In recent days, some residents have reported receiving two types of fraudulent messages, designed by scammers either to steal personal information via malware or to extort victims for a ransom, based on an alleged crime they did not commit.
In one case, individuals in Hampden County, Massachusetts, have received text messages claiming to provide details about an investigation against them. To learn more, they are instructed to call a specific number, which, in reality, is not associated with any legitimate law enforcement agency. These texts are part of a scam. When victims call the number, they are redirected to a phishing website, where they are prompted to enter sensitive information, ultimately leading to the installation of spyware on their devices.
The scammers have even set up voicemail messages that are designed to instill fear and encourage victims to divulge personal details. Only later do the victims realize that they were targeted by fraudsters.
In another incident, several individuals from metropolitan areas have received calls through WhatsApp and other video conferencing platforms. The callers, pretending to be law enforcement officers, claim that the recipients’ names and contact information were found in connection with a drug trafficking ring. The scammers use fake profiles with logos resembling official agencies, like the FBI. They then threaten the victims with a criminal case unless they pay a substantial sum to have their names removed from a supposed criminals’ list. The victims are kept on the line until they agree to comply.
Interestingly, only a few individuals have fallen for this scam, suggesting that the public is becoming more cautious and can easily distinguish between a fraudulent “digital arrest” call and a legitimate law enforcement notification.
It is also worth noting that these scams appear to be specifically targeting iPhone users, rather than those with Android devices. This points to a misconception among some cybercriminals that iPhone users are wealthier, a myth that still persists in the world of online fraud. Ironically, even the current US President, Donald Trump, a multi-billionaire, uses a Samsung Galaxy phone, not an iPhone.
Important Note: The concept of a “digital arrest” does not exist, at least not yet. Anyone who calls an innocent person claiming they are under arrest digitally should be reported to the authorities immediately. If you receive such a call, hang up, share the number with local law enforcement, and inform your telecom service provider. Taking these steps can help prevent further crimes and protect others from falling victim to these scams.
