Unchained How This Prosecutor Is Spearheading the Fight Against Crypto ‘Pig Butchering’ Scams - Ep. 455
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Feb 14, 2023 Erin West, Deputy District Attorney of Santa Clara County, leads the charge against crypto ‘pig butchering’ scams. She shares chilling stories of victims who have lost hundreds of thousands and even faced tragic outcomes. Erin explains the manipulative tactics used by scammers and how they target vulnerable people. She highlights the crucial need for empathy in law enforcement and discusses her agency’s success in recovering nearly $1 million for victims. With fresh intel on scam locations and the call for better crypto education, she details how the fight against these crimes continues.
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First SIM Swap Case
- In March 2018, a Santa Clara County man lost access to his phone, online accounts, and crypto due to SIM swapping.
- This was the first SIM swapping case Erin West encountered, sparking her interest in crypto-related crime.
Crypto Scams Evolving
- All traditional fraud methods are now targeting cryptocurrency.
- Pig butchering scams are particularly devastating, leading to significant financial losses for victims.
Pig Butchering Devastation
- One pig butchering victim, facing their father's death and financial strain, lost over $1.2 million.
- Scammers manipulate victims' emotions, even using knowledge of their vulnerabilities to further the scam.
