Scammers in Uniform: The Deceptive Tactics of Fake Military Personnel

Scammers often exploit the trusting nature of the public, particularly when it comes to our military. The 'military scam,' where perpetrators pose as soldiers or frontline personnel, is a particularly insidious form of online fraud. These individuals take advantage of the admiration and support we have for the military, turning it into a perfect scamming paradise. In this article, we will explore the various tactics used by these scammers, debunk common myths, and prioritize your safety in these situations.

The Myth and Reality of Military Support

One of the most prevalent myths exploited by scammers is the idea that military personnel are underfunded or unsupported. Stories often circulate around soldiers needing to pay for vacations, leave of absence fees, or for food and equipment. However, the military is well-equipped to handle such expenses, making these claims nonsensical.

Another common claim is that military personnel are stranded and in need of financial help to return home. This narrative is often part of a larger scam where the scammers demand money for various 'fees' or to cover the cost of shipping items back home. These requests are typically accompanied by tales of important documents, jewelry, or other personal items that need to be sent. A 'courier' will supposedly travel to the victim to collect the funds, typically in the range of $1,000 to $1,500, to cover 'taxes' and storage fees.

The Role of Posing as a Soldier

Scammers often begin their scams by building trust through a fabricated identity as a soldier. They might pretend to be a sergeant, a doctor, or any other military role, complete with elaborate backstories. Here are some common tactics used:

They give detailed accounts of their duties, often discussing meetings with troops and commands. They claim to be on dangerous missions, sometimes even showing supposed proof through videos or images. They might talk about losses or achievements in their unit, using emotionally charged language. Their stories include specific requests for financial help, often accompanied by a request to send money to cover 'fees' or other expenses.

The Phony Sergeant Scam

A specific type of military scam, often involving a fake sergeant, can be particularly convincing. These scammers will:

Tell detailed stories about their duties and life in the military, such as going to swim with troops or play football. Send roses every day and direct you to YouTube videos that evoke a sense of patriotism and military life. Ask about plans to start a business when they return to the states, such as a winery, and use terms of endearment. One day, the phony sergeant will inform you of an urgent situation involving a 'treasure box' in Germany that needs to be handled urgently. The box is supposedly in a facility about to be closed, and they need you to take care of it. They will send you a fake certificate purportedly showing that the box belongs to them.

The scam reaches a peak when the 'box' fails to arrive, leading to a demand for a certified check to cover storage fees. This process can go on for days or even weeks as the scammer continues to build the story, making sure you remain invested and, ultimately, scam you.

Protection and Awareness

To protect yourself from falling victim to these scams:

Research the sender or person claiming to be a soldier thoroughly. Check their claims for inconsistencies and verify them with official sources. Avoid sending any money or sensitive information, especially without further verification. Report suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities, such as the military or local law enforcement. Stay alert to emotional appeals, as these are often the most effective in scaring or persuading the victim.

In conclusion, scammers have found a new front against which to exploit our trust in the military. By understanding the tactics they use and being vigilant, we can protect ourselves and those close to us from falling victim to such scams.