Bad actors targeting citizens with latest Internet ‘sextortion’ scam
(Image credit: Google Maps)
The following “sextortion” scam warning originated from law enforcement officials in Maryland, but be informed that this scam has been running rampant throughout the entire U.S. Local law enforcement and the FBI are warning citizens to be aware of a now popular Internet scam involving Gmail accounts that is currently active across the land.
Throughout August and September, law enforcement agencies have received reports of Internet-based scams specific to Gmail accounts, but be forewarned that all email users are vulnerable. The reports indicate that the scammer sends an email to the potential victim’s email or Gmail account with a photograph of their home. The scammer then demands that the potential victim send money to them via Bitcoin.
(The scammers got the picture of your home from Google Maps.)
The scammer attempts to blackmail the potential victim into believing that they have engaged in viewing pornography or that the scammer has gained personal information from their computer that can be used against them. In some instances, the scammer will give two options: sending money via Bitcoin or the scammer will release the information they say they have obtained.
Citizens are urged to be cautious of unsolicited emails sent to their Gmail. Some ways to protect yourself from internet scams:
- Be careful with links and websites: Don’t click on links in emails or on websites that you don’t trust. Malicious websites can look similar to legitimate ones. Look for slight variations in spelling or logos.
- Don’t share personal information: Don’t share personal or financial information online unless you’re sure the website is secure.
- Stop, breathe, and ask: Often scammers rush potential victims and push lots of emotional buttons to get you to stop thinking rationally. Never let strangers force you into fast decisions.
Those who believe they have been the victim of a scam are encouraged to contact their local police department. If you believe you have fallen victim to any type of online crime, file a complaint at ic3.gov.
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(Source: Maryland State Police)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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