Foreign lottery scams are nothing new. Con artists in Jamaica have added a new wrinkle to an old con by utilizing new technology and fear.
A foreign lottery scam typically involves a con artist making a phone call to a potential victim. The con artist tells the victim they have won a prize in a lottery. In order to claim the prize, the victim must pay the taxes or fees associated with bringing the winnings into the United States.
If the victim refuses or terminates the call, the con artist dials another phone number. The scam usually ends when the victim resists the advances.
In this latest iteration of the scam from Jamaica, the refusal or pushback is only the start of the nightmares for the potential victim.
When the victim begins to resist the advances of these con artists, they turn to satellite images of the victim's home. They describe visible features, insinuating they are nearby and could attack at any time.
The goal is to create a fear-based response where the victim gives the con artist money to stop the threat of violence.
If contacted by one of these lottery scam artists, hang up the phone. Do not pay any fees or taxes to these individuals. Authorities recommend notifying the police. These crimes are being investigated by the U.S. Postal Service and the Department of Justice.
Like what you read? Join me on Facebook for more.
Comments