Police Warn Again About Social Media Scams
The Bermuda Police Service is once again reminding residents to “remain vigilant regarding social media scams.”
A police spokesperson said, “Once such scam currently in circulation is the mystery shopper scam, where local Facebook users are offered employment as a secret shopper and enticed by the opportunity of earning thousands of dollars simply by accepting funds into their personal bank account.
“Other Facebook users seem to validate the scheme, by commenting that they’ve personally earned in excess of $70,000 within a few weeks.
“If a local resident does sign up, they will usually receive between $1,500 and $5,000 into their personal bank account and are informed that they are allowed to keep 10% as payment for their mystery shopper services.
“They are then asked to withdraw the remainder of the cash and instructed to send that money overseas via a local money service business.
“However, any funds deposited into local accounts through this scheme often originate from crime – mainly phishing scams or other electronic fraud – and more than likely, local residents deceived by this scam are unwittingly being used to launder criminal proceeds.
“Separately, residents are warned to be wary of urgent appeals made on social media for money to assist with Hurricane Dorian relief efforts, as scammers have used such tactics before in the aftermath of similar tragic events.
“While there are many legitimate ways to support Hurricane Dorian relief efforts, it is strongly recommended that residents that wish to donate carefully consider their options and verify the authenticity of any person or organisation seeking funds before sending money.
“Any incidents of suspected internet fraud should be reported to the Financial Crime Unit on telephone number 247-1757 or via the e-mail address fraud2@bps.bm. Advice on how to avoid and report scams can also be found here.”
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