New scam tries to scare people into paying in Bitcoin

Scammers are getting more creative. A recent email scam hitting Big Horn County includes a QR code to scan.  Don’t scan it. The email is typically addressed to a person by their last name first and lists your physical address and a phone number. The scam itself is an attachment written as a letter. Included in the letter is the QR code, a photo and a request to pay in Bitcoin. It states you can scan the QR code or go to the listed Bitcoin address. The photo is typically a street photo near your address, most likely from Goggle Earth. 

The letter itself starts out “I know that calling 0000000000 or visiting 407 C Street would be a better way to reach you in case you don’t

cooperate. Don’t even try to hide from this. You have no idea what I’m capable of in Basin. I suggest you read this message carefully. Take a minute to relax, breathe, and really dig into it. We’re talking about something serious here, and I ain’t playing games. You do not know me whereas I know EVERYTHING about you and right now, you are thinking how, right?” 

The Big Horn County Sheriff’s Department said the email scam has been received by many in the county including one of its staff members The letters are identical except for the name, address and photo. 

Another portion of the letter says, “Well, you’ve been a bit careless lately, scrolling through those videos and clicking on links, stumbling upon some not-so-safe sites. I actually installed a Malware on a porn website and you accessed it to watch (know what I mean?). When you were busy watching those videos, your device initiated working as a RDP (Remote Device) which provided me with total accessibility to your system. I can look at everything on your screen, flick on your cam and mic, and you wouldn’t have a clue. Oh, and I’ve got access to all your emails, contacts, and social media accounts, too.” 

The letter also states that videos and screenshots will be made of footage they have from “you doing embarrassing things in your room. (Nice setup, by the way.)” With a click they can be sent to everyone of your contacts. 

Two options are provided.  “Option One is to turn a blind eye to this mail. You should know what is going to happen if you choose this path. I will send your video to your entire contacts. The video was straight fire, and I can’t even fathom the embarrassment you’ll endure when your colleagues, friends, and fam watch it. But hey, that’s life, ain’t it? Don’t be playing the victim here.  

“Wiser second option is to pay me and be confidential about it. We will name it my “keep the secret tip.” Now let’s discuss what will happen when you select this option. Your filthy secret remains your secret. I will wipe everything clean once you come through with the payment. You will make the payment via Bitcoin only. Pay attention, I’m telling you straight: ‘We gotta make a deal.’ I want you to know I’m coming at you with good intentions. I honor my obligations.”

Law enforcement offers the following tips: 

Report to law enforcement immediately. 

Hang up the phone. Don’t get in a conversation with the scammer; they maybe recording your voice.  

Don’t respond to the email, messages or letters. Never make a payment. 

Don’t share your credit card, social security number or bank account numbers over the phone unless you initiate the action with a reputable company. 

Never pay money to get money. 

Don’t scan QR codes from unknown sources.