Bitcoin Scams Targeting Seniors on the Rise, Warns Arizona Attorney General’s Office

Be Alert for New Wave of Bitcoin Scams

The Attorney General’s Office is warning older Arizonans to be on high alert for a new wave of bitcoin scams. Richie Taylor, the communications director with the AG, has stated that seniors are being targeted by scammers claiming to be working on an investigation. These scammers are calling seniors and informing them that their accounts may have been compromised. They then urge the seniors to act urgently by removing money from their accounts and wiring it in Bitcoin or other digital currency to protect their funds.

Verify Caller’s Legitimacy

If you receive a call like this, it is important to verify the caller’s legitimacy by directly contacting the organization they claim to represent. Taylor emphasizes that a government agency will never ask someone to withdraw funds to send via Bitcoin or other digital currency.

How to Report Fraud

If you believe you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud, you can file a consumer complaint by visiting azag.gov/consumer. You can also contact the Attorney General’s Office in Phoenix at 602-542-5763, in Tucson at 520-628-6648, or outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas at 800-352-8431.

Identity Theft Assistance

If you believe you have been a victim of identity theft, you can seek help from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) by visiting identitytheft.gov or by calling 877-438-4338.

Protecting Seniors and Vulnerable Adults

The Arizona Attorney General’s Office is committed to protecting seniors and vulnerable adults from abuse of any kind. In case of an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency physical abuse, contact Adult Protective Services at 1-877-SOS-ADULT (1-877-767-2385). For more information, visit www.azag.gov/seniors/senior-abuse.