Springfield Residents Lose Over $624,000 to Cryptocurrency Scams
SPRINGFIELD – In the past 18 months, individuals in the Springfield area have reported losing over $624,000 due to cryptocurrency scams. With 29 victims involved, these crimes are becoming more frequent and complex; recently, four people were defrauded of $60,000 within just one week.
On Monday, authorities from Springfield Police and the Hampden Sheriff’s Department issued a warning, highlighting that many scams are linked to their departments. Scammers often impersonate law enforcement officials, claiming they can eliminate outstanding warrants or facilitate bail for loved ones in exchange for cash deposits into bitcoin ATMs.
“The frequency and cunningness of these scams are escalating,” said Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers. “Detectives have been diligently addressing the issue over the past year and a half, and it has recently intensified.”
The victims span across Western Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut, with most bitcoin transactions occurring in Springfield, except for one in West Springfield.
Akers, alongside Det. Sgt. Donald Denault and Frank Ott of the Hampden Sheriff’s Department, assured the public that no legitimate law enforcement officer will request money, particularly through bitcoin or gift cards. “Scammers are preying on our community’s fear, taking advantage of honest individuals,” warned Hampden Sheriff Nick Cocchi.
Many variations of the scams exist, but the recent common scheme involves callers impersonating current law enforcement, claiming to have arrest warrants for issues such as jury duty absenteeism. In one instance, a local business lost $5,000 when a caller posed as a fire marshal demanding payment for an inspection.
Police urge residents to report any suspicious calls immediately. They emphasized that once money is deposited into a bitcoin account, it becomes nearly impossible to retrieve, complicating investigations. “We need the community’s help to spread awareness about these scams,” Akers stated, highlighting the importance of ensuring older relatives are informed about these threats.
