Meridian Police warn of increasing cryptocurrency scams
The scams include physical letters sent to residents demanding payment.
MERIDIAN, Idaho — Meridian residents are reportedly the target of a new cryptocurrency scam, according to the city’s police department.
The Meridian Police Department said community members are receiving physical letters in the mail that include printed images of child sexual abuse material. Those letters claim that the recipient has been hacked and must pay in cryptocurrency within 36 hours.
Meridian Police said the letters use urgent and alarmist language, such as “YOU’VE BEEN HACKED” and “we are not playing games.” The letters also include references to hacking and spyware materials like Pegasus and Cobalt Strike.
Scammers also list the names of close family members or friends of the intended targets. Meridian Police said while the sender is unknown, the letters appear to have been mailed from Canada. Police did not specify a part of Canada.
Anyone who receives a letter should keep it for evidence and contact Meridian Police through Ada County Dispatch at 208-377-6790.