U.S. Attorney Joshua D. Hurwit | U.S. Department of Justice
During the holiday season, online scams and fraud schemes become more prevalent, targeting residents in Idaho. In response, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit has collaborated 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, Pocatello Police Department, and AARP to release a final public service announcement (PSA) as part of the "Don’t Click December" Consumer Protection Campaign.
The campaign urges caution when dealing with 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 fourth PSA, Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei, Bonneville County Sheriff Samuel Hulse, and U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit highlight the "Tech Support" scam. This scam involves criminals impersonating officials to extract personal information from victims. Victims may receive pop-ups indicating their accounts have been hacked and are instructed to call a number that connects them to scammers who attempt to access their computers or accounts.
The series of PSAs aims to alert the public about common online fraud schemes affecting Idahoans. New scams continue to emerge; hence law enforcement hopes this campaign will raise awareness and encourage discussions about avoiding suspicious links.
“Through the Don’t Click December campaign, we recognize that any Idahoan with a smartphone, tablet, or computer is likely to be targeted by online criminals at some point,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “But we are not helpless."
Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI emphasized vigilance against evolving scams: “The FBI is committed to prevention and awareness efforts during the holiday season and throughout the year."
The campaign also addresses eliminating stigma for those victimized by these sophisticated schemes designed by professional criminals.
For more information on these scams visit FBI.gov or report incidents at IC3.gov or contact local law enforcement.
