Warning: Nationwide Bitcoin Scam Targets Victims with Fake Jury Duty Threats in Bryan, Texas
Nationwide Bitcoin Scam Targets Victims with Fake Jury Duty Notices
BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – A disturbing new trend in scams is sweeping the nation, and local law enforcement is sounding the alarm. Victims are being targeted through phone calls and emails that threaten arrest over alleged jury duty violations, all in an effort to siphon off their hard-earned money.
According to Joni Zhuleku, co-founder of Altocoin Pro, scammers are now employing artificial intelligence to craft more convincing threats. “It’s not just Bitcoin; there are numerous scams evolving, especially with the advent of AI,” Zhuleku explained. “These bad actors often impersonate legitimate exchanges to gain trust.”
Once a victim is ensnared, the scammers demand immediate payment, directing them to Bitcoin kiosks at convenience stores rather than traditional wire transfers or gift cards. Bryan Police Public Information Officer Seth Waller warns that once cash is deposited into these machines, it is instantly transferred to untraceable digital wallets. “It’s very difficult to get that money back. Once that money is entered into the machine, it hits all different kinds of wallets and it’s gone within minutes,” Waller said. “We’re seeing thousands of dollars a month being scammed out of people through this Bitcoin machine scam.”
In response to the rising threat, some local convenience stores have begun posting warning signs near Bitcoin kiosks to alert customers. Police emphasize that scammers rely heavily on panic tactics to prevent victims from questioning the legitimacy of the calls. “They instill fear, making you believe you’re in trouble or have done something wrong,” Waller noted. “But you can always hang up and verify the phone number you called from.”
Local law enforcement reminds residents that no legitimate law enforcement agency or government court will ever demand payment over the phone or through cryptocurrency machines. If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scam, you are encouraged to report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center or contact the Bryan Police Department at 979-209-5300 for verification.
As scams continue to evolve, staying informed and vigilant is the best defense against becoming a victim.
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