Online Scams

Online Scams

Online Scams: A Growing Threat – Don’t Let Trust Cost You

The North East Crime Reduction Team are urging the public to remain vigilant following a recent case where a local resident fell victim to an elaborate online scam involving impersonation, emotional manipulation, and fraudulent requests for payment via gift cards and bank transfers.

The Scam: How It Unfolded

In this case, the victim was approached on social media after commenting on a video posted by a supposed celebrity based overseas. What began as a friendly exchange quickly escalated into a sustained conversation over messaging apps, including WhatsApp and Wire. The scammer used flattery, trust-building, and even a short video call—likely generated using AI technology—to convince the victim they were speaking to a real person.

The scammer then fabricated a story about a parcel needing to be redirected and held in customs, requesting the victim’s personal details including passport images and address. Over the following weeks, the victim was asked to make multiple payments to release the parcel, starting with Steam gift cards and later escalating to bank transfers totalling thousands of pounds.

Key Warning Signs

This case highlights several common tactics used by scammers:

Impersonation: Scammers often pose as celebrities, professionals, or trusted figures.

Emotional manipulation: They build rapport and trust to lower your guard.

Urgency and pressure: Victims are told they must act quickly or face consequences.

Unusual payment methods: Requests for gift cards, cryptocurrency, or bank transfers are red flags.

Fake courier or customs issues: These are often used to justify repeated payments.

Gift Cards: A Common Tool for Scammers

Gift cards are frequently used in scams because they are untraceable and easy to convert into cash or goods. Scammers ask victims to purchase cards, scratch off the codes, and send images—giving them instant access to the funds.

If anyone asks you to pay using gift cards, it is almost certainly a scam.

Protect Yourself and Others

Never share personal information or documents with someone you’ve only met online.

Be skeptical of unsolicited messages, especially those that escalate into financial requests.

Verify identities independently—don’t rely on video calls or social media profiles.

Report suspicious activity to Police Scotland and Action Fraud.

Online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but by staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. If something feels off, trust your instincts—and remember, real professionals will never ask for payment via gift cards.

This messaging system is not for reporting crime as responses are not monitored 24/7. If you have time-critical information regarding the content of the above message, or if you wish to report any other non-urgent matter, please call 101. In an emergency, call 999.

Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City. The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function. Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community. These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues. They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.

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Message Sent By
Mark Irvine
(Police Scotland, Constable, A Div - Grampian)