$100 Million Gold Bar Scam Targets Seniors Through Fake Virus Alerts
New York City police are warning seniors about a sophisticated scam that can drain their life savings. The scheme starts with a fake virus alert on a computer screen, claiming to be from Microsoft and instructing victims to call a number to unlock their device.
Victims who fall for this trap are coerced into providing remote access to their computers, allowing scammers to gain control. They then contact the victims again, impersonating Treasury or law enforcement personnel, and convince them to turn their money into gold bars for 'protection'.
The police warn that scammers may use a code word or number when a courier comes to collect the gold, making the exchange appear legitimate.
According to investigators, total losses have climbed past $100 million, with hundreds of victims affected. Sergeant Rashawn Vaughn said, 'The amount of money they're getting from some of these victims is very, very staggering.'