Police in Northville Township do not request bitcoin payments
Police in Northville Township, Michigan, have issued a warning to residents regarding a surge in scams involving bitcoin. The authorities have reported instances where individuals have been targeted with phone calls from scammers posing as law enforcement officers, aiming to intimidate victims into making immediate payments. The scammers typically claim that the victims are under investigation or have warrants for their arrest, coercing them to send payment promptly, often in the form of bitcoin or cash transfers.
One victim fell prey to the scam, losing nearly $300,000 in cash and bitcoin, and even surrendering gold bricks to the fraudster. Deputy Chief Matthew MacKenzie stressed the importance of recognizing these fraudulent schemes, emphasizing that legitimate law enforcement agencies do not demand payments over the phone, particularly in the form of bitcoin. He advised individuals to be cautious of calls or emails alleging ongoing investigations or warrants, coupled with demands for immediate payments, as they are undoubtedly scams.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued multiple alerts and guidance on similar phone scams, urging the public to remain vigilant. Additional resources on identifying and reporting scams can be accessed through the Federal Trade Commission website. Consumers are encouraged to file complaints online via the Attorney General’s website for further assistance.
In light of these incidents, it is crucial for individuals to exercise caution and skepticism when faced with unsolicited requests for payments, especially in unconventional forms like bitcoin. Remaining informed about prevalent scams and promptly reporting any suspicious activities can help in combating fraudulent schemes and protecting oneself from financial losses. Vigilance and awareness are key in safeguarding against such deceitful practices.
