Bitcoin scam in Tarrant County targets older men over massage, sex-related websites

The Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney has issued a warning about a new bitcoin scam targeting older men.

According to a press release, a scammer is calling older men and accusing them of committing a crime by contacting massage or sex-related websites. Alleged crimes involved illegal sexual conduct.

The scammer demands the men pay a fine through a bitcoin machine or designated kiosk. If they do not pay the fine, they are told they will be prosecuted.

So far, Tarrant County senior citizens have been tricked into paying a total of $300,000 in fake fines, the district attorney’s office said in the press release.

The phone call even appears to come from 817-884-1400, which is the general telephone number to the district attorney’s office.

Scammers demand payment through cryptocurrency because it is nearly impossible for victims to get the money back.

Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney Sharen Wilson said in the press release that her office will never order anyone to pay fines through bitcoin.

“If you are contacted, fight back — report the crime to police,” Wilson said. “Don’t be the next victim.”