LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Las Vegas police say they are seeing a rise in “pig butchering” scams in the valley.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department posted on their Instagram page about the scam with a victim interview.
“Pig butchering” means the scammer “fattens up” victims by building trust through fake online relationships or investment opportunities. Then they “butcher” their victim by stealing their money.
How it works, according to LVMPD:
- Scammers pose as friendly acquaintances, investors or love interests, often reaching out on social media or dating apps.
- They lure victims into investing in fake cryptocurrency or other financial ventures, showing fake “gains” to build trust.
- Once victims invest significant funds, the scammers disappear, taking the money with them.
Police provided the following tips for residents to protect themselves from this scam:
- Protect Yourself: Be cautious of unsolicited messages from strangers online.
- Avoid investing in opportunities that seem too good to be true.
- Don’t transfer money or cryptocurrency to someone you haven’t met in person and verified.
Report scams to ic3.gov for investigation.
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