THIBODAUX, La. — Through the first 10 months of 2024, Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre says more than 160 parish residents have been scammed out of nearly $1.6 million. Over 40 percent of that total (nearly $657,000) has been lost through cryptocurrency ATMs.
In 2020, residents only lost a reported $33,000 to scammers.
On Thursday, Sheriff Webre issued a warning about these scams and asked the public to warn friends and family members.
“Lafourche Parish residents are being targeted relentlessly by scammers who are convincing them to feed their money into cryptocurrency ATMs where it’s instantly transferred to the scammer,” said Sheriff Webre. “Lately, they are primarily impersonating law enforcement, telling people they missed jury duty or have active warrants, but they have also used other classic scams as well.”
Sheriff Webre also said the number of people scammed could be higher as some victims do not report being scammed out of embarrassment.
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Last week, several parish officials banded together to create a video for social media detailing ongoing scams and explaining that no public agencies accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment.
The sheriff said that since the video premiered, three more individuals (ages 30, 75, and 79) have reported being scammed using a cryptocurrency ATM, losing more than $43,000 collectively.
Modern scam artists are not just targeting the elderly. The average age of victims in 2024 is 52 years, with victims ranging in age from 20 to 81.
“We are seeing people of all ages and all walks of life fall victim to these scams,” said Sheriff Webre. “It’s not just the elderly."
Sheriff Webre urges everyone to talk to family members and ensure they are aware of these scams.
“It’s time for everyone to have a conversation with your family," he said. "Explain to them there is never a legitimate reason for someone to direct you to a cryptocurrency ATM or to purchase gift cards for legitimate business. If they are ever in doubt, tell them to hang up and call an officially listed agency phone number. They can also call our office, and we will assist them accordingly. Let’s ensure we protect our residents from these heartless con artists!”
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