Showing posts with label fraud. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fraud. Show all posts

AG sues man who used fake business to trick women into sex

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Attorney General Bob Ferguson Wednesday filed a consumer protection lawsuit against a man who for nearly a decade engaged in an elaborate scheme, using a fictional business and promises of employment, to deceive women into posing for nude photos and having sex with him.

In the complaint filed late yesterday in King County Superior Court, Michael-Jon Matthew “Matt” Hickey is accused of multiple violations of the Washington Consumer Protection Act and the Commercial Electronic Mail Act.

The complaint alleges Hickey created an elaborate business enterprise that offered and advertised
Stwalley Facebook profilecommercial services solely for his personal gain and sexual gratification, never attempting or intending to follow through on the promised services.

“This is one of the most egregious scams I’ve seen as Attorney General,” Ferguson said. “Beyond the monetary damage his victims suffered pursuing the defendant’s fictional job opportunities, they endured emotional trauma and unconscionable loss of privacy through his deception.”

Hickey posed as a woman named Deja Stwalley, contacting women via social media sites claiming to run a “woman-owned” talent recruiting company called New Seattle Talent, and offering to connect women with high-paying jobs in the adult entertainment industry.

Hickey, however, had no intention of helping these women find jobs. He created a fake business in order to convince his victims to pose for nude photos and have sex with him as part of a phony “audition” process.

Beyond the Stwalley profile, which was deliberately cultivated with more than 1,000 friends, Hickey further created a veil of legitimacy with fake business websites, email addresses and a Google Voice number with a Las Vegas area code.

Hickey identified young women between the ages of 17 and 25 on Facebook, contacting them through Stwalley’s profile and presenting them with an opportunity to audition for a local indie/alternative adult film studio. Stwalley assured many women that they “TOTALLY have the look they’re going for” and could earn anywhere from $1,200 to $3,500 a day. To be considered for these upcoming opportunities, all they needed to do was “audition with one of our specially chosen ‘hunks’.”

All auditions were conducted by Hickey, often at his apartment or a Seattle hotel.

The audition was a three-step process. First, prospective actresses underwent a “job interview” that included presenting a driver’s license and answering a series of questions that served to “figure out what kinds of work you’re interest in doing, sexual preferences, prior experience, and so on.”

Hickey, posing as Stwalley’s photographer, often read these questions aloud from a typed questionnaire form. He then wrote down the verbal responses and asked women to sign the bottom of the questionnaire. Hickey misled women into signing a photo release contract that claimed that the nude photos were “for the purposes of scouting proofs and reference material for employment only.”

In fact, Hickey used these photos for his own purposes, and to this day, the photos still appear online.

After the job interview, the women participated in a nude photo shoot with Hickey. Stwalley and New Seattle Talent described these photos as “mug shots” that are sent to “studio producers and videographers to see what they’ve got to work with.”

Victims described Hickey as professional and focused during the shoot. One woman told investigators Hickey gave her direction and seemingly professional feedback during the shoot, telling her what kind of photos producers in the adult entertainment industry are looking for. Hickey even paused during the photo shoot to “send photos to Deja,” who Hickey said responded that the photos were looking good.

Finally, prospective actresses auditioned by having sex with Hickey. “Stwalley” told women that the sex was an “attitude test” necessary to secure jobs. Stwalley explained that Hickey’s written review of each woman’s sexual performance would be included in her talent portfolio.

After the audition, Hickey would string victims along for months, even years. Hickey — as Stwalley — told women, “I got a bite for you” and “I have a ton of producers for you to meet.” Stwalley even named specific film studios that she claimed had reviewed the woman’s audition materials and “liked the photos.” Hickey often used these fake claims of interest to schedule additional photo shoots.

In reality, Hickey never made any effort to find work for his victims, and he had no contacts or experience in the adult entertainment industry.

Hickey also created a second fake profile named Chrissy Baaten to serve as an endorsement of Stwalley and her business. That profile was registered with the email address fakegirl@matthickey.com.

Baaten wrote to one woman, “I’m in the industry. Deja hooked me up last year AND I LOVE IT.”

ThroughChrissy Baaten messages this fake account Hickey assured women that they could make considerable money working with Stwalley. Baaten also told women that they should be taking photos with Hickey “every six months at least.”

The complaint asks the court to order Hickey to stop his deceptive practices, provide restitution to victims and impose civil penalties of up to $2,000 per violation. Each unfair or deceptive act Hickey committed in furtherance of his “business” could constitute a separate Consumer Protection Act violation.

Once Hickey has been served with the complaint, he will have 30 days to respond.

Assistant Attorneys General Andrea Alegrett and Leilani Fisher are handling the case.

If you believe you are a victim of this scam or have been contacted by Matt Hickey posing as someone else online, please contact investigator Charlann Schakel at 206-389-3850 or at

Complaints related to this case or other consumer issues can also be filed here.



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Door to door scam in Kenmore

Thursday, December 1, 2016

The Northshore Fire Department received a report about two individuals that were knocking on doors in their neighborhood in Kenmore stating they were from the "fire department" and were offering a free inspection of their smoke detectors.

These individuals were not dressed in fire department uniforms nor did they present any type of fire department identification. The Northshore Fire Department is not participating in any type of smoke detector servicing or replacement program at this time.

We do not know who is out soliciting citizens for these services. We assume that these individuals are using the fire department name to gain trust for commercial purposes or who know some type of a criminal activity.

--LFP Police Chief Sutton



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Use caution to avoid scammers pretending to be Seattle City Light

Thursday, November 17, 2016

City Light has produced a video to help
customers avoid being scammed
Watch it here
Seattle City Light is reminding customers to protect their personal financial information to avoid becoming a victim of scammers posing as City Light employees. 

City Light produced a video with the Seattle Police Department with tips on how to protect yourself. Watch it here.

When a customer is past due on a bill, Seattle City Light will take steps to notify the customer multiple times before shutting off power. 

Seattle City Light will always direct customers to the secure online payment system or to call 206-684-3000 to make a payment.

Seattle City Light employees will never ask for payment in person and will always be able to produce identification if informing a customer in-person of a past-due bill.

During winter, scammers may attempt to take advantage of the perfect storm of higher heating bills that come with lower temperatures. Scammers may demand thousands of dollars and threaten to shut off power if payment isn’t made immediately.

Vulnerable residents, including non-English speaking individuals, elderly people, and small-business owners may be targeted by scammers. These threats can take place over the phone, by email or in person at customer homes and businesses. Some scammers use caller ID impersonating Seattle City Light’s customer service number to convince customers that they are talking to the utility.

“We have a great team that works hard to make sure your service is provided safely and securely,” says Kelly Enright, Director of Customer Care at Seattle City Light. “If you’re ever in doubt when you receive a suspicious call, hang up and reach out to us directly. By initiating the call, you’ll have more confidence in who you’re speaking with on the other end of the line.”

If customers have concerns about the validity of a contact and want to ensure they’re talking to Seattle City Light, they are encouraged to call Seattle City Light directly at 206-684-3000. Learn more about how to avoid becoming a victim here



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Sen. Maralyn Chase says $18m GMA campaign fine ‘appropriate and necessary’

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Sen. Maralyn Chase, D-Shoreline, issued this statement regarding Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s announcement of a record $18 million fine to the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) for violating the state’s campaign disclosure laws.

“This penalty was appropriate and necessary, a fitting punishment for an organization that waged a conscious, covert campaign to sabotage an overwhelmingly popular voter initiative that would have dispelled much of the mystery surrounding the production of foods we eat. 
“This is a textbook case of corporate abuse of power and privilege. The initiative to label genetically engineered foods had 66 percent public support before the GMA funneled $11 million through a secret account that hid the source of the contributions and who was behind the ‘no’ campaign. The resulting media avalanche, the most expensive campaign in state history, narrowly defeated the initiative, 51 to 49 percent. The public was steamrolled. 
“It is my hope that this fine will send a resounding message to corporate criminals who think their deep pockets give them a license to deceive the public. Washingtonians want honest, transparent elections. We passed our election laws to ensure that, and this fine proves our state will not look the other way at those who would wantonly break those laws.” 

See previous article



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Grocery Manufacturers Association to pay state $18M for intentionally violating state campaign finance laws

In a historic decision, a Thurston County Superior Court judge ordered the Grocery Manufacturers Association to pay $18 million in penalties and punitive damages, after Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s lawsuit revealed GMA intentionally violated Washington campaign finance laws.

The case arose from Ferguson’s investigation of the finances of opposition to voter Initiative 522, which would have required labeling of genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, in food sold to consumers. 

The ruling against GMA — a Washington, D.C.-based trade group representing major food, beverage and consumer companies — is believed to constitute the largest campaign finance judgment in United States history.

Ferguson filed the lawsuit against GMA in October 2013. Earlier this year, Judge Hirsch granted the Attorney General’s Motion for Summary Judgment and ruled that GMA violated state campaign finance laws when it failed to register and report its political committee, which opposed I-522.

GMA was identified as the largest contributor to the “No on 522” political committee in campaign disclosure filings. However, over 30 members of GMA actually financed the opposition campaign through a special, earmarked account but were not initially identified as individual donors.

Judge Hirsch then ordered a trial to determine whether GMA’s violations were intentional. Under Washington state law, penalties for campaign finance disclosure violations can equal the amount of money concealed from Washington voters. Where a court finds that the violation was intentional, the court has discretion to triple that penalty.

In Wednesday’s ruling, Judge Hirsch determined that GMA’s violations of law were intentional and tripled a $6 million penalty, for a total of $18 million, including punitive damages.

Judge Hirsch explained the factors in favor of imposing the penalty and punitive damages:

“Those factors include violation of the public’s right to know the identity of those contributing to campaigns for or against ballot title measures on issues of concern to the public, the sophistication and experience of GMA executives, the failure of GMA executives to provide complete information to their attorneys, the intent of GMA to withhold from the public the true source of its contributors against Initiative 522, the large amount of funds not reported, the large number of reports filed either late or not at all, and the latest of the eventual reporting just shortly before the 2013 election.”

In 2013, GMA raised over $14 million for a new “Defense of Brands” account. These funds came as a solicitation and were above and beyond regular member association dues. PepsiCo, for example, contributed nearly $3 million to the account. Nestle and Coca-Cola contributed nearly $2 million each.

GMA then contributed $11 million of that $14 million to “No on 522.” In an effort to shield individual companies from required disclosure, the money was listed as coming from GMA, not the actual donors, such as Pepsi, Nestle and Coke.

Internal GMA documents obtained as a result of Ferguson’s lawsuit revealed an intentional, systematic effort to conceal the true sources of those contributions to “No on 522.”

In 2013, the top 10 contributors to GMA’s Defense of Brands account and their contributions (as of 12/3/13) were:
  1. PepsiCo: $2.696 million
  2. Nestle USA, Inc.: $1.751 million
  3. The Coca-Cola Company: $1.742 million
  4. General Mills: $996,000
  5. ConAgra: $949,000
  6. Campbell Soup: $441,000
  7. The Hershey Company: $413,000
  8. J.M. Smucker: $401,000
  9. Kellogg: $369,000
  10. Land O’Lakes: $332,000
The ruling from Judge Anne Hirsch included the $18 million penalty plus an award of trial and investigative costs as well as attorney fees. Those costs and fees will be determined at a separate court hearing to be scheduled.



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Judge rules 5-Hour ENERGY® violated Consumer Protection Act

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Judge rules claims
are false
Company used thousands of deceptive ads to mislead consumers

The makers of 5-hour ENERGY® violated the state’s Consumer Protection Act by making claims in thousands of ads that were not backed by scientific evidence, according to a ruling filed in King County Superior Court today.

After a three week trial that ended in early September, King County Superior Court Judge Beth Andrus agreed with Attorney General Bob Ferguson that advertising campaigns and press releases by the companies that produce 5-hour ENERGY® — Living Essentials LLC and Innovation Ventures LLC — were misleading.

Judge Andrus issued her 59-page ruling after the court closed on Friday.

Ferguson filed the lawsuit in July of 2014 against the makers of 5-hour ENERGY®, a popular flavored energy shot sold in 1.93 oz. containers. The Attorney General’s Office alleged they deceived consumers with ads claiming that doctors recommend 5-hour ENERGY®; that the product is superior to coffee because its “energy blend” interacts in a “synergistic” way with caffeine to make the energy and alertness associated with caffeine last longer; and that Decaf 5-hour ENERGY® provides consumers with energy, alertness and focus that lasts for hours.

“The makers of 5-hour ENERGY® misled consumers in pursuit of profit,” Ferguson said. “They broke the law, and they will be held accountable for their deception.”

One ad campaign implied that doctors recommend the product based on survey data. The judge agreed that 5-hour ENERGY®’s “Ask Your Doctor” campaign inappropriately combined two separate surveys — one done online, and one by paper with very different survey methodology. The results of those surveys did not support the ads’ impression that 73 percent of doctors in both surveys recommended 5-hour ENERGY®, the judge ruled.

Further, the judge agreed with an expert who testified for the Attorney General’s Office that the surveys were based on biased questions designed to solicit positive responses for the energy drink.

Ferguson also challenged claims that 5-hour ENERGY® was superior to coffee because of the “synergistic” interaction of caffeine and the energy drink’s other ingredients. Judge Andrus agreed that the claims were not backed by scientific evidence.

Judge Andrus wrote: “None of the studies Living Essentials submitted to the Court support the claim that combining specific B vitamins, taurine, choline, glucuronolactone and tyrosine with caffeine will cause the energy, alertness and focus effects of caffeine to last longer than if the caffeine were consumed alone.”

Judge Andrus also agreed Defendants’ claims that decaffeinated 5-hour ENERGY® offered similar effects to the product’s caffeinated version lacked “competent and reliable scientific evidence.”

Judge Andrus sided with the makers of the product that there is scientific evidence to support that the non-caffeine ingredients in 5-hour ENERGY® themselves may support energy and alertness. She also found that the companies didn’t violate the Consumer Protection Act with the claim that the product doesn’t produce a “crash.”

Judge Andrus will determine the penalties and other remedies in the case at a future date.

Lisa Erwin and Trisha McArdle, both senior counsel with the Attorney General’s Office, and Assistant Attorneys General Daniel Davies and Kimberlee Gunning handled the case.



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New scam: pop up from your ISP - or is it?

Sunday, September 11, 2016

By Diane Hettrick

Crooks are so inventive. As soon as most of us figure out a scam, they come up with a new one.

This new one is a variation on the cold call from "Microsoft" telling you that there is something wrong with your computer that they need to fix immediately. Of course they will need your passwords and credit card information.

In this version, a pop up window shows on your computer screen while you are checking emails or browsing the internet. It claims to be a notice from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) - usually Comcast or AT/T - saying that you need to call immediately to get assistance to clear your computer of viruses or malware.

It's so authentic looking - and new - that even experts are almost taken in.

Here's a good article about it - with probably more information than you need: Tech support scams target victims via their ISP.



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Dept of Ecology fines Volkswagen for violation of state's air quality laws

Saturday, August 6, 2016

The Washington Department of Ecology has fined automaker Volkswagen $176 million for installing illegal software on many of its diesel vehicles to cheat and falsify emissions tests. These diesel vehicles emitted up to 40 times the permitted levels of nitrogen oxides – a harmful air pollutant.

“Volkswagen’s actions violated our state’s air quality laws and put people’s health at risk,” said Ecology Director Maia Bellon. “This has caused irreparable damage to the publics’ trust.”

Volkswagen installed sophisticated software designed to turn on a vehicle’s full suite of emissions controls only when it detected that the car’s emissions were being tested, and turn them off during normal driving. This deceitful action released harmful amounts of nitrogen oxides into the air.

Exposure to these pollutants is linked with a range of serious health effects, including increased asthma attacks, and contributes to premature death from respiratory-related or cardiovascular disease. Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory diseases are particularly vulnerable to these pollutants.

The $176 million penalty holds the automaker accountable for the environmental damage caused by the more than 21,000 vehicles registered in Washington with the fraudulent software.

The penalty is based on per-vehicle violations, and once collected will be held in an air pollution control account that is used to reduce air pollution in Washington.

Volkswagen now has 30 days to appeal the penalty to the Washington Pollution Control Hearings Board.

In a separate consumer settlement, Washington and 42 other states, plus the District of Columbia, are part of a multistate investigation into Volkswagen’s actions. (See previous story).


To find out which vehicles are affected and learn more about this issue, visit EPA’s website for consumer information or Ecology’s website to learn about Washington’s actions.



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Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced a $26 million plus agreement with Volkswagen

Monday, August 1, 2016

Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced a more than $26 million agreement with Volkswagen over its deceptive marketing of its “clean diesel” vehicles, plus restitution for consumers and billions in investments in clean technology development and environmental mitigation.

The $26.1 million recovery is believed to represent the third-largest Consumer Protection recovery in Washington’s history.

In related litigation, hundreds of millions of dollars will be returned to Washington consumers as restitution, and Volkswagen will either buy back or repair affected vehicles.

“Consumers specifically sought these supposedly green vehicles in an effort to make a better choice for the environment, only to discover Volkswagen deliberately deceived them,” Ferguson said. “Volkswagen pulled a bait-and-switch on Washington consumers, and our agreement holds them accountable.”

This is part of a series of state and federal agreements that will provide cash payments to affected consumers and require Volkswagen to buy back or modify certain VW and Audi 2.0-liter diesel vehicles.

AG Ferguson, along with attorneys general of five other states (Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon and Tennessee), co-led a multi-state coalition of states and jurisdictions investigating the allegations against Volkswagen.

As a result of this agreement with the attorneys general, Volkswagen will pay the states $1,100 per car for repeated violations of consumer protection laws, for a total of $570 million nationwide. This includes $24,387,000 to Washington for the 22,170 affected vehicles sold in the state. Washington will also receive an additional $1,739,120 for its role as a leader in the investigation, for a total of more than $26 million.

Volkswagen will also pay $20 million to the states for their costs in investigating this matter and to establish a fund that state attorneys general can utilize for future initiatives, including investigations concerning emissions violations and automobile compliance.

The agreement preserves all claims under state environmental laws. Consequently, Washington maintains the right to seek environmental penalties from Volkswagen for its violations of environmental and emissions laws and regulations.

The full details of the agreement are available online.
 FTC information here.



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Sheriff's Office warns of Jury Scam

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

The King County Sheriff’s Office wants to warn you of a SCAM that has been occurring in the Seattle area over the last couple of years. Someone may call you and identify themselves as a King County deputy or detective and tell you that you failed to show up for jury duty.

But wait there’s more…. once they have your attention they will threaten you with jail unless you pay a fine immediately. Usually they will request a credit card number over the phone or even ask you to go to a nearby store to purchase a gift card and then tell them the card number. THIS IS A SCAM!!!! Do not give them any money.

Fortunately most of the citizens who have called the Sheriff’s Office checking the validity of the call have not given any money to the scammers. So what should you do if you get one of these calls? Hang-up!  Yes, that’s right, hang-up!

The Sheriff’s Office would NEVER call you about a warrant and ask you to pay over the phone. The scammers are very convincing but, DO NOT FALL FOR IT! Do not pay anyone over the phone for an alleged warrant for failing to report for jury duty.

--King County Sheriff's Office



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Seattle Pain Clinic - medical director suspended, clinics closed

Monday, July 18, 2016

The Washington State Medical Commission has suspended the Medical Director of Seattle Pain Centers, Frank D. Li, for alleged violations of the Uniform Disciplinary Act and for violation of the Washington State Pain Rules.


The action impacts eight clinics throughout Washington including one in North Seattle on the campus of Northwest Hospital.

Charges say Dr. Li consistently provided treatment that was an extreme departure from the standard of care, exposing patients of Seattle Pain Centers to risks of harm for opioid addiction, diversion, and overdose.

The Medical Commission alleges Dr. Li specifically sought Medicaid-enrolled patients with the intent to bill the maximum allowable amount by requiring unnecessary testing and procedures. Further, charges state, he intentionally employed recently graduated clinicians with little-to-no experience in pain management and that Li maintained unacceptable levels of oversight and management necessary to fulfill the duties of a medical director of a safe practice.

The most serious charges involved failing to appropriately respond to clearly demonstrated patient risk behaviors documented in medical records; and as medical director, failing to investigate reports of patient deaths or hospitalizations attributed to treatment received at Seattle Pain Centers.

The Medical Commission has opened investigations on all medical doctors and physician assistants practicing at the Seattle Pain Centers based on concerns of poor practice standards in place throughout the Seattle Pain Center organization.

The Department of Health urges patients of the Seattle Pain Centers to contact their health insurance company and primary care provider as soon as possible to try to minimize disruptions in their care. The Medical Commission has additional information for patients (PDF) of Seattle Pain Centers.



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LFP Police warn of current scams

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Lake Forest Park police recently shared two examples of telephone scams that were tried on local residents.

Today we received a call from a citizen asking for the photo enforcement department. Our citizen said they received a call from us about a photo ticket. We don’t have a photo enforcement department. The scammer identified the victim’s vehicle plate and told the victim they needed to send money or face license suspension. This is a SCAM!! Your driver’s license cannot be suspended for not paying a photo ticket. If you receive one of these calls get as much information as you can and call the LFP Police at 206-364-8216.

These calls can come from anywhere and any country. The scammers are using information that is available online.

This one has resurfaced: A caller tells you that you have a warrant for your arrest for missing jury duty and they want you to pay-up or risk going to jail. Most times they want you to wire money or send prepaid credit cards or simply give them a credit card number …. DON’T DO IT. If you have a warrant for your arrest you’ll know it. We won’t call you, we’ll just knock on your door, in uniform, with authentic identification, and real badge smile emoticon Please don’t fall for this one.

Last week someone in Shoreline was caught by the "Grandson Scam." The caller says that their grandson is in jail in another state or country and needs money right away to get out. Sometimes the caller even claims to be the grandson. The concerned grandparents follow the instructions to wire money before they find out that they've been scammed. In this case, a few follow up questions would have revealed that the call was a scam, but many people are too rattled to question the info.



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You don't have to open the door to solicitors

Thursday, June 9, 2016

Door-to-door solicitors must carry solicitor licenses

To ensure public safety, the City of Shoreline regulates the activities of door-to-door sales people and solicitors. It requires for-profit solicitors to file a written application for a license with the Shoreline City Clerk and carry the license at all times when soliciting or canvassing. Solicitors must produce the license when requested by persons being solicited, police, or City officials.

Over the past several months, the City has received reports of individuals representing a company called RED Safety canvassing neighborhoods offering home fire-safety inspections. As of this date, these individuals have not obtained their individual solicitors’ licenses and are soliciting illegally.

It is also important to note that representatives of RED Safety do not work for or in conjunction with the Shoreline Fire Department.

Shoreline firefighters do not go door-to-door offering home fire-safety inspections or any type of safety checks inside private residences.

If someone comes to your door, ask to see their credentials and their City of Shoreline soliciting license. If they refuse or do not have them, ask them to leave. If you encounter a solicitor who becomes aggressive or will not take “no” for an answer, ask them to leave, shut the door and call 911. 

Never invite a solicitor into your home or answer the door if you feel uncomfortable. You can say “no thank you” without opening the door.

To report suspicious behavior of individuals coming to your door, call 911 or call the non-emergency Police line at 206-296-3311 to report fraud or suspected fraud. For more information about solicitor licenses, call the City Clerk’s Office at 206-801-2230.

--City of Shoreline



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Don’t be a Target: Avoid Cybercrimes

Friday, April 8, 2016

Don’t be a Target: Avoid Cybercrimes

Cybercrime can affect anyone and everyone, and the potential damage is significant and costly.

It’s not enough to just talk about it. Individuals and families are at risk of being a victim of cybercrime even when they are doing nothing inappropriate online. Brett Shavers, author of Placing the Suspect Behind the Keyboard will help you learn ways of using the Internet that can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft, extortion, or hacking. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

Saturday, April 9, 2-3pm at the Lake Forest Park Library Meeting Room, lower level Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way, Lake Forest Park.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Lake Forest Park Library.



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Attorney General: Refunds for LCD product purchases 1998-2006

Thursday, April 7, 2016

Did you purchase a television, smart phone, monitor, notebook computer, color-screen cell phone or color-screen iPod with an LCD flat screen during the time period of 1998 through 2006? If so, you may be entitled to a refund.

The Attorney General’s Office has secured a $63 million recovery — one of the largest in state history — from nine liquid crystal display (LCD) panel manufacturers who conspired for years to drive up prices of their products. Because of the ubiquitous presence of LCD products in the everyday lives of consumers, millions of people may benefit from the recovery.

Here is everything you need to know about the recovery and the free claims process now available on our website.

It is important to act soon in order to qualify for a share of the recovery money.

Meanwhile, we have alerted consumers to avoid a third-party agent that has also set up a claims website, but will charge a hefty fee for the service. As explained in this release, with the official free and easy claims process in place, there is no reason for consumers to pay a fee to seek restitution from the LCD settlement.




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The IRS is NOT filing a lawsuit against you

Friday, April 1, 2016

FBI Seattle Division IRS Criminal Investigation Seattle Field Office US Marshals Service,
Western District of Washington US District Court of Western Washington
Yakima Police Department US Attorney’s Office, Western District of Washington

I don't know about you, but I personally am getting two robo-calls a day, telling me that the IRS is filing a lawsuit against me and I had better call this number right away. I know that at least one Shoreline resident was swept away by sheer panic, called the number, and sent the scammers $3000.

The onslaught of fraudulent calls, emails, and letters in Washington state is so severe right now that the Seattle FBI office has sent out a joint press release from six agencies with information about the current scams and what you can do to help stop them.

JOINT NEWS RELEASE

This April Fool’s Day, don’t get fooled by scammers pretending to be from the FBI, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), US Marshals Service, or any other federal agency.

Law enforcement officials are aware of a recent wave of scam attempts targeting Washington state residents. Callers identify themselves as a federal officer and typically instruct people to wire “settlement” money to avoid arrest.

These phone calls are fraudulent and call recipients should hang up immediately. Federal agencies do not call or email individuals, threatening them to send money.

There are many versions of this government impersonation scam, but they are all variations of the same tactic. The type of scam has been around for years and targets people across the nation. In the first three months of 2016, dozens of reports have streamed in to law enforcement about attempts to scam Washington residents—particularly in the Seattle and Yakima areas—but they are not uniquely targeted.

“Washington residents are receiving scam attempts right now but next month it could be residents in a different state,” said Supervisory Special Agent Ethan Via of the FBI’s white collar crime squad. 
“The timing of this scam is more intentional than the targeting. The recent uptick in scams may coincide with the tax season. It presents an opportunity to impersonate IRS agents and is a time when individuals and households may be more cognizant of federal authority, possibly making them more sensitive to appeals to their law-abiding intentions.”

In addition, a scam phone call may seem legitimate because scammers can spoof caller ID information. It may appear the call is coming from a federal agency’s legitimate phone number or from the Washington, DC, area, or may show the name of a federal agency.

FBI Impersonation
Scams impersonating the FBI have been around for years and continue today — sometimes citing current FBI Director James Comey or a local field office Special Agent in Charge. The FBI first warned the public in 2008 that “the fraudulent e-mails give the appearance of legitimacy due to the usage of pictures of the FBI Director, seal, letterhead, and/or banners.”

IRS Impersonation
Earlier this month, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) warned that criminals continue to impersonate IRS agents, resulting in reports of more than one million fraudulent contacts since October 2013 and more than 5,500 victims who have collectively lost approximately $29 million. An unexpected call from the IRS is likely fraudulent because IRS policy mandates that it first contact taxpayers by mail or in person.

US Marshals Impersonation and Jury Service Scam
Earlier this week, the United States Courts warned that scammers are now more sophisticated, using official-sounding call centers and citing designated court hearing times. The US Marshals Service has also received complaints of specific officer names or badge numbers being cited by scammers.

If you have been targeted by government-impersonation scammers, the sooner you report it, the better are the chances that law enforcement will be successful in their investigation. Here’s how to report specific scam attempts:
  • FBI Impersonation: Call your local FBI field office. In Washington, the Seattle Division: 206-622-0460 (select option 1)
  • IRS Impersonation: Fill out the “IRS Impersonation scam” form on TIGTA’s website
  • Marshal Impersonation: Call your local US Marshals Service field office. In Washington: 206-370-8685
In addition, all types of fraud schemes and scams can always be reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The following information is helpful to report:
  • Header information from e-mail messages;
  • Identifiers for the perpetrator (e.g., name, Web site, bank account, e-mail addresses); 
  • Details on how, why, and when you believe you were defrauded; 
  • Actual and attempted loss amounts; 
  • Details about the government impersonation; and
  • Other relevant information you believe is necessary to support your complaint.
Filing a complaint through IC3’s website allows analysts from the FBI to identify leads and patterns from the hundreds of complaints that are received daily. The sheer volume of complaints allows that information to come into view among disparate pieces, which can lead to stronger cases and help zero in on the major sources of criminal activity. The IC3 then refers the complaints, along with their analyses, to the relevant law enforcement agency for follow-up.

The public can learn about other common scams here, and learn about ways to reduce their risk of being scammed here.



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AG stops deceptive 'Pay for Prayer' business

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Wednesday that his office has put a stop to the deceptive business practices of a Seattle-based man and his three companies who will pay back as much as $7,750,000 to approximately 165,000 consumers nationwide.

Benjamin Rogovy used systematic deception in the running of his for-profit company, Christian Prayer Center, including the creation of fake religious leaders and posting false testimonials to entice consumers to pay for prayers.

In a separate business, Rogovy used deceptive and unfair business practices to run the Consumer Complaint Agency, a for-profit business that promised consumers it would advocate on their behalf regarding their complaints against businesses. Instead, the company charged consumers up to $25 for doing little more than passively forwarding complaints.

Rogovy’s actions violate the state Consumer Protection Act, which forbids businesses from making false claims, and the Charitable Solicitations Act, which prohibits churches and charities from using misleading or deceptive statements in any charitable solicitation.

“I believe in the power of prayer,” said Ferguson. “What I do not believe in and what I will not tolerate is unlawful businesses that prey upon people — taking advantage of their faith or their need for help — in order to make a quick buck.”

Assistant Attorney General Dan Davies was lead on this case.

More details here



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IRS phone scam

Friday, February 19, 2016

Police agencies in the state have been warning about and IRS phone scam.

They report that many citizens across the Pacific Northwest have been getting calls from IRS imposters. These scammers threaten arrest or additional fines if you don’t immediately send money or give them personal information.

This is ALWAYS a scam. Police advise to hang up the phone and never return a call.

The real IRS will only notify you of a tax issue by mail. They will NEVER call you asking for money or any personal information.

Report IRS impersonation scams to the Treasury Inspector General.



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King County unregistered contractor must repay elderly Shoreline victim more than $31,000

Saturday, January 30, 2016

An unregistered contractor who convinced an 87-year-old Shoreline woman to hire him nine times in one month must repay the victim more than $31,000.

Contractor Stephen B. Nelson, 50, of Woodinville, pleaded guilty in King County District Court this week to a gross misdemeanor count of unregistered contracting. Judge Ketu Shah ordered Nelson to serve two years on probation and repay the victim within two years. He also must undergo a drug and mental health evaluation, follow any treatment recommendations and pay court fees, which may be converted to community service.

If Nelson fails to follow the terms or commits a crime within two years, he will face a $5,000 fine and up to 364 days in jail.

Hire registered contractors

“This case shows why it’s so important to make sure you hire a registered contractor,” said Elizabeth Smith, assistant director of L / I’s Fraud Prevention and Labor Standards. “Unregistered contractors often target senior citizens to scam, but it could happen to anyone.”

The Washington Attorney General’s Office prosecuted the case based on an investigation by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

Nelson, who was doing business as American Landscape, first removed a tree and repaired a chimney on the victim’s Shoreline house in February 2013, charging papers said. After completing that work, he kept offering to do more repairs on that home and a rental house in Seattle that the woman also owned.

Son discovers scam

Over the course of a month, the woman wrote Nelson’s wife nine checks ranging from $629 to $8,650 to pay for the repairs in advance, charging papers said. The following month, the victim’s son discovered his mother had hired an unregistered contractor. The son cancelled five jobs that had yet to be completed and asked Nelson to refund his mother for those jobs.

The woman’s son told L/I his mother hadn’t sought the repairs, but that the contractor gained her sympathy by telling her he had health problems, according to the L/I investigation.

Safety violations for electrocuted worker

Nelson had been registered as a general contractor from May 2009 until his license was suspended in August 2012. Apart from the criminal case, Nelson and his business received two civil infractions for unregistered contracting in 2011 and 2013.

In 2012, L/I cited his business for safety violations and imposed fines of $35,800 after an employee was killed by high-voltage power lines while removing a tree on residential property. Nelson appealed and as part of a settlement agreement reached in May 2013 ­− three months after the Shoreline and Seattle incidents − L/I waived the fine on the condition that he never again work in the arborist or tree-trimming industries.

Nelson still owes L/I more than $329,000 in unpaid workers’ compensation insurance premiums, penalties and interest, and more than $3,600 for the contractor infractions. L/I is pursuing collection of the debts.

Protect My Home

State law requires contractors to register with L/I, which confirms they have a business license, liability insurance and a bond to provide some recourse for consumers if problems arise. Consumers can verify contractor registration online.



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City Light warns: beware of con artists posing as utility bill collectors

Thursday, December 31, 2015

Seattle City Light never demands immediate payment by phone

Seattle City Light reminds its customers to beware of con artists who pose as utility bill collectors.

A business owner was victimized this week by the phone scam in which a caller claims an electricity bill has not been paid and threatens to cut off power within the hour if the customer does not make an immediate payment. Con artists have been directing people to obtain pre-paid debit cards for these swindles because they lack the fraud protections that most credit cards or bank debit cards provide.

“It’s despicable that scammers use the threat of cutting off electric service to steal money,” City Light Customer Care Director Kelly Enright said. “We want our customers to know about these scams so they can protect themselves from becoming the next victim.”

Scams like this have been tried for years. Seattle City Light uses its Light Reading newsletter, Power Lines Blog and social media accounts to educate customers about these scams so they can protect themselves. If you ever receive a call like this, do not give out any personal financial information. Instead, try to get as much information about the person who is calling that you can and then contact your local police.

Anyone who ever has a question about the status of their account can call City Light at 206-684-3000.

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Seattle City Light is the 10th largest public electric utility in the United States. It has some of the lowest cost customer rates of any urban utility, providing reliable, renewable and environmentally responsible power to about 750,000 Seattle area residents. City Light has been greenhouse gas neutral since 2005, the first electric utility in the nation to achieve that distinction.



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