Critical Tips to Safeguard Against Online Scams and Extortion
George 
In today’s blog, I want to take a moment to talk about online scams, including romance, blackmail, and pig butchering scams. Most of these scams start similarly: someone builds a relationship with you until they ask for money. The amount requested can vary, depending on the type of scam and the scammer’s location.
Understanding the Blackmail Scam
Recently, I was asked to help with a blackmail scam. In this case, the threat actor pretended to fall in love with the victim, using the victim’s own words and actions against them to blackmail and extort money. Typically, the scammer will start with one amount and then ask for an ever-increasing sum until they feel they have siphoned enough or believe there is no money left. Some victims have drained their life savings because of such scams.
Steps to Protect Yourself
While there are numerous blogs, videos, and research articles about these scams, I want to share some practical tips on what to do if you fall victim to such a scam and how to keep yourself safe.
- Do Not Panic: Panic helps no one. Scammers use tactics to cause guilt (feeling like you did something wrong) and shame (feeling like you are wrong) to make the victim panic and send money quickly.
- Verify Requests for Money: If someone asks you for money, remember:
- Most scammers will engage with you via text from an unknown number.
- If you receive a text message from any number, known or unknown, call the person back to confirm their identity. Modern technology allows numbers to be spoofed and intercepted, so be extra vigilant.
- Beware of Unusual Payment Requests: If you receive a call asking for gift cards for an organization like the FBI, local police, or the IRS, it’s a scam. Hang up, block the number, and contact your local law enforcement in person.
- Stop, Look, Listen, Relax, and Wait: If someone is asking for money or if you have sent money, take a moment to:
- Stop: Even if you were cheating on your spouse or breaking the law, stop before sending money.
- Look: Assess the situation carefully. There is no honor among thieves, and the scammer may not make good on their threat even if you pay.
- Listen: Pay attention to your instincts and any red flags.
- Relax: Take deep breaths and try to calm down.
- Wait: Do not rush to send money.
- Block and Report: Your best option is not to send money but to block the scammer. If you have already sent money:
- Contact your bank to see if the charges can be reversed.
- Report the incident to your local law enforcement.
- Contact the FBI through their Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Additional Resources
For more information, you can visit the Scams and Safety page of the FBI. Stay informed and stay safe!
