Warning to the public: Eugene Police are receiving several reports from distraught victims about an online messaging scam where the scammer threatens to release intimate photos of the victim to their family in exchange for money. However, there is no real threat of the victims being exposed to their families, and in one case, the scammer was found to reside in India. The scammer attempts to establish a personal connection with the victim using an instant messaging platform, such as Facebook Messenger, and exchanges intimate photos with the victim. Once the scammer receives the photos, the victim is instructed to send money or else the photos of the victim will be released to their friends and family.
Internet-based Romances – Although many people legitimately meet through dating services, chat rooms, and online messaging platforms, there is no shortage of scam artists working this angle. They may post a false photograph, biography and age and it’s nearly impossible for you to confirm its accuracy. They then spin a convincing tale of woe and you feel noble sending them money—not realizing you’ve been scammed.
Criminals are continually crafting new scams geared toward separating you from your savings. They do this by tricking you into handing over your cash, personal I.D., checking account numbers, and credit card information—so guard that information carefully! These cases provide an opportunity to remind the public how to avoid becoming the victim of fraud. Scams are cyclical in nature. Eugene Police recommend to remain careful and skeptical if someone unknown to you asks for an item or information that has personal or monetary value.
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