Phony Escrow Services

How it Works:

In an effort to persuade a wary Internet auction participant, the fraudster will propose the use of a third-party escrow service to facilitate the exchange of money and merchandise. The victim is unaware the fraudster has spoofed a legitimate escrow service. The victim sends payment or merchandise to the phony escrow and receives nothing in return.

Operation Cyber Sweep:

The Internet Fraud Complaint Center (IFCC), a partnership between NW3C and the FBI, in coordination with state and local law enforcement agencies, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Secret Service, the Federal Trade Commission, and the U.S. Dept. of Justice offer details on a national take down effort highlighting recent Internet crime investigations stemming from IFCC referrals.