(WOWT) – Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers is reporting a surge in romance scams and cryptocurrency-based investment fraud.
In a release sent Wednesday, AG Hilgers’ office says they have received reports of multiple victims losing up to six-figure sums in cryptocurrency scams.
Officials say Nebraskans are being targeted by scammers and encouraged to make small, initial investments through fake trading platforms and apps.
Scammers then create fake bank statements and documents to show victims their investment is growing. Not long after, participants are asked to increase investments to receive higher returns.
The release states that in some cases, scammers build an online romance with the victim. While officials report that seniors have been the main target of these scams, all age groups can be affected.
“These scammers are devastating Nebraskans and, at times, stealing someone’s entire retirement or life savings. I urge Nebraskans to take caution with crypto investments that promise high returns with little risk,” Attorney General Mike Hilgers said in the release.
You are advised to not send money to someone online that you have not met in person. If someone asks to talk about investments on an app such as WhatsApp or Telegram, it is likely to be a scam.
Scammers are also known to promise rewards that sound “too good to be true with little risk,” according to the release.
If you may have been in contact with a scammer, notify your bank and/or the cryptocurrency exchange provider. Scams can be reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
If one would like more information, they are advised to contact the Consumer Affairs Response Team on their website or at 402-471-2628.
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