A disturbing new scam has emerged online, featuring threats, explicit content, and personal information, recently targeting WCNC Charlotte’s Michelle Boudin.
In her role, Boudin often opens emails from unknown senders, but one recent email alarmed her significantly. The sender claimed to have used spyware on her phone, stating they possessed “footage inside my house,” had accessed sensitive information, and held her emails, contacts, and social media accounts. The email’s authenticity was heightened by a photograph of her neighborhood.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Boudin promptly contacted the FBI for guidance.
“This scam has recently surfaced,” noted FBI spokesperson Shelley Lynch.
While Boudin is more informed than the average person regarding such threats, she admitted that the detailed nature of the email made it unsettling. It included her home address, personal email, and neighborhood photo.
“It’s personal to you, but it’s also easily accessible public information,” Lynch explained.
The email concluded with a demand for $2,000 to be sent to a Bitcoin account, which the FBI confirmed is active.
“While they threaten you with releasing personal info to your contacts, they claim that paying the fee will prevent these embarrassing outcomes. They insist you can trust them,” Lynch added.
According to Lynch, this scheme likely involves an organized group of phishers targeting unsuspecting individuals.
“These operations are run by networks, not just one person. Most likely, a large overseas network is dedicated to finding ways to ensnare as many victims as possible,” Lynch said.
To protect yourself from similar scams, the FBI offers several tips:
- Ignore suspicious emails and avoid responding.
- Regularly change your passwords, using unique ones for different accounts.
- Ensure your devices are updated with the latest software.
Here are additional guidelines to avoid falling prey to scams:
- Emotional Appeal: High-pressure tactics that provoke strong emotions can cloud judgment.
- Sense of Urgency: Scammers often claim immediate action is necessary.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Be wary of requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers.
- Unreliable Explanations: If something doesn’t add up, question its legitimacy.
- Paying for Prizes: If you win something, you shouldn’t have to pay for it.
- Too Good to Be True: Often, if it sounds too good, it likely isn’t real.
