Utah police warn of ‘personalized and threatening’ email scam targeting victims

LOGAN, Utah ( ABC4 ) — A new scam is spreading that the Logan Police Department is describing as “personalized and threatening.”

The scam comes in the form of a lengthy email, addressed to the victim’s name. The example provided by the Logan Police Department starts by saying, “I know that calling [victim’s personal phone number] or visit [an address related to the victim] would be a better way to have a chat with you, in case you don’t take action. Don’t try to escape from this. You’ve no idea what I’m capable of.”

The email threatens victims by saying a computer virus was installed onto the victim’s device. Scammers then use vague descriptions and threats saying they’ve been “keeping tabs” on the victim’s “pathetic life,” recording embarrassing moments and embarrassing internet searches.

The scammer offers to keep the victim’s privacy by promising to delete the potentially incriminating records for the price of $2,000 paid in Bitcoin.

The threatening email closes out with a photo of the address used earlier in the email with the caption, “Beautiful neighborhood [by the way.]”

The Logan Police Department said these emails can feel real, thanks to the use of personal information, but they assure Utahns it is scam.

“While it’s fairly easy for scammers to collect personal information such as addresses, phone numbers, and google map images, rest assured this is a scam,” said Logan PD in an online statement . “Please do not respond and/or click on additional links.”

Anyone who has questions or concerns is encouraged to contact their local police department through the non-emergency phone number. The Logan Police Department can be reached through its non-emergency line at 435-753-7555.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.