls and text messages. Victims have reported receiving fake arrest warrants, FBI threats, and claims of missed jury duty, with scammers demanding payments between $3,000 and $3,500 and even threatening to take children. To protect yourself, remember that legitimate law enforcement agencies will not call demanding immediate payment, so hang up and contact the agency directly through official channels to verify any claims.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards

vermontbiz.com · 2026-01-13

Attorney General Clark releases report on Top 10 Scams of 2025 | Vermont Business Magazine

Vermont saw a 12% increase in scam reports in 2025, with 3,982 reports filed to the state Attorney General's office, with computer tech support scams continuing to dominate (over 25% of cases) alongside rising debt collection and government imposter scams, particularly targeting SNAP benefit recipients. Vermont residents should never respond to unsolicited calls, emails, or texts—especially those threatening legal action—and should instead verify suspicious requests by contacting trusted contacts or the Attorney General's Consumer Assistance Program directly. Free protection resources are available through the VT Scam Alert System, which has already enrolled roughly 9,000 residents to receive scam warnings.

Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud Benefits Fraud Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Wire Transfer Bank Transfer Check/Cashier's Check

positivelynaperville.com · 2026-01-13

BBB Research Reveals Top 10 Local Scams to Watch Out for in 2026 - Positively Naperville

The Better Business Bureau warns that scammers are expected to be especially aggressive during the 2026 tax season, using imposter calls, texts, emails, and fake letters to steal personal information and money from taxpayers who are feeling pressured. Additionally, the BBB cautions Chicago Bears fans to avoid purchasing counterfeit tickets through fraudulent websites, social media ads, and scam messages. To protect yourself, never share your Social Security number unless you're certain you're dealing with a trusted source, and purchase tickets only from official, verified vendors.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Identity Theft Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Bank Transfer Check/Cashier's Check

ashleycountyledger.com · 2026-01-13

10 Year Sentence Given In Financial Scam | News | ashleycountyledger.com

A man named Portier Guytan was convicted in January 2026 for running a financial scam that targeted an elderly Crossett resident, who was defrauded of $50,000 after being told he had won an $11 million Jamaican lottery. The scam began in May 2025 when the 76-year-old victim received a call from someone claiming he had won the lottery and needed to send money to claim his prize. To protect yourself from similar scams, be skeptical of unexpected lottery winnings or prize notifications, never send money upfront to claim prizes, and verify claims by contacting official authorities directly.

Romance Scams Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Grandparent Scams Home Repair Scams Charity Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

redhotcyber.com · 2026-01-13

Pig butchering scams Evolve with PBaaS: The New Threat - Red Hot Cyber

Pig butchering scams—where criminals pose as romantic interests to convince victims to invest in fake schemes—have evolved from small operations into a sophisticated "Pig Butchering-as-a-Service" (PBaaS) model, allowing criminal groups to launch large-scale fraud campaigns as easily as subscribing to a digital service. Criminal providers like "Penguin" now sell ready-made fraud packages that include victim databases, fake investment platforms, stolen social media profiles, and automated management systems, dramatically lowering the technical skills required to launch these scams globally. To protect yourself, be cautious of romantic contacts who quickly pivot to investment opportunities, verify the legitimacy of investment platforms independently, and never send money to people you've only met online—especially for investment purposes.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

ksl.com · 2026-01-12

Louisiana man charged with fraud in Utah warrant scam | KSL.com

A Louisiana man has been charged with fraud for allegedly running a "warrant scam" where he posed as a law enforcement officer and tricked a Utah victim into sending $2,900 through Apple Pay by claiming the victim had missed jury duty and faced arrest. Warrant scams have become increasingly common, with scammers calling people, demanding immediate payment to avoid jail time, and then disappearing with the money. To protect yourself, remember that legitimate law enforcement will never demand payment over the phone or through apps—if you receive such a call, hang up and contact your local police department directly.

Robocalls / Phone Scams

wsbtv.com · 2026-01-12

2 accused of stealing more than $200000 fromelderlyGwinnett woman through spoofing

Two Florida residents have been indicted for stealing over $200,000 from a 75-year-old Georgia woman through a phone spoofing scam that impersonated her bank and tricked her into revealing a security code. The suspects, who operated remotely from Miami, used fake Bank of America messages to gain access to her account and made numerous withdrawals, though investigators recovered about half the stolen funds. To protect yourself, never provide security codes or personal information to unsolicited callers or messages—legitimate banks will never ask for these codes—and be suspicious of any unexpected contact about account fraud.

Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime

silicon.co.uk · 2026-01-12

Alleged Scam Boss Arrives In China After Cambodia Arrest - Silicon UK

Chen Zhi, a 38-year-old Chinese tycoon, was arrested in Cambodia and extradited to China in January after being indicted by the US for operating a massive international fraud network. His operation ran "scam farms" where workers used fake relationships and investment schemes (known as "pig-butchering" scams) to trick people worldwide, including in the UK, into sending cryptocurrency, with authorities seizing $14 billion in stolen assets. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic connections online, especially those encouraging cryptocurrency investments, and verify investment opportunities through official channels before sending any money.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

marinij.com · 2026-01-12

Consumer tip: Beware of these gold scams- Marin Independent Journal

Criminals are targeting seniors with a "gold scam" where they impersonate government officials or tech support, falsely claiming accounts are compromised and pressuring victims to convert their savings into physical gold that is then stolen. Red flags include unsolicited contact, fake urgency, and requests to purchase gold for "safekeeping"—legitimate government agencies never demand gold purchases. To protect yourself, verify caller information independently, consult trusted family or financial advisors before moving money, and hang up immediately if anyone claiming to be government asks for gold; if targeted, contact local law enforcement.

Investment Fraud Government Impersonation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

vietnamnet.vn · 2026-01-12

Online scam victims less likely to report crimes, survey shows - VietNamNet

While Vietnam reported fewer online scam victims in 2025 for the first time in years, a concerning problem persists: only about 32% of victims actually report these crimes to authorities, with many choosing to stay silent or simply accept their losses. This lack of reporting hampers investigations and public awareness efforts, even as government crackdowns and awareness campaigns have helped reduce overall scam incidents. Victims should report online fraud to authorities rather than only warning friends and family, as reporting enables law enforcement to investigate networks and protect others from similar schemes.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

asiatechreview.com · 2026-01-12

Billionaire scam kingpin in Southeast Asia arrested and extradited to China

Chen Zhi, a billionaire head of Cambodia's Prince Group conglomerate, was arrested in Cambodia and extradited to China for running one of the world's largest online scam networks. The operation, known as "pig butchering" scams, used fake romantic relationships to defraud victims—with American citizens alone losing an estimated $10 billion to such scams in 2024. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic advances online, especially from people claiming to need help with investments or personal matters, and verify the identity of anyone asking for money through independent channels.

Romance Scams Tech Support Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

redrocknews.com · 2026-01-11

Police warn of phone scams- Sedona Red Rock News

Police departments in Sedona and Clarkdale are warning residents about phone scams where callers impersonate officers and demand money, often claiming victims missed jury duty or owe fines. The scammers use real officer names and department information to appear legitimate, then attempt to collect payment via credit card over the phone. Residents should know that legitimate police will never call asking for money, and anyone receiving such calls should hang up immediately and contact their local police department directly to verify.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

thefederal.com · 2026-01-11

'Impregnate women for money': How menfellfor a cyber scam in Bihar - The Federal

A cybercrime gang in Bihar, India operated a scam called "All India Pregnant Job" that lured men with false promises of earning up to Rs 10 lakh (approximately $12,000) for impregnating childless women, along with fake offers of cheap loans and free sex. Victims were tricked into paying "registration fees" and other charges before realizing they had been defrauded, with many losing their life savings and staying silent due to social stigma. Police have arrested the main suspect, Ranjan Kumar, and authorities advise potential victims to verify job offers through official channels and avoid paying upfront fees for legitimate opportunities.

Phishing Sextortion Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

cryptopolitan.com · 2026-01-11

United States authorities recover $200,000 from Bitcoin ATM scammers- Cryptopolitan

# Article Summary U.S. authorities in Louisiana recovered $200,000 from scammers who targeted elderly residents through Bitcoin ATM fraud, using fake claims about hacked bank accounts and pornography charges to pressure victims into sending money. A new Louisiana law helped thwart these efforts by requiring Bitcoin ATMs to display warnings that government officials will never request cash deposits. Elderly residents should be cautious of unsolicited calls claiming account problems, verify such claims directly with their bank, and listen to family members' warnings rather than following callers' instructions to use Bitcoin ATMs.

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boston.com · 2026-01-11

Mass. woman charged in NC Publishers Clearing House scam- Boston.com

A Massachusetts woman has been arrested in connection with a Publishers Clearing House scam that defrauded a North Carolina man of approximately $500,000 by falsely claiming he had won $4 million and a Mercedes-Benz, then pressuring him to pay fake IRS and FDIC fees. The victim liquidated his retirement and investment accounts to pay the scammers through checks and gift cards, with about $215,000 going to a suspicious company linked to previous fraud cases. Authorities warn that legitimate prize organizations and financial institutions never require upfront payments, fees, gift cards, or wire transfers to claim winnings, so recipients of such requests should hang up and contact the organization directly through official channels.

Lottery/Prize Scams Wire Transfer Gift Cards

beijingtimes.com · 2026-01-11

Cambodia Extradites Alleged Crypto Scam Kingpin Chen Zhi to China Amid International Pressure

Chinese tycoon Chen Zhi was extradited from Cambodia to China after being accused of orchestrating a massive cryptocurrency scam network that defrauded hundreds of Americans out of millions of dollars through "pig butchering" schemes—a fraud tactic involving building trust before stealing investments. The operation allegedly ran forced labor compounds in Cambodia where trafficked workers were coerced into executing the scams, with global losses potentially reaching billions. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of unsolicited investment opportunities, especially in cryptocurrency, and verify the legitimacy of any financial advisors or platforms through official regulatory bodies before sending money.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

the420.in · 2026-01-11

BESCOM Engineer Loses Lakhs in Shocking Investment Cyber Fraud Trap - The420.in

A 48-year-old BESCOM engineer in Karnataka lost Rs 18.7 lakh to an investment scam after being contacted via WhatsApp by fraudsters posing as financial advisors from a Mumbai firm, who lured him with promises of 20-30% monthly returns through fake trading apps and deepfake videos of "experts." The scam, likely operated by a Southeast Asia-based gang using Indian phone numbers, is part of a broader cyber fraud epidemic in Karnataka where over Rs 500 crore was lost to similar schemes last year. To protect yourself, be wary of unsolicited investment offers on social media, verify any financial advisor's credentials directly with official channels like SEBI or RBI, and never transfer money to unknown parties regardless of promised returns.

Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Tech Support Scams Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Cryptocurrency

coincentral.com · 2026-01-11

New Louisiana Law Curbs Bitcoin ATM Scams Targeting the elderly- Coin Central

Louisiana has enacted a new law to protect elderly residents from cryptocurrency scams that have cost seniors over $200,000, after criminals posed as government and bank officials to pressure victims into depositing cash into Bitcoin ATMs. The law requires ATMs to display prominent scam warnings, implements a $3,000 daily deposit limit, and includes a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before transactions finalize—giving victims time to verify legitimacy and authorities time to intervene. If you receive unsolicited calls from officials demanding cryptocurrency payments, hang up and call your bank or local authorities directly using a phone number you find independently.

Crypto Investment Scams Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM

wbtw.com · 2026-01-10

North Myrtle Beach police warn of rising fraud scams- WBTW

North Myrtle Beach is experiencing a rise in fraud scams, particularly romance scams (where fraudsters build fake relationships to extract money) and government entity scams (where scammers impersonate police or jail officials to steal from families). Police officials warn that anyone can be targeted, especially during vulnerable moments, and advise people to hang up suspicious calls, independently verify requests for money or gift cards by contacting companies directly, and be cautious of requests involving Bitcoin or untraceable payment methods.

Romance Scams Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

thestar.com.my · 2026-01-10

Breaking scam links one arrest at a time | The Star

Authorities across Southeast Asia are cracking down on international scam networks operating from the region, with China leading coordinated efforts after mounting public pressure. These scammers, who operate from countries like Myanmar and Cambodia, lure victims globally through fake romantic relationships and cryptocurrency schemes, targeting speakers of multiple languages and extracting billions of dollars; some workers are trafficked foreigners forced to participate under threat. The high-profile arrest of Chinese businessman Chen Zhi, extradited from Cambodia this week, represents a major breakthrough in targeting the leaders of these criminal operations, and experts say victims should remain vigilant against unsolicited romantic advances and suspicious investment opportunities online.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency

abc7chicago.com · 2026-01-10

BBB research reveals top 10 local scams to watch out for in 2026 - ABC7 Chicago

Scam reports in Chicago and Northern Illinois more than doubled in 2025, rising from 1,196 to 2,553 cases, with online shopping scams topping the list for the sixth consecutive year, followed by phishing and employment scams. Scammers are increasingly using sophisticated tactics including AI and deepfake technology to impersonate legitimate businesses and create fake job interviews, while exploiting emotional triggers like excitement or fear to pressure victims into quick purchases or money transfers via gift cards, wire transfers, or bank accounts. The Better Business Bureau urges anyone encountering a scam to report it to BBB ScamTracker regardless of financial loss, and advises the public to watch for red flags such as requests for immediate payment and pressure to act quickly.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Identity Theft Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Bank Transfer Check/Cashier's Check

wafb.com · 2026-01-10

New Louisiana law helps seniors recover $200,000 from cryptocurrency scams- WAFB

# Cryptocurrency Scam Summary A new Louisiana law is helping seniors recover from cryptocurrency scams that targeted at least four elderly victims through elaborate phone schemes claiming their bank accounts were hacked and threatened them with arrest charges unless they paid thousands of dollars via Bitcoin ATMs. The scammers exploited the machines' simplicity, but the new law now requires Bitcoin ATMs to display warnings that government officials will never request cash deposits, includes on-screen alerts during transactions, and imposes a $3,000 daily deposit limit with a 72-hour waiting period to give victims time to recover their money. Seniors should be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming account issues or legal threats, verify directly with their banks, and ignore pressure to use Bitcoin ATMs or other cryptocurrency methods for payments.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Bank Impersonation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Cash

petersburgpilot.com · 2026-01-09

Second man sentenced for $100K scam of Petersburgsenior

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wbtw.com · 2026-01-09

North Myrtle Beach police warn of rising fraud scams- WBTW

North Myrtle Beach police are warning residents about a surge in fraud scams, particularly romance scams that build trust to extract money and government impersonation scams that target families of inmates. Anyone can become a victim, but police advise people to hang up on unsolicited requests for money, conduct independent research, and contact companies directly to verify claims—especially important since scammers increasingly use Bitcoin, making it nearly impossible for law enforcement to recover lost funds.

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choice.com.au · 2026-01-09

Five sophisticated scams to watch out for in 2026 - CHOICE

Australians lost $312 million to scams last year, though the number is declining due to improved awareness and enforcement efforts. However, scammers are exploiting new opportunities created by recent changes, including social media age restrictions that have prompted criminals to impersonate platforms, government agencies, and police to trick users into sharing personal details, passwords, or money under false pretenses. To protect yourself, avoid clicking suspicious links claiming to verify your age, never share passwords or sensitive identity documents in response to unsolicited requests, and be skeptical of offers to sell fake IDs or account access.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness

spokesman.com · 2026-01-09

Scam artists use trust, fear and AI to target Washington victims: 'Their brain shuts off'

Scammers are increasingly using AI-generated voices, trust-building tactics, and impersonation of banks and government agencies to defraud Washington residents, with the state reporting over 15,600 fraud cases and $86 million in losses during the first nine months of 2025. Contrary to expectations, younger people (ages 19 and under) represent the majority of reported victims at 57%, though elderly victims suffer higher average losses of around $2,750 compared to $120 for younger victims. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming to be from government or financial institutions, never provide personal information or money based on caller requests, and verify any official contact by calling the institution directly using a number you find independently.

Investment Fraud Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Payment App

abc.net.au · 2026-01-09

Accused scam kingpin Chen Zhi arrives in China after extradition from Cambodia

Chen Zhi, a prominent businessman in Cambodia accused of running a multi-billion-dollar online scam network involving hundreds of trafficked scammers, has been extradited to China after being indicted by the U.S. for operating "pig butchering" fraud schemes that allegedly earned him $46 million daily. The scams primarily targeted victims who were lured into fake romantic or investment relationships online before being defrauded of large sums of money. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic or investment opportunities online, verify the legitimacy of business contacts through independent channels, and report suspicious activity to local authorities or the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

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the420.in · 2026-01-09

Bulandshahr Gulaothi: NCC Cadets Trained to Spot and Stop CyberFrauds- The420.in

# Cyber Fraud Awareness Summary NCC cadets in Bulandshahr received training on detecting and stopping cyber frauds, covering tactics like UPI phishing, fake OTP traps, QR code scams, and digital arrest schemes—which cost Uttar Pradesh over ₹500 crore annually, with youth under 30 accounting for 40% of victims. The cadets pledged to educate 50 villages about protection measures including setting UPI daily limits to ₹5,000, enabling two-factor authentication, avoiding unknown links, and reporting suspicious calls to the 1930 helpline. The training highlighted that gaming apps and job scams pose the greatest risk to students, making it essential for people to verify callers through official apps, check UPI recipient names before payments, and never share banking or personal identification details with unknown contacts.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

nbcrightnow.com · 2026-01-08

Cambodia to liquidate bank founded by accused scam boss | Northwest & National News

Accused scam boss Chen Zhi has been extradited from Cambodia to China after being indicted by the U.S. for allegedly orchestrating multibillion-dollar cyberfraud through his conglomerate, which authorities say operated as a front for a major criminal organization. His bank, Prince Bank, which held about $1 billion in assets, has been placed into liquidation by Cambodia's central bank, though customers are told they can continue to withdraw their money normally. Affected individuals should monitor their accounts with the bank and contact authorities if they suspect fraudulent activity related to the alleged scam operation.

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wthitv.com · 2026-01-08

Terre Haute police warn of Bitcoin scams targetingelderly| News | wthitv.com

Scammers are targeting elderly residents in Terre Haute by sending fake arrest warrants and using phone calls to pressure victims into depositing thousands of dollars at Bitcoin ATMs, with local ATMs reportedly collecting hundreds of thousands of dollars from victims. Police warn that legitimate arrest warrants are never resolved through payment and advise residents to hang up on threatening callers and never transfer money via Bitcoin, gift cards, or wire transfers. If you receive a suspicious call demanding payment, contact your local police department directly using a verified phone number rather than any number provided by the caller.

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wgal.com · 2026-01-07

Pa. scams rise as AI enhancesfraudtactics | View the numbers - WGAL

# Pennsylvania Scams Rise with AI-Enhanced Fraud Tactics Scams in Pennsylvania have surged dramatically, with reported incidents jumping from 3,500 in 2024 to 4,000 in 2025, and financial losses soaring from $45 million to $75 million respectively, as scammers increasingly use artificial intelligence to make their schemes more convincing and harder to detect. Senior citizens are the primary targets, with common scams including jury duty impersonations using AI-mimicked voices and requests for untraceable payments via gift cards or cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, authorities advise questioning every unsolicited email, text, or phone call from unknown sources and trusting your instincts, since AI has eliminated traditional red flags like poor grammar that once helped identify fraudulent communications.

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lebanondemocrat.com · 2026-01-07

Sumner County DA warns againstromance scams | Portland | lebanondemocrat.com

# Romance Scam Warning Summary Sumner County's District Attorney General Thomas Dean is warning residents about increasingly sophisticated romance scams, particularly during the holiday season, in which criminals create fake online identities on dating apps and social media to build trust and extract money from victims under false pretenses. These "professionals" typically use manipulation tactics like love-bombing, fabricated emergencies (medical, legal, or travel-related), and claims of being overseas to justify why they can't meet in person, before requesting money through untraceable methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, watch for red flags such as someone professing love too quickly, refusing to video call or meet in person, requesting money or banking information, and attempting to isolate you from friends and family.

Romance Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

redrocknews.com · 2026-01-07

Scammers steal $400K in 2025 - Sedona Red Rock News

# Scammers Stole $400K from Sedona in 2025 Scammers stole over $400,000 from Sedona residents and visitors in 2025, with cryptocurrency becoming the preferred payment method (accounting for nearly 66% of losses), followed by gift cards, wire transfers, and cash used in impersonation schemes, bank compromises, and marketplace fraud. Common tactics include criminals posing as law enforcement or government officials to establish credibility before pressuring victims into immediate payments, with one victim losing $90,000 to someone claiming to be from a fake "Cyber Crime Department" and another losing $20,000 in cash to someone posing as an FBI agent. To protect yourself, be wary of unsolicited contact from officials demanding immediate payment, never send cryptocurrency or cash to unknown parties, verify claims by contacting official agencies directly through their legitimate phone numbers or websites, and remember that legitimate government

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desotocountynews.com · 2026-01-06

Taiwanese national indicted in multi-million dollarelder fraud scheme

A Taiwanese national named Chia Lai has been indicted on fraud charges for allegedly leading an international scam that stole millions of dollars from elderly Americans by draining their bank accounts through high-pressure financial schemes. His arrest involved coordination between federal and local authorities, though it was temporarily complicated when California officials initially refused to cooperate due to state sanctuary policies. Seniors should be cautious of unsolicited financial offers and pressure to move money quickly, and should verify any investment or financial advice directly with trusted banks or financial institutions before acting.

Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Wire Transfer

seattletimes.com · 2026-01-06

Scammers sending fake arrest warrants in WA, Marshals Service warns | The Seattle Times

# Scammers Targeting Washington State Residents with Fake Arrest Warrants Scammers impersonating U.S. Marshals and court officials are sending fraudulent arrest warrant emails to Washington residents, demanding payment through Bitcoin, prepaid debit cards, or gift cards by claiming victims have missed jury duty or have outstanding warrants. The fake communications use legitimate-sounding details like case numbers, judge signatures, and spoofed phone numbers to appear credible. To protect yourself, never pay fines via phone or digital payment methods, and verify any official contact by calling the U.S. Marshals Service directly at 206-370-8600 or your local court clerk's office; report suspected scams to the FBI and Federal Trade Commission.

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wpxi.com · 2026-01-06

PA Attorney General: Pennsylvanians lost $75 million to scammers last year - WPXI

Pennsylvanians lost $75 million to scammers in 2025, a $30 million increase from the previous year, with the state Attorney General's office receiving over 4,000 fraud complaints. Seniors are particularly targeted through increasingly sophisticated AI-powered scams including phishing, gift card fraud, romance scams, and law enforcement impersonation, with money typically transferred via wire transfers or cryptocurrency. Residents are urged to ignore unsolicited calls and emails, avoid sharing personal information with unknown contacts, and remember that legitimate government agencies will contact them by mail, not phone or email.

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yahoo.com · 2026-01-06

PA Attorney General: Pennsylvanians lost $75 million to scammers last year - Yahoo

Pennsylvania residents lost $75 million to scams in 2025, more than double the $45 million lost in 2024, with complaints to the state Attorney General's office rising from 3,500 to over 4,000 cases. Seniors are particularly targeted by scammers using increasingly sophisticated AI to identify victims, with common scams including phishing, gift card fraud, romance scams, and law enforcement impersonation, often conducted through wire transfers and cryptocurrency. Attorney General Dave Sunday advises Pennsylvanians to ignore unsolicited calls and emails from unknown sources, never provide personal information to callers claiming to be from the IRS or government agencies (which only contact via mail), and remain especially vigilant during tax season and holidays when scams peak.

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wfsb.com · 2026-01-06

Shelton police warn of gold bar scams targeting seniors - WFSB

Shelton police are warning residents about a growing "gold bar" scam targeting seniors, in which criminals impersonate government agents or tech support to convince victims their money or computers are at risk, then pressure them to withdraw cash or purchase gold bars that a "courier" collects and never returns. Red flags include urgent pressure to act quickly, threats of arrest, demands for secrecy, and requests for cash, gold, or cryptocurrency—legitimate government agencies will never ask for these actions. Residents who receive suspicious calls, pop-ups, or messages should report them to the Shelton Police Department at (203) 924-1544.

Investment Fraud Tech Support Scams General Elder Fraud Cryptocurrency Cash

livebitcoinnews.com · 2026-01-05

ElderlyIndians Lose $431K in Crypto Trading Scam- Live Bitcoin News

Two elderly Indian citizens lost approximately $386,000 combined in cryptocurrency trading scams orchestrated through messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp, where fraudsters posed as investment professionals and used fake trading platforms to manipulate victims into depositing money. The scammers employed social engineering tactics, including fake dashboards showing inflated account balances and requests for personal banking information, while impersonating legitimate professionals to build trust before disappearing with the funds. To protect yourself: avoid unsolicited investment offers on messaging apps, never download wallets or software from unknown links, verify the legitimacy of investment platforms through official channels, and be suspicious of guaranteed high returns or unexpected contacts offering trading opportunities.

Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Cryptocurrency

the420.in · 2026-01-04

From Reward Points to Fake Listings: New CyberFraudTraps Target Digital Trust

Cybercriminals in India are increasingly using psychological manipulation tactics like fake reward point expiration warnings, fraudulent product listings, and fake legal threats to trick people into revealing sensitive financial information such as OTPs and UPI PINs, rather than relying on technical hacking methods. The scams disproportionately affect online shoppers and digital payment users who are pressured by urgency and fear into clicking malicious links or making advance payments for non-existent products. To protect yourself, never share OTPs or click links from unsolicited calls or messages claiming to be from banks or payment providers, and verify offers directly through official apps or customer service numbers before taking action.

Government Impersonation Tech Support Scams Phishing Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

the420.in · 2026-01-04

'Digital Arrest' Scam Traps 81-Year-Old: Fraudsters Posing as Mumbai Police Swindle ₹7.12 Crore

An 81-year-old retired businessman in Hyderabad lost ₹7.12 crore to sophisticated "digital arrest" scammers who impersonated Mumbai Police and threatened him with false charges of drug trafficking, money laundering, and terrorism over several months. The fraudsters used intimidation tactics and isolation—forbidding the victim from contacting family, lawyers, or banks—to coerce him into transferring large sums of money for "verification" of assets. To protect yourself, be extremely skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming to be from law enforcement or courier companies, never share financial details or asset information with callers, immediately verify any serious allegations through official police channels using independently confirmed phone numbers, and always consult with trusted family members or lawyers before making any financial decisions.

Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime

wgal.com · 2026-01-03

Top 5 most common scams of 2025 - WGAL

In 2025, the most common scams targeting people include Medicare fraud (where scammers impersonate Medicare officials to steal account numbers), romance scams (where criminals pose as attractive individuals online to build trust before asking for money, costing Americans over $600 million last year), fake jury duty demands (using fake USPS labels and impersonating law enforcement), and AI-powered scams that create realistic fake images and videos. Senior citizens and lonely individuals are particularly vulnerable targets. To protect yourself, remember that Medicare will never call asking for your number, courts contact you by mail (not text) about jury duty and don't demand immediate payment, and be cautious of online relationships that quickly ask for money.

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townhall.com · 2026-01-03

Federal Judge Orders Prison Sentences in celebrity romance Scam- Townhall

Three people have been sentenced to prison for running a romance scam that defrauded victims across the United States and contributed to the death of at least one elderly victim, resulting in $388,500 in losses. Salma Abdalkareem, Chinagorom Onwumere, and Stephen Anagor received sentences ranging from 51 to 108 months and must repay victims and complete supervised release. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic relationships—especially with people claiming to be military personnel or those asking for money or personal information—and verify identities through video calls or in-person meetings before sending any funds.

Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Wire Transfer

the420.in · 2026-01-02

UP: RetiredElderlyMan Kept Under 'Digital Arrest' for 25 Days, ₹90 Lakh Extorted

A retired elderly man in Lucknow lost ₹90 lakh (approximately $10,800 USD) to cyber fraudsters who kept him under "digital arrest" for 25 days by impersonating a police officer, sending fake arrest warrants, and using psychological pressure to isolate him from his family. The scammers convinced him that he was involved in money laundering and forced him to transfer his life savings, including mutual fund investments, to fraudulent accounts under the guise of "government verification." To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls claiming to be from law enforcement, never transfer money based on threats, and immediately involve trusted family members or contact police directly if you receive such calls—legitimate authorities will not conduct arrests via phone or demand money transfers.

Government Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Bank Transfer

wreg.com · 2026-01-02

Scammers posing as police demand bitcoin and gift cards - WREG.com

Scammers in the Memphis area are calling people pretending to be police officers and threatening arrest warrants, then demanding payment via Bitcoin or gift cards to resolve the fake warrants. Residents of all ages can be vulnerable to this scheme, which exploits fear of legal trouble. To protect yourself, remember that real law enforcement will never call demanding payment over the phone—if you're concerned about a warrant, contact your local jail directly at the provided number rather than responding to unsolicited calls.

Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

wvnstv.com · 2026-01-02

WV officials warn of new cybersecurity threat - WVNS

West Virginia officials are warning residents about a new scam where cybercriminals create fake government websites to steal login credentials and personal information. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to these schemes, which have become increasingly sophisticated and common since the COVID-19 pandemic, with artificial intelligence now being used to impersonate loved ones and authorities. To protect yourself, only visit official state websites through WV.GOV, never click links from unsolicited emails or texts, and report suspicious activity to the West Virginia Fusion Center.

Government Impersonation Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness

apg-wi.com · 2026-01-01

Don't get 'butchered' by online scams | Local | apg-wi.com

Online scams targeting residents of Washburn County include celebrity impersonation schemes and "pig butchering" fraud, where scammers create fake profiles impersonating celebrities or romance interests to build trust before requesting money or gift cards. Investigators report that victims have lost substantial sums—including one woman who lost $90,000—and these funds are nearly impossible to recover since scammers typically spend them immediately or convert them to cryptocurrency. To protect yourself, remember that legitimate companies never request payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency, and be cautious of unsolicited messages from celebrities or strangers asking for financial information.

Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

gazettextra.com · 2025-12-31

Don't get 'butchered' by online scams | APG State News - Janesville Gazette

Online scams continue to plague internet users, with celebrity impersonation and "pig butchering" schemes among the latest threats. Scammers create fake celebrity profiles on social media to build trust with victims before requesting money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency—funds that are nearly impossible to recover once sent. To protect yourself, remember that legitimate companies never ask for payment via gift cards or crypto, and be cautious of unsolicited messages from celebrities or investment opportunities online.

Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards

english.radio.cz · 2025-12-31

Police warn more Czechs targeted in overseas drug courier scams

Czech police are warning of an increasing scam targeting elderly citizens, in which fraudsters lure people abroad with promises of inheritances or romantic relationships, then plant drugs in their luggage without their knowledge—resulting in at least two Czechs being jailed abroad in the past year. The scams are orchestrated by West African criminal groups who contact victims via email or messaging apps using fake identities purchased on the dark web, often covering travel expenses to make the offer seem legitimate. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited offers of money or relationships requiring overseas travel, verify any inheritance claims directly with official institutions, and inform family members of your travel plans.

Investment Fraud Government Impersonation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime

wral.com · 2025-12-30

FTC Report showsolderAmericans losing billions more to scams- WRAL

Older Americans lost $2.4 billion to scams in 2024—quadrupling losses since 2020—with investment scams, romance scams, impersonation schemes, and tech support scams being the most costly. To protect yourself, watch for red flags like demands for immediate payment, threats of arrest, requests for money transfers, or promises of prizes in exchange for fees. The FTC encourages everyone to report suspected scams even if no money was lost, as these reports help authorities identify patterns and shut down fraudulent operations before more people are victimized.

Romance Scams Investment Fraud Tech Support Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness

kfsk.org · 2025-12-30

Second man sentenced for $100K scam of Petersburgsenior- KFSK

# Fraud Case Summary A Petersburg man was sentenced to one year in jail for his role in a $100,000 phone scam targeting an elderly resident who was deceived into believing her identity had been stolen by someone impersonating a government agent. Shubham Patel, 25, pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with authorities, though a third suspect remains at large. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited calls from government agencies, never wire money based on such calls, and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or the FBI.

Government Impersonation Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime

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