A 73-year-old woman from Lancaster County fell victim to a bitcoin scam, losing $10,000. The incident began when she received a fake Apple security alert on her computer, which prompted her to call a listed number. Scammers tricked her into believing that foreign hackers were involved in a child pornography ring, demanding $25,000 to prevent further issues. Unable to withdraw the full amount from her bank, she deposited $10,000 into a bitcoin ATM as instructed. After realizing she was being scammed and that she required more money, she contacted law enforcement. Authorities are urging the public to be cautious and report any suspicious requests related to cryptocurrency transactions.
LINCOLN, Neb. – A 73-year-old woman from Lancaster County fell victim to a sophisticated bitcoin scam, losing a staggering $10,000. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online scams, particularly targeting older adults.
On a Tuesday evening, local authorities received a fraud report from the woman after she encountered a message on her computer, which appeared to be an alert from Apple. Following the instructions, she called the number provided, only to be met with a frightening narrative from a scammer. They claimed that foreign hackers were planning to involve her in a child pornography ring, and the only way to escape this situation was to pay $25,000.
In a panic, the woman withdrew $10,000 from her bank account and deposited it into a bitcoin ATM, as instructed by the scammer. They warned her that she needed to return the next day for the remaining $15,000. It was at this moment that she wisely decided to contact the police for help.
Chief Deputy Ben Houchin of the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office addressed the growing concern over such scams, stating, “Sadly, we continue to report on these cases. If someone asks you to deposit money into a bitcoin ATM, it is likely a fraud.”
This incident highlights the importance of being vigilant against scams, especially those involving bitcoin and cryptocurrency. Authorities urge everyone to educate themselves about these risks and to report any suspicious activities.
In a world where digital scams are becoming increasingly common, awareness and caution are key to protecting yourself and your loved ones.
Categories: Lancaster, News
Tags: bitcoin, bitcoin scam, fraud, hackers, Lancaster County, law enforcement
What happened to the woman in Lancaster County?
A 73-year-old woman from Lancaster County lost $10,000 in a bitcoin scam. She was tricked into believing she was investing in a real cryptocurrency opportunity but ended up losing her money.
How did the scam work?
The scammers likely contacted her online or through a phone call. They often pretend to be from a trustworthy company and promise big returns on bitcoin investments. They might pressure the victim to act quickly, making it hard to think clearly.
What can I do to avoid bitcoin scams?
To avoid scams, always do your research. Check if the investment is legitimate, and never send money or personal information to someone you don’t know. It’s important to take your time before making any financial decisions.
What if I think I’ve been scammed?
If you think you’ve been scammed, report it right away. You can contact the local police and your bank. They can help you figure out your options and possibly recover your money.
Is bitcoin safe to invest in?
Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies can be risky. While some people make money, others lose it. It’s important to learn about how cryptocurrency works and only invest what you can afford to lose.