Police are alerting the public about a new email scam that threatens victims and demands a payment of $1,950. Authorities have received multiple reports from concerned residents who have been targeted by this scam.
“We have received a few calls from residents advising they received an email threatening them and requesting $1,950.00,” police shared in a post on their Facebook page.
The scam emails include unsettling details such as Google Earth images of the victim’s home, along with their name, phone number, and address. “Please delete the email and do not send them any money. They do not have access to personal information. Unfortunately, a quick Google search and anyone can obtain the same information,” the police advised.
A transcript of the email’s message reveals its threatening tone. “I suggest you read this message carefully,” the email begins. “Take a moment to chill, breathe, and analyze it thoroughly. We’re talking about something serious here and I don’t play games. You don’t know me, but I know A LOT about you.”
The email goes on to accuse the victim of visiting inappropriate websites, claiming malware was placed on their device, allowing the scammer to access their camera, microphone, and personal data. It warns that video footage of their activities could be shared with all of their contacts unless they pay $1,950 in Bitcoin to the provided address.
“We will call it my privacy fee. Once you come through with the payment, I will wipe everything clean,” the email threatens.
The scam preys on fear, offering false promises of confidentiality in exchange for payment. Residents have expressed concern, particularly for elderly individuals who may be more vulnerable to such tactics.
Police have previously noted that these types of scams, along with telephone scams, continue to evolve and become increasingly sophisticated. Residents have responded to the warning, with one individual calling the emails “ridiculous,” while another thanked the police for raising awareness.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, delete such emails, and never send money to unknown parties.