Bitcoin -oplichters die zich voordoen dat federale agenten zich richten op de inwoners van Zuidoost -Texas, waarschuwt Sheriff's Office

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Texas — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a new bitcoin scam in which a conman is impersonating U.S. customs agents and demand payments to avoid arrest.

According to the sheriff’s office, a recent victim was contacted by a scammer claiming there was a warrant for their arrest linked to a drug and cash seizure tied to the victim’s name and Social Security number. The victim, who authorities said has never been in rouble, was directed to withdraw cash and deposit it into two bitcoin machines to take care of the warrant.

“These scammers are professionals,” the release stated, noting the caller even encouraged the victim to search their name online to add legitimacy. The scammer had personal details about the victim, including their address and cell phone number, and used high-pressure tactics to keep them on the phone.

Once funds are deposited at a Bitcoin kiosk, they are transferred to a separate digital wallet, making them nearly impossible to recover. Scammers often direct victims to multiple kiosks, urging them to continue transactions until they either realize the scam or run out of money.

The sheriff’s office emphasized that legitimate agencies will never demand payment over the phone or require payment through bitcoin, gift cards or similar methods. “Any demand for immediate payment, especially with threats, is a major red flag,” the release said.

Officials added that scammers may claim victims’ phones are being tracked or that mileage is being monitored to intimidate them into staying on the line. Caller ID “spoofing” is also used to make the call appear local, sometimes even showing the number of a law enforcement agency.

The sheriff’s office urged residents not to feel ashamed if they fall victim to such schemes, stressing that “scammers are skilled manipulators and these scams are widespread.” Victims are encouraged to report incidents to their local law enforcement agency.

Authorities also advised residents to strengthen online security by using unique passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, keeping software updated, being cautious of phishing attempts, and limiting personal information shared online.