Key Points:
• Recently, several reports have been received about scams in which individuals impersonate bank employees or police officers, suggesting bank account freezes or arrests to extort money.
• To avoid becoming a victim, if you receive a call about money or a suspicious call, hang up and immediately consult family, acquaintances, or the police.
Details:
1. Recently, there have been reports of scams within our jurisdiction where fraudsters impersonate bank employees or police officers, suggesting bank account freezes or arrests to extort money. Similar reports of Japanese nationals being defrauded by these tactics have also been received by other U.S. consulates.
2. Victims have reported receiving calls from individuals pretending to be bank employees who claim, for example, that there has been a large purchase of weapons with the victim’s credit card, and that their bank account will be frozen unless they report it to the police. These impostors may also collaborate with individuals posing as police officers, who present fake IDs or badges, and suggest that the victim might be arrested. They often manipulate the victim’s emotions and demand money. Another tactic is to demand constant video monitoring of the victim’s actions through services like Skype, claiming it’s necessary to monitor suspicious behavior.
3. These scammers are professionals who use psychological manipulation to confuse and coerce their victims into handing over money. To protect yourself from falling victim to such scams, if you receive a call demanding money or a suspicious call, hang up and immediately consult with family, friends, or the police, and exercise caution.
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