Scammers extorting with assassination threats

SPOKANE COUNTY -- Sheriff's Office officials are warning residents of an ongoing scam where the scammer threatens the recipient with bodily harm.

In a news release, the Sheriff's Office said it has received a few reports regarding unsolicited text messages claiming the texter was hired to kill/assassinate the recipient. The one text continues, explaining the scammer has a conscience, and if the recipient is ready to pay some fees, their life will be spared.

"Do not respond to these scammers," Sheriff's Office public information officers Cpl. Mark Gregory said in the release.

If receiving this scam, individuals should instead report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&panel1-2 or Crime Check at 509-456-2233.

"Scammers are continually trying to intimidate, scare and trick people into giving the scammers money, personal/banking information, or access to the potential victim’s computer," Gregory added. "The stories may change, but the end result is the same, they want your money or personal information, allowing them to open fraudulent accounts under your good name. "

Scammers are tech-savvy, can often be very convincing and usually based in another country. They will contact a number of individuals to play on people's emotions.