Scam Alert: Text Message Fraud Involving Cryptocurrency

Scam Alert

The Maui Police Department has been made aware of a growing scam involving text messages that claim unauthorized charges have been made to your account. These messages often include a phone number to call to “resolve” the issue.

Upon calling the number, callers are told that they are targets of identity theft and must take immediate action to prevent further financial loss. The scammer, posing as a legitimate representative, may insist that the matter is sensitive and should not be reported to local law enforcement, claiming it can be handled internally.

One tactic used by these scammers involves instructing the victim to withdraw large amounts of money and convert it to cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, via a digital coin kiosk.

What You Should Know

• No legitimate financial institution or government agency will ever ask you to withdraw money and deposit it into a cryptocurrency account.

• You should never be told to keep law enforcement out of any financial matter involving potential fraud or identity theft.

• If you receive a suspicious message or call, do not engage. Instead, contact your bank or credit card company directly using verified contact information.

Stay informed. Stay cautious. Stop the scam before it starts.