Fake Microsoft, FTC scams cost victims $670K over three days

Key Points:

• Over three days, scammers defrauded residents of Clallam County, Washington, out of more than $670,000 using tactics such as posing as Microsoft and FTC employees.
• The largest scam involved an 84-year-old victim who was tricked into handing over approximately $420,000 in gold to a man at their driveway, believing they were under investigation for serious crimes.
• Other scams included victims losing money through purchasing Apple gift cards, clicking malicious emails granting scammers financial access, and downloading fake cryptocurrency apps.
• Authorities warn that scammers exploit fear, trust, and urgency, advising people to pause and verify any suspicious requests with trusted family, banks, or law enforcement before sending money or valuables.
• The sheriff’s office emphasizes that legitimate companies and government agencies will never ask victims to buy gold, gift cards, or cryptocurrency, send valuables in person, or grant remote access to devices.