Scam alert: Be aware of text messages claiming that you owe an unpaid toll. Here's how to check if you actually owe turnpike charges. https://t.co/jkqTdq0iRJ
Authorities warn that the calls can seem legitimate because scammers can fake caller ID information. Here's what to do if you get a scam phone call. https://t.co/nogFf3Nrzq
Boston police warn residents of online romance scams https://t.co/XZIpX8jcny
Multiple law enforcement agencies and experts across the United States and internationally have issued warnings about a rise in phone and text message scams involving impersonation and fraudulent claims. The District of Columbia Attorney General cautioned that deepfake phone scams are targeting residents, especially senior citizens. The FBI has reported scammers posing as FBI agents to deceive victims by pretending to help recover lost funds, with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) highlighted as part of the fraud scheme. The FBI Denver office and Salt Lake City Police Department also warned about impersonation scams where callers falsely claim to be law enforcement officers to extort money. Additionally, authorities in Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and Kansas Department of Transportation, have noted an increase in smishing texts falsely claiming unpaid tolls or E-ZPass fees. The Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C., has alerted the public to scams involving spoofed MPD phone numbers. Internationally, Mexico has reported suspicious calls from UK numbers with Spanish messages, and Spain’s Guardia Civil has warned of a scam that can drain victims’ bank accounts through a single call. Brazil’s Receita Federal identified a new email fraud where criminals simulate official addresses. Other warnings include online romance scams in Boston and scams targeting Oklahoma pet owners. Authorities emphasize that scammers often manipulate caller ID information, making calls appear legitimate, and advise the public to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of such communications before responding or making payments.
