In recent weeks, Woonsocket-area residents have been defrauded of $100,000 by an overseas scam, according to the Woonsocket police.
The Scam Details
Scammers are contacting residents with alarming claims that their WiFi, TV, internet, PayPal, or bank accounts have been hacked. These fraudsters employ various tactics to create a sense of urgency and panic among their victims.
How the Scam Works
- Initial Contact: The scammers initiate contact through phone calls, emails, or text messages, posing as representatives from reputable companies or financial institutions.
- Creating Fear: They inform the victims that their accounts have been compromised, often using technical jargon to sound convincing. This can include claims about unauthorized transactions, suspicious activity, or security breaches.
- Fake Solution: The scammers then offer a solution to “fix” the supposed hack. They instruct the victims to withdraw a substantial amount of money and convert it into Bitcoin.
- Payment in Bitcoin: Victims are directed to deposit the Bitcoin into a specific wallet address provided by the scammers. The scammers assure them that this will resolve the security issue and protect their accounts from further harm.
Impact on Victims
Once the Bitcoin is transferred, the scammers disappear, leaving the victims with no way to recover their money. Bitcoin transactions are irreversible and difficult to trace, making it nearly impossible for victims to get their funds back.
Police Warning
The Woonsocket police are urging residents to be vigilant and not to send any money or cryptocurrency if they receive such a contact. They emphasize that legitimate companies and financial institutions will never ask for payment in Bitcoin to resolve security issues.
What to Do If Targeted
If you receive a suspicious message or call claiming that your accounts have been hacked, do not engage with the scammers. Instead, take the following steps:
- Do Not Send Money: Avoid transferring any funds or providing personal information.
- Verify Independently: Contact the company or financial institution directly using verified contact information to check the validity of the claim.
- Report the Scam: Immediately report the incident to the Woonsocket police at 401-766-1212. Providing details of the scam can help authorities investigate and potentially prevent further incidents.
Final Advice
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods. It is crucial to stay informed and skeptical of unsolicited communications demanding money or personal information. Protect yourself and your community by spreading awareness about this scam and encouraging others to be cautious.
By staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activities, we can collectively combat these fraudulent schemes and protect our financial well-being.