Scammers Using Fake Doctor’s Profile to Swindle Victims Out of Millions
A Miami doctor’s Instagram account is being used to scam people out of millions of dollars, with the FBI now involved. This is a case of "pig butchering," a type of romance scam where victims are lured in with promises of romance and riches, only to be drained of their money.
The Scam
The scam works by building a relationship with the victim, then convincing them to wire money to a fake investment site. The scammers use advanced tactics to make the site look legitimate, including two-factor identification and other security features. However, as soon as the money is sent, it’s gone and never hits the target site.
The Victim’s Perspective
One of the victims, who wished to remain anonymous, lost $300,000 after thinking he was investing in a future together with the fake doctor. He said, "I also counted my stars, because the real doctor had put that on her Instagram profile."
The Doctor’s Story
Dr. Nataliya Bocharova, the real doctor, has had to change her job and digital footprint to avoid being targeted again. She said, "You’d be surprised how many high-profile people are reaching out to me – CEOs, lawyers, wealth management people, so people with a lot of money." She added, "They’re going after my medical degree, my credentials."
The FBI’s Response
Supervisory Special Agent Zachariah Baldwin said, "I do see a huge increase in this threat down here. We get reports almost daily of this, definitely weekly, with large substantial losses." He warned, "If it seems too good to be true, it probably is."
Conclusion
This is a stark reminder of the dangers of online dating and the importance of being cautious when it comes to investing. The FBI is working to stop these scammers, but it’s a cat-and-mouse game. With the help of law enforcement, it’s crucial for victims to report these incidents and to warn others to be vigilant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a romance scam?
A: A romance scam is a type of fraud where criminals build a relationship with victims, usually through online dating sites or social media, and then defraud them of their money.
Q: How common are romance scams?
A: According to the FBI, romance scams are increasingly common, with many victims reporting large financial losses.
Q: What should I do if I’m a victim of a romance scam?
A: Report the incident to the FBI and your local authorities. You should also freeze your bank account activity to prevent further losses.
