The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning about deceptive job advertisements linked to labor trafficking and international cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes. These scams are predominantly focused on Southeast Asia, and they ensnare victims who are either US citizens or individuals residing or traveling abroad.
The FBI, in its public service announcement on May 22, elaborated that these scams are orchestrated by criminal actors who post fake job ads on social media and online job portals. These fraudulent listings encompass a broad spectrum of roles, including tech support, call center customer service, and beauty salon technicians.
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Promising competitive salaries, appealing benefits, covered travel expenses, and provision of accommodation, these fraudulent advertisements attract job seekers. However, the location for the job often changes during the recruitment process.
Upon arriving in the foreign country, victims are coerced into participating in cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes. This coercion involves the confiscation of passports and travel documents, threats and acts of violence. Criminal actors also manipulate victims by assigning debts under the guise of travel fees and accommodation costs, and intimidating them with the fear of local law enforcement.
The FBI further revealed that victims are occasionally sold and transferred between compounds, increasing their debt and complicating their predicament. This news is based on The Edge Malaysia.
