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WINNEBAGO COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents of a new cryptocurrency investment scam that a local resident recently fell victim to.
In the example from the sheriff’s office, a resident was coached through the scam by someone operating under a false Facebook profile.
The scammer walked the victim through downloading and setting up a cryptocurrency account, and giving the scammer enough account details to create a transaction.
The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office gave some advice on how to notice when a suspicious message is a scam, and how to protect yourself in situations like this.
Search for the subject’s name, which can reveal multiple impersonator accounts using the same name, pictures and information. While the person may be real, these accounts may be imposter accounts created by scammers to gain trust.
Scammers may do step-by-step coaching to help the victim do what they want and ask for screenshots to confirm the actions took place.
Be cautious of anyone offering to help you invest money, especially cryptocurrency.
Verify any information before you trust the account.
Legitimate investors do not need screenshots of your account details or transactions.
Pressure, fear, urgency and secrecy are common signs of fraud.
If you believe you have fallen victim to a similar scam, please contact your local sheriff’s office or police department.