Erin West

In this engaging discussion, reporter Alex Salmon shares his first-hand experience with a text-message job scam, unraveling the deceptive tactics employed by scammers. Former prosecutor Erin West reveals the dark reality of trafficked workers trapped in scam operations, detailing their harrowing experiences. Journalist Matt Burgess tackles the intricate workings of smishing syndicates and the perpetual cycle of scams. Together, they expose the grim mechanics behind these scams and offer practical advice to protect against them.

Join investigative minds Alex Salmon, a Slate reporter who engaged with a smishing job scam, Matt Burgess of Wired delving into how these scams proliferate, and Erin West, a former prosecutor turning the spotlight on human trafficking linked to scam call centers. They unravel the mechanics behind scam texts, the shocking conditions in scam compounds, and the disturbing intersection of crime and exploitation. Discover how to recognize and combat these pervasive threats while learning about the dark underbelly of scams that prey on the unsuspecting.

Erin West, a national leader in investigating cryptocurrency crimes and founder of Operation Shamrock, reveals the chilling world of scam farms. These operations, often resembling prisons, lure victims with fake job offers and exploit them under brutal conditions. Erin discusses the psychological manipulation used to control workers, the staggering financial impact on global economies, and how scams have evolved with AI. She also shares insights on how authorities are cracking down on these networks and offers tips for spotting potential trafficking risks.