Prescott Police are warning the public about a fast-growing Bitcoin scam that’s already cost local residents thousands of dollars.
According to investigators, scammers are posing as bank representatives, claiming your account has been hacked. Victims are pressured to act quickly, often being told to withdraw funds and convert them to Bitcoin at a nearby crypto ATM.
The scammers walk victims through each step, even coaching them on what to say to bank tellers and warning them not to tell anyone. Once the cryptocurrency is transferred, officials say the money is nearly impossible to recover.
Red flags include:
- Unsolicited calls about account security
- Urgent instructions to move money
- Requests for passwords or two-factor authentication codes
- And secrecy—especially being told not to speak with bank employees
Authorities say scammers are using stolen personal data to sound convincing, but want to remind the public: no legitimate business will ever ask you to pay in Bitcoin or transfer funds to a “secure” wallet.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted should stop all communication and contact Prescott Police at 928-445-3131.