BULLHEAD CITY – The Bullhead City Police Department continues to warn the public about scams where people pose as trusted individuals, officials or organizations to deceive victims into handing over money, sensitive information, or access to accounts by use of threats.
Detectives are currently investigating two concerning cases where two local residents were instructed to withdraw tens of thousands of dollars in cash and deliver the money in person.
A 67-year-old woman reported she was contacted via email and phone by someone claiming to be a federal fraud agent. They said she was suspected of money laundering activities and even sent her fraudulent documents from the “U.S. Supreme Court” to support this claim that she was under investigation by the “DEA”, etc. The victim said the ‘agent’ was very convincing and she provided photos of her driver’s license and all her bank account information to try to clear her name. She then was instructed several times to withdraw large amounts of cash to the “Department of Treasury” and hand the money over to people who came to her residence. The men who came to collect the money were described as Asian males. The victim described the vehicle during the first money pick-up as a brown Toyota Camry with blacked-out front windows and a California license plate.
A 73-year-old man reported he was contacted by someone claiming to be from the “Federal Trade Commission” and was told his bank funds were compromised. The victim also gave photos of his credit cards and other personal information. In fear of protecting his bank accounts, he followed instructions and withdrew a large amount of cash. It was picked up by a man, also described as an Asian adult male, at his residence in a black shiny Jeep.
No other details of the vehicles were provided. There were no security cameras in the area for further investigation.
The Police Department reminds citizens to always be suspicious of calls, texts, emails or mail containing threats, advising they owe money or have won a prize. Scammers often pressure victims into acting quickly, using fear or emotional manipulation. Take a step back to evaluate the situation before responding. NEVER give out personal or bank account information or send money via any method unless YOU initiated the contact. If someone claims to represent a government agency, company, or family member, contact the organization or individual directly using official channels to confirm their identity. Simply hang up and call the number you know to be legitimate.
For more information on scams, log on to www.ftc.gov or www.azag.gov. If you spot a scam, report it at ftc.gov/complaint. Your reports help the FTC and other law enforcement investigate scams and bring crooks to justice.
