Maryland State Police have warned Gmail users of a phishing scam where scammers send threatening emails with Google Maps images of victims’ homes, demanding Bitcoin payments.
Maryland State Police have issued a warning regarding a phishing scheme that targets Gmail users, utilizing unsettling threats to extort money.
Scammers falsely assert that they possess incriminating evidence and send victims emails containing Google Maps photos of their residences, requesting Bitcoin payments. The authorities are conducting an investigation, advising caution, and offering resources for reporting these incidents.
Maryland Police Issue Warning about Phishing Scam Specifically Targeting Gmail Users
On Wednesday, the Maryland State Police issued a warning regarding a fraud that is specifically targeting Gmail users in the state. The warning emphasizes an internet fraud that involves the extortion of money from residents through phishing emails.
The Maryland State Police Financial Crimes Unit received numerous reports during August and September that detailed the scheme. The announcement contains the following information:
The reports indicate that the scammer sends an email to the potential victim’s Gmail account with a photograph of their residence from Google Maps. The scammer then demands that the potential victim send money to them via Bitcoin.
The police explained that the scheme frequently involves blackmail, in which scammers falsely claim to possess incriminating information, such as evidence of pornography viewing, and threaten to release the data unless bitcoin is sent. Victims are frequently presented with two alternatives: either pay the requested sum or risk exposure.
They recommend that residents refrain from clicking on suspicious links, refrain from disclosing personal information online, and maintain composure in high-pressure situations. Local authorities are encouraged to receive reports of incidents from victims or to submit complaints.
Similar schemes have been reported in numerous states. The local police in Hillsborough and Campbell, California, have issued a warning to residents regarding emails that threaten to disclose private information, such as personal details and photographs of victims’ homes, unless they pay $2,000 in bitcoin.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has issued an alert to residents of Minden, Nevada, regarding emails that purport to possess personal data, including home addresses, phone numbers, and browsing histories, with the intention of extorting bitcoin.
Westlake Police have also issued a warning to residents regarding an increase in blackmail emails. These emails are sent by fraudsters who request payment in bitcoin or gift cards to prevent the disclosure of personal internet activities.
