Scammers have stolen over $145,000 from Chatham County residents in the past month through fraudulent schemes involving Bitcoin ATMs and gift cards. The Chatham County Police Department is urging vigilance to prevent further losses.
How the Scam Works:
• Victims receive a call or email that appears to come from a reputable organization (e.g., a bank, Venmo, or Apple).
• Scammers claim there is a problem with the victim’s bank account and instruct them to withdraw cash.
• Victims are directed to deposit funds into a Bitcoin ATM or purchase gift cards and share the codes with the scammers.
• Once the money is sent, the scammers disappear, and the funds cannot be recovered.
Who Is at Risk: While anyone can fall victim to this scam, authorities are particularly concerned about elderly individuals and young adults who may not recognize these fraudulent tactics.
Protect Yourself:
• A legitimate organization will never ask you to withdraw cash, deposit money into a Bitcoin ATM, or pay with gift cards.
• Be wary of unsolicited calls or emails about your finances.
• Always verify requests directly with your bank or financial institution using official contact information.
How You Can Help: Share this warning with family and friends, especially those who may be more vulnerable to scams. If you have any information about these crimes or have been targeted, report it to the Chatham County Police Department via their app, online tip form, or Crime Stoppers at 912-234-2020. Tips can remain anonymous, and rewards may be available.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
