09/25/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/25/2024 15:10
DES MOINES-Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird today issued a warning to Iowans about "pig-butchering" scams.
Pig-butchering scams are long cons that occur when con artists connect with someone online and build a relationship over a period of time before tricking them into sending money. These con artists bond over common interests and make false promises of love, affection, and opportunity to build trust. Then, they take advantage of "Iowa nice" and steal everything they can. Typically, these scammers convince people to send money in forms where they have no defenses, such as through cryptocurrency ATMs.
"Most of us don't think we could fall for a scam until it happens," said Attorney General Bird. "And these scammers do not stop until they take everything you have. Be on the look out for pig-butchering scams. They are evil, long cons that not only steal people's money but manipulate their emotions. And please remember to never send money to someone you met online."
One example is a central Iowa man who was tricked into a pig-butchering scam just after his divorce. He connected with a scammer posing as a single woman on an online dating app, and they built a relationship over time. After making plans to meet in-person, the scammer claimed she could not make it because her car broke down. A second scammer, claiming to be the woman's brother, then contacted the Iowan. The "brother" said the Iowan would receive a large inheritance if he promised to take care of his sister. To receive the inheritance, the Iowan was told to pay "required" government fees and shipping costs. The Iowan not only sent more than $100,000 through cryptocurrency ATMs and gift cards, but he was left emotionally devastated. The Iowan realized that he had been scammed when he was contacted by the Iowa Attorney General's Office.
Pig-Butchering Scam Tactics:
How to Protect Yourself:
If you are suspicious of a pig-butchering scam, contact the Iowa Attorney General's office at 888-777-4590 or file a complaint online: https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-consumers/file-a-consumer-complaint.
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For More Information:
Alyssa Brouillet | Press Secretary
515-823-9112