The Leitchfield Police Department is warning residents of a “complex scam” in Grayson County where the scammer gains access to the victim’s bank account.
“Follow closely, as this is a very complex scam,” LPD said in a social post on Thursday. “LPD has been involved, as well as GCSO and Federal Agencies, (in an investigation into) a very unique and complex scam. In this scenario, the victim appears to be benefitting financially, but also is becoming a suspect that could be prosecuted criminally.”
LPD said the scammer will contact a target about a virus on their computer. The scammer claims to be with a company that fixes computer virus.’
“Then the victim allows them remote access to their computer to repair the issue. While the perpetrator has access to the computer, they obtain usernames and passwords and ultimately end up with access to the person’s bank account,” LPD said. “They show the victim that the company has accidentally put too much money in their account as a refund for services. The victim then begins receiving cash shipments to their home with instructions in how to deposit the cash into account(s) via bitcoin or other means.”
The scammer, now showing “appreciation” to the victim for his/her cooperation, does not steal the life savings of the victim by allowing the person to keep some of their money.
“PLEASE, if you receive a large shipment of cash turn it over to investigators and cooperate with law enforcement to get the money back to the rightful owner,” Leitchfield police implored. “If you accept the cash and deposit it, you are now a suspect and could be prosecuted.”
Last week, LPD intercepted a $15,000 shipment, and returned the stolen money to the victim, who lives in Tennessee.
“Victims in New York and other states were not so fortunate, as the last known stop of their money was an address in Leitchfield. Leitchfield police and other agencies will work diligently to investigate these cases but nearly every time we are roadblocked when we trace an ip addresses to locations outside of this country.”
Police added that it may appear that the suspects are in New York or Miami, but the investigations thus far have proved fruitless.
“Protect yourself; if it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” LPD said.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
