During the holiday season, online scams and fraud schemes become more prevalent, targeting Idaho residents. In response, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, in collaboration with the FBI, Fort Hall Police Department, Bannock County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, Idaho Falls Police Department, and Pocatello Police Department, has released a second Public Service Announcement (PSA) as part of the "Don’t Click December" Consumer Protection Campaign. The AARP is also participating in this initiative.

The campaign urges the public to be cautious when receiving unsolicited online communications from unknown or unverified sources. Law enforcement advises: “Don’t Click It” if there is any doubt about a link or message.

In the second PSA, Bannock County Prosecutor Stephen Herzog, Idaho Falls Police Chief Bryce Johnson, and U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit address the “QR Code” scam. This scam involves corrupt QR codes sent via email or text that can lead to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information. Individuals are advised to verify QR codes with businesses if they seem suspicious.

As part of the campaign, two additional PSAs will be released before Christmas to inform the public about common online fraud schemes affecting Idahoans.

Law enforcement officials acknowledge that new schemes continually emerge. They hope the "Don’t Click December" campaign will raise awareness and encourage discussions about avoiding scams. “We have witnessed many Idahoans lose their hard-earned money or their entire retirement savings to online scams," said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. He emphasized the importance of community dialogue and thanked law enforcement partners and AARP for their involvement in the campaign.

The campaign also aims to reduce stigma for victims of online schemes and promotes reporting scams to authorities such as the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov.

For more information on scams targeting Americans, visit FBI.gov.