The Iowa Attorney General’s Office has issued a warning to Iowans about “pig-butchering” scams.
Pig-butchering scams are long cons that occur when con artists connect with someone online and build a relationship over a period of time before tricking them into sending money.
These con artists bond over common interests and make false promises of love, affection, and opportunity to build trust. Then, they take advantage of “Iowa nice” and steal everything they can. Typically, these scammers convince people to send money in forms where they have no defenses, such as through cryptocurrency ATM’s.
Be wary of connecting with strangers online, and do not accept friend requests from people you do not know. Do not send money through cryptocurrency ATM’s. Once that money is gone, you cannot get it back.
If you are suspicious of a pig-butchering scam, contact the Iowa Attorney General’s Office at 888-777-45-90.
