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SCARS Institute’s New Survivor Community – www.SCARScommunity.org – 2025

SCARS Institute’s New Survivor Community:  www.SCARScommunity.org

❤️ SCARS Institute Commentary on Facebook

Primary Category: SCARS Institute Announcements

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

 

❤️ SCARS Institute Commentary on Facebook

Social media platforms like Facebook, while intended to connect people and facilitate communication, have become increasingly unsuitable for providing support and healing for scam survivors.

This is primarily due to the nature of their algorithms, which are designed to maximize engagement and promote content that generates strong emotional responses, leading to the proliferation of hate and hostility.

Algorithmic Bias Towards Negativity

The algorithms used by Facebook are optimized to keep users engaged by prioritizing content that elicits predominantly negative reactions.

Unfortunately, negative content, such as hate speech, controversial opinions, and hostile interactions, tends to generate more engagement than positive or neutral content. This bias towards negativity has created an environment where scam survivors, who are already vulnerable, are exposed to a constant stream of hostile and hateful content.

This exposure only increases their trauma and hinders their healing process.

Lack of Privacy and Safety

Social media platforms are public spaces where anyone can join and participate in discussions. This lack of privacy can be detrimental to scam survivors who may wish to share their experiences and seek support in a safe and confidential environment.

The fear of judgment, exposure, or further victimization can prevent survivors from fully engaging in these platforms, limiting their access to the support they need.

Additionally, non-professionals do a very poor job of keeping Read More …

2025-11-10T09:14:00-05:00FEATURED ARTICLE, 2025, Online Safety, Recovery - Getting Started, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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A Compassionate Perspective on Justice – a SCARS Institute Editorial – 2024

A Compassionate Perspective on Justice – a SCARS Institute Editorial

A Compassionate Perspective on Criminal Justice and Recovery for Scam Victims

Primary Category: Editorial and Commentary

Author:
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth – Anthropologist, Scientist, Polymath, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The SCARS Institute offers a compassionate perspective on justice for scam victims, emphasizing that while accountability is essential, true justice should focus on restoring balance, not celebrating punishment. Victims face immense emotional and financial harm from scams, and seeing perpetrators arrested can bring relief. However, SCARS encourages victims to view arrests not as joyous events but as complex situations with broader societal implications.

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2024-10-30T19:54:26-04:002024, Advocacy & Systemic Issues, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Cybercrime & Technology, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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SCARS Institute West Africa Project with GISF CyberLaw Academy Series for Criminal Justice Professionals at Ghana UENR – 2024

SCARS Institute West Africa Project in Ghana – August 2024

With the help of GISF CyberLaw Academy Series for Criminal Justice Professionals at Ghana UENR

Primary Category: Advocacy and Policy

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from Modern Ghana

About This Article

The SCARS Institute’s West Africa Project, in collaboration with the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF), hosted a two-day CyberLaw Academy event in Sunyani to strengthen cybersecurity and justice for victims of cybercrime, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

The event brought together law enforcement, state prosecutors, and industry leaders to discuss strategies for combating cybercrime and equipping professionals with the skills needed for effective prosecution.

The event highlighted the importance of digital evidence and collaborative efforts, empowering participants with knowledge on applying Ghana’s Cybersecurity and Electronic Transactions Acts in court. The event emphasized justice for victims and building a resilient digital future in Ghana.

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2024-09-18T15:37:47-04:00Advocacy & Systemic Issues, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Cybercrime & Technology, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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SCARS Is Changing The Way Ghana West Africa Thinks About Scams Fraud & Cybercrime – April 2024

SCARS is Changing the way Ghana West Africa thinks about Scams Fraud & Cybercrime

SCARS Director Dr. Tim McGuinness was presenting to the Ghana Police Service Academy on April 15th, 2024

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation

About This Article

The ePolice Academy 2024 International Edition, a collaborative initiative by the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation, recently concluded with resounding success in Sunyani, Ghana.

The event, held at Sheila’s Executive Hotel, gathered cybersecurity experts and law enforcement officers to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in cyber forensic investigations and enhance online safety. Key speakers like Dr. Edward Danso Ansong, Dr. Isaac Tweneboah-Koduah, and Dr. Tim McGuinness of SCARS provided invaluable insights into AI’s role in cybersecurity and the impact of cybercrime on victims.

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2024-04-20T02:22:09-04:002024, Advocacy & Systemic Issues, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, FEATURED ARTICLE, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Southeast Asia Scam Gangs – SCARS Editorial – 2024

Southeast Asia Scam Gangs

A SCARS Editorial

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The rise of Southeast Asian Scam Gangs presents a global threat, defrauding countless victims and perpetuating criminal activities. While governments like the U.K. and China are taking action, U.S. attention remains diverted.

However, Washington’s involvement is crucial. These transnational criminal organizations wield substantial economic power, necessitating enhanced law enforcement support.

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2024-03-17T19:10:26-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Synthetic Pornography – A Growing Danger To The World – A SCARS Editorial 2023

Synthetic Pornography – A Growing Danger To The World

A SCARS Editorial

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Photo Credit: Mark Pohlmann

Synthetic Pornography Is Revolutionizing What People Of Particular Tastes Can Have Now, All Through Generative AI

Synthetic porn, also known as deepfake porn, is a type of manipulated media that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to create non-consensual pornography. It typically involves superimposing the face of a non-consenting person onto the body of someone else in a pornographic video, but it can be completely synthetic and generated by AI from nothing but a text description of what is desired.

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2025-04-30T13:06:29-04:00ARCHIVES & LEGACY|
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Reginald Fowler – Ex-NFL Football Team Own Convicted Of $700 Million Scam

Reginald Fowler – Ex-NFL Football Team Own Convicted Of $700 Million Scam

By SCARS Editorial Team –  Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc., portions AP

Reginald Fowler – Ex-Part Owner Of Minnesota Vikings Gets Over Six Years In Cryptocurrency Scam

Scams Come In All Forms! So Do Scammers Such As Reginald Fowler!

Reginald Fowler, a former part-owner of the Minnesota Vikings who defrauded a short-lived professional football league known as the Alliance of American Football in a $700 million cryptocurrency scam was sentenced Monday to over six years in prison.

Reginald Fowler, 64, of Chandler, Arizona, was sentenced in Manhattan federal court to six years and three months in prison and was ordered to forfeit $740 million and pay restitution of $53 million.

The Alliance of American Football met a speedy end in 2019 when it ran out of money that’s to Reginald Fowler.

Prosecutors said Reginald Fowler lied to the league’s executives when he claimed to control bank accounts with tens of millions of dollars from real estate investments and government contracts that he could use to support the league.

In 2005, Reginald Fowler tried to buy the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, becoming a minority owner before his involvement in the team ended in 2014.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement that Reginald Fowler broke the law by processing hundreds of millions of dollars of unregulated transactions on behalf of cryptocurrency exchanges that were used as a shadow bank.

“He did so by lying to legitimate U.S. financial institutions, which exposed the U.S. financial Read More …

2023-06-30T20:35:57-04:00Uncategorized|
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A Proposal from SCARS to Reduce Bank Wire/Money Transfer Fraud

A Proposal from SCARS to Reduce Bank Wire/Money Transfer Fraud

By SCARS Editorial Team –  Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

A Proposal To Reduce App Fraud In The Banking Industry

SCARS introduces a new proposal for the banking industry to help stop Wire Transfer Fraud/Scams (Authorized Push Payment Fraud) at the point of contact.

Almost all deterrents and education programs have failed to stop victims from sending money to criminals. Something more is needed. In the UK the bank employees call the local police to talk with victims and this has proven very effective, but that will not work in the United States. This proposal, we believe, addresses all the issues in a process already compliant with U.S. law.

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2023-06-27T05:26:50-04:00Uncategorized|
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ScamsNOW.com Editorial Policy

About SCARS Publishing on ScamsNOW.com

Masthead

  • Owner: Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc., a Florida Nonprofit Corporation.
  • Publisher in Chief: Dr. Tim McGuinness, Managing Director, Board Member, and SCARS Officer
  • Press Contact: Debby Montgomery Johnson, Director, Board Member, and SCARS Officer
  • Editorial Advisory Board: Vianey Gonzalez, and others.

Corrections

We will revise our website and articles as needed to maintain the correctness, competency, and accuracy of our contact. We cannot promise to notify our readers when this happens, though you will find updated articles in our listing of updated posts.

Introduction

SCARS holds its journalists, reporters, writers, content curators, video producers, commentators, editors, and all other employees, volunteers, contributors or contractors (hereafter referred to as content creators) to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. These ethical and editorial standards have been created to guide content creators to create an extremely trustworthy publication for our audience. In addition, we are publishing these standards so that the public can know them in the spirit of transparency.

If our audience can’t trust the content we produce, they will not be able to use this information in their recovery and to avoid these crimes in the future. And if the content we produce is not truthful, useful, instructive, or wholesome, our existence as a nonprofit company cannot be justified. Therefore, SCARS expects its content creators to not only keep, but also build trust with our readers and viewers by producing content that conforms to the standards laid out in this document.

Telling the Truth

2023-07-07T18:12:31-04:00
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Goodbye Facebook Groups – 2025

Goodbye Facebook Groups

The SCARS Institute Moves Away from Facebook Groups to its Own Proprietary Platform SCARScommunity.org

Primary Category: SCARS Institute Announcement

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

 

The SCARS Institute Moves Away from Facebook Groups to its Own Proprietary Platform SCARScommunity.org

It is with a heavy heart that we share some difficult news today.

After more than 12 years of building recovery communities and providing a safe haven for survivors on Facebook, we are discontinuing all of our SCARS Institute groups on Facebook.

This was not an easy decision to make. For a long time, Facebook served as a valuable platform to connect us all, but the landscape has changed.

The platform’s algorithms, designed for engagement rather than well-being, now work against the very principles of healthy, sustainable recovery. They can create an environment that is not conducive to the safe, supportive, and private space that survivors need to truly heal.

We feel that to continue our mission of providing genuine support, we must move beyond the limitations and distractions that the Facebook platform now presents.

But this is not a goodbye. It is a new beginning.

In our commitment to you, we have invested in and built a brand new home just for our community: a dedicated, safe, and private online space at www.SCARScommunity.org.

No scammers, no haters, just healing.

This new platform was designed from the ground up with your needs in mind. It Read More …

2025-11-15T12:15:44-05:00FEATURED ARTICLE, 2025|
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Record Breaking Bitcoin Forfeiture Action – 2025

Record Breaking Bitcoin Forfeiture Action

Chairman of Prince Group Indicted for Operating Cambodian Forced-Labor Scam Compounds Engaged in Cryptocurrency Fraud Schemes

Primary Category: NEWS / Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from U.S. Department of Justice

 

About This Article

Federal authorities announced an indictment charging Chen Zhi, chairman of Cambodia-based Prince Group, with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy tied to forced-labor compounds that executed large cryptocurrency investment schemes known as “pig butchering.” The filing describes trafficked workers confined in guarded facilities, phone farms that drove mass outreach, and laundering methods that split, layered, and reconsolidated crypto before conversion through merchant fronts, gambling operations, and mining financed with stolen funds. Prosecutors simultaneously filed a civil forfeiture complaint for about 127,271 bitcoin, valued near 15 billion dollars, now in U.S. custody. Allegations include bribes to officials, political protection, violence inside compounds, and luxury spending on jets, yachts, real estate, and fine art. U.S. agencies coordinated with international partners on sanctions and investigative support. The defendant remains at large and is presumed innocent; if convicted, the charges carry a potential maximum of forty years.

Chairman of Prince Group Indicted for Operating Cambodian Forced-Labor Scam Compounds Engaged in Cryptocurrency Fraud Schemes

Federal prosecutors unsealed an indictment charging Chen Zhi, the founder and chairman of Cambodia-based Prince Group, with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy tied Read More …

2025-10-15T00:56:59-04:002025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Largest Cyberattack on Mobile Phone Infrastructure in U.S. History – 2025

Largest Cyberattack on Mobile Phone Infrastructure in U.S. History

U.S. Secret Service Dismantles Imminent Telecommunications Threat in New York Tristate Area

Primary Category: News / Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by United States Secret Service

About This Article

The U.S. Secret Service disrupted an imminent telecommunications threat in the New York tristate area by seizing a dispersed network of more than 300 SIM servers and 100,000 SIM cards used to place anonymous threats against senior U.S. officials. Investigators say the hardware could disable cell towers, enable denial of service attacks, and provide encrypted channels for criminal or nation-state actors. Early analysis points to contacts between foreign operatives and individuals already known to federal authorities. Devices were clustered within 35 miles of the United Nations General Assembly, prompting urgent action. The Advanced Threat Interdiction Unit is leading the ongoing probe with support from DHS, DOJ, ODNI, NYPD, and local partners.

U.S. Secret Service Dismantles Imminent Mobile Phone Cyberattack & Telecommunications Threat in New York Tristate Area

On September 23rd, 2025, the U.S. Secret Service dismantled a network of electronic devices located throughout the New York tristate area that were used to conduct multiple telecommunications-related threats directed towards senior U.S. government officials, which represented an imminent threat to the agency’s protective operations.

This protective intelligence investigation led to the discovery of more than 300 Read More …

2025-10-04T07:04:30-04:002025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, FEATURED ARTICLE, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Chinese Court Sentences 11 Scammers to Death – 2025

Chinese Court Sentences 11 Scammers to Death

CCP Chinese Court Sentences 11 Members of Notorious Crime Family Syndicate To Death For Scams, Telecom Fraud, Cybercrime, And Murder

Primary Category: NEWS

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from: China Daily & Gulf News

 

About This Article

A Chinese court sentenced 39 members of a Myanmar-based crime family for fraud, murder, and organized cybercrime, and 11 to death, signaling a hard line against cross-border scam syndicates. Eleven ringleaders received death sentences, five received suspended death sentences, and others received life terms or long prison terms. Court findings described illegal casinos, telecom fraud, drug trafficking, and forced labor in Kokang compounds where workers were trafficked, confined, beaten, and, in some cases, killed. Proceeds exceeded 10 billion yuan, and at least 14 Chinese nationals died. The case followed joint operations with Myanmar that dismantled scam centers, freed thousands of enslaved workers, and underscored Beijing’s view of large-scale fraud as a national security threat.

CCP Chinese Court Sentences 11 Members of Notorious Crime Family Syndicate To Death For Scams, Telecom Fraud, Cybercrime, And Murder

According to China Daily:

Thirty-nine members of a family-run syndicate based in northern Myanmar have been convicted on multiple charges, including crimes that killed 14 Chinese nationals and injured six others, a Chinese court announced on Monday.

The Wenzhou Intermediate People’s Court in East China’s Zhejiang Read More …

2025-09-30T12:37:00-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, FEATURED ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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U.S. Government Going After Southeast Asian Scam Centers – 2025

U.S. Government Going After Southeast Asian Scam Centers

Treasury Sanctions Southeast Asian Scam Centers Networks Targeting Americans with Cyber Scams

Primary Category: NEWS / Government/Regulatory

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

 

About This Article

The U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control announces sanctions against major Southeast Asia-based cyber scam centers and networks that target Americans, rely on forced labor, and generate billions in losses. The action names operators and enablers in Burma’s Shwe Kokko, including entities tied to the Karen National Army, and designates multiple Cambodia-based compounds that converted casino complexes into virtual-currency investment scam hubs. Recent steps build on earlier moves against infrastructure providers and financial nodes, and align with authorities focused on transnational crime, cyber-enabled fraud, human rights abuse, and Burma’s instability. Designations block property, restrict U.S. dealings, and signal that removal from the SDN List remains possible when behavior changes. Treasury cites tactics that include romance pretexts, fake trading platforms, coerced labor, and English-language targeting of Americans, with estimated 2024 losses exceeding $10 billion. The package aims to disrupt ownership structures, cut access to payments and power, and deter institutions that may be exposed to sanctions risk.

Treasury Sanctions Southeast Asian Scam Centers Networks Targeting Americans with Cyber Scams

Southeast Asia-based scams skyrocket, costing Americans over $10 billion* last year 2024

The United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) implemented sanctions Read More …

2025-09-15T04:16:56-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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INTERPOL-Coordinated Operation Leads to 1,209 Arrests in Africa – 2025

INTERPOL-Coordinated Operation Leads to 1,209 Arrests in Africa

INTERPOL Operation Serengeti 2.0 – African Authorities Dismantle Massive Cybercrime and Fraud Networks, Recover Millions

Primary Category: Criminal Justice  //  Crimes and Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  INTERPOL

About This Article

Operation Serengeti 2.0, an INTERPOL-led initiative conducted from June to August 2025, resulted in the arrest of 1,209 cybercriminals across 18 African nations and the UK, dismantling 11,432 malicious infrastructures and recovering over USD 97.4 million. The crackdown targeted ransomware, online scams, business email compromise, cryptocurrency fraud, and inheritance scams, affecting nearly 88,000 victims worldwide. Major highlights include shutting down 25 illegal crypto-mining centers in Angola, disrupting a USD 300 million investment fraud scheme in Zambia, and dismantling a transnational inheritance scam in Côte d’Ivoire. The operation showcased the growing effectiveness of cross-border intelligence sharing, private-sector collaboration, and hands-on investigator training. Through its partnership with the International Cyber Offender Prevention Network (InterCOP), authorities also focused on proactive strategies to identify and mitigate cyber threats before they occur.

 

African Authorities Dismantle Massive Cybercrime and Fraud Networks, Recover Millions

In a sweeping INTERPOL-coordinated operation, authorities across Africa have arrested 1,209 cybercriminals targeting nearly 88,000 victims.

The crackdown recovered USD 97.4 million and dismantled 11,432 malicious infrastructures, underscoring the global reach of cybercrime and the urgent need for cross-border cooperation.

Operation Serengeti 2.0 (June to August 2025) brought Read More …

2025-08-24T19:08:08-04:002025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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$100 Million Dollar Romance Scammers from Ghana Extradited to the United States – 2025

$100 Million Dollar Romance Scammers from Ghana Extradited to the United States

Ghanaian Nationals Extradited For Roles In Criminal Organization That Stole More Than $100 Million Through Romance Scams And Other Fraud

Primary Category: News // Law Enforcement

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Four Ghanaian nationals have been charged in New York for their alleged roles in a criminal organization that stole more than $100 million through romance scams and business email compromise schemes targeting U.S. victims. Isaac Oduro Boateng, Inusah Ahmed, and Derrick Van Yeboah were extradited from Ghana and presented before a U.S. magistrate judge on August 7, 2025. Patrick Kwame Asare remains at large. Prosecutors allege the group posed as romantic partners to deceive vulnerable older Americans into sending money or laundering funds, while also executing fraudulent business email transactions to steal from companies. Proceeds were funneled to West Africa, primarily to senior figures known as “chairmen,” including Boateng and Ahmed. The defendants face multiple charges, each carrying significant prison terms if convicted. U.S. and Ghanaian authorities collaborated extensively on the investigation and extraditions. All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Note: This article is intended for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing distress, please consult a qualified mental health professional.

 

Ghanaian Nationals Extradited For Roles In Criminal Organization That Stole More Read More …

2025-08-28T13:04:35-04:002025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, FEATURED ARTICLE|
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UNODC Report: How Organized Criminal Groups Deceive and Fraud – 2025

UNODC Report: How Organized Criminal Groups Deceive and Fraud

How Organized Criminal Groups Deceive and Fraud –  About Scam Centers in Asia – a Report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

Primary Category: Criminology

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

 

About This Article

Organized fraud has evolved into a global crime industry, with transnational criminal groups operating highly sophisticated scams that target individuals through immersive, manipulative experiences. Victims like Ayleen Charlotte, whose story became widely known through The Tinder Swindler, experience betrayal not just from a single criminal but from entire networks using psychological grooming and emotional coercion to exploit trust. These scams include romance fraud, investment fraud, and cryptocurrency manipulation, all designed to look and feel legitimate. Criminal groups collaborate, using AI, deepfake technology, and real-time financial transactions to create elaborate worlds that trap victims over months or even years.

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2025-07-17T01:26:36-04:002025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, FEATURED ARTICLE, Government & Regulatory, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Systemic Support & Advocacy Failures Deepen the Trauma of Scam Victims – 2025

Systemic Support & Advocacy Failures Deepen the Trauma of Scam Victims

The Aftermath of Deception for Scam Victims Worldwide

Primary Category: Scam Victim Advocacy

Intended Audience: General Public

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Scam victims around the world are not only devastated by the initial betrayal of fraud but are often retraumatized by the very systems meant to help them. In many cases, the emotional pain and shame of the experience are made worse by public judgment, inaccessible victim services, and a lack of coordinated legal or emotional support. While scammers exploit trust with devastating effect, it is the systemic failures—from underfunded victim assistance programs to indifferent societal attitudes—that deepen the wound and delay healing. Victims suffer in silence, shamed by stigma and abandoned by institutions unprepared for the scale of modern fraud.

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2025-04-13T16:07:44-04:002025, Advocacy & Systemic Issues, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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META Changes to Community NOTES – Could be Very Useful in Combatting Scammers – 2025

META Changes to Community NOTES – Could be Very Useful in Combatting Scammers

Meta (Facebook & Instagram) Ends US Fact-Checking, Introduces Community Notes – a Game Changer with Scammers?

Primary Category: Online Safety

Intended Audience: General Public

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Meta’s decision to end its third-party fact-checking program in the U.S. and replace it with a user-driven “Community Notes” system significantly changes how scams and misinformation are addressed on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. While this model allows the public to flag and contextualize scam posts, it removes penalties and enforcement tools that previously helped slow the spread of harmful content.

Without expert oversight or automatic content suppression, scammers could easily outpace user warnings, especially on a platform with billions of users and fast-moving fraud schemes. Community Notes depends entirely on volunteer participation, speed, and consensus—factors that make it unreliable as a primary defense against scams. For victims, this is a shift from proactive moderation to reactive crowdsourcing. It gives users a voice, but no shield.

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2025-04-05T00:41:26-04:00Online Safety, 2025, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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INTERPOL Operation Red Card Arrests Hundreds in Africa – 2025

INTERPOL Operation Red Card Arrests Hundreds in Africa

More than 300 arrests as African Countries Clamp Down on Cyber Threats

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Intended Audience: General Public / Others

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from INTERPOL

About This Article

INTERPOL’s Operation Red Card, conducted between November 2024 and February 2025, led to 306 arrests across seven African countries as authorities cracked down on cyber-enabled scams involving banking, investment, and messaging apps. With over 5,000 victims identified, the coordinated effort targeted cross-border criminal networks causing widespread financial and emotional harm.

Notable actions included Nigeria’s arrest of 130 individuals, including 113 foreign nationals tied to scam centers potentially linked to human trafficking, and South Africa’s dismantling of a large SIM box fraud operation. Zambia uncovered a malware-based phone hacking syndicate, while Rwandan authorities disrupted social engineering scams that defrauded victims of over $305,000 in 2024.

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2025-03-27T06:58:02-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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New Bankrate Survey Shows Scams Increasing – 2025

New Bankrate Survey Shows Scams Increasing

Scams Increasing and Exposure on the Rise: What the Bankrate Survey Reveals and How You Can Protect Yourself

Primary Category: Criminology

Intended Audience: General Public

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Source: https://www.bankrate.com/credit-cards/news/financial-fraud-survey/

About This Article

Financial fraud is becoming more widespread, with 34 percent of Americans experiencing a scam in the past year and 37 percent of those victims losing money, according to the Bankrate Financial Fraud Survey. Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, from fake job offers to investment fraud, exploiting emotions like fear and urgency to manipulate victims.

The survey highlights that past fraud experiences shape future expectations, with 61 percent of recent victims believing they will be targeted again. While nearly 89 percent of Americans have taken steps to protect themselves, scams continue to evolve, emphasizing the need for vigilance, financial awareness, and proactive security measures to minimize risk and prevent losses.

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2025-03-08T10:44:15-05:002025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Fake IDs are an Ever-Increasing Threat and Massively Contribute to All Forms of Scams and Fraud – 2025

Fake IDs are an Ever-Increasing Threat and Massively Contribute to All Forms of Scams and Fraud

The Underground Market for Counterfeit Identification (Fake IDs) is Surging in Sophistication, a Significant Challenge to Law Enforcement and Public Safety

Primary Category: Criminology

Intended Audience: General Public

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The underground market for counterfeit identification has evolved into a sophisticated industry, posing a major challenge to law enforcement and public safety. High-quality fake IDs now incorporate advanced security features such as holograms, barcodes, and laser engravings, allowing criminals to bypass verification systems. The rise of state policies granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants has further complicated identity verification, while the REAL ID Act has driven demand for counterfeit documents.

Beyond traditional fraud, fake IDs are widely used in online scams, enabling cybercriminals to create fraudulent accounts, launder money, and deceive victims through fake personas on dating platforms, financial institutions, and e-commerce sites. With the dark web fueling access to these forgeries, AI-driven verification and biometric security measures are increasingly critical in combating identity fraud and protecting victims from deception.

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2025-02-17T19:03:06-05:002025, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, FEATURED ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Protecting Youth Online: A Guide to Parental Controls and Online Safety Tools – 2024

Protecting Youth Online: A Guide to Parental Controls and Online Safety Tools

Mastering Digital Online Safety: A Parent’s Guide to Navigating Online Parental Controls and Building Safe Internet Habits for Kids

Primary Category: Online Safety

Intended Audience: General Public / Others

Authors:
•  Shane Tews, President Logan Circle Strategies | Nonresident Senior Fellow
Nonresident Senior Fellow, American Enterprise Institute | Strategic Communications, International Relations, Strategy
•  Portions by SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Navigating the digital landscape has become increasingly complex for parents, especially with the myriad of tools and features designed to protect children online. This guide offers a comprehensive walkthrough of parental control options across popular social media platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as operating systems including Windows, macOS, Android, ChromeOS, Linux, and iOS.

From setting up time limits, content restrictions, and privacy settings to enabling features like Family Pairing, Family Link, and Screen Time, these tools allow parents to manage and monitor their children’s online activities. However, while these technical solutions provide a layer of security, the real essence of digital safety lies in active parental involvement.

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2024-12-28T19:26:52-05:00Online Safety, 2025, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Talking to Dead People through AI (Artificial Intelligence) – 2024

Talking to Dead People through AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Talking to Dead People through AI: the Business of ‘Digital Resurrection’ Might Not be Helpful, Ethical… or Even Legal

Primary Category: Artificial Intelligence

Authors:
•  Damián Tuset Varela – Investigador en Derecho Internacional Público e IA. Tutor Máster Relaciones Internacionales y Diplomacia UOC, UOC – Universitat Oberta de Catalunya
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The concept of “digital resurrection,” where artificial intelligence recreates aspects of deceased individuals, such as their voice or likeness, has sparked significant ethical, philosophical, and legal debates. While these digital simulations may offer temporary comfort by mimicking loved ones, they risk altering authentic memories, raising questions about identity, consent, and the nature of existence. Such recreations can interfere with the grieving process, potentially preventing individuals from accepting loss and moving forward. The idealized representations created through these technologies often fail to capture the depth and uniqueness of a person’s lived experiences and relationships, leading to a distorted and artificial connection.

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2024-12-10T18:58:42-05:00Guest Authors, 2024, AI - Artificial Intelligence, Other Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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INTERPOL Operation HAECHI V – Arrests 5,500 Scammers in 40 Countries – 2024

INTERPOL Operation HAECHI V – Arrests 5,500 Scammers in 40 Countries

INTERPOL Financial Crime Operation HAECHI V Makes Record 5,500 Arrests, Seizures Worth over USD $400 million

Primary Category: Crimes and Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portion by Interpol

About This Article

Operation HAECHI V, an extensive five-month initiative led by INTERPOL, brought together law enforcement from 40 countries to combat cyber-enabled financial crimes.

The operation, targeting frauds such as voice phishing, romance scams, and investment fraud, resulted in over 5,500 arrests and the seizure of more than USD 400 million in assets.

Notable achievements included dismantling a South Korean voice phishing syndicate responsible for USD 1.1 billion in losses and exposing a cryptocurrency fraud involving stablecoins.

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2024-12-06T23:29:09-05:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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BREAKING NEWS: Major INTERPOL Operation Serengeti Arrests 1,006 Criminals In 19 Countries – 2024

Breaking News: Major INTERPOL Operation Serengeti Arrests 1,006 Criminals In 19 Countries

Major INTERPOL and AFRIPOL Cybercrime Operation Serengeti Nets 1,006 Suspects

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from INTERPOL

About This Article

Operation Serengeti: A Landmark Cybercrime Crackdown Across Africa: In a major collaborative effort, INTERPOL and AFRIPOL conducted Operation Serengeti from September to October 2024, resulting in the arrest of 1,006 suspects and the dismantling of 134,089 malicious infrastructures across 19 African countries. The operation targeted a range of cybercrimes, including ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), digital extortion, and online scams, as identified in the 2024 Africa Cyber Threat Assessment Report.

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2024-11-26T13:14:35-05:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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President Trump Launches Campaign for Free Speech and to Go After Tech Industry Platforms – 2024

President Trump Launches Campaign to Go After Tech Platforms

President Donald J. Trump — Free Speech Policy Initiative and Tech Industry Regulatory Controls

Primary Category: Government Laws & Regulation

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  President Donald J. Trump

About This Article

President Trump’s speech about free speech identifies it as the foundation of a free country, and without it, other rights fall like dominoes. In response to recent revelations of censorship by tech giants, government agencies, and media groups, President Trump announced a new plan being introduced to dismantle what’s described as a “censorship regime.”

Key actions include signing an executive order to prevent federal agencies from colluding with private entities to censor lawful speech, investigating and prosecuting those involved in online censorship, and revising Section 230 to enforce standards of neutrality and transparency on digital platforms. The plan also proposes defunding any federal support for institutions engaging in censorship and instituting penalties for bureaucrats who bypass the Constitution.

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2024-11-10T08:56:15-05:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government & Regulatory, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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A New Requirement in the UK’s Fight Against Fraud: Criminal Charges for the Failure to Prevent Fraud – 2024

A New Requirement in the UK’s Fight Against Fraud: Criminal Charges for the Failure to Prevent Fraud

The UK’s Failure to Prevent Fraud Guidance and Potential Impact on All Major Businesses in the United Kingdom – This Becomes the Game Changer in the UK’s Battle Against Scams and Fraud

Primary Category: Government Regulations

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Analysis by Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth – Anthropologist, Scientist, Polymath, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, along with the “Failure to Prevent Fraud” guidance, sets new standards for fraud prevention in the UK’s corporate landscape. It requires large organizations to implement comprehensive fraud prevention strategies across all levels, from top-level commitment to ongoing monitoring and training.

This law is particularly relevant to the payments ecosystem, including credit card processing, as it mandates companies to adopt robust fraud controls, conduct rigorous due diligence, and establish effective reporting channels. This proactive approach not only strengthens corporate accountability but aims to protect consumers from scams and financial fraud by closing potential security gaps in the financial system.

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2024-11-06T12:39:56-05:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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FTC’s New Regulation Against Fake Reviews Take Effect – 2024

FTC’s New Regulation Against Fake Reviews Take Effect

United States Federal Trade Commission Announces Final Rule Banning Fake Reviews and Testimonials

Primary Category: Government Regulation

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by the United States Federal Trade Commission
•  Analysis by Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has introduced a final rule to combat fake reviews and deceptive testimonials, marking a significant move to safeguard consumers from misleading practices. This rule explicitly prohibits the sale or purchase of false reviews, AI-generated reviews, and testimonials that misrepresent real customer experiences.

Businesses are banned from buying or incentivizing reviews with specific sentiments, and the rule also targets insider reviews by company employees or affiliates, requiring clear disclosure.

Additionally, the FTC is addressing the suppression of negative reviews through intimidation and the misuse of fake social media indicators, such as buying followers or views.

This new rule strengthens the FTC’s ability to seek civil penalties and hold businesses accountable, promoting fairness and transparency in the marketplace.

United States Federal Trade Commission Announces its Final Rule Banning Fake Reviews and Testimonials

The rule will allow the Federal Trade Commission to strengthen enforcement, seek civil penalties against violators, and deter AI-generated fake reviews

Federal Trade Commission Announces

The Federal Trade Commission today announced a final rule that will combat fake reviews and testimonials by Read More …

2024-10-27T20:53:00-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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The Battle Against TikTok – Montana USA Attorney General Lawsuit – 2024

The Battle Against TikTok – Montana USA Attorney General Lawsuit

Montana Attorney General Sues TikTok for Harmful Content and Deceptive Practices Targeting Children

Primary Category: News

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by the Montana’s Attorney General’s Office

About This Article

Attorney General Austin Knudsen’s lawsuit against TikTok accuses the platform of targeting children and teens with addictive and harmful content, while misleading parents about the app’s safety features.

The lawsuit highlights the app’s failure to adequately restrict mature content, including explicit sexual, drug-related, and self-harm material, despite its claims of having safeguards like Restricted Mode. Knudsen seeks to hold TikTok accountable for violating the Montana Consumer Protection Act, emphasizing the app’s role in damaging the mental and physical well-being of young users through its deceptive practices.

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2024-10-25T19:59:10-04:002024, Advocacy & Systemic Issues, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government & Regulatory, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Google Adds 5 New Protections on Google Messages to Help Keep You Safe – 2024

Google Adds 5 New Protections on Google Messages to Help Keep You Safe

The latest news and insights from Google on security and safety on the Internet from October 2024

Primary Category: Industry News

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Google Blog

About This Article

Google’s October 2024 update to Google Messages introduces five new security features aimed at enhancing user safety. These protections include advanced scam detection for package delivery and job-related scams, intelligent warnings about potentially dangerous links, and controls to block messages from unknown international senders.

Additionally, users will benefit from sensitive content warnings, which blur images containing nudity, and a new contact verification feature to prevent impersonation. These updates aim to make messaging more secure, particularly as cyber threats continue to evolve, providing a layered defense against phishing, fraud, and privacy breaches. However, staying vigilant and educating users remains crucial, as no solution is completely foolproof.

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2024-10-23T12:09:39-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, Guest Authors|
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BREAKING NEWS: FinCEN Assesses Record $1.3 Billion Penalty against TD Bank – 2024

BREAKING NEWS: FinCEN Assesses Record $1.3 Billion Penalty against TD Bank

Punishing a U.S. Bank for Massive Violations of Money Laundering Practices

Primary Category: NEWS

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions: FinCEN

About This Article

The $1.3 billion penalty assessed by FinCEN against TD Bank for massive violations of anti-money laundering (AML) practices marks a pivotal moment in U.S. banking safety and regulatory compliance.

TD Bank’s failure to implement an effective AML program enabled widespread criminal activity, including narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, and terrorist financing, to penetrate the financial system. The historic settlement underscores the critical importance of robust AML controls and serves as a warning to other financial institutions about the severe consequences of neglecting these safeguards.

Moving forward, U.S. banks must prioritize AML compliance and develop strong internal oversight to protect the financial system from illicit activity.

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2024-10-10T17:46:43-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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A Desperate Scam Victim – Ann Mayers – Becomes A Bank Robber – 2024 [VIDEOS] – UPDATED: She Pleaded Guilty and is Going to Prison

A Desperate Scam Victim – Ann Mayers – Becomes A Bank Robber [UPDATED]

Ann Mayers, a Scam Victim lost her life savings and borrowed over $80,000 which she still owed. Out of Desperation, she decided to become a Bank Robber

However, the story is not as simple as it seems due to the trauma and cognitive impairment victims suffer from

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions WLWT5 News and other sources

Originally published Apr 29, 2024 – Updated October 6, 2024

About This Article

Ann Mayers, a 74-year-old Ohio woman, turned to bank robbery in desperation after falling victim to an online scam.

Police responded to a robbery at AurGroup Credit Union, where Mayers demanded cash at gunpoint. She was later found at her home and confessed to the crime, admitting recent financial losses to an unidentified online scammer. Mayers faces charges of aggravated robbery and tampering with evidence, highlighting the tragic consequences of online scams.

Such scams often leave victims traumatized, affecting their cognitive function and decision-making abilities. Victims may experience cognitive dissonance, struggling to reconcile reality with their desire to believe in the legitimacy of the scam.

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2024-10-06T05:29:51-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, FEATURED ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Stories & Personal Narratives, Tim McGuinness PhD|
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61% of Nigeria’s Scammer’s Parents Know Their Children Scam and Are Ok With It – 2024

61% of Nigeria’s Scammer’s Parents Know Their Children Scam and Are Ok With It

This Demonstrates the Deep Level of Social and Moral Corruption in Nigeria

Primary Category: Criminology

Authors: •  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. •  Portions from PM News

About This Article

The discovery that 61% of Nigeria’s scammer’s parents are aware that their children are scammers and their involvement in scams and cybercrime, specifically “Yahoo Yahoo” (internet fraud), exposes a troubling issue of familial complicity. Many parents may even benefit financially from these illegal activities, raising ethical and legal concerns about their role as accessories after the fact, as outlined in Section 10 of Nigeria’s Criminal Code. This complicity perpetuates cybercrime, damaging Nigeria’s reputation on a global scale. Read More …

2025-07-18T11:52:35-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Cybercrime & Technology, FEATURED ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Sociology & Anthropology, UPDATED|
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INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang – 2024

INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang

Singapore & Timor Leste Police Make a Major Bust

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  INTERPOL

INTERPOL: International Police Recover Over USD $40 million from International Email Scam Gang

Singapore authorities make record recovery thanks to cooperation with Timor Leste through INTERPOL

A global stop-payment mechanism developed by INTERPOL has helped Singapore authorities make their largest-ever recovery of funds defrauded in a business email compromise scam.

On 23 July 2024, a commodity firm based in Singapore filed a police report stating that they had fallen victim to a business email compromise scam, in which a scammer obtains access to or impersonates a business email account to deceive employees into transferring money to their bank account.

On 15 July, the firm received an email from a supplier requesting that a pending payment be sent to a new bank account based in Timor Leste. The email, however, came from a fraudulent account spelled slightly differently from the supplier’s official email address.

Unaware, the firm transferred USD 42.3 million to the fake supplier on 19 July, only discovering the crime four days later when the genuine supplier said it had not been paid.

On receipt of the police report, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) swiftly requested assistance from authorities in Timor Leste through INTERPOL’s Global Rapid Intervention of Payments (I-GRIP) mechanism.

I-GRIP uses the global police organization’s 196-country police network Read More …

2024-09-08T10:36:24-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Replacing the UK’s Action Fraud City of London Police for Inaction Against Scams – 2024

Replacing the UK’s Action Fraud for Inaction Against Scams

Reviewing the Progress Made in the UK to Replace the City of London Police’s Action Fraud

Primary Category with link to search

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Alexander Martin, The Record

Replacement for the City of London’s Action Fraud, UK’s Scam, Fraud, and Cybercrime Reporting Service, delayed again until 2025

According to the Record – being reprinted in the public interest – source link above

Action Fraud

The launch date for the repeatedly delayed replacement service for Action Fraud, the much-criticized reporting center for fraud and financially motivated cybercrime in Britain, has again been pushed back, a senior police officer has confirmed to Recorded Future News.

The likely date will be sometime in the spring of 2025, according to Nik Adams, the temporary assistant commissioner at the City of London Police.

In its current form Action Fraud, which is run by the City of London Police, has been described as “not fit for purpose” by the House of Commons Justice Committee amid a surge in the levels of that crime affecting people across the country.

The Public Accounts Committee stated it was “seriously concerned that the failures of Action Fraud in supporting victims of fraud has earned it the nickname ‘Inaction Fraud,’” and echoed the Justice Committee’s findings that the levels of fraud were being driven by shortcomings across the whole of the criminal justice system.

A replacement service aiming to provide more intelligence Read More …

2024-09-08T10:36:58-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government & Regulatory, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Massive Increase in Losses with Bitcoin ATM Scams – 2024

Massive Increase in Losses with Bitcoin ATM Scams

New FTC Analysis Shows Crypto ATM Scams Increased Nearly 1,000% to Over $110 Million in 2023

Primary Category: News & Analysis

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

About This Article

New data from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reveals a dramatic increase in losses due to Bitcoin ATM scams, with consumer reports showing nearly a tenfold rise since 2020, reaching over $110 million in 2023.

The first half of 2024 alone saw losses exceed $65 million, with older adults particularly vulnerable, being three times more likely to report losses than younger individuals.

Scammers commonly use Bitcoin ATMs in schemes involving government impersonation, business impersonation, and tech support scams, urging victims to deposit cash into these machines under false pretenses. This alarming trend underscores the need for increased awareness and caution when dealing with unexpected financial requests involving Bitcoin ATMs.

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2024-09-03T14:57:44-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Nigeria’s Black Axe – A New Global Scam Mafia is Spreading – 2024 [VIDEO]

Nigeria’s Black Axe – A New Global Scam Mafia is Spreading

The Stark Reality of One of the World’s Deadliest Crime Syndicates!

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions Translated from Deutsche Welle
•  Post main image source: BBC – copyright acknowledged

About This Article

The Black Axe is one of the world’s most dangerous criminal organizations, with roots in Nigeria but an extensive global reach. Much of its wealth is derived from internet scams and financial fraud, often involving romance scams where victims, usually women, are deceived into sending large sums of money.

The group’s structure is complex and loosely organized, making it difficult for law enforcement to dismantle. However, recent efforts by Interpol, including Operation Jackal III, have led to significant arrests and the freezing of bank accounts, highlighting the need for international cooperation in combating such criminal networks.

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2024-09-01T02:36:09-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, FEATURED ARTICLE, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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United Nations: Member States Finalize a New Global Cybercrime Convention – August 8 2024

United Nations: Member States Finalize a New Global Cybercrime Convention – August 8 2024

After three years of work, the committee established by the UN General Assembly to negotiate a new convention on cybercrime agreed today on a draft convention text.

Primary Category: Government / Regulatory

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United Nations

About This Article

The United Nations has finalized a draft of a new global cybercrime convention, marking a significant milestone after three years of negotiations by a committee established by the UN General Assembly.

Expected to be adopted later this year, this convention will become the first globally binding legal instrument on cybercrime, addressing the rapidly growing threats in cyberspace. The convention represents the first multilateral anti-crime treaty in over two decades and has been developed with the input of various stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and the private sector.

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2024-08-10T10:35:07-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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UNODC: Southeast Asian Cyberfraud Organizations Deploying New Technology – 2024

UNODC: Southeast Asian Cyberfraud Organizations Deploying New Technology

United Nations Issues Warning About Expanding Organized Crime

Primary Category: Organized Crime

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime

About This Article

Industrial-scale cyberfraud operations in Southeast Asia are evolving rapidly due to technological advancements and the increasing professionalization of transnational criminal networks. These operations, often linked to sophisticated underground banking and money laundering organizations, are outpacing governmental efforts to contain them.

A recent UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) meeting highlighted the urgency of addressing this threat, which includes hundreds of scam centers and thousands of trafficked individuals working in illicit industries. Countries like the Philippines have banned certain gambling sectors to curb these activities. Despite efforts to dismantle cyber-enabled fraud operations, organized crime groups are diversifying and moving into more remote areas, utilizing deepfakes and malware.

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2024-08-06T13:12:17-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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The U.S. FTC Goes After TikTok For Violating Children’s Privacy – 2024

The U.S. FTC Goes After TikTok For Violating Children’s Privacy

TikTok has Repeatedly Disregarded U.S. Law on Protecting Children!

Primary Category with link to search

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  U.S. FTC – Federal Trade Commission

About This Article

The FTC and DOJ have filed a lawsuit against TikTok and its parent company ByteDance, accusing them of violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and a 2019 FTC consent order.

The lawsuit alleges that TikTok failed to notify and obtain parental consent before collecting personal information from children under 13.

Despite knowing millions of children used the platform, TikTok allegedly continued to collect and use their data unlawfully, including through “age unknown” accounts bypassing age gates.

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2024-08-06T08:01:08-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, FEATURED ARTICLE, Government & Regulatory, Government Sources|
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UNODC Report: Casinos and Cryptocurrency – 2024

UNODC Report: Casinos and Cryptocurrency

Understanding the Complexities of Large Scale Organized Crime in Southeast Asia

Primary Category: Organized Crime

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  UNODC Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific

About This Article

A new report has revealed that casinos, junkets, and cryptocurrency exchanges are major drivers of money laundering, underground banking, and cyberfraud in East and Southeast Asia. The study, titled “Casinos, Money Laundering, Underground Banking, and Transnational Organized Crime in East and Southeast Asia: A Hidden, Accelerating Threat,” highlights the crucial role of underregulated online casinos and crypto exchanges in facilitating transnational organized crime.

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2024-08-03T02:37:47-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, 2024, Crimes & Criminals, Government Sources|
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NO FAKES ACT – Proposed New U.S. Law To Go After Deep Fake Producers & Creators – 2024

NO FAKES ACT – Proposed New U.S. Law To Go After Deep Fake Producers & Creators

A Proposed New Law that can have a Significant Impact of Deep Fake Scams and Impersonations

Primary Category: Government / Regulatory

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The NO FAKES Act, introduced in July 2024 by Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis, aims to protect individuals’ voices and likenesses from unauthorized AI-generated replicas.

The bill has positive aspects, such as safeguarding personal rights, holding creators and platforms accountable, creating a uniform national standard, and considering First Amendment protections.

However, it also faces challenges, including potential overreach, enforcement difficulties, impact on smaller entities, and broader implications for Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

The bipartisan support highlights its importance, though careful implementation is necessary to balance creativity and personal rights.

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2024-08-02T03:24:43-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Countries Are Now Using Organized Crime/Criminals To Do Bad Things! 2024

Countries Are Now Using Criminals To Do Bad Things!

Many Countries Such As India and Iran Are Using Criminals to get Bad Things Done!

Primary Category: Editorial

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Some countries, such as Iran and India, are increasingly using criminal organizations like BLACK AXE to conduct covert operations, including foreign interference, targeted killings, and other illegal activities.

This strategy allows these countries to deny involvement and avoid international repercussions. The use of criminals for such purposes dates back to historical practices, like privateering under Queen Elizabeth I, but has evolved to include modern-day cybercriminals and gangs.

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2024-07-25T19:46:49-04:00SCARS Institute Editorial Team, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC|
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North Korean Cyberespionage Inside KnowBe4 Company – A Massive Wake Up Call For Cybersecurity Industry- 2024

North Korean Cyberespionage Inside KnowBe4 Company – A Massive Wake-Up Call For Cybersecurity Industry

How a North Korean Agent Infiltrated KnowBe4

Primary Category: Cybersecurity

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions KnowBe4 and other sources

About This Article

KnowBe4 recently uncovered that a newly hired remote software engineer, who passed both interview and background checks, was actually a North Korean agent.

The discovery was made after suspicious activity linked to a company-issued MacBook raised red flags. The company’s IT and security teams acted quickly, restricting access and launching an investigation. They found that the individual had loaded malware onto the device and used a single-board computer to manipulate data.

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2024-07-25T17:38:56-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Meta Combating Financial Sextortion Scams From Nigeria – 2024

Meta is Combating Financial Sextortion Scams from Nigeria

A Statement from Meta (Facebook/Instagram/WhatsApp)

Primary Category: News

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by Meta Corporation

About This Article

Financial sextortion is a borderless crime increasingly perpetrated by cybercriminals known as Yahoo Boys, primarily operating out of Nigeria. Meta recently removed around 63,000 Instagram accounts and 7,200 Facebook assets linked to these scammers. This included a coordinated network of 2,500 Instagram accounts and various Facebook Groups that provided guidance on conducting scams.

Meta’s efforts, supported by enhanced detection systems and cooperation with law enforcement, aim to prevent these crimes and protect potential victims, including teens and minors. The company also supports training programs for law enforcement to better handle such crimes.

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2024-07-25T08:15:45-04:002024, Advocacy & Systemic Issues, Crimes & Criminals, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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INTERPOL Operation Jackal III Arrests More Than 300 Scammers – 2024

INTERPOL Operation Jackal III Arrests More Than 300 Scammers

Major Interpol Led Operation Targets ‘Black Axe’ and Other Organized Crime Groups

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  INTERPOL

About This Article

A global law enforcement operation, Operation Jackal III, targeted West African organized crime groups, including Black Axe, resulting in 300 arrests and the seizure of USD 3 million in assets.

Running from April 10 to July 3, 2024, across 21 countries, the operation focused on combating online financial fraud and dismantling criminal networks. Over 400 suspects were identified, and over 720 bank accounts were blocked.

The operation highlighted the critical need for international collaboration in addressing the alarming rise in financial fraud stemming from West Africa.

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2024-07-16T12:21:23-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Protecting Yourself After the AT&T Data Breach – 2024

Protecting Yourself After the AT&T Data Breach

Affecting Nearly Every AT&T Customer!

Primary Category: Cybersecurity News

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

In 2024, AT&T experienced a significant data breach that affected approximately 73 million customers, exposing sensitive information like names, addresses, and Social Security Numbers.

Initially revealed in 2021 and confirmed in March 2024, the breach led to widespread concern. Customers should immediately update passwords, enable two-factor authentication, monitor financial accounts, check credit reports, use identity theft protection, be wary of phishing attempts, freeze credit, update device security, educate themselves on cyber threats, and stay informed on legal recourse.

Taking these steps can help mitigate risks and protect personal information.

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2024-07-15T14:19:06-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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INTERPOL Operation First Light With 3,950 Arrests – 2024

INTERPOL Operation First Light With 3,950 Arrests

USD 257 million in assets seized in Operation First Light, with 3,950 arrests and the identification of 14,643 suspects spanning 61 countries.

Primary Category: Crimes and Criminals

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  INTERPOL

About This Article

Operation First Light 2024, a global police initiative spanning 61 countries, has struck a significant blow to online scam networks by freezing 6,745 bank accounts and seizing assets worth USD $257 million.

The operation, which targeted various scams including phishing, investment fraud, and romance scams, resulted in 3,950 arrests and the identification of 14,643 additional suspects. Authorities intercepted USD $135 million in regular currency and USD $2 million in cryptocurrency, alongside other high-value assets.

The operation, coordinated by INTERPOL and funded by China’s Ministry of Public Security, underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational organized crime and protecting victims worldwide.

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2024-06-27T19:32:06-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Evolved Apes NFT Scam – 2024

Evolved Apes NFT Scam

The Truth Behind Yet Another Internet Fake Bubble

Primary Category: Crimes & Criminals

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Evolved Apes NFT: The Former Jewel of NFTs – Scammers Face Up to 40 Years in Prison for $2.7M Fraud. In a significant crackdown on NFT-related fraud, three British nationals involved in the “Evolved Apes” NFT scam have been charged in the United States with wire fraud and money laundering. The suspects, Mohamed-Amin Atcha, Mohamed Rilaz Waleedh, and Daood Hassan, are accused of orchestrating a scheme that defrauded investors out of $2.7 million.

If convicted, they face up to 40 years in prison. This case underscores the vulnerabilities within the burgeoning NFT market and highlights the need for regulatory oversight to protect investors from similar fraudulent schemes. NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, represent ownership of unique digital assets, and their initial hype promised a revolutionary change in digital ownership and the creator economy.

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2024-06-25T04:57:12-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Amazon & Global Cyber Alliance Launches CyberFlex to Help Young Adults Avoid Scams and Cybercrime – 2024

Amazon & Global Cyber Alliance Launches CyberFlex to Help Young Adults Avoid Scams and Cybercrime

Creating Better Tools to Help Teens & Young Adults to Stay Safe Online

Primary Category: Scam Victim Advocacy

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) and Amazon announced the launch of CyberFlex.org, an innovative website designed to help 18- to 25-year-olds avoid scams and cybercrimes.

CyberFlex.org offers targeted information, free tools, interactive guides, and text alerts to prevent, mitigate, report, and recover from scams and other cyber risks.

By raising awareness and shifting attitudes about online threats, CyberFlex.org provides young adults with practical steps to protect themselves and share their experiences.

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2024-06-13T13:05:54-04:002024, Advocacy & Systemic Issues, FEATURED ARTICLE, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Thought Patterns That Sustain Depression – An Overview for Scam Victims – 2024

Thought Patterns That Sustain Depression – An Overview for Scam Victims

Helping Scam Victims Understand Depression and the Need For Help!

Primary Category: Recovery Psychology

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Licensed Psychologist, Specialty in Crime Victim Trauma Therapy, Neuropsychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth – Anthropologist, Scientist, Polymath, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Victims of relationship scams often experience profound emotional and psychological impacts, including depression, due to feelings of betrayal and diminished self-worth. Addressing the cognitive patterns that sustain depression is crucial for their recovery.

Almost all scam victims suffer from trauma, and while resilience varies, every victim should be evaluated by a licensed mental health professional to prevent worsening symptoms. There is no shame in seeking help; it is a courageous step towards healing. Mental health professionals provide a safe, non-judgmental space for victims to process their experiences, rebuild self-esteem, and develop coping strategies. Early intervention can mitigate long-term effects, helping victims regain control over their lives and well-being.

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2024-06-10T22:35:43-04:00PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, Physical Health & Wellness, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|
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5 Bulgarian Fraudsters Convicted In The UK – 2024

5 Bulgarian Fraudsters Convicted In The UK

Fraud on a Massive Factory Scale

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by Daily Mail

About This Article

Five Bulgarian fraudsters who defrauded the UK’s Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) of £54 million have been jailed for over 25 years. The gang hijacked 6,000 identities to claim Universal Credit, using children’s names from Bulgaria.

They operated three ‘benefit factories’ in London, producing fake tenancy agreements, payslips, and letters to trick the DWP. The group flaunted their wealth on social media, with photos showing them at Antonia’s Foods supermarket in Wood Green. Ringleader Galina Nikolova, 38, was sentenced to eight years for her key role in the scam, which Judge David Aaronberg described as being conducted on an ‘industrial scale’. Stoyan Stoyanov, 27, received four years, while Gyunesh Ali, 33, was jailed for seven years and three months. Tsvetka Todorova, 52, and Patritsia Paneva, 26, received three years each.

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2024-06-03T10:26:37-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Sadako Toyoda: Another Innocent Scam Victim Money Mule Has Been Arrested In Japan – 2024

Sadako Toyoda 豊田禎: Another Innocent Scam Victim Money Mule Has Been Arrested In Japan

Another Innocent Money Mule Will Go to Prison

Primary Category: Scam Victim’s Story

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  日テレNEWS NNN

About This Article

Sadako Toyoda, a 54-year-old Japanese woman, was manipulated into becoming a money mule by a scammer she met online, leading to her arrest. The scammer, posing as a doctor in a war zone, convinced Toyoda to impersonate a diplomat and collect money from another victim.

On May 29, Toyoda attempted to defraud a woman in Sagamihara City of 1 million yen. Despite being a victim of psychological manipulation, Toyoda faces prison. This case underscores the extreme lengths to which scam victims can be coerced, highlighting the severe impact of such manipulative tactics.

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2024-06-03T08:45:20-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Major European Money Laundering/Money Mule Services Operation Shut Down By Europol – 2024

Major European Money Laundering/Money Mule Services Operation Shut Down By Europol

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Europol

About This Article

Europol, alongside Italian and Portuguese authorities, spearheaded a major crackdown on money mule service providers laundering over EUR 10 million for a criminal organization behind cryptocurrency scams.

Supported by law enforcement from Austria, France, Germany, Romania, Spain, and Switzerland, the operation involved raids in France, Italy, and Romania, resulting in 11 detentions, including the scheme’s mastermind, and the seizure of electronic devices, jewelry, and cryptocurrencies.

The scam targeted millionaires through sophisticated rip-deal scams, utilizing cryptocurrencies. Europol and Eurojust provided critical support, facilitating information exchange and forensic assistance, while Europol’s #DontBeaMule campaign aims to prevent money mule activities across the EU.

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2024-06-02T22:07:53-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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U.S. Government Bans Woman Money Mule From Helping Scammers Anymore – 2024

U.S. Government Bans Woman Money Mule From Helping Scammers Anymore

In a First of Its Kind Decision, the U.S. Court Orders Money Mule to Stop Helping Scammers! This was Required Because She Would Not Stop!

Primary Category: Scam Victim’s Story

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  United States Attorney’s Office, Department of Justice

About This Article

In a landmark decision, the U.S. Federal Government has barred Holly Freidamarie Locke, a 70-year-old Michigan woman, from participating in any further online romance scams. Locke, initially a victim herself, was deceived into acting as a “money mule,” transmitting funds for scammers. Despite police warnings and a signed cease and desist order, she continued facilitating scams.

U.S. District Judge Paul D. Borman approved a consent decree preventing Locke from aiding scammers. This decision, the first of its kind in Michigan, is part of a broader DOJ effort to combat international fraud rings exploiting U.S. citizens.

Locke’s case highlights the manipulation tactics used by scammers and the crucial role of money mules in these schemes. By cutting off this flow of money, the decree aims to protect potential victims and disrupt the operations of fraud networks. Locke did not admit liability in the decree.

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2024-06-02T05:09:46-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Stories & Personal Narratives|
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Pokémon Card Scammers Arrested By FBI – 2024

Pokémon Card Scammers Arrested By FBI

The FBI has arrested Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk for operating a nationwide scam involving sports and Pokémon trading cards.

Primary Category: Criminal Justice

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Federal Bureau of Investigation

About This Article

The FBI has arrested Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk for operating a nationwide scam involving sports and Pokémon trading cards. Charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, the duo allegedly manipulated the market by misrepresenting low-to-mid grade cards as high-grade, authenticated by a reputable grading company, causing victims to overpay and resulting in over $2 million in fraudulent sales.

The scheme, which spanned from 2022 to May 2024, involved selling cards with falsified grades through online marketplaces and in-person venues. Curcio and Bondarchuk used fake identities to conceal their involvement, even after victims confronted them.

The case highlights the FBI’s commitment to combating fraud and protecting consumers in the collectibles market.

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2024-06-01T06:52:08-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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MasterCard opens European Cyber Resilience Centre in Belgium – 2024

Mastercard opens European Cyber Resilience Centre in Belgium

This new Centre will better prepare Europe to Face the Challenges of Cybercrimes and Cyberwarfare

Primary Category: Cybersecurity

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by MasterCard

About This Article

Mastercard has opened its European Cyber Resilience Centre (ECRC) at its European Headquarters in Belgium, highlighting its commitment to combating cyber threats and enhancing resilience in the region. The state-of-the-art centre will improve defenses against cyber threats, expedite response times, and foster collaboration between the public and private sectors.

The ECRC brings together partners from across Europe, including national cyber intelligence centres, law enforcement, and industry bodies. The facility features a Fusion Centre and a Digital Forensics Lab, essential for effective incident response. This initiative reinforces Mastercard’s role in securing the digital ecosystem and protecting consumer and business transactions.

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2024-05-31T03:18:18-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Cybercrime & Technology, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Mariko Takeuchi – Romance Scam Victim Became An Unwitting Drug Mule – 2024

Mariko Takeuchi – Romance Scam Victim Became An Unwitting Drug Mule

An Example of how Online Relationships can get someone arrested!

Primary Category: Victim’s Story

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Yahoo Japan and other sources

About This Article

Mariko Takeuchi, the first Japanese national sentenced to death for drug trafficking in Malaysia, had her death sentence commuted to 30 years in prison on May 29, 2024, following judicial reforms that abolished mandatory capital punishment for certain offenses.

Arrested in 2009 for carrying 3.5 kilograms of methamphetamine from Dubai, she claimed she was unknowingly used as a drug mule by an acquaintance. Despite her defense, Malaysian courts consistently found her testimony not credible, leading to her death sentence in 2011.

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2024-05-30T09:42:39-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Stories & Personal Narratives|
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Europol’s Operation ENDGAME Strikes At Heart Of Cybercrime’s Botnet Universe – 2024

Europol’s Operation ENDGAME Strikes At Heart Of Cybercrime’s Botnet Universe

Europol and Partners Take Down Another Major Botnet Cybercrime Organization

Primary Category: Cybercrime

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Europol

About This Article

Europol’s largest-ever operation against botnets, dubbed Operation Endgame, targeted malware droppers like IcedID, SystemBC, Pikabot, Smokeloader, and Bumblebee. Coordinated from Europol’s headquarters between May 27 and 29, 2024, the operation aimed to disrupt criminal services by arresting high-value targets, taking down criminal infrastructures, and freezing illegal proceeds.

The multinational effort, involving countries such as France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States, led to four arrests, 16 location searches, and the takedown of over 100 servers. This operation, supported by Eurojust and various private partners, addressed the complex challenge of international cybercrime, highlighting the critical role of botnets in deploying ransomware.

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2024-05-30T06:27:35-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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911 S5 Botnet Dismantled – Another Major Botnet Taken Down By Law Enforcement – 2024

911 S5 Botnet Dismantled – Another Major Botnet Taken Down

Law Enforcement Takes Down Another Major Cybercrime Operation

Primary Category: Law Enforcement

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation

About This Article

In a significant international law enforcement operation led by the U.S. Justice Department, the notorious 911 S5 botnet, responsible for infecting over 19 million IP addresses and facilitating large-scale fraud and other crimes, has been dismantled.

The operation resulted in the arrest of YunHe Wang, a Chinese national, who allegedly created and operated the botnet from 2014 to 2022. Wang’s malware compromised millions of residential computers, allowing cybercriminals to commit various offenses, including financial fraud and child exploitation.

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2024-05-29T15:36:42-04:002024, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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U.S. FBI’s IC3.gov Turns 24 Years Old! – 2024

U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation – FBI’s IC3.gov Turns 24 Years Old!

Since the very early days of the Internet (World Wide Web) the FBI has been collecting data and complaints on criminal behavior and helping victims get help!

Law Enforcement – FBI IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Center

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions by ‘Inside the FBI Podcast’

About This Article

The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), established by the FBI in May 2000, is a crucial platform for reporting internet-related crimes such as identity theft, online fraud, phishing, and ransomware. It collects, analyzes, and disseminates cybercrime data, helping identify patterns and emerging threats.

Beyond processing complaints, IC3 enhances public awareness and provides educational resources to prevent cybercrimes. It collaborates with various law enforcement agencies and partners globally to combat cybercrime effectively, making the digital environment safer.

Over its 24 years, IC3 has adapted to evolving threats, continuously working to protect individuals and businesses from sophisticated online scams.

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2024-05-19T17:58:16-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Global Law Enforcement Collaboration Takes Down ‘LabHost’ Phishing-As-A-Service Platform – 2024

Global Law Enforcement Collaboration Takes Down ‘LabHost’ Phishing-As-A-Service Platform

The Takedown of the LabHost Platform is a Major Step in Reducing Phishing Scams

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions from Europol and UK Metropolitan Police

About This Article

Law enforcement agencies from 19 countries collaborated in a year-long operation to disrupt ‘LabHost,’ one of the world’s largest phishing-as-a-service platforms. Coordinated by Europol, the operation resulted in the compromise of LabHost’s infrastructure and the initial arrest of 37 suspects, with the potential for as many as 1,000 more arrests.

LabHost facilitated phishing attacks on users of hundreds of financial institutions worldwide for a monthly subscription fee. The platform, previously available on the open web, has been shut down following the investigation.

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2024-05-02T19:37:16-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, Government Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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UK Government: Social and Psychological Implications of Fraud – 2024

UK Government: Social and Psychological Implications of Fraud

Psychology of Scams

Authors:
•  UK Parliament – Government of the United Kingdom
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Fraud poses a significant threat to the UK, with 4 in 10 offences targeting individuals. The government’s 2023 Fraud Strategy aims to combat this, emphasizing victim support and prevention.

While stereotypes of elderly victims persist, fraud risks vary due to psychological and social factors. Beyond financial loss, fraud inflicts emotional and psychological harm.

Victims often report fraud to banks rather than authorities. Effective prevention strategies involve education and enhanced victim care. This POSTnote underscores the multifaceted nature of fraud and the need for comprehensive, collaborative approaches to mitigate its impact on individuals in England and Wales.

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2024-05-01T12:28:21-04:00PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Government & Regulatory, Government Sources, Physical Health & Wellness, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal – A Romance Scam Victim Who Died Possibly At The Hands Of The Ghana/Nigerian Scammers – 2024 – [Videos]

The Tragic Story Of Laura Kowal

A Romance Scam Victim Who Died Possibly At The Hands Of The Ghana Scammers Who Controlled Here!

A Not Uncommon Case of a Romance Scam Victim Who loses Everything and then becomes a Money Mule for Ghana Scammers

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Portions CBS News and other sources

About This Article

Laura Kowal’s tragic story sheds light on the devastating impact of romance scams, where victims like her become enslaved by expert criminals, leading to dire consequences. Laura, a widow seeking companionship, fell victim to a scam orchestrated by individuals masquerading as her online lover, ‘Frank Borg.’

Despite initial feelings of romance and excitement, Laura eventually became a money mule for Ghana scammers, after ultimately losing $1.5 million.

Mysteriously, she was found drowned in a river, raising suspicions of foul play. Her daughter, Kelly Gowe, tirelessly seeks answers, highlighting the manipulative tactics and devastating consequences of romance scams.

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2024-04-29T04:51:32-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Guest Authors, SCARS Institute Editorial Team, Stories & Personal Narratives|
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Unbelievable Story Of A U.S. Military Soldier Sanda G. Frimpong Involved In A Romance Scam Gang – 2024

Unbelievable Story Of A U.S. Military Soldier Sanda G. Frimpong Involved In A Romance Scam Gang

A U.S. Soldier from Ghana becomes a real romance scam gang member

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Former U.S. Army soldier Sanda G. Frimpong, formerly stationed at Fort Bragg, has been sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for his involvement in a money laundering romance scam targeting vulnerable individuals, including seniors and military veterans, from 2019 to 2022. Frimpong, 33, pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering in exchange for the dismissal of multiple charges, including wire fraud and identity theft.

His fraudulent activities, which included impersonating romantic partners and military personnel, resulted in the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars through various bank accounts and contacts in Ghana.

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2024-04-23T13:24:16-04:002024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Crimes & Criminals, Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Crypto Investment Scams (Pig Butchering Scams) What They Are And How To Avoid Them – 2024

Crypto Investment Scams (Pig Butchering Scams) What They Are And How To Avoid Them

An Introduction to the Explosion of Crypto-Based Investment Scams

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Cezary Podkul, ProPublica

About This Article

The “Pig Butchering Scam” crypto-based investment scam is an online investment fraud scheme where individuals are tricked into investing money by criminals posing as trustworthy contacts. These scammers use various tactics, such as creating fake identities and initiating conversations on social media or messaging apps, to gain victims’ trust.

Once trust is established, victims are manipulated into depositing funds into fake brokerage accounts. The scammers then disappear with the money, leaving victims with substantial financial losses. This deceptive practice preys on unsuspecting individuals’ desire for financial gain and highlights the importance of staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activities to authorities promptly.

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2024-04-14T17:33:31-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, Guest Authors, Other Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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Understanding Psychological Trauma: Insights For Scam Victims From Carl Jung – 2024

Understanding Psychological Trauma: Insights from Carl Jung

Insights into Scam Victims’ Trauma

Scam Victim Recovery Psychology

Authors:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Licensed Psychologist Specialty in Crime Victim Trauma Therapy, Neuropsychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
•  Some information extracted from multiple sources

About This Article

Carl Jung’s analytical psychology offers profound insights into the nature of emotional and psychological trauma. According to Jung, trauma disrupts the delicate balance of the psyche, activating the unconscious and bringing forth repressed emotions and unresolved conflicts.

Jungian analysis emphasizes the importance of facing and integrating the shadow aspects of the personality to achieve wholeness and healing. In the context of scams and scam victims, Jung’s perspective highlights the psychological impact of deceptive schemes, exploring the deeper layers of the psyche to uncover underlying wounds. Understanding archetypal dynamics empowers individuals to become more discerning and resilient in navigating fraudulent schemes.

Read More …

2024-04-14T02:31:26-04:00PSYCHOLOGY, 2024, Tim McGuinness PhD, Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych)|
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Gift Card Gangs From China Operating Inside The United States – 2024

Gift Card Gangs From China Operating Inside The United States

How Organized Crime Gangs from China are Operating inside the U.S.

Authors:
•  Craig Silverman and Peter Elkind, ProPublica
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

Federal authorities are investigating the involvement of Chinese organized crime rings in gift card fraud schemes targeting American consumers, launching a task force named “Project Red Hook” to combat this growing threat. The initiative focuses on preventing “card draining,” where thieves exploit stolen or altered card numbers to siphon money before legitimate owners can use them.

Over the past 18 months, law enforcement has arrested about 100 individuals for card draining, with the majority being Chinese nationals or Chinese Americans. The schemes, estimated to have stolen hundreds of millions of dollars, highlight the need for industry collaboration and heightened security measures.

Read More …

2024-04-12T13:14:37-04:00Crimes & Criminals, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, Guest Authors, Other Sources, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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New Privacy Bill In Congress Offers Real Privacy Rights To Everyone – 2024

New Privacy Bill In Congress Offers Real Privacy Rights To Everyone

Congress appears ready for Comprehensive Privacy Legislation covering all American Businesses (except Small Businesses)

Policy & Regulations

Author:
•  SCARS Editorial Team – Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.

About This Article

The New Bipartisan Privacy Legislation in the U.S., the American Privacy Rights Act, backed by key lawmakers, including Senator Maria Cantwell and Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, introduces substantial cybersecurity mandates affecting various sectors of the economy.

Cantwell’s support marks a departure from previous failed attempts at comprehensive privacy laws, emphasizing the need to make privacy a consumer right.

Amid growing concerns over surveillance capitalism and state-level privacy regulations, the bill mandates corporations to uphold reasonable data security practices, encompassing confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility. It outlines cybersecurity measures like vulnerability assessments and bug reporting while granting consumers rights to access, correction, and opt-out of targeted advertising.

Read More …

2024-04-11T20:29:01-04:00Government & Regulatory, 2024, COUNTRY SPECIFIC, SCARS Institute Editorial Team|
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SCARS Institute™ ScamsNOW Magazine Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [SCARS Institute]

is a publication of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [registered dba SCARS]

To use this website, You Must Read and Agree to the SCARS Legal Policies and Terms and Conditions

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PLEASE NOTE: Psychology Clarification

The following specific modalities within the practice of psychology are restricted to psychologists appropriately trained in the use of such modalities:

Diagnosis: The diagnosis of mental, emotional, or brain disorders and related behaviors.
Psychoanalysis: Psychoanalysis is a type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals to understand and resolve unconscious conflicts.
Hypnosis: Hypnosis is a state of trance in which individuals are more susceptible to suggestion. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and pain.
Biofeedback: Biofeedback is a type of therapy that teaches individuals to control their bodily functions, such as heart rate and blood pressure. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, and pain.
Behavioral analysis: Behavioral analysis is a type of therapy that focuses on changing individuals’ behaviors. It is often used to treat conditions such as autism and ADHD.
Neuropsychology: Neuropsychology is a type of psychology that focuses on the relationship between the brain and behavior. It is often used to assess and treat cognitive impairments caused by brain injuries or diseases.

SCARS and the members of the SCARS Team do not engage in any of the above modalities in relationship to scam victims. SCARS is not a mental healthcare provider and recognizes the importance of professionalism and separation between its work and that of the licensed practice of psychology.

SCARS is an educational provider of generalized self-help information that individuals can use for their own benefit to achieve their own goals related to emotional trauma. SCARS recommends that all scam victims see professional counselors or therapists to help them determine the suitability of any specific information or practices that may help them.

SCARS cannot diagnose or treat any individuals, nor can it state the effectiveness of any educational information that it may provide, regardless of its experience in interacting with traumatized scam victims over time. All information that SCARS provides is purely for general educational purposes to help scam victims become aware of and better understand the topics and to be able to dialog with their counselors or therapists.

It is important that all readers understand these distinctions and that they apply the information that SCARS may publish at their own risk, and should do so only after consulting a licensed psychologist or mental healthcare provider.

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August 5, 2026

New Privacy Bill In Congress Offers Real Privacy Rights To Everyone - 2024
SCARS Institute ScamsNOW Magazine

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New Privacy Bill In Congress Offers Real Privacy Rights To Everyone - 2024