Fraud Type

Tech Support Scams

3,797 articles in this category. Showing most recent 200.

odaily.news · 2026-03-22
Hong Kong Police Reveal Retiree Falls Victim to "Cryptocurrency Expert" Scam Three Times ...
Odaily News Hong Kong police's Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau (CSTCB) "CyberDefender" has disclosed a cryptocurrency fraud case. A 66-year-old retiree fell victim to a ...
Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
techflowpost.com · 2026-03-22
Hong Kong Police Reveal That a Retiree Was Scammed HK$6.6 Million in Six Months After ...
TechFlow News: On March 21, according to a report by the Hong Kong Wen Wei Po, the Cybercrime Division of the Hong Kong Police Force’s “Cyber Guardians” unit disclosed a cryptocurr...
Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Caregiver Exploitation Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
floridabar.org · 2026-03-21
Business Law Section launches 'Be $.M.A.R.T.' initiative to help seniors avoid scams
Judge Lori Vaughan: 'As you can imagine, a big portion of our presentation is how to recognize and avoid financial scams; they’re everywhere now. I feel like every time we identify...
Romance Scams Grandparent Scams Charity Scams Reverse Mortgage Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Money Order / Western Union
wyomingnews.com · 2026-03-21
$43 million lost to scammers in Wyoming in 2024 | Local News | wyomingnews.com
A large “beware of scams” sign on display at a gift card aisle in a store. SARATOGA — In 2024, Wyoming residents lost $43 million to scams, Bank of Commerce and CEO Copper France ...
Romance Scams Phishing Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Gift Cards
buffalobulletin.com · 2026-03-21
$43 Million Lost to Scammers in Wyoming in 2024 | News | buffalobulletin.com
SARATOGA —  In 2024, Wyoming residents lost $43 million to scams, Bank of Commerce and CEO Copper France told Saratoga seniors last week. “You’re not alone,” he said. “Just unders...
Romance Scams Phishing Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Wire Transfer Gift Cards
thebostonpilot.com · 2026-03-21
Staying safe with online banking: Practical tips to protect financial wellbeing - The Boston Pilot
Online banking has become an increasingly common tool for managing personal finances. For many older adults, the ability to review account balances, pay bills, and transfer funds w...
Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cash Bank Transfer Check/Cashier's Check
mexc.com · 2026-03-21
FBI and Thai Police Seize 8,000 Phones and Freeze $580M | MEXC News
Joint efforts by the FBI and Thai police to combat scams targeting Americans are yielding results. The joint task force comprising FBI agents and the Royal Thai Police led to the s...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
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...
Law Enforcement Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime
klkntv.com · 2026-03-19
Lincoln Police warning of 'Pig Butchering' scam that could cost families thousands of dollars
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Lincoln Police Department is warning about a scam targeting families. It’s being referred to as “Pig Butchering.” “The gist of it is to fatten the pros...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Grandparent Scams Cryptocurrency
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime
foxnews.com · 2026-03-19
Genealogy boom exposes personal data scammers can exploit - Fox News
Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com. Millions of Americans are digging into their roots. Genealogy has quietly become one of the fastes...
Phishing Grandparent Scams Scam Awareness
kiro7.com · 2026-03-19
FBI warns of rapidly developing AI financial scams – KIRO 7 News Seattle
FBI officials at the Seattle Field Office say there is a concerning trend among financial scams: artificial intelligence components. Seattle Special Agent in Charge Mark Herringto...
Phishing Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
dailyhodl.com · 2026-03-19
PNC Bank Hit With Lawsuit After Allegedly Failing To Protect Customer in ... - The Daily Hodl
A new lawsuit accuses a major US bank of failing to protect an elderly customer from being scammed out of his life savings. The civil complaint, filed in the Superior Court of New...
Investment Fraud Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Wire Transfer
wuky.org · 2026-03-19
KY residents urge lawmakers to boost crypto scam protections - WUKY
As of 2024, there were more than 30,000 crypto kiosks nationwide, according to AARP. Kathy Rice, a Fayette County resident, lost $19,000 to crypto-related tech support scams. She ...
Crypto Investment Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM
cnet.com · 2026-03-18
Google, Meta and Amazon Join Global Pact to Fight Rising Online Scams- CNET
Modern online scams operate across multiple platforms, perhaps spanning social media, messaging apps, email and online marketplaces. Google, Meta and Amazon are among 11 tech, reta...
Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Grandparent Scams Online Shopping Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Payment App
kiro7.com · 2026-03-18
Police scams are becoming more sophisticated, law enforcement say be aware - KIRO 7
The King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) is warning residents about an increase in sophisticated phone scams that have cost local victims thousands of dollars. These calls have bec...
Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Bank Impersonation 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
engadget.com · 2026-03-17
Tech companies are teaming up to combat scammers- Engadget
A coalition of Big Tech companies is working on a more comprehensive solution to combat online scams. As first reported by Axios, Google, Microsoft, LinkedIn, Meta, Amazon, OpenAI,...
Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
wired.com · 2026-03-17
'100 Video Calls Per Day': Models Are Applying to Be the Face of AI Scams- WIRED
When applying for jobs, Angel talks up her language skills. “I can speak fluent English, I can speak good Chinese, I also speak Russian and Turkish,” the glamorous, 24-year-old Uzb...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Check/Cashier's Check
nationaltoday.com · 2026-03-17
Top Senior Scams and How to Avoid Them - Norman Today
By the People, for the People News Older adults are often targeted by fraudsters, but awareness and caution can help protect against financial losses. Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:00am ...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Grandparent Scams Charity Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
spokesman.com · 2026-03-16
How scammers are using AI deepfakes to steal money from taxpayers
My husband and I owe the IRS absolutely nothing. Yet in the last two weeks, I’ve been getting calls to my mobile number that make it seem as if the government has an issue with ou...
Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Gift Cards
findarticles.com · 2026-03-16
Experts Reveal 2026 Playbook To Avoid Online Scams - FindArticles
Online swindles have grown slicker than pop-ups and typos. Investigators at the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center report record losses in recent years, while the FTC says Ameri...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Bank Transfer
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
pcmag.com · 2026-03-15
Tax Time Is Open Season for Scammers: 7 Tips to Stay Safe | PCMag
Tax season is prime time for distractions, fear, and financial stress in many households. Unfortunately, those factors create a perfect environment for online scams to flourish. Th...
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
kttn.com · 2026-03-14
Five sentenced in gold bar scam targetingelderlyvictims in ten states
A federal judge has sentenced a participant in a nationwide fraud conspiracy that targeted elderly victims and resulted in millions of dollars in losses. U.S. District Judge Matth...
Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Wire Transfer Cash
mexc.com · 2026-03-14
Crypto ATM Fraud Hit $333 Million in the US in 2025 | MEXC News
Crypto ATM fraud surged to $333 million in the US in 2025, with complaints received by the FBI growing 33% in the year as scam networks became more industrialized while tapping int...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Grandparent Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM
michiganindependent.com · 2026-03-14
Report: Michigan consumers impacted by $119B in online scam losses
By Chrystal Blair Online scams are draining billions of dollars from Americans every year, including victims in Michigan, according to a new report. Federal data show fraud losse...
Investment Fraud Phishing Scam Awareness Financial Crime
welch.senate.gov · 2026-03-14
Welch Joins Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Online Scams, Protect Vermonters' Hard ...
Mar 13, 2026 Vermonters lose millions of dollars to online fraud schemes every year The SCAM Act is supported by The Vermont Country Store WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter ...
Identity Theft Charity Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
foxnews.com · 2026-03-13
IRS warns of 2026 tax scams: What taxpayers should know | Fox News
Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com. Tax scams rarely stay the same for long. Each filing season brings new tactics designed to trick t...
Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Deed Theft Scam Awareness
katiecouric.com · 2026-03-12
Banks Are Becoming Bulwarks Against Scams for VulnerableSeniors- Katie Couric Media
The first call came just before Thanksgiving last year. She didn’t recognize the phone number, but she answered anyway. "The person said he was an officer of the Department of Cri...
Romance Scams Government Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Gift Cards
abc11.com · 2026-03-12
Do you tap to pay? 'Ghost tapping' scams could target your money - ABC11 Raleigh-Durham
A dramatic rise in what's known as "ghost tapping" scams is putting people who use tap-to-pay features on alert. The concerning part of this scam is that victims may not realize th...
Scam Awareness
about.fb.com · 2026-03-12
Fighting Scammers and Protecting People with New Technology and Partnerships
Update on March 16, 2026 at 7:35AM PT: Today, Meta signed the Industry Accord Against Online Scams and Fraud at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Global Fraud Summit in...
Phishing Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Bank Impersonation 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
rstreet.org · 2026-03-12
Scams Were Already Awful. Then They Got AI. - R Street Institute
Originally published The Women’s Tech & Telecom Partnership’s 2026 edition of “The Impact Report“ A recent news report detailed the experience of Abigail, a woman living in Southe...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Cash Bank Transfer Payment App Money Order / Western Union
about.fb.com · 2026-03-12
Fighting Scammers and Protecting People with New Technology and Partnerships
Update on March 16, 2026 at 7:35AM PT: Today, Meta signed the Industry Accord Against Online Scams and Fraud at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Global Fraud Summit in...
Phishing Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
zdnet.com · 2026-03-12
A Meta-powered investment scam is spreading across 25 countries - how to spot (and avoid) it
Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. Everyone loves a bit of outrage, especially on live TV. Combine this with economic pressure, a cost-of-living crisis, and a c...
Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
kiplinger.com · 2026-03-12
Investing Scams: How to Protect Yourself and Your Money | Kiplinger
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign ...
Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Payment App
consumerfed.org · 2026-03-12
Americans Estimated to Lose $119 Billion Annually to Online Scams
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new report from the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) projects that Americans are losing an estimated $119 billion every year to online scams. This “true” c...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Benefits Fraud General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
therecord.media · 2026-03-12
Meta says it culled millions of scam ads amid accusations that it profits from them
Meta said it removed 159 million scam ads in 2025, amid calls from U.S. lawmakers for an investigation into the company’s “facilitation of and profiting from” fraudulent advertisin...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
nbcnews.com · 2026-03-11
Scams could now cost Americans $119 billion a year, study finds
According to a new Consumer Federation of America study, Americans lose at least $119 billion annually to scams—far exceeding the FBI's reported $16.6 billion in losses for 2024—based on estimates that only 14% of scams are reported to authorities. Investment scams, particularly "pig butchering" schemes involving fake romantic relationships and cryptocurrency fraud, represent the most economically devastating category, with actual losses estimated at $46.6 billion compared to reported losses of $6.6 billion. The CFA recommends regulating data brokers to reduce scammers' access to personal information used to target vulnerable populations.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
thepilot.com · 2026-03-11
Don't Be a Victim: Senior Enrichment Center Presents ' Scam Jam' | Features - The Pilot
Each year, seniors are often targeted by scammers and fall victim to some type of financial fraud, leading to significant losses. In 2023 alone, older adults lost approximately $3....
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Grandparent Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
jewishpressgulfcoast.com · 2026-03-10
Standing Guard: How Our Community Can PreventElder Fraud- Florida's Gulf Coast Edition
Elder fraud is a growing and costly problem. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), Americans aged 60 and older reported nearly $...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
americanbanker.com · 2026-03-10
Inside the $16.6B fight to stop America's scam epidemic | American Banker
Overview bullets generated by AI with editorial review Financial institutions and lawmakers agree on a bipartisan basis that the $16.6 billion fraud and scam epidemic requires a w...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Check/Cashier's Check
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation 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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Bank Impersonation 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
noticias.foxnews.com · 2026-03-09
Why widows and divorced women are targets for retirement scams - Fox News
International Women's Day celebrates empowerment, independence and resilience. However, people rarely talk about a difficult reality. Women navigating major life transitions, espec...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
aol.com · 2026-03-09
Why widows and divorced women are targets for retirement scams- AOL.com
International Women's Day celebrates empowerment, independence and resilience. However, people rarely talk about a difficult reality. Women navigating major life transitions, espec...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
patch.com · 2026-03-08
Fairfax Scam Jam Avoiding ModernRomance& Cryptocurrency Scams | Vienna, VA Patch
Today’s fraud landscape blends technology with emotional manipulation, making scams harder to spot and easier for criminals to scale. The Fairfax Scam Jam unpacks two of the fastes...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
foxnews.com · 2026-03-08
Be aware of extortion scam emails claiming your data is stolen - Fox News
Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com. You open your inbox and see a message that instantly makes your stomach drop. Someone claims they ...
Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
aol.com · 2026-03-08
Scammer Caught Red-Handed After Fleecing 81-Year-Old Lithia Woman Out Of Thousands
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Deputies in Hillsborough County have taken 40-year-old Min Chen into custody following a sting operation that halted an ongoing fraud scheme targeting a...
Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
straitstimes.com · 2026-03-07
How South-east Asia became home to the world's scam farms | The Straits Times
Sign up now: Get insights on Asia's fast-moving developments The KK Park complex, a scam hub, in Myanmar’s eastern Myawaddy township, as pictured from Mae Sot district in Thailand...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
indiatechnologynews.in · 2026-03-07
Bybit Unveils 2025 Security Milestone; Intercepts $300 Million in Scam-Linked Withdrawals ...
New Delhi, 6th March, 2026: Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, today announced the results of its 2025 Security Initiative, highlighting t...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Online Shopping Scams Caregiver Exploitation Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
patronis.house.gov · 2026-03-07
CONSUMER ALERT*** Congressman Patronis Warns Consumers of Computer Takeover Scams
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Patronis is warning residents about a sharp increase in computer takeover scams that are targeting individuals and families across the country. These...
Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
finance.yahoo.com · 2026-03-07
Florida man allegedly stole 71-year-old nurse's home and $300K through power of attorney ...
While there are many types of elder fraud, power of attorney scams are particularly nefarious. Lyne Bien-Aime, a 55-year-old man, is facing charges for an alleged power of attorne...
Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Phishing Family Exploitation General Elder Fraud Bank Transfer
americanbanker.com · 2026-03-07
What do banks owe victims ofromance scams? - American Banker
Tainted loveRomance scams put banks in a bad spot, as our Kate Berry writes. She recounts the story of one victim who lost almost $350,000 over the course of several years. The sca...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
newswire.ca · 2026-03-07
Younger Canadians most confident in spotting AI- scams are also most likely to fall forfraud
79% of young Canadians know how to identify fraud, but 82% worry AI will result in more sophisticated financial scams TORONTO, March 6, 2026 /CNW/ - Most young Canadians believe t...
Government Impersonation Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
fox13news.com · 2026-03-06
Scammer uses malicious email to swipe tens of thousands of dollars fromelderlyLithia woman
Courtesy: Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office LITHIA, Fla. - The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man in connection with an organized fraud scheme targeting th...
Phishing General Elder Fraud Financial Crime
tradingview.com · 2026-03-06
How US investigators traced $61M in crypto tied toromance scams across wallets
Key takeawaysFederal authorities in North Carolina seized more than $61 million in USDT, revealing how pig-butchering schemes combine emotional manipulation with fraudulent crypto ...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
daytondailynews.com · 2026-03-06
Don't fall for these common computer scams- Dayton Daily News
In my computer service business, we regularly get calls from users that have been scammed. Some have let a remote scammer onto their computer and get their data/passwords stolen, w...
Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams
walesonline.co.uk · 2026-03-06
Gavin & Stacey star Melanie Walters nearly lost thousands to scam- Wales Online
Melanie Walters says she could have lost a lot of money Gavin & Stacey star Melanie Walters, who played Gwen in the hit show, has revealed she almost fell victim to a scam that co...
Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
ofb.biz · 2026-03-05
FellFor It - Open for Business - OFB.biz
If there is anything as embarrassing as confessing one’s sins it has to be confessing one’s stupidities. Yet here we are. Instead of describing how well my cool new Starlink-based...
Inheritance Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Gift Cards
foxnews.com · 2026-03-05
Consumer Protection Week warns of legal data broker privacy threats - Fox News
Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com. Every year during National Consumer Protection Week, you hear warnings about phishing emails, fake...
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
readingeagle.com · 2026-03-05
Protect yourself from the latest scams in the age of AI - Reading Eagle
It’s no secret that older adults are often the targets of scams that seek to steal our personal or financial information. According to FBI data, individuals over age 60 submitted ...
Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud
nar.realtor · 2026-03-05
Consumer Guide: Spotting Deepfake Scams in Real Estate
NOTE: Consumer guides do not constitute any change in NAR policy. Real estate professionals must ensure they market properties consistent with relevant MLS rules and educate seller...
Bank Impersonation Identity Theft Scam Awareness
washingtonjewishweek.com · 2026-03-05
SeniorResources: Scams AffectingSeniors- Washington Jewish Week
Everyone has been told not to share personal information with strangers or give money for a scenario that seems too good to be true. Yet during 2024, scammers stole $12.5 billion f...
Investment Fraud Inheritance Scams Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Benefits Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Reverse Mortgage Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Gift Cards Payment App Check/Cashier's Check
aol.com · 2026-03-05
ModernDating Scams: 7 Money Schemes Men Fall For on Apps Every Day - AOL
The digital dating world feels exciting, fast, and full of possibilities, almost like walking into a crowded party where someone interesting might be waiting across the room. But n...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
globaldatinginsights.com · 2026-03-05
Deepfakes Push Gen Z To Arranging In-Person Dates Online - Global Dating Insights
AI-powered romance scams are fuelling a shift away from online dating among UK singles, with 56% of Gen Z now prioritizing in-person meetings over apps, according to new Barclays r...
Romance Scams Scam Awareness
nbcsandiego.com · 2026-03-04
'Mom, I need money!': Beware of AI voice technology being used in scams- NBC 7 San Diego
Scammers can clone almost anyone’s voice by using artificial intelligence and then use it to fake emergencies, kidnappings or making pleas for money. Tania Luviano Hurwitz with NBC...
Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
pcmag.com · 2026-03-04
Nope, the IRS Is Not Texting You: 7 Smart Ways to Avoid Tax Scams on Your Phone
Tax season is prime time for distractions, fear, and financial stress in many households. Unfortunately, those factors create a perfect environment for online scams to flourish. Th...
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
cnet.com · 2026-03-03
Study Finds Phishing Scams Are on the Rise, Accelerated by AI - CNET
You're probably all too familiar with the words "potential spam" or "suspicious activity detected" or even a pop-up in Gmail that reads, "This message might be dangerous." That's b...
Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Check/Cashier's Check
energized.edison.com · 2026-03-03
How to Avoid and Report Scams- Energized by Edison
If you receive a call from a “Southern California Edison technician” threatening to immediately remove your meter unless you provide instant payment — stop, this is an urgency scam...
Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Payment App Check/Cashier's Check
irishtimes.com · 2026-03-02
'I feel so stupid': Victim's shame atfallingfor 'classic' €30000 invoice scam- The Irish Times
A reader was pretty certain she was too savvy and smart to ever be taken in by scam artists – until she was, and lost tens of thousands of euro in a matter of minutes. Months on f...
Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Home Repair Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Bank Transfer
msadvocate.com · 2026-03-02
Can You Recognize An Artificial Intelligence (AI) Scam? - The Mt. Sterling Advocate
(NAPSI)—Postal inspectors want to help you and all USPS customers stay safe. Scammers take every opportunity to trick you into believing their lies are legitimate offers, wins, an...
Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
asianews.network · 2026-03-02
Cambodian authorities detain 81 scams uspects in capital raid; claim 220k have fled
March 2, 2026 PHNOM PENH – In one of the latest major raids of the current anti-scam campaign, authorities arrested 81 foreigners in Borey Peng Huoth, Prek Pra commune, Chbar Ampo...
Romance Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime
findarticles.com · 2026-03-02
Minnesota Moves To Ban Crypto ATMs Statewide - FindArticles
Minnesota lawmakers are advancing a ban on cryptocurrency ATMs, arguing that the machines have become a fast conduit for scammers to siphon money from vulnerable residents, especia...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards Cash Bank Transfer Check/Cashier's Check
wsj.com · 2026-03-01
How to Protect Yourself From Financial Scams Targeting Older Adults
The Wall Street Journal provides a comprehensive guide to protecting older adults from the most common financial scams, including government impersonation, tech support fraud, romance scams, and investment schemes. The article covers practical prevention steps and warning signs, emphasizing that scammers increasingly use AI and social engineering to target seniors' savings.
General Elder Fraud Government Impersonation Romance Scams phone online email
cryptopotato.com · 2026-03-01
Feds Seize $61 Million in Tether Linked to 'Pig Butchering' Crypto Scams - CryptoPotato
Home » Crypto News Share: Share: US federal agents have seized more than $61 million worth of USDT. Investigators traced the seized funds to cryptocurrency addresses allegedly l...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Bank Impersonation 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
ktar.com · 2026-03-01
Protect yourself from surging AI tax scams as criminals use voice cloning, deepfakes
DATA DOCTORS Feb 28, 2026, 5:00 AM | Updated: 11:36 am BY DATA DOCTORS KTAR.com Q: What are the latest tax scams to watch out for? A: Tax scams aren’t new — but the technology...
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
straitstimes.com · 2026-03-01
Cambodian authorities detain 81 scams uspects in capital raid - Straitstimes.com
Sign up now: Get insights on Asia's fast-moving developments The authorities detained 81 people and seized phones, computers and wigs. PHOTO: THE PHNOMH PENH POST/ASIA NEWS NETWO...
Romance Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime
dfpi.ca.gov · 2026-02-28
The New Era of Tech-Enabled Scams- DFPI - CA.gov
Last updated: Mar 4, 2026 @ 11:14 am It may seem daunting to keep up with technology these days. As it evolves, it seems to create more opportunities for criminals to exploit cons...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Identity Theft Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Payment App Check/Cashier's Check
jezebel.com · 2026-02-28
My Week With a Nextdoor Catphish Scammer - Jezebel
Of all the online locales where I could have met the scammer I recently spent more than a week chatting with, Nextdoor probably would have been near the bottom of my suspect list. ...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Home Repair Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
yahoo.com · 2026-02-27
The Top Scams Retirees Fall For Every Time - Yahoo
Romance scams targeting seniors generate over $1B in annual losses according to the FTC. Retirees are primary targets due to available funds and lower technological proficiency. ...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Wire Transfer Gift Cards
rstreet.org · 2026-02-27
“I've Been Scammed, Now What?”: The Growing Crisis Facing Everyday Americans
On a normal summer day in June, Manny Guerrero, a soft-spoken Vietnam War veteran living in Las Vegas, picked up the phone and was told he had beaten the odds and won. The voice on...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Benefits Fraud Home Repair Scams Charity Scams Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App
cohousedems.com · 2026-02-27
ASSET Act to Protect Older Coloradans from Being Scammed Passes Committee
February 26, 2026 DENVER, CO - The House Finance Committee today passed a bill that would help prevent older and vulnerable Coloradans from being scammed out of their hard-earned ...
Crypto Investment Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Bank Transfer
aol.com · 2026-02-27
The Top Scams Retirees Fall For Every Time - AOL.com
Romance scams targeting seniors generate over $1B in annual losses according to the FTC. Retirees are primary targets due to available funds and lower technological proficiency. ...
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Wire Transfer Gift Cards
aldianews.com · 2026-02-26
The Growing Cost ofRomance Scams | Al Día News
Americans lose savings, retirement funds, and financial stability in schemes that exploit trust built online. Romance scams are no longer a fringe crime tied to fake social media ...
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
ncsl.org · 2026-02-26
Gift Card Fraud Surges as Scammers Get More Sophisticated
A retailer’s gift card display includes a sign warning consumers about fraud. (Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images) Gift card scams and fraud are on the rise. The Federal Trade Commissio...
Government Impersonation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Gift Cards
buffalospree.com · 2026-02-26
Estate planning | Best Life | buffalospree.com
The time to build security and reduce stress for your loved ones is now, and, while it can seem overwhelming, DIY tools and free community resources are available to help. Making ...
Family Exploitation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
liphookherald.com · 2026-02-25
Guardian Angel Carers: Hearts broken and savings lost in AIromance scams | liphookherald.com
Romance scams have surged with criminals now using AI-generated images and deepfake technology to create convincing fake identities and build trust before stealing money—one victim lost £35,000 after being deceived by a fake suitor over months. The scams are particularly effective because they exploit emotions and can imitate trusted individuals, making them increasingly difficult to detect. To protect yourself, be cautious of messages designed to trigger strong emotions, verify identities before responding, keep devices updated, and be wary of unusual payment requests involving cash, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards Cash
bpi.com · 2026-02-25
Spoofing, Smishing and Deepfakes: To Stop Scams, Consumers Need Stronger Protections
American households lost an estimated $12.5 billion to scams in 2024—a 25% increase from the previous year—with sophisticated technology-driven fraud becoming increasingly common, particularly through phones and apps. Most Americans now receive scam calls or texts weekly, often using AI deepfakes and voice cloning that make fraudulent communications difficult to distinguish from legitimate ones, with many scams originating from organized international crime groups. To protect themselves, consumers should be suspicious of unsolicited calls and texts (especially from unknown numbers or international sources), verify requests independently through official channels, and report suspected scams to the FCC, while regulators need to mandate call authentication standards and deploy better anti-spoofing filters.
Romance Scams Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
ksl.com · 2026-02-25
Stay safe online: Expert advice on how to avoid scams and identity theft | KSL.com
Online scams and identity theft are widespread problems affecting 73% of U.S. adults, with scammers using increasingly sophisticated tactics like AI-generated phishing emails and cloned voices to trick victims. To protect yourself, experts recommend verifying website security by checking that URLs begin with "https://" rather than "http://," adjusting browser settings to only allow secure connections, and carefully checking website spellings and domain extensions before sharing personal information. Taking these preventive steps can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a scam victim.
Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Check/Cashier's Check
foxnews.com · 2026-02-25
Apple app password scam email warning - Fox News
Scammers are sending fraudulent emails impersonating Apple, claiming that an unauthorized PayPal charge of nearly $3,000 has been made on your account and urging you to call a support number immediately. The scam targets Apple users by using official Apple branding and urgent language to trigger panic, but can be identified by red flags like the email being sent to a generic recipient address rather than your actual Apple ID email. To stay safe, slow down and carefully examine suspicious emails before clicking links or calling numbers, and remember that legitimate Apple security emails are sent directly to your registered Apple ID address.
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Payment App
newsnationnow.com · 2026-02-25
Globalelder fraudnetwork dismantled in St. Louis - NewsNation
A major international elder fraud network was dismantled in St. Louis, involving scammers who posed as computer tech support to convince elderly victims their retirement accounts were compromised, then sent local couriers to collect their life savings converted into gold bars. Five people, including 23-year-old courier Dariona Lambert, pleaded guilty to the scheme that defrauded seniors across ten states of millions of dollars. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited pop-up warnings about compromised accounts, never give out personal information to callers claiming to be tech support, and be suspicious if anyone requests you pick up or deliver packages from elderly people or government agencies—legitimate businesses don't operate this way.
Bank Impersonation General Elder Fraud Financial Crime
timesofindia.indiatimes.com · 2026-02-24
Online love or online trap? how romance scam can steal your hearts and money, spot the ...
I appreciate you sharing this, but I'm unable to summarize the article as provided because the text you've shared only contains the website header/navigation elements rather than the actual article content. To give you an accurate summary focusing on what happened, who was affected, and actionable advice about romance scams, I would need the full article text. Could you please share the complete article content?
verdenews.com · 2026-02-24
Romance scams blah blah | | verdenews.com - The Verde Independent
Two families sued Meta in December 2025 after their teenage sons died by suicide following romance scams in which scammers extracted intimate photos and money through extortion threats. The cases highlight how romance scams affect people across all age groups, from teenagers to older adults using dating apps. To protect yourself, experts advise being cautious about sharing intimate photos online, verifying the identity of people you meet on dating apps, and reporting suspicious behavior to both the platform and authorities immediately.
Romance Scams
fox2now.com · 2026-02-24
Globalelder fraudnetwork dismantled in St. Louis | FOX 2
A network of international fraudsters operating an elder scam has been dismantled in St. Louis, with five people pleading guilty to targeting elderly victims through fake computer tech support warnings and stealing millions in converted gold bars. The scheme involved overseas criminals recruiting local couriers—like 23-year-old Dariona Lambert who was caught picking up nearly $1 million from a St. Louis senior—to collect victims' life savings from their homes. To protect yourself, be suspicious of unsolicited pop-up warnings about compromised accounts, never give personal information to callers claiming to be tech support, and alert authorities if asked to withdraw large sums or handle suspicious packages.
Bank Impersonation General Elder Fraud Financial Crime
yahoo.com · 2026-02-24
Globalelder fraudnetwork dismantled in St. Louis - Yahoo
A St. Louis-based elder fraud ring that operated internationally has been dismantled, with five people pleading guilty including 23-year-old Dariona Lambert, who served as a "courier" picking up victims' life savings converted to gold bars. The scheme typically began with fake computer tech support pop-ups warning of compromised accounts, followed by persistent psychological manipulation to convince elderly victims to withdraw their savings. To protect yourself, ignore unsolicited pop-up warnings about compromised accounts, hang up on unexpected tech support calls, and question any requests for large cash withdrawals or unusual deliveries—legitimate companies never ask you to convert money to gold bars or meet strangers for cash pickups.
Bank Impersonation General Elder Fraud Financial Crime
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation 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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Identity Theft Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
techlicious.com · 2026-02-24
Hackers Are Using Fake Invitations to Take Over Your PC - Techlicious
Hackers are sending fake invitation emails that trick users into downloading malicious software disguised as Windows installer files, which secretly installs remote access tools that give attackers complete control over your computer. The scam is particularly dangerous because it uses legitimate software that antivirus programs often don't flag as suspicious, making it hard to detect until it's too late. If you receive unexpected email invitations asking you to download files—especially .MSI files—be cautious and verify directly with the sender through another communication method before downloading anything.
Phishing Identity Theft Cryptocurrency
digitaljournal.com · 2026-02-24
Plastic cardfraudtops the list of daily scams- Digital Journal
# Article Summary Plastic card fraud is the most common identity theft scam in the UK, affecting over 94,000 victims in 2024 and accounting for more than one-third of all identity theft cases, with phone companies experiencing a dramatic 72.72% surge in fraud attempts. Bank account fraud came in second place with nearly 58,000 cases, while online shopping fraud declined significantly by 25.41%, suggesting that improved security measures in some sectors are working. To protect themselves, consumers should monitor their credit and debit cards regularly for unauthorized charges, use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and consider freezing their credit if they suspect fraud.
Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
thehill.com · 2026-02-23
Efforts to fight online financial scams are missing the mark - The Hill
The European Commission is investigating major tech companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft for failing to prevent financial scams on their platforms, as online fraud losses reached $12.5-$16.6 billion in the U.S. in 2024. The article warns that while regulatory action targeting large platforms is a step forward, it may not adequately address rapidly evolving fraud tactics like deepfakes and voice cloning, which are increasingly being used to deceive consumers. To protect yourself, be cautious of unfamiliar banking apps and hotel listings, verify unexpected communications through official channels, and remain skeptical of urgent financial requests—especially those involving voices or videos you haven't independently confirmed.
Identity Theft Online Shopping Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime
travelandtourworld.com · 2026-02-23
AILoveBots Are Targeting You – Here's How to Recognise the Scams Before It's Too Late
In 2025, Americans lost $1.3 billion to increasingly sophisticated AI-powered romance scams that use realistic fake profiles and personalized messages to build emotional connections before requesting money or personal information. Unlike older scams with obvious red flags like poor grammar and blurry photos, these AI bots are designed to mirror victims' interests and preferences, making them difficult to distinguish from real people. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of online romantic connections that develop quickly, be wary of requests for money or personal data, and verify profiles through video calls or other means before investing emotionally.
Romance Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
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.
Law Enforcement Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering Financial Crime 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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
techbullion.com · 2026-02-22
Recover Stolen Crypto: Pig Butchering Scam Guide for Recovery - TechBullion
# Article Summary A "pig butchering" scam is a sophisticated fraud where criminals build false trust with victims over weeks or months before stealing their cryptocurrency. Victims who discover they've been scammed should immediately stop communicating with the perpetrator, preserve all evidence (screenshots of messages, profiles, and transactions), and report the theft to authorities and recovery services like Pro Crypto Recovery—while being cautious of recovery scams themselves. The key advice is to treat your phone and computer as a crime scene, gather documentation of all communications and blockchain transactions, and resist the urge to respond to scammers, as alerting them could cause them to destroy evidence.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Bank Transfer
cbsnews.com · 2026-02-21
Colorado sheriff's office launchesfraudawareness training program - CBS News
# Fraud Awareness Summary The Boulder County Sheriff's Office launched a new training program to help people recognize and avoid fraud scams, after Sheriff's Victim Advocate Stephen Conley witnessed fraud impact his own family members through grandparent and tech support scams. The program, targeting seniors and the general public, teaches people to recognize warning signs like urgency, requests for secrecy, password demands, and money transfers—using the acronym SUPER as a memory tool. The key advice is to slow down when contacted with urgent demands, pause before acting, talk to someone you trust, and ask yourself "Could this be a scam?" before sending money or personal information.
Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
fox44news.com · 2026-02-21
Brenham PD raising awareness of scams targeting the elderly - KWKT - FOX 44
The Brenham Police Department is warning about multiple scams targeting elderly residents, including impersonation calls from government agencies, fake tech support, romance scams, and fake lottery winnings. Red flags include pressure to act quickly, requests for gift cards or wire transfers, demands for personal information, and instructions to keep the matter secret. To protect yourself, slow down before acting, never share personal details over the phone or online, verify requests by calling organizations directly, and consult with family or trusted friends before sending money—and report suspected scams to local police, Adult Protective Services, or the FTC.
Romance Scams Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
bankinfosecurity.com · 2026-02-21
Breach Roundup: Cambodia Scam Center Crackdown - BankInfoSecurity
Cambodia shut down approximately 190 online scam centers and arrested 11,000 foreign nationals in a major crackdown on transnational fraud operations that were running romance and investment scams on a massive scale, generating tens of billions of dollars annually for criminal gangs. The scam centers, which primarily operated in Phnom Penh and southern Cambodia, exploited trafficked and forced workers to defraud victims, with prominent targets including Chen Zhi, founder of Prince Holding Group, who was indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice for overseeing multiple compounds since 2015. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited romantic or investment opportunities online, verify the legitimacy of financial institutions directly through official channels, and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer
koco.com · 2026-02-20
Gold scams surging nationwide, costing victims hundreds of millions - KOCO
# Gold Scams Costing Americans Hundreds of Millions Scammers are exploiting Americans' trust in gold as a safe investment through "gold courier" schemes that have resulted in over $262 million in losses nationwide between January and October 2025. The scam typically begins with a fraudulent phone call, email, or pop-up claiming to be from your bank or a federal agency (FBI, IRS, or FTC), warning that your accounts have been compromised and urging you to immediately withdraw cash to purchase gold bars or coins. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited urgent demands to buy gold, verify any claims by contacting your bank directly using a number from their official website, and remember that legitimate government agencies will never ask you to purchase gold to protect your money.
Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cash
wbal.com · 2026-02-20
Gold scams surging nationwide, costing victims hundreds of millions - WBAL
# Gold Scam Summary Scammers are exploiting Americans' trust in gold as a safe investment through "gold courier" scams that have cost victims over $262 million nationwide in just the first ten months of 2025. The scheme typically begins with a fraudulent call or message impersonating banks or federal agencies like the FBI or IRS, claiming your accounts are compromised and pressuring you to withdraw cash and buy gold bars or coins. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited urgent messages about account security, verify caller identities by contacting institutions directly (not using numbers they provide), and remember that legitimate agencies won't ask you to buy gold or wire cash to protect your money.
Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cash
kcrg.com · 2026-02-20
Iowa Attorney General warns of top 10 scams as complaints rise for second year - KCRG
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is warning residents about a surge in fraud and scams, with the state's Consumer Protection Division receiving over 4,000 complaints in 2025—the second consecutive year of increases. The most common scams include auto-related fraud (783 complaints), imposter scams like fake job offers and IRS schemes (398 complaints), and internet-related issues such as hacked accounts and phishing (319 complaints), along with complaints about home improvement, housing, and personal services. Consumers are advised to be cautious when dealing with auto repairs and sales, job offers from unknown sources, and unsolicited contact from government agencies, while verifying contractor credentials before hiring and protecting their online accounts with strong passwords.
Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Online Shopping Scams Scam Awareness
techflowpost.com · 2026-02-20
A Chinese national sentenced to 40 months in the U.S. for involvement in a cryptocurrency ...
A 31-year-old Chinese national named Liao Fei was sentenced to 40 months in prison for laundering millions of dollars from cryptocurrency investment scams, particularly "pig-butchering" schemes where fraudsters gain victims' trust on social media before tricking them into fake crypto investments. Victims lost millions of dollars in these scams, and Liao Fei was ordered to forfeit $2.3 million and pay $2.8 million in restitution. To protect yourself, be wary of investment opportunities promoted by strangers on social media, avoid sending money to unknown individuals or companies, and verify investment opportunities through official regulatory channels before committing funds.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
metropolisplanet.com · 2026-02-19
Information security officer talks online scams afety in age of AI - Metropolisplanet.com
Romance scams cost Americans over $672 million in 2024, with adults aged 60 and older losing nearly $390 million to criminals who build fake online relationships and eventually request money. According to cybersecurity expert Zach Lewis, scammers use grooming tactics, talk about marriage and destiny early on, and then gradually request money through various emergencies or fabricated crises. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly escalate to marriage talk, verify identities before sending money, and be especially vigilant if you're an older adult—the primary target of these schemes.
Romance Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Wire Transfer
fintechnews.ph · 2026-02-19
Kaspersky Warns of RisingRomance scams in the Philippines
Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has warned Filipinos about a surge in online romance scams, particularly during Valentine's season, where scammers use fake photos and fabricated stories on dating apps and social media to build trust before requesting money, while also operating fake gift websites that mimic legitimate retailers to steal payment information. The scams have become more sophisticated by combining social engineering tactics with technical tools, and exploit people's desire for connection during the holidays. To protect themselves, Filipinos should verify website URLs before purchasing, never send money to people they haven't met in person, be suspicious of requests to move conversations off dating platforms, and use strong passwords with multi-factor authentication.
Romance Scams Phishing Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
newsday.com · 2026-02-19
'Pig butchering' or investment scams. How to spot them before it's too late - Newsday
"Pig butchering" scams are sophisticated fraud schemes where criminals build trust with victims through fake personal or romantic relationships before convincing them to invest money in fraudulent schemes, often resulting in devastating financial losses. New York's Attorney General is warning residents about these scams, which have caused nearly $75 billion in global losses between 2020 and 2024 and can target anyone, not just seniors. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unsolicited contact from strangers on social media or dating apps, especially those who quickly suggest financial opportunities, and contact authorities if you suspect you've been targeted.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
foxnews.com · 2026-02-19
Tax scams start in January with fake IRS messages targeting Americans | Fox News
# Tax Scam Summary Scammers are launching fake IRS tax scams starting in January, sending fraudulent emails and text messages that mimic legitimate IRS communications to steal personal information like Social Security numbers and banking details. These attacks target Americans waiting for tax refunds and use stolen personal data from breaches and public records to make the scams appear authentic. To protect yourself, be suspicious of unsolicited IRS messages—the real IRS typically initiates contact by mail—verify any claims directly through the official IRS website, and never click links or download attachments from unexpected tax-related emails.
Romance Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Scam Awareness
shu.edu · 2026-02-19
IT Security Warns of Surge in Toll Charge Text Message Scams- Seton Hall University
# Toll Charge Text Message Scam Summary Cybercriminals are targeting drivers nationwide with fake text messages claiming unpaid toll balances, creating urgency to trick recipients into clicking malicious links that lead to fraudulent websites mimicking legitimate toll agencies. Victims who click these links are prompted to enter credit card and personal information, putting them at risk of identity theft, unauthorized transactions, and long-term financial damage. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited toll payment texts, verify suspicious messages by contacting your toll agency directly through official channels, and remember that legitimate agencies send invoices by mail or through secure account portals—never via urgent text message demands.
Phishing Identity Theft Scam Awareness
lifehealth.com · 2026-02-18
Emerging Scams Threatening Taxpayers, Businesses During Tax Season
# Tax Season Scam Alert Summary During tax season, scammers are targeting both individual taxpayers and businesses with increasingly sophisticated schemes including fake social media tax advice, romance scams, phishing emails, cryptocurrency "pig butchering" schemes, and scams targeting tax professionals. Frost Law urges people to verify tax information only through official sources like the IRS, Federal Trade Commission, and local law enforcement, and to be especially cautious of unsolicited communications asking for money or personal information. If you become a victim, seek help from legal professionals or report the scam to official government agencies rather than handling it alone.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
evrimagaci.org · 2026-02-18
Phishing Scams Surge With High-Tech And Old-School Tricks - Grand Pinnacle Tribune
In February 2026, cybercriminals launched a sophisticated global wave of scams combining phishing emails, text messages, and traditional mail to steal sensitive information from individuals and businesses. A particularly alarming campaign weaponized the XWorm Remote Access Trojan through deceptive emails mimicking purchase orders or shipments, which tricked users into opening malicious Excel files that exploited a decade-old Microsoft vulnerability to give attackers complete control of victims' computers. To protect yourself, experts urge vigilance by being skeptical of unexpected emails requesting file downloads, keeping software updated, and using multi-factor authentication on important accounts.
Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
thetimes.com · 2026-02-18
Inside 'pig-butchering': the most insidious scam on the internet - The Times
"Pig-butchering" romance scams are costing Americans over $1 billion annually, with scammers creating fake online dating profiles to build emotional trust with victims before asking them to invest money or provide personal financial information. Beth Hyland, a 53-year-old Michigan woman, fell victim to one such scam when she matched with a fake profile on Tinder and developed what she thought was a romantic relationship with someone claiming to be a construction manager. To protect yourself, be cautious of online dating matches who quickly profess feelings, avoid sharing financial information with people you've only met online, and verify profiles through reverse image searches or video calls before developing emotional or financial ties.
Romance Scams Inheritance Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Bank Transfer
phys.org · 2026-02-17
Before you swipe right, know the red flags - Phys.org
Romance scams are increasingly prevalent on dating apps like Tinder and Bumble, as well as social media and gaming platforms, where fraudsters build fake relationships to exploit victims financially. While there's no evidence that Valentine's Day specifically triggers more scams, romance fraud increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic when people sought emotional connection online. To protect yourself, be cautious of anyone quickly asking for money, verify profiles through reverse image searches, avoid sharing personal financial information early, and be skeptical of individuals who seem too perfect or rush emotional intimacy.
Romance Scams Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Gift Cards
decripto.org · 2026-02-17
Pig butchering scam, 74 million laundered and 20 years in prison for Daren Li - Decripto.org
A 20-year prison sentence was handed down to Daren Li for operating an international money laundering network that laundered $74 million through "pig butchering" crypto scams, a widespread fraud scheme where scammers pose as investment experts on messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram to build trust with victims before directing them to fake trading platforms that falsely show profits. Li fled before his sentencing in December 2024 and remains a fugitive, highlighting the global nature of this crime. To protect yourself, be wary of unsolicited investment advice from strangers on social media, verify that trading platforms are legitimate through official channels, and never deposit money based on promises of guaranteed returns.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
wgal.com · 2026-02-17
Beware of computer tech scams targeting your personal info - WGAL
Scammers are using fake warning messages on computers and smartphones that impersonate Apple to trick people into calling fraudulent "tech support" numbers, where they gain remote access to steal personal and financial information. If you fall victim and grant them access, these criminals can encrypt your files with ransomware and demand payment to unlock them. To protect yourself, ignore any unexpected pop-up warnings claiming to be from Apple or other companies, and never call numbers provided in these messages—instead, contact the company directly using the official number on their website.
Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
foxnews.com · 2026-02-17
Fake ad blocker breaks PCs in new malware extension scam- Fox News
A malicious browser extension called NexShield, disguised as a legitimate ad blocker, deliberately crashes Chrome and Edge browsers to trick users into running dangerous commands that infect their computers. The scam falsely claimed to be from the creator of the popular uBlock Origin extension and was promoted through ads before being removed from the Chrome Web Store. To protect yourself, only download extensions from official sources, be skeptical of pop-ups claiming security problems, and never copy-paste commands into your command prompt without verifying their legitimacy.
Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
gulfcoastnewsnow.com · 2026-02-17
Protecting against email scams: Expert advice from Fort Myers - Gulf Coast News
# Email Scam Summary Millions of people lose billions of dollars annually to email scams, which have evolved from simple spam to sophisticated phishing attempts that impersonate legitimate companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google to steal passwords and financial information. John Joyce, a technology consultant, warns that scammers now use AI-improved grammar and official-looking logos to make fraudulent emails appear authentic, exploiting the fact that people receive over 120 emails daily and may click carelessly. To protect yourself, Joyce recommends updating software regularly, pausing before clicking links, being skeptical of all messages—especially unsolicited offers—and remembering that legitimate riches never come through email.
Crypto Investment Scams Inheritance Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams
wired.com · 2026-02-16
Google's AI Overviews Can Scam You. Here's How to Stay Safe | WIRED
Google's new AI Overviews feature, which synthesizes web information into automated summaries, is being exploited by scammers who plant fake customer service numbers online that the AI then prominently displays to users. When people search for legitimate company contact information and call the fraudulent numbers from the AI results, they reach scammers impersonating those companies who attempt to steal payment information and sensitive data. To stay safe, users should verify phone numbers through official company websites or apps rather than relying on AI-generated answers, and report any suspicious numbers to both Google and the companies being impersonated.
Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Check/Cashier's Check
nbcnews.com · 2026-02-15
Romance scammers convince victims to open home loans, research finds - NBC News
# Romance Scammers Target Home Loans Romance scammers are increasingly tricking Americans into taking out home equity loans or stealing their personal information to fraudulently obtain these loans, putting victims' homes at risk of foreclosure. The scammers typically build fake romantic relationships online over weeks or months before claiming an emergency and pressuring victims to borrow money against their homes as collateral. To protect yourself, be wary of online romantic interests who quickly ask for money, never share personal financial information with people you've only met online, and verify any loan applications directly with your bank.
Romance Scams Sextortion Identity Theft Scam Awareness
foxnews.com · 2026-02-15
Woman owes $3556 for cruise she already paid for after falling victim to elaborate Zelle scam
# Zelle Cruise Scam Summary A woman lost $3,556 and was permanently banned from cruising after a fraudulent "cruise consultant" she found online accepted her Zelle payment but used a stolen credit card to actually book her trip. When the real cardholder disputed the fraudulent charge, the cruise line held Williams responsible for the debt despite her having already paid. To protect yourself, book cruises directly through official cruise line websites or verified travel agencies, avoid paying via wire transfer or Zelle to independent consultants, and never share payment details with unverified third parties—especially when they insist on non-traditional payment methods.
Payment App
abcnews.go.com · 2026-02-15
Amazon warns about online scams: How to protect your money - ABC News
Amazon is warning customers about a surge in holiday scams, including fake order confirmations and phishing websites that trick people into sharing credit card numbers and personal information. The Federal Trade Commission has received over 3 million impersonation scam reports since 2018, resulting in more than $6 billion in consumer losses. To stay safe, customers should verify orders through their official Amazon account rather than clicking links or calling numbers in unsolicited messages, and should be cautious of emotional manipulation tactics used by scammers.
Phishing Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
vox.com · 2026-02-15
Is it love? Or is it an AI romance scam? - Vox
Romance scams cost Americans $3 billion last year and are becoming increasingly prevalent, with AI now enabling scammers to run multiple schemes simultaneously by removing language barriers and providing ready-made fake personas and conversation scripts. These "pig-butchering" scams involve fraudsters building trust with victims over time before extracting money, and criminals can now purchase complete scam toolkits on the dark web with AI-generated photos, deepfake videos, and automated translation tools. To protect yourself, be cautious of online romantic interests who quickly ask for money, verify identities through video calls, and report suspicious activity to authorities rather than sending funds to anyone you haven't met in person.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Sextortion Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
sfstandard.com · 2026-02-14
Falling in love with a person you met online? The FBI says to check receipts - SF Standard
Romance scams in the Bay Area have exploded in 2025, with AI making these schemes faster and harder to detect—Northern California saw losses more than double to $43.3 million, with San Francisco alone experiencing a nearly 900% increase to $6.34 million. Scammers, often operating overseas, use dating apps, social media, and text messages to build trust with lonely or vulnerable victims before draining their savings in schemes known as "pig butchering." The FBI advises people to be cautious about online relationships, verify identities, and check for inconsistencies before sharing personal or financial information, especially with someone you've only met online.
Romance Scams Friendship Scams Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Sextortion Identity Theft Online Shopping Scams Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
baynews9.com · 2026-02-14
Romance scams are costing Americans $1 billion each year - Bay News 9
# Romance Scams Summary Americans lose over $1 billion annually to romance scams, where fraudsters build trust with victims online and manipulate them into sending money, often by steering them toward fake investment platforms. The scams are becoming harder to detect due to AI-generated deepfakes that make scammers appear more authentic, and victims—even tech-savvy ones—often lose their life savings by maxing out credit cards. Lawmakers are pushing protective measures like the bipartisan Romance Scam Prevention Act, which would require dating platforms to warn users about profiles later identified as fraudulent.
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
aol.com · 2026-02-14
How to Spot and Avoid Scams Targeting Older Adults
# Scams Targeting Older Adults Elder fraud is a growing problem, with individuals aged 60 and over losing $3.4 billion in 2023—an 11% increase from the previous year—with an average loss of $33,915 per victim. The most common scams targeting older adults include tech support scams (fake calls claiming to be from Microsoft or Apple), personal data breaches, romance scams, and investment fraud, with scammers typically initiating contact through calls, emails, or texts before requesting money or access to devices. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited contact from companies or strangers, never give remote access to your devices or personal information to callers you didn't initiate contact with, verify any claims by contacting companies directly using official phone numbers, and report suspicious activity to the FBI or local authorities.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Identity Theft Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Check/Cashier's Check
spectrumlocalnews.com · 2026-02-14
Romance scams are costing Americans $1 billion each year - Spectrum News
Americans are losing over $1 billion annually to romance scams, where fraudsters build fake emotional connections online to manipulate victims into sending money or investing in fake platforms, often using deepfakes and AI to appear more authentic. The scams affect people across all tech-savviness levels, with victims frequently maxing out credit cards and losing their life savings. To protect yourself, be wary of new online romantic interests who quickly suggest investments or ask for money, and lawmakers are now pushing dating platforms to alert users about profiles banned for fraud.
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime
thehill.com · 2026-02-13
FBI warns of romance scams ahead of Valentine's Day - The Hill
# Romance Scams Spike Ahead of Valentine's Day The FBI is warning of a sharp rise in romance scams as people increasingly use dating apps and social media to find love, with scammers creating fake profiles to manipulate victims into sending money or personal information—sometimes using AI-generated photos and videos to appear more convincing. A particularly dangerous variant called "pig butchering" lures victims into fraudulent cryptocurrency trading schemes that can result in substantial financial losses, with romance scams costing Americans an estimated $10 billion annually. To protect yourself, the FBI advises maintaining healthy skepticism when meeting people online, being especially wary of anyone who quickly claims to have lucrative investment opportunities, and never sending money or sharing sensitive information with people you haven't met in person.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
wamc.org · 2026-02-13
fraud prevention with NYSP Investigator Kurt Strassberger 2/11/26 | WAMC
# Fraud Prevention Summary Millions of Americans fall victim to fraud each year, with elderly citizens particularly vulnerable to scams including romance schemes, tech support fraud, grandparent scams, and government impersonation plots. New York State Police Investigator Kurt Strassberger highlighted that common fraud tactics also include money mule schemes, cryptocurrency investment fraud, and business email compromise attacks. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited contact offering financial opportunities or tech support, verify requests through official channels before sharing personal information, and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or the FBI.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Lottery/Prize Scams Government Impersonation Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Online Shopping Scams Home Repair Scams Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
foxnews.com · 2026-02-12
2026 Valentine's romance scams and how to avoid them - Fox News
# Valentine's Day Romance Scam Summary Romance scams peak around Valentine's Day and have become increasingly sophisticated, using artificial intelligence, stolen personal data, and AI-generated profiles to target vulnerable populations like widowed, divorced, or older adults returning to online dating. Modern scammers no longer rely on simple tactics but instead use AI to create convincing fake identities, impersonate real people, generate deepfake videos, and even build elaborate fake social networks to build trust before requesting money. To protect yourself, be cautious of new online connections asking for money, verify profiles through reverse image searches, watch for inconsistencies in stories, and avoid sharing personal information early in relationships.
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
fox2detroit.com · 2026-02-12
Romance scams are booming online - what you need to know - FOX 2 Detroit
# Romance Scams Summary Romance scams are surging online, with over 65,000 reported cases in 2024 resulting in $1.1 billion in losses, though actual numbers are likely much higher due to victim embarrassment. Scammers use manipulation techniques like "love bombing" and "mirroring"—pretending to share victims' interests and values to build fake intimacy—before pressuring them for money, with some victims losing over $1 million. To protect yourself, be cautious about moving conversations off dating platforms quickly, never share personal financial information with people you haven't met in person, and watch for red flags like rapid declarations of love or requests for money.
Romance Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
6abc.com · 2026-02-12
Experts Warn About Lonely Heart Scams Ahead of Valentine's Day - 6abc Philadelphia
As Valentine's Day approaches, cybersecurity experts warn that romance scams are spiking, with criminals building fake emotional connections with victims before requesting money for fabricated emergencies like medical crises or military-related expenses. People should watch for red flags such as scammers avoiding video calls, pressuring conversations to private messaging apps, or quickly asking for money, and they should never send funds to someone they haven't met in person. Experts advise stepping back and consulting trusted friends if someone requests money, and applying the same skepticism to suspicious online shopping deals that seem too good to be true.
Romance Scams
finance.yahoo.com · 2026-02-12
Beware of online relationship scams this Valentine's Day - Yahoo Finance
# Romance Scams on Dating Apps and Social Media Scammers are increasingly targeting people through dating apps and social media by building fake relationships and manipulating victims into sending money for fabricated emergencies, travel, or investment opportunities—often using realistic AI-generated photos and videos. The Federal Trade Commission reported $12.5 billion in losses from investment-related scams in 2024, with romance scams ranking among the most serious threats nationwide, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. To protect yourself, be wary of online contacts who rush relationships, request money for emergencies, lack a verifiable digital presence, and consider using reverse image searches to verify profiles before sharing personal or financial information.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
therecord.media · 2026-02-11
Chinese crypto scammer sentenced in absentia to 20 years after fleeing US - The Record
A Chinese cryptocurrency scammer named Daren Li was sentenced to 20 years in prison by a U.S. federal court for laundering $73.6 million stolen from Americans through "pig butchering" romance and investment scams orchestrated from Cambodia, though he fled the country by cutting off his ankle monitor before the sentencing could be carried out in person. The scam operation involved criminals posing as romantic interests or investment advisors to trick victims into sending money that was then funneled through shell companies. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of unsolicited romantic connections online or unsolicited investment opportunities, especially from people you've never met in person, and verify any investment opportunities through official channels before sending money.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
foxnews.com · 2026-02-11
Microsoft 'Important Mail' email is a scam: How to spot it - Fox News
# Scam Alert Summary Scammers are sending fake "Microsoft Important Mail" emails designed to look official and urgent, claiming your email access will be suspended to pressure you into clicking a malicious link. The email contains multiple red flags including a generic greeting ("Dear User"), a free AOL email address posing as Microsoft, artificial urgency with a deadline, and suspicious attachments—none of which legitimate Microsoft communications would include. To protect yourself, slow down and scrutinize unexpected security warnings, verify sender addresses match official company domains, and never click links in unsolicited emails; instead, log into your account directly through the official website.
Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
abc7ny.com · 2026-02-11
Look out for theseromance scam red flags from 7 On Your Side - ABC7 New York
# Romance Scam Summary Sophisticated romance scams are targeting dating app users, with one in four Americans reporting encounters with fake profiles or AI-generated bots in the past year. Scammers use stolen photos to build trust, then persuade victims to invest in cryptocurrency by showing fake profits and official-looking statements—two victims lost nearly $1 million and $80,000 respectively before realizing the accounts were frozen. To protect yourself, be wary of new matches who quickly pivot conversations to investment opportunities, verify profiles through reverse image searches, and never invest money with someone you've only met online.
Romance Scams Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
abc11.com · 2026-02-11
Romance scams surge ahead of Valentine's Day - ABC11 Raleigh-Durham
# Romance Scams Surge Ahead of Valentine's Day Romance scammers are increasingly targeting people searching for love online, using AI technology to create highly personalized messages and building trust over months or even years before requesting money disguised as emergencies or investments. People should be wary of online matches who avoid meeting in person, claim to be overseas or military-based, rush emotional commitments, or ask for money for any reason. The safest approach is to never send money to someone you've only met online, and to verify identities through video calls before developing deeper relationships.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
region.com.au · 2026-02-09
Romance scams on the rise and Valentine's Day is near, warns ACCC | Region Canberra
# Romance Scams Cost Australians Millions as Valentine's Day Approaches Australians lost over $28.6 million to romance scams last year—a 21.8 percent increase—with scammers primarily targeting people through dating apps, social media, and online forums. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission warns that these criminals use carefully planned tactics to build emotional trust before requesting money or personal information, making romance scams one of the most financially and psychologically damaging crimes in the country. To protect yourself, be cautious about sharing money or personal details with online contacts, especially those you haven't met in person, and report suspicious activity to Scamwatch while discussing these scams with friends and family.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
miragenews.com · 2026-02-09
AIRomance Scams Surge, Banks Warn Pre-Valentine's | Mirage News
# Romance Scams Surge Ahead of Valentine's Day Criminals are increasingly using AI to create fake profiles on dating apps, generating realistic photos, deepfake videos, and even mimicking voices to deceive potential romantic partners into sending money—with some victims losing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Banks warn that AI has made it extremely difficult to spot these scams, as scammers exploit emotions and loneliness with highly sophisticated tools. To protect yourself, trust your instincts if a potential match seems too perfect or something feels off, verify identities before meeting, and never send money to people you haven't met in person.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
says.com · 2026-02-09
How Scammers Are Using AI & How To Protect Yourself Online - SAYS
Scammers are increasingly using AI tools to create convincing fraud messages, clone voices, and generate deepfake videos that are much harder to detect than traditional scams, affecting people across Malaysia and beyond. Recent victims include a woman who lost RM5,000 to fake boss emails and a 63-year-old man who transferred RM49,800 after receiving a call from an AI-cloned voice of a friend. To protect yourself, verify unexpected requests by contacting the sender through a known phone number or in person, be skeptical of perfect messages from institutions you work with, and remember that legitimate banks and employers won't request money via gift vouchers or wire transfers.
Romance Scams Phishing Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
star941fm.iheart.com · 2026-02-08
Woman Lost Her Home And Life Savings In Celebrity AI Deepfake Video Scam | STAR 94.1
A California woman lost her home and $81,000 in a sophisticated AI deepfake romance scam where criminals impersonated actor Steve Burton through convincing fake videos and voice messages to build a fake romantic relationship. Romance scams have become increasingly difficult to detect as AI technology advances, with victims losing over $1.14 billion in 2023 alone, and similar high-profile cases involving celebrities like Brad Pitt emerging. To protect yourself, be cautious about unexpected romantic advances online, never send money to people you haven't met in person, and verify claims by contacting the real person or organization through official channels.
Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards Cash
finance.yahoo.com · 2026-02-08
90-year-old man scammed out of $814K life savings — Wells Fargo denies claim. Why you ...
A 90-year-old Southern California man lost his entire $814,000 life savings when someone forged his signature on checks and drained his account over several months, but Wells Fargo denied his fraud claim because he didn't report it within the bank's 60-day window—a difficult deadline for someone dealing with dementia, hearing loss, and limited mobility. The bank's investigation offered little help, and despite clear evidence that the forged signatures bore no resemblance to his actual signature, the institution refused to reimburse him. Customers should regularly monitor their accounts and report any suspicious activity immediately, and those with cognitive or health challenges should consider having trusted family members help manage their finances and watch for unauthorized transactions.
Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Wire Transfer Check/Cashier's Check
foxnews.com · 2026-02-07
AI deepfake romance scams teals woman's home and life savings - Fox News
A woman named Abigail was defrauded of over $81,000 and her paid-off home by scammers who used AI-generated deepfake videos and messages impersonating actor Steve Burton to build a fake romantic relationship with her on Facebook and WhatsApp. The scam escalated over time as the perpetrators manipulated her into transferring money and eventually taking out loans against her home before her daughter discovered the fraud. To protect yourself, be suspicious of romantic contact from celebrities, avoid moving conversations to encrypted messaging apps with people you've just met online, and verify identities through official channels before sharing personal or financial information.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Phishing Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards Payment App Money Order / Western Union
wilx.com · 2026-02-07
What The Tech? Reporting scams
Spam texts and robocalls are increasingly common, and while marking messages as spam does help your carrier identify patterns and block numbers when enough people report the same scam, there's a more effective method: forward suspicious messages to 7726 (which spells "SPAM") so carriers can analyze and block them faster across their entire network. Most importantly, never reply to spam texts—even with "STOP"—as this confirms your number is active and encourages scammers to target you more. By reporting scams properly rather than just ignoring them, you help protect yourself and other users from fraud.
Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
finance.yahoo.com · 2026-02-07
Woman loses her home and life savings to aromance scam. How to avoid love cons, which ...
A 69-year-old Arizona woman lost her home and life savings after a romance scammer posing as a Naval officer on Facebook convinced her to send over $70,000 in payments, claiming he needed help with customs fees for packages containing gold and jewelry. The scam devastated her retirement, forcing her to sell her home and move into an apartment, and she only discovered the fraud when her financial advisor became suspicious during a loan application. To protect yourself, be wary of unsolicited romantic messages from strangers online, never send money to people you haven't met in person—especially for customs fees or emergencies—and consult trusted advisors like family members or financial professionals before making large financial decisions.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
wcvb.com · 2026-02-06
Hingham woman loses $21K in Microsoft computer scam, police say - WCVB
A Hingham woman lost $21,000 after scammers posing as Microsoft contacted her through a pop-up notification, falsely claiming her bank account had been hacked and directing her to wire money to recover the funds. The scam involved multiple fraudsters impersonating both Microsoft employees and bank fraud department staff, ultimately convincing the victim to send money and provide her driver's license. To protect yourself, avoid clicking on pop-ups or unsolicited messages, remember that legitimate companies won't ask you to wire money to recover stolen funds, and contact your bank directly using a number from their official website if you suspect fraud.
Bank Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Wire Transfer
techloy.com · 2026-02-06
What Are Scam Compounds? Everything We Know About the Forced-Labour Cybercrime Factories
# Scam Compounds Summary Thousands of people across Southeast Asia are being forced to work in compound facilities that operate online fraud schemes, particularly "pig butchering" scams that manipulate victims into sending money to fake cryptocurrency platforms. Many of the workers themselves are victims—lured with fake job offers, stripped of their passports, and trapped through debt and intimidation in what amounts to modern slavery. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of unsolicited investment opportunities and romantic relationships that quickly push financial requests, especially involving cryptocurrency, and verify job offers through official company channels before committing.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Cryptocurrency
zycrypto.com · 2026-02-06
Crypto ATM Scams Cost Arizonans $177M as Attorney General Begins Crackdown
Arizona has lost approximately $177 million annually to crypto ATM scams, with seniors over 60 making up 43% of victims, prompting Attorney General Kris Mayes to launch a crackdown and new complaint reporting system. Scammers use various tactics including impersonation calls about legal or banking issues to trick victims into sending money through crypto ATMs, which lack protections and are difficult to trace. To protect yourself, avoid using crypto ATMs if someone urges you to do so, report scams within 30 days to the state, and be skeptical of unsolicited requests for crypto payments.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM
kwch.com · 2026-02-05
Romance scams: How to protect yourself this Valentine's Day - KWCH
# Romance Scams Summary In 2024, over 17,900 Americans lost more than $672 million to romance scams, with these schemes becoming increasingly sophisticated as Valentine's Day approaches. To protect yourself, experts recommend verifying the identity of online contacts through video calls or photos, being wary of excuses to avoid verification, and using practical security measures like reverse image searches on profile pictures, two-factor authentication, and adjusting privacy settings to limit personal information exposure. If someone consistently avoids video calls or refuses to prove their identity, these are major red flags to end contact immediately.
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Phishing Scam Awareness
moneytalksnews.com · 2026-02-05
Your Bank Can't Save You From This: The Rise of 2 Scams That Can Steal Your Retirement
Fraud losses have surged to $12.5 billion in 2024, a 25% increase from the previous year, with scammers increasingly targeting retirement savings through sophisticated schemes involving gold purchases and cryptocurrency. Criminals are impersonating bank agents, tech support, and government officials to convince victims that their accounts are compromised and trick them into buying gold bars or transferring savings to fake cryptocurrency wallets—both tactics that make money nearly impossible to recover once transferred. To protect yourself, be skeptical of unsolicited contact about account compromises, remember that legitimate banks and government agencies won't ask you to buy gold or crypto to "secure" your money, and verify any claims by calling your bank directly using a number from your statement rather than one provided by the caller.
Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Gift Cards
record-eagle.com · 2026-02-05
Fred Goldenberg: Digital technology takes scamming to new heights | Business
Modern scammers are using AI-generated voice clones to impersonate family members and target seniors with convincing "grandparent scams," as illustrated by a case where a 74-year-old woman nearly fell victim to a fraudster impersonating her grandson. Unlike traditional scams, these high-tech schemes use publicly available social media content to create nearly perfect replicas of loved ones' voices, making them extremely difficult for even savvy seniors to detect. To protect yourself, verify unexpected requests for money by contacting family members directly through known phone numbers, be cautious about what personal videos you share online, and stay skeptical of urgent requests that discourage you from telling others.
Investment Fraud Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud General Elder Fraud
bpi.com · 2026-02-04
Fraud and Scam Prevention Playbook - Bank Policy Institute
# Fraud and Scams in America: A Growing Crisis Fraud and scams cost Americans $12.5 billion in 2024—a 25% increase from the previous year—with nearly three-quarters of U.S. adults experiencing some form of online scam or attack, and one in five Americans losing money to these crimes. Most fraud originates outside the traditional banking system through social media, telecom platforms, and overseas scam centers in Southeast Asia, where U.S. law enforcement has limited reach. To combat this crisis, experts recommend that consumers stay vigilant against impersonation tactics and suspicious communications, while calling for greater accountability and coordination between government, banks, social media platforms, and telecom companies to prevent fraud before it reaches consumers.
Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Online Shopping Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Payment App Check/Cashier's Check
techradar.com · 2026-02-04
A new Apple Pay scam is hitting millions – here's how to spot fake 'unusual activity ...
# Apple Pay Phishing Scam Summary Millions of Apple users are receiving fraudulent emails and texts claiming to alert them about suspicious Apple Pay transactions or blocked purchases, urging them to call a provided number to resolve the issue. These phishing scams are designed to panic victims into calling scammers posing as Apple support, who then try to steal their Apple ID credentials, verification codes, or payment information. To protect yourself, remember that Apple never sends fraud warnings via email or asks you to call numbers in messages—if you receive such a message, delete it immediately, and consider changing your password as a precaution.
Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Check/Cashier's Check
wspa.com · 2026-02-04
Scam call blocking: Free tools that really cut down on unwanted calls - WSPA 7NEWS
Scammers are increasingly targeting seniors with fraudulent Medicare calls to steal personal information and commit identity theft, with one woman discovering nearly $11,000 in fraudulent medical claims on her account. Rather than relying on third-party apps that may compromise your privacy, experts recommend using the built-in spam-blocking features on your phone (iPhone and Android) combined with your cell provider's call-blocking tools, which now use AI technology to effectively filter out scam calls. To maximize protection, make sure your phone's operating system is up-to-date before enabling these native blocking features.
Government Impersonation Medicare Fraud Benefits Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
gallego.senate.gov · 2026-02-04
Gallego, Moreno Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Online Scam Ads
# Fraud Scams Summary Senators Ruben Gallego and Bernie Moreno introduced bipartisan legislation called the SCAM Act to combat fraudulent online advertisements that cost Americans billions annually, particularly on social media platforms. The bill would require online platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent scam ads and strengthen the Federal Trade Commission's and states' ability to enforce consumer protection laws against violators. The actionable takeaway for consumers is to remain vigilant about ads on social media—verify offers independently before engaging, and report suspicious advertisements to the platforms and the FTC.
Romance Scams Government Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
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 Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Grandparent Scams Medicare Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Cryptocurrency
investmentnews.com · 2026-02-03
Add aging financial advisors to the 2026 list of industry risks and scams. - InvestmentNews
The financial advice industry faces a growing risk as aging financial advisors may develop cognitive conditions like dementia, potentially putting clients' investments at risk. A case study highlighted a 57-year-old advisor who repeatedly forgot calling about continuing education and made duplicate client trades without realizing it, later diagnosed with dementia—a situation that created compliance and legal complications for his firm. Financial services firms should establish monitoring processes to identify advisors with declining cognitive abilities to protect both clients and the business, though experts acknowledge it's difficult to know how widespread the problem is.
Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Investment Fraud Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime
techpolicy.press · 2026-02-02
US Congress Targets 'Pig-Butchering' Scams as Cybercrime Outpaces Policy
"Pig-butchering" scams—where criminals gradually extract money from victims before abandoning them—are surging in the US, with Americans losing an estimated $10 billion in 2024 alone (a 66% increase from 2023), prompting Congress to introduce multiple bills including the Dismantle Foreign Scam Syndicates Act to combat these transnational operations. The scams, primarily run by Southeast Asian syndicates that have diversified away from Chinese targets following local crackdowns, are becoming increasingly sophisticated with AI tools, while critics argue the proposed legislation doesn't adequately address tech platforms and cryptocurrency exchanges that enable the fraud. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unsolicited romantic or investment opportunities online, verify requests for money through independent channels, and report suspected scams to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
Romance 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
bitdefender.com · 2026-02-02
We Worry About Kids' Screen Time, but Our Parents Spend Even More Time Online. What ...
Seniors are now spending more time online than young adults, yet families rarely monitor their activities the way they do with children, leaving older adults vulnerable to scams and fraud that often go undetected until problems emerge like missed bills or suspicious contacts. Adults over 65 spend more than three hours daily on devices and own an average of seven connected devices, using them for everything from social media and shopping to banking and video calls. Families should actively check in on elderly relatives' online behavior and device usage to protect them from the risks that come with increased internet connectivity.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency
khon2.com · 2026-02-02
Watch out for employment scams | KHON2
Employment scams, where fraudsters pose as legitimate employers to steal money or personal information from job seekers, have nearly tripled since 2020, with reported losses exceeding $500 million by 2024. With 36% of U.S. workers relying on gig work, job seekers are increasingly vulnerable to these schemes that often promise unrealistic wages and work-from-home positions. To protect yourself, avoid any job offers demanding upfront payments or requesting sensitive information like Social Security numbers or bank details before employment begins, and verify job offers directly through official company websites or phone numbers.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Bank Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Wire Transfer Gift Cards Cash Payment App Check/Cashier's Check
financialit.net · 2026-02-02
Money Sent to romance scammers jumps 37% in a Year, as TSB Warns Public of Victims ...
Romance scams cost UK victims £20.5 million in just six months of 2025, with losses jumping 37% year-over-year as fraudsters increasingly exploit emotional connections to extract money. Victims—particularly those over 55, especially ages 65-74—typically lose an average of £7,500 after sending 11 payments over about three months, as scammers build fake relationships using fabricated stories (claiming to work abroad, in the military, or as celebrities) before gradually requesting money for supposed emergencies or travel. To protect yourself, be suspicious of online relationships that quickly turn romantic without meeting in person, never send money to someone you haven't met face-to-face, and report suspicious behavior to your bank immediately.
Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Government Impersonation Scam Awareness
fstech.co.uk · 2026-02-02
Money sent to romance scammers jumps 37% in 2025, finds TSB - FStech
Romance scams cost UK victims significantly more in 2025, with money sent to scammers jumping 37% compared to 2024, and victims losing an average of £7,500 across multiple payments before realizing they've been deceived. Fraudsters typically pose as people living abroad, celebrities, or soldiers on dating apps and social media platforms like Facebook, building trust over months before requesting money and continuing to ask for more with false promises. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly develop romantic interest, remain skeptical of requests for money or excuses about financial difficulties, and verify identities before sending any funds.
Romance Scams
ffnews.com · 2026-02-02
Money Sent to romance scammers jumps 37 Percent in a Year, as TSB Warns Public of ...
# Romance Scams Surge 37% as Victims Lose Thousands Money sent to romance scammers jumped 37 percent in a year, with victims losing an average of £7,500 across 11 separate payments over three months, according to a new TSB report. Romance scams are particularly devastating because fraudsters spend months building trust with victims before requesting money, then continually create new reasons to ask for additional payments. To protect yourself, be cautious of online relationships that quickly progress to requests for money, verify identities through video calls before any financial involvement, and consult your bank if you're asked to make multiple payments to the same person.
Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime
igamingbusiness.com · 2026-02-02
China executes 11 members of Myanmar mafia in billion-dollar scam case
# China Executes 11 Members of Myanmar Criminal Syndicate in Major Scam Crackdown China executed 11 members of the Ming family crime organization, which operated massive telecom and romance scams from Myanmar that generated over $1.4 billion between 2015 and 2023. The criminal compounds relied on forced labor and human trafficking to run "pig-butchering" scams targeting victims online, with workers lured by fake job ads and subjected to abuse, torture, and even murder if they failed to meet quotas. For protection against such scams, people should be wary of unsolicited job offers with unusually high pay, romantic advances from online strangers pushing investment opportunities, and any request to transfer money or provide personal financial information to unknown parties.
Romance Scams Investment Fraud Financial Crime
financialexpress.com · 2026-02-01
Fake Microsoft schemes, gold bar payments: How 2 Indian-origin men duped theelderlyin ...
Two Indian-origin men have been charged with money laundering for allegedly defrauding elderly people across Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ohio through schemes impersonating tech workers, Microsoft support, PayPal representatives, and FTC officials. The scammers targeted vulnerable seniors, with at least one victim losing $40,000 in cash. Elderly people should be cautious of unsolicited calls about computer problems or account issues, verify caller identity through official channels, and never send money or personal information to unknown callers claiming to represent major companies or government agencies.
Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Government Impersonation Money Mules / Laundering General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Cash Payment App
foxnews.com · 2026-02-01
Tax season scams surge as filing confusion grows - Fox News
# Tax Season Scams Surge in 2026 Tax scams are increasing this year as confusion grows following the discontinuation of the government-free filing system, with scammers impersonating the IRS through fake emails, texts, and fraudulent tax services to exploit anxious taxpayers rushing to file. The scammers target people's uncertainty about new filing rules and create urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly without verifying legitimacy. To protect yourself, remember that the IRS never initiates contact via email or text message demanding immediate action, and verify any tax-related communication directly with the IRS before responding or providing personal information.
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
huffpost.com · 2026-02-01
What's The 'Ghost Tapping' scam and How To Avoid It | HuffPost Life
# Ghost Tapping Scam Summary A scam called "ghost tapping" allows fraudsters to overcharge customers using tap-to-pay and mobile wallet technology by hiding the transaction amount from the buyer—with victims reporting unauthorized charges of hundreds to thousands of dollars. The Better Business Bureau has received fewer than 10 reports so far, but warns the scam may increase during the holiday season when people use tap-to-pay at craft fairs and street vendors. To protect yourself, always ask to see the payment terminal screen before completing any tap-to-pay transaction to verify the exact amount being charged.
Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Financial Crime
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.
Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Scam Awareness
ksl.com · 2026-01-31
We tested 4 popular scam-detection apps. Here's what actually worked | KSL.com
Artificial intelligence is making scams more convincing, and older adults—particularly those over 80 in Utah—are being hit hardest, with losses averaging $7,675 per person in 2025, exemplified by one 90-year-old who lost over $500,000 to a fake sweepstakes scam. Researchers tested four popular scam-detection apps (McAfee Scam Detector, Trend Micro Scam Check, Norton Genie, and BitDefender Scamio) and found that Norton Genie performed best, though none reliably caught all scam types, with only one app detecting phishing emails while all four flagged vishing (spoofed caller ID) scams. The takeaway: while scam-detection apps offer some protection, no single tool is foolproof, so people—especially seniors—should remain vigilant by verifying contact
Romance Scams Lottery/Prize Scams Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
aol.com · 2026-01-31
Arizona woman loses $1.5M to an online scam after simply trying to fix her TV's closed ...
An Arizona woman lost $1.5 million after clicking on a fake tech support website while searching for help with her TV's closed captioning, demonstrating how scammers use convincing fake websites and remote access software to systematically drain victims' accounts over time. The Federal Trade Commission reports that scams targeting older adults have surged dramatically, with a fourfold increase in victims losing $10,000 or more and a sevenfold increase in scams exceeding $100,000. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited tech support offers, avoid clicking links from search results when seeking help, and never grant remote access to your computer or pay upfront fees to unknown callers—instead, contact companies directly using official phone numbers from their legitimate websites.
Investment Fraud Phishing Money Mules / Laundering Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
mondaq.com · 2026-01-31
Byteing Back: Investors May Recover In Alleged Massive "Pig Butchering" Scam - Fin Tech - Mondaq
U.S. authorities have seized approximately $15 billion in bitcoin from a massive "pig butchering" scam operated by Chen Zhi's Prince Group in Cambodia, where thousands of trafficked workers used fake social media accounts to trick victims into fraudulent cryptocurrency investments with promises of fake profits. Over 250 victims across the U.S. and New York have been identified, and affected investors may now recover their stolen funds through government recovery mechanisms that remain open even after initial deadlines. To protect yourself, be extremely cautious of unsolicited investment offers from strangers online—especially on dating apps and social media—and verify any investment opportunity through official channels before sending money.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer
zycrypto.com · 2026-01-31
US Sentences Chinese National in Major $36M Crypto Money Laundering Case - ZyCrypto
A Chinese national, Jingliang Su, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for orchestrating a $36.9 million cryptocurrency money-laundering scheme that defrauded 174 Americans through fake investment websites promoted on social media. The scam, known as "pig butchering," involved overseas conspirators building trust with victims before directing them to fraudulent crypto platforms that promised investment gains that never materialized; the stolen funds were laundered through shell companies and converted to Tether before being moved to accounts in Cambodia and the Bahamas. To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited investment offers on social media from unknown contacts, verify that investment platforms are legitimate before sending money, and remember that no real investment opportunity will pressure you to quickly transfer funds to cryptocurrency.
Romance Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Money Mules / Laundering Cryptocurrency Bank Transfer
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.
Law Enforcement Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Kidnapping/Ransom Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness Wire Transfer Payment App
ksltv.com · 2026-01-30
We tested 4 popular scam detection apps... here's what actually worked - KSLTV.com
Researchers tested four popular scam detection apps and found that they are largely ineffective at catching common fraud tactics, with only Norton Genie successfully identifying a phishing email while the others failed to flag suspicious messages. Older adults in Utah are particularly vulnerable to scams, with people aged 80 and over losing an average of $7,675 to fraud in 2025—nearly 40 times more than younger people—exemplified by one 90-year-old man who lost over $500,000 to a fake sweepstakes scheme. To protect yourself, experts recommend being skeptical of unsolicited messages and calls offering prizes or requesting immediate payment, and consider consulting cybersecurity professionals or trusted contacts before responding to suspicious communications.
Lottery/Prize Scams Bank Impersonation Phishing Robocalls / Phone Scams Scam Awareness
timesleader.com · 2026-01-30
AG Sunday informsseniorsof identity theft and 'sophisticated' scams | Times Leader
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday warned that scammers using advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, stole significant amounts of money from Pennsylvania residents in 2025, with seniors being particularly vulnerable to losing their savings. During National Identity Theft Awareness Week, Sunday spoke to about 40 people at a Kingston community center to educate seniors—one of the groups most targeted by fraud—on how to protect themselves. While the article doesn't specify detailed prevention tips, it emphasizes that AI has made modern scams harder to detect, making awareness and education critical for vulnerable populations.
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
gloucestertimes.com · 2026-01-30
SeniorLookout: Some tips for avoiding scams | Lifestyle | gloucestertimes.com
Modern scams have become increasingly sophisticated, using tactics like phishing, smishing, and vishing to deceive people into revealing money or personal information, with older adults being particularly targeted because scammers exploit their politeness and trust rather than any lack of intelligence. To protect yourself, remain skeptical of unsolicited contacts, verify requests through official channels before sharing personal or financial information, and consider consulting with trusted family members or local aging services before making financial decisions.
Inheritance Scams Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
itemlive.com · 2026-01-30
'Avoiding Scams and Scammers' in Peabody - Itemlive
Former Peabody Fire Chief Joe Mendonca joined local officials including Mayor Ted Bettencourt, District Attorney Paul Tucker, and State Auditor Diana DiZoglio at a senior center presentation to warn about growing fraud threats in the community. Essex County documented $11 million in scam losses last year—with officials suspecting the true number is double that—including cases in Peabody involving losses of over $100,000 since 2023. Residents should be wary of common scams involving Social Security, IRS impersonation, gift card requests, and AI-generated voice calls mimicking loved ones, and importantly, they should report suspected fraud to police rather than feeling shame, as underreporting prevents authorities from accurately tracking the problem.
Government Impersonation Grandparent Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Gift Cards
aol.com · 2026-01-30
Michigan woman lost $20K to aromance scammer who spun a sob story on Tinder. Here's ...
A Michigan woman named Beth Hyland lost over $20,000 to a romance scammer who posed as a Frenchman named Richard on Tinder, using a sob story about being stranded in Qatar to pressure her into sending money. Romance scams cost Americans $672 million in 2024 according to the FBI, with seniors over 60 losing the most at $389 million collectively. To protect yourself, be wary of quick professions of love, requests for money, and people who make excuses to avoid meeting in person—especially those claiming to be stranded abroad needing financial help.
Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Identity Theft General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Wire Transfer Gift Cards Bank Transfer Payment App
consumeraffairs.com · 2026-01-29
Romance scams are getting smarter — and harder to spot
# Romance Scams Summary Romance scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with fraudsters now using AI-powered video impersonation, stolen social media accounts, and emotional manipulation to exploit vulnerable people—particularly targeting those experiencing loneliness or grief around holidays like Valentine's Day. The scams affect people of all ages who seek connection online, with scammers building trust over time before requesting money or personal information. To protect yourself, watch for red flags like rapid declarations of love, reluctance to video chat or meet in person, and any requests for money, while also slowing down the relationship timeline and verifying the person's identity before sharing sensitive information.
Romance Scams Government Impersonation Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer Gift Cards
scamwatch.gov.au · 2026-01-29
Why anyone can be a victim of a scam- Scam watch
Scammers use sophisticated psychological manipulation tactics that can deceive anyone, regardless of intelligence or experience, which is why victims shouldn't feel ashamed about falling for scams. Understanding how these techniques work—rather than blaming yourself—is an important first step in protecting yourself. To reduce your vulnerability, stay informed about common scam tactics, verify requests for personal information or money through official channels, and remember that scams are designed by professionals specifically trained to exploit human psychology.
Scam Awareness
attorneygeneral.gov · 2026-01-29
AG Meets withOlderResidents with Warning that Pennsylvanians Lost $76M to Scammers in 2025
Pennsylvania residents lost over $76 million to scammers in 2025, with older residents particularly vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes enhanced by artificial intelligence. The most common scams were phishing and government imposter schemes, with victims typically losing money through wire transfers and cryptocurrency payments. Attorney General Dave Sunday advises people to report scams immediately, as quick reporting increases the chances of fund recovery, and recommends staying educated about current scam tactics as the best defense.
Government Impersonation Phishing Identity Theft Scam Awareness Financial Crime Cryptocurrency Wire Transfer
ksat.com · 2026-01-29
Cybersecurity experts warn of rising ghost tapping scam targeting credit cards, digital wallets
Criminals are using a scam called "ghost tapping" to steal credit card information by simply getting close to victims in crowded public spaces like airports and transit stations, exploiting the contactless technology in credit cards and digital wallets. Fraud claims from this type of theft have increased 100-150% over the past year, putting anyone who uses tap-to-pay technology at risk. To protect yourself, enable transaction alerts on your cards, use phone wallets instead of physical cards when possible, keep your devices locked, consider RFID protection sleeves for physical cards, and regularly monitor your financial accounts for suspicious activity.
abc7news.com · 2026-01-29
Santa Cruz woman falls for gift card scam, but takes quick action and gets her money back
A Santa Cruz mother fell victim to a tech support scam where criminals convinced her that her identity had been stolen and used for illegal activities, pressuring her to buy gift cards to "resolve" the situation. Her partner interrupted the scam and helped her take quick action, allowing her to recover most of her money with assistance from local authorities and media intervention. The incident highlights how scammers use fake computer warnings and threats of legal trouble to manipulate victims, but acting quickly and getting help from authorities or trusted contacts can increase chances of recovering stolen funds.
Phishing Identity Theft Robocalls / Phone Scams Gift Cards
uk.finance.yahoo.com · 2026-01-29
Michigan woman lost $20K to scammer who spun a sob story on Tinder. Here's how ...
# Romance Scams Cost Americans Millions A Michigan woman lost over $20,000 to a romance scammer who posed as a French man named Richard on Tinder, quickly building trust through daily communication and promises of engagement before claiming he needed money while traveling for work. According to the FBI's 2024 Internet Crime Report, romance scams cost Americans $672 million in reported losses, with seniors aged 60 and over losing the most at $389 million. To protect yourself, be cautious of people who move relationships very quickly, avoid sending money to anyone you haven't met in person, and verify the identity of new contacts through video calls or meeting face-to-face before developing emotional or financial connections.
Romance Scams Celebrity Impersonation Scams Crypto Investment Scams Investment Fraud Phishing Identity Theft General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness Cryptocurrency Crypto ATM Wire Transfer Gift Cards Bank Transfer Payment App
nebraska.tv · 2026-01-28
Seniorcitizens are getting help navigating technology and learning how to avoid Scams
Senior citizens are receiving assistance through educational programs designed to help them safely navigate technology and recognize common scams that disproportionately target older adults. The initiative focuses on teaching seniors how to identify and avoid fraud schemes while building their confidence with digital tools. Those concerned about scams can protect themselves by taking advantage of local technology education programs, verifying unexpected requests for personal information, and discussing suspicious activities with trusted family members or authorities.
Phishing General Elder Fraud Scam Awareness
sandiegored.com · 2026-01-28
Woman Pleads Guilty in Million-DollarFraudScheme TargetingSeniors- SanDiegoRed
A Chinese citizen pleaded guilty to her role in an international fraud ring that stole $1.2 million from over 40 elderly victims across the United States between May 2025 and early 2026. The scammers posed as technical support representatives or bank officials, tricking seniors into paying for fake computer repairs or revealing financial information through phone calls, texts, and emails. Seniors should be wary of unsolicited contacts claiming there's a problem with their computer or account, verify caller identity by hanging up and calling official company numbers directly, and never provide personal financial information or make wire transfers based on urgent requests from strangers.
Bank Impersonation Home Repair Scams Robocalls / Phone Scams General Elder Fraud Financial Crime Wire Transfer Cash

Often Co-occurs With

Related fraud types

Scam Awareness 2,525
Robocalls / Phone Scams 2,092
Phishing 1,802
General Elder Fraud 1,668
Romance Scams 1,326
Government Impersonation 1,281
Investment Fraud 1,254
Financial Crime 1,154
Crypto Investment Scams 824
Identity Theft 721

Payment Mechanisms

How money moves in these scams

Cryptocurrency 1,359
Gift Cards 812
Wire Transfer 524
Check/Cashier's Check 324
Payment App 273
Cash 272
Bank Transfer 234
Crypto ATM 152
Money Order / Western Union 59
phone 1
online 1
email 1

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