Episodes

  • Beware the Rise of AI-Powered Scams: Top 5 Scams to Watch Out for in 2025

    Beware the Rise of AI-Powered Scams: Top 5 Scams to Watch Out for in 2025
    Jan 13 2025
    Hey there, folks It's Scotty here, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Let's dive right into the latest scams making headlines.

    First off, NAB has identified the top five scams to watch out for in 2025. These include AI-powered scams, cryptocurrency investment scams, bucket list scams, remote access scams targeting businesses, and phishing scams[1]. Yes, you heard that right - AI-powered scams are on the rise, with criminals using deep fake videos and images to impersonate high-profile Australians. Just three seconds of audio or an image from social media is enough for these scammers to get to work.

    But let's not forget about the old-school scams that are still causing trouble. In Martin County, Florida, a new twist on an old scam has been making the rounds. Scammers are using pop-up messages disguised as coming from trusted security companies like McAfee to trick victims into handing over cash. The scam involves a fake tech agent walking the victim through steps to "fix" a non-existent issue, only to have a "courier" show up at their doorstep to collect the cash. Luckily, Martin County deputies were able to catch one of the scammers, 39-year-old Satish Kumar from California, who admitted to being part of an international scam operation based in India[2].

    And then there are the social media ad scams. A recent AARP survey found that more than a third of U.S. adults who made purchases from social media ads have experienced fraud. To avoid these scams, remember to retype the address into your browser or use the retailer's app, read reviews and research the company, and inspect product quality before making a purchase[3].

    But what about those text message scams? New York Attorney General Letitia James recently filed a lawsuit to recover $2.2 million worth of cryptocurrency stolen from New Yorkers and victims across the country in a remote job scam. The scammers sent text messages offering fake online job opportunities that required victims to purchase and deposit stablecoins into digital wallets. One New York victim was defrauded out of over $100,000[4].

    And finally, let's talk about the big ones. A 24-year-old man from the Netherlands was arrested for allegedly scamming 300 people out of millions of dollars in a crypto scam. The man, who was falsely known as a "crypto genius," made risky crypto bets with his clients' funds and eventually lost between $1.5 million and $4.5 million euros[5].

    So, what can you do to avoid these scams? First, be cautious of any unsolicited messages or calls that ask you to act quickly. Verify the information with a trusted family member or third party before taking any action. And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stay safe out there, folks!

    That's all for now. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest scams and how to avoid them. And remember, I'm Scotty, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Stay safe and keep it techy
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    3 mins
  • Cyber Threats Exposed: Unmasking the Latest Scams Targeting Unsuspecting Victims

    Cyber Threats Exposed: Unmasking the Latest Scams Targeting Unsuspecting Victims
    Jan 12 2025
    Hey there, folks It's your buddy Scotty here, and I'm about to dive into the wild world of scams and cyber threats. Buckle up, because we've got some recent cases that'll make your head spin.

    Let's start with the big ones. Just a few days ago, the Martin County Sheriff's Office in Florida caught a scammer red-handed. Satish Kumar, a 39-year-old from California, was arrested for his part in an international scam operation based in India. These scammers were targeting elderly residents with fake pop-up messages, claiming to be from trusted security companies like McAfee. They'd convince victims to withdraw cash, which would then be collected by a "courier" – aka another scammer. One victim lost nearly $100,000[1].

    But that's not all. In New York City, a duo of scammers has been posing as good Samaritans to rip off unsuspecting victims. They'd drop cash near a UPS truck, ask the driver for help, and while the driver was distracted, they'd sneak into the back of the truck and make off with packages worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. The alleged ringleader, Brian Avila, has been arrested eight times since May 2024, but he's still out on bail and suspected of orchestrating these scams[2].

    Now, let's talk about the trends to watch out for in 2025. According to NAB, AI-driven scams and cryptocurrency investment scams are on the rise. Scammers are using AI to create deep fake videos and images to impersonate high-profile Australians and even create fake customer service bots to steal sensitive data. And with tax season kicking off, be wary of scammers posing as IRS agents demanding payment for fake tax bills[1][4].

    So, what can you do to stay safe? First, verify any unexpected requests for money with a phone call or in-person check. Don't fall for fake job listings or investment opportunities that promise guaranteed profits. Use secure online banking to track payments and avoid fraudulent activity. And when shopping online, stick to trusted sites with secure payment options.

    Lastly, remember that charity scams tend to spike in January, so research charities on trusted platforms like CharityNavigator.org before donating. And if you receive a suspicious call or email, hang up and contact the relevant authorities directly.

    Stay vigilant, folks, and don't let these scammers get the best of you. Keep your wits about you, and we'll get through this wild ride together. That's all for now. Stay safe, and I'll catch you on the flip side.
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    3 mins
  • Beware the Rise of AI-Powered Scams and Cryptocurrency Frauds

    Beware the Rise of AI-Powered Scams and Cryptocurrency Frauds
    Jan 11 2025
    Hey there, folks, it's Scotty here, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Let's dive right into the latest scams making headlines.

    First off, AI-powered scams are on the rise. NAB's experts have identified these as a key trend to watch out for in 2025[1]. Scammers are using AI to create deep fake videos and images, making it harder to spot red flags. For instance, they can impersonate high-profile Australians or even your loved ones to request money urgently. Remember, if it sounds too good (or bad) to be true, it probably is.

    But AI scams aren't the only ones to watch out for. Cryptocurrency investment scams are also making waves. Scammers are sending unsolicited emails or ads promising high returns on cryptocurrency investments. Scott Credit Union warns us to be extremely cautious of these offers, especially those claiming guaranteed profits[4].

    Now, let's talk about some scammers who've recently been caught. In Sarasota, Florida, two suspected scammers, Anthony Sanders and Marlita Andrews, were arrested for a jury duty scam that cost a woman $12,000[5]. They used a cellphone smuggled into a state prison to pull off the scam. Here's the thing: no law enforcement agency or court will ever call you and demand money for missing jury duty. If you get such a call, hang up and call law enforcement.

    And then there's the "good Samaritan" scam in New York City. A duo has been targeting victims in the Diamond District and Queens, using a choreographed scheme to steal money and valuables[2]. They puncture tires or drop money near a vehicle, then pretend to help while another thief grabs the goods. Be wary of strangers offering help, especially in areas with high foot traffic.

    Lastly, let's not forget about phishing scams and fake business opportunities. According to the Federal Trade Commission, victims reported losing $10 billion to scams in 2023, the highest ever reported[3]. Scammers are getting creative, using fake job listings and investment opportunities to steal personal details and money.

    So, what can you do to stay safe? First, verify any unexpected requests for money with a phone call or in-person check. Use secure online banking to track payments and avoid fraudulent activity. And always research charities and job opportunities on trusted platforms.

    Stay vigilant, folks, and remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Keep your hard-earned money safe from these scammers. That's all for now. Stay safe out there.
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    3 mins
  • Unraveling the Latest Scams: Expert Insights to Safeguard Your Finances in 2025

    Unraveling the Latest Scams: Expert Insights to Safeguard Your Finances in 2025
    Jan 10 2025
    Hey there, folks It's Scotty here, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Let's dive right into the latest scams that have been making headlines.

    Just yesterday, two suspected scammers, Anthony Sanders and Marlita Andrews, were indicted and arrested for a brazen jury duty scam that cost a Sarasota woman $12,000. Here's how it went down: the victim received a phone call from someone claiming to be a Sarasota County deputy, saying she owed money for missing jury duty. The scammer even spoofed the agency's phone number to make it look legit. The victim was convinced to pay the "fine" at a Bitcoin ATM, and the money was transferred to Andrews' cryptocurrency account.

    But that's not all - INTERPOL recently wrapped up Operation HAECHI V, a global operation that led to the arrest of over 5,500 financial crime suspects and the seizure of more than $400 million in virtual assets and government-backed currencies. One of the notable cases involved a voice phishing syndicate in Korea that masqueraded as law enforcement officials and used counterfeit identification to swindle victims out of $1.1 billion.

    Now, let's talk about some of the latest scams you need to watch out for in 2025. AI-powered scams are on the rise, with scammers using generative AI to trick victims. For example, voice cloning scams can mimic the voices of loved ones to request money urgently, while chatbot fraud can steal sensitive data through fake customer service bots.

    Tax season scams are also a concern, with scammers posing as IRS agents demanding payment for fake tax bills or offering "assistance" with early tax refunds. Remember, the IRS will never call or email demanding payment.

    Subscription renewal scams are another one to watch out for, especially with many subscription services auto-renewing in January. Scammers may send fake emails or texts about "issues" with your subscription to steal your card information.

    And finally, be cautious of job scams, especially those that come in the form of unsolicited texts or emails offering full- or part-time positions you didn't apply for. Legitimate employers will never ask for money upfront, so always research the company and contact them through official channels.

    Stay safe out there, folks Remember to verify any unexpected requests for money, use secure online banking, and research charities and companies before making any transactions. And if you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Stay vigilant, and let's outsmart those scammers in 2025.
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    3 mins
  • Unraveling the Sinister World of Scams: Expert Insights to Protect Yourself

    Unraveling the Sinister World of Scams: Expert Insights to Protect Yourself
    Jan 9 2025
    Hey there, folks, it's Scotty here, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Let's dive right into the latest on scams that are making headlines.

    Just yesterday, a 24-year-old man from the Netherlands was arrested for allegedly scamming 300 people out of millions of dollars in a crypto scam. This "crypto genius" turned out to be a law student and professional soccer player who made risky bets with his clients' funds, losing between $1.5 million and $4.5 million euros. His victims were family, friends, fellow soccer players, and others who believed he had raked in massive profits from trading digital assets[2].

    But that's not all. In Sarasota, Florida, two scammers were accused of swindling a woman out of money in a jury duty scam. These scammers create a false sense of urgency, telling victims they must pay immediately to avoid arrest. It's a classic tactic, but it still works on many unsuspecting individuals[4].

    Now, let's talk about the rise of AI-powered scams. With the help of artificial intelligence, scammers can mimic voices, create realistic emails, and generate fake videos to deceive victims. For instance, a radiologist named Fauzia Vandermeer received a call from a number she didn't recognize, only to hear her sister's voice, sobbing and asking for help. It was a scam, and it's a chilling example of how AI can be used to manipulate people[3].

    So, what can you do to protect yourself? First, always verify unusual requests through a secondary method, such as calling the person directly. Be cautious of hyper-realistic phishing emails or texts impersonating companies you trust. And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

    In the age of scams, it's more important than ever to be vigilant. According to the Federal Trade Commission, U.S. consumers lost a record $10 billion to fraud in 2023, a 14% increase over 2022. That's a staggering number, and it's only going to get worse if we don't take action[3].

    Stay safe out there, folks. Keep your wits about you, and never trust a stranger who's asking for money. And if you're ever in doubt, just remember: it's always better to be safe than sorry. That's all for now. Stay tech-savvy, and I'll catch you on the flip side.
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    2 mins
  • AI-Powered Scams Soar: Protect Yourself from the Latest Cyber Threats in 2025

    AI-Powered Scams Soar: Protect Yourself from the Latest Cyber Threats in 2025
    Jan 8 2025
    Hey there, folks, it's Scotty here, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Let's dive right into the latest scam news because, trust me, it's been a wild few days.

    First off, you've got to know about the AI-powered scams that are making waves. These aren't your grandma's scams; they're sophisticated, using AI to mimic voices, create hyper-realistic emails, and even fake videos[1][4]. Imagine getting a call from what sounds like your sister, sobbing and asking for help, only to find out it's a scammer using AI to clone her voice. That's exactly what happened to Fauzia Vandermeer, a radiologist from Baltimore[3].

    But here's the good news: law enforcement is on it. Just recently, Interpol's Operation Haechi V led to the arrest of over 5,500 individuals and the seizure of $400 million in virtual assets and government-backed currencies. This operation was a global effort, involving law enforcers from over 40 countries and territories. One notable success was in East Asia, where South Korean and Chinese police joined forces to disrupt a voice phishing network responsible for an estimated $1.1 billion in losses[2].

    Now, let's talk about the types of scams you should watch out for in 2025. NAB has identified five key trends: AI-driven scams, cryptocurrency investment scams, bucket list scams, remote access scams targeting businesses, and phishing scams[4]. These scammers are using AI to create deep fake videos impersonating high-profile Australians and even using images from social media for sextortion.

    So, how do you protect yourself? Always verify unusual requests through a secondary method, like calling the person directly. Be cautious of hyper-realistic phishing emails or texts impersonating companies you trust. And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

    Just yesterday, Bangkok police arrested a Liberian duo in a gold scam involving counterfeit US dollars. This scam was reported at Thong Lo Police Station on January 2, 2025, and it's a reminder that scams are happening everywhere, every day[5].

    In conclusion, stay vigilant, folks. Scammers are getting smarter, but with the right knowledge, you can outsmart them. Keep your wits about you, and always be on the lookout for those red flags. Stay safe out there, and remember, if you think you've been scammed, contact your bank immediately. That's it for today, folks. Stay tech-savvy, and I'll catch you on the flip side.
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    3 mins
  • Protect Yourself from the Latest Scams: AI-Powered Deception, Wedding Venue Fraud, and More

    Protect Yourself from the Latest Scams: AI-Powered Deception, Wedding Venue Fraud, and More
    Jan 7 2025
    Hey there, folks, it's Scotty here, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Let's dive right into the latest scams that have been making headlines.

    First off, AI-powered scams are on the rise. These scammers are using sophisticated AI tools to mimic voices, create realistic emails, and even generate fake videos to deceive victims. For instance, they might clone a family member's voice to ask for money, or send hyper-realistic phishing emails impersonating trusted companies. To protect yourself, always verify unusual requests through a secondary method, like calling the person directly, and look out for red flags like typos or odd phrasing[1][4].

    Speaking of recent arrests, an alleged wedding venue scammer was just caught in South Africa[2]. This reminds us to be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar businesses, especially those that seem too good to be true.

    Now, let's talk about tax season scams. Scammers are posing as the IRS or tax preparers to steal sensitive information or funds. Remember, the IRS will never call, text, or email to demand payment. File your taxes early to reduce the risk of fraud, and use reputable tax preparers and secure websites[1].

    Online shopping and delivery scams are also rampant. Scammers are creating fake websites and delivery notifications to trick victims. Shop only on trusted websites, verify URLs, and avoid clicking on links from unexpected emails or texts. Use credit cards for online purchases when possible, as they offer better fraud protection[1][3].

    Social media scams are another favorite tool for scammers. They're spreading fake offers, impersonating accounts, or gaining access to personal data. Be wary of messages from accounts impersonating trusted companies or individuals, and never share personal details for "too good to be true" giveaways[1][4].

    Lastly, let's touch on romance scams. Scammers are using AI to deepfake video calls and create fake profiles on dating and social media apps. After gaining your trust, they might ask for money or investment tips that are part of the scam. Always be cautious with new online relationships, and never send money to someone you haven't met in person[4].

    Stay safe out there, folks. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Keep your wits about you, and always verify information before making any moves. That's all for today. Stay tech-savvy and scam-free.
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    3 mins
  • Outsmart AI-Powered Scams: Your Definitive Guide to Staying Safe in 2025

    Outsmart AI-Powered Scams: Your Definitive Guide to Staying Safe in 2025
    Jan 6 2025
    Hey there, folks. I'm Scotty, your go-to expert on all things scams, cyber, and hacking. Let's dive right into the latest on internet scams that have been making headlines over the past few days.

    As we kick off 2025, scammers are getting more sophisticated, thanks to artificial intelligence. AI-powered scams are on the rise, and they're harder to detect than ever. Just recently, Hong Kong police arrested 31 people who used deepfakes to scam victims in Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore, raking in over HK$34 million[1][2][5]. These scammers created fake profiles on online dating sites, using images of women found on the internet, and even trained young recruits to act as others on these platforms.

    But that's not all. Impersonation scams are also expected to grow in 2025. These scams can come in the form of texts that appear to be from your bank about a fraud charge, a job recruiter offering you a great opportunity, or even a family member who's in trouble and needs help. The twist? These texts are now personalized and lack the usual red flags like poor grammar and spelling, thanks to AI[1][4].

    Investment scams, particularly those involving crypto, are another top concern. Scammers entice you with too-good-to-be-true earnings, manipulating websites to make it appear as though the money you've made is real. The FBI warns that these scammers are organized crime groups, often international, and use call centers to send out leads and reel in victims[1].

    So, how can you protect yourself? First, always verify unusual requests through a secondary method, like calling the person directly. Be cautious of hyper-realistic phishing emails or texts impersonating companies you trust. And remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is[4].

    In the world of online dating, be wary of profiles that seem too generic or perfect, and watch out for those who ask for money or personal information. Reverse image searches can help you identify fake profiles[3].

    Lastly, stay alert on social media. Scammers are using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to dupe users into entering fake giveaways, buying low-quality or nonexistent products, and sending money to mutuals. Be cautious of users with incomplete profiles, limited followers, or stolen photos[3].

    Stay safe out there, folks. Keep your wits about you, and always be on guard against these ever-evolving scams. That's all for now. Stay tech-savvy, and I'll catch you on the flip side.
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    3 mins