ANDERSON COUNTY S.C. (WSPA) – The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office detectives have reported a significant increase in cryptocurrency scams compared to the previous year.

Detectives have observed a surge in scammers reaching out to individuals either by phone or online to extort money.

Detective Nezar Hamze explained, “Typically, these scams involve the use of Bitcoin ATMs. Victims are instructed to deposit cash into the ATM, which is then converted into digital currency such as U.S. dollars. Once this conversion takes place, the money is irretrievable.”

Various scam tactics are employed, including impersonating U.S. government agencies.

Hamze elaborated, “The scammers often claim that there is a warrant for the individual’s arrest and demand payment in cryptocurrency to avoid imminent arrest.”

Additionally, scammers may deceive individuals by falsely claiming they have won a substantial sum of money in a sweepstakes.

“They might inform you that you have won a prize of $2.5 million or more, but insist that you pay the taxes upfront in cryptocurrency before receiving your winnings,” added Hamze.

Authorities emphasize that these scammers are highly persuasive, urging the public to remain vigilant to safeguard their hard-earned savings.

Hamze advised, “Once the money is transferred, it is virtually impossible to recover. If you ever receive a suspicious call instructing you to withdraw funds from your bank account, make payments, or settle bills using digital currency or cryptocurrency, it is best to terminate the call immediately.”

Even businesses are not immune to such fraudulent schemes.

Hamze recounted a case where an employee received a call purportedly from the company’s district manager. The caller falsely claimed that the electricity supply was at risk of being disconnected and coerced the employee to withdraw $2,500 from the safe, convert it into digital currency, and make a payment to prevent the power outage.

Hamze warned that scammers may resort to online tactics if they are unable to reach individuals via phone.

“If you encounter such a situation on your PC, it is advisable to shut it down immediately. For laptops, simply close the device. Engaging with suspicious links, pop-up windows, or calling provided phone numbers only opens the door to potential financial threats,” cautioned Hamze.

Law enforcement officials stress that legitimate U.S. government agencies do not solicit funds over the phone.

If you suspect that you have fallen victim to a scam, it is recommended to contact your local law enforcement agency promptly for guidance on the necessary steps to address the situation.