Josephine County Residents Warned of Bitcoin Scammers Posing as Officials

JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. — Scammers claiming to be from reputable companies or law enforcement agencies are extorting money in the form of so-called Bitcoin investments from gullible residents, warns the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO).

Scammers Pose as Representatives of Reputable Companies or Law Enforcement Officers

The JCSO says it receives numerous complaints from people scammed into buying Bitcoin by callers pretending to be from companies like PayPal, Norton Antivirus, and LifeLock. Scammers also pose as law enforcement officers.

Scammers adopt several ruses to access personal computers, like claiming that their victims have outstanding warrants or that one of their loved ones is in trouble.

Another ruse is to provide documents showing Bitcoin deposits into their victims’ accounts that appear authentic or appealing to their kindness with sob stories.

Scammers Use Personal Information Readily Available Online

According to the JCSO, scammers are well-versed in personal information that is readily available online and use this data to convince victims of its validity.

JCSO says it is understandable that victims become unnerved when they hear facts about their lives, homes, or families that can make the scam claims appear legitimate.

The JCSO says once the scammers convince their victims of their legitimacy, they will instruct them to deposit money in Bitcoin machines readily available at numerous locations such as mini markets and grocery stores.

They can also keep their victims talking on their cell phones while performing financial transactions.

Take Note of the Red Flags – DO NOT Call Back Their Phone Numbers

JCSO appeals to the public to take note of the ‘red flags’ and to stop any further temptation to continue with the plan.

If a scammer insists that Bitcoin or gift cards are the only form of acceptable payment, the JCSO says ‘something is definitely wrong!’

The JCSO says if a victim thinks the caller may be speaking truthfully, tell them you will return their call and end the conversation.

‘DO NOT call back the number they provide,’ warns the JCSO.

Victims should check the caller’s phone number to verify their claims of the company they are representing.

Lastly, the JCSO says residents suspicious of a call should discuss the incident with law enforcement, their bank, or a trusted friend before agreeing to a Bitcoin transaction.