Episodes

  • EP 17: Baited by an Inheritance: The Minnesota Man Trapped in a Blind Mule Scam Nightmare!

    EP 17: Baited by an Inheritance: The Minnesota Man Trapped in a Blind Mule Scam Nightmare!
    Apr 24 2025
    In this episode of the Behind the Scams podcast, we explore the harrowing tale of Rodney Baldus, a retired truck driver from Minnesota who fell victim to the Blind Mule scam. Misled during a vulnerable time, he believed he was collecting an inheritance, only to find himself imprisoned in Mozambique for unknowingly transporting drugs. This chilling story reveals the psychological tactics used by fraudsters and serves as a crucial reminder to recognize red flags. Don’t miss this essential lesson in scam awareness—tune in now to protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming the next victim!
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    1 hr and 28 mins
  • EP 16: GoFundMe Scam: The Viral Fundraiser That Fooled the Nation

    EP 16: GoFundMe Scam: The Viral Fundraiser That Fooled the Nation
    Apr 14 2025
    In the world of online fundraising, few stories have captivated the public like the GoFundMe scam that started as a tearjerker and turned into a viral sensation. This episode of *Behind the Scams* dives deep into how a seemingly innocent act of kindness snowballed into a massive campaign that raised over $400,000, only to reveal a shocking deception. Discover the psychological triggers that inspired donations, the media frenzy that propelled the campaign, and the emotional fallout for thousands of donors. Join us for a cautionary tale that will arm you with knowledge to spot red flags in future online fundraisers. Chapters
    • (00:00:00) - Behind the Scams: The GoFundMe Story
    • (00:01:53) - Behind The Scams: The GoFundMe Scam That Went
    • (00:06:18) - The Homeless Hero Who Helped a Homeless Woman Get Back on Her
    • (00:12:50) - Back in the Day: Crowdfunding
    • (00:13:20) - The GoFundMe Campaign That Helped a Homeless Veteran Get Back
    • (00:20:41) - The Johnny Bobbit Story Just Captivated America's Heart
    • (00:26:22) - The GoFundMe Story
    • (00:28:41) - Johnny Bobbitt's Fight With Kate and Mark
    • (00:34:36) - Johnny the Good Samaritan's
    • (00:37:16) - Kate and Mark's GoFundMe Scandal
    • (00:44:21) - The Crowdfunding Scam
    • (00:46:47) - The GoFundMe Scam: Everything Was Made Up
    • (00:53:15) - The Fall of the Gas Scam
    • (00:55:44) - The Craziest Scammer You Can Ever See
    • (01:02:27) - The Crowdfunding Scammer's
    • (01:07:16) - The Criminal Proceedings of the Scammer
    • (01:10:02) - Johnny Bobbitt Gets Less Than Mark For Cash Scandal
    • (01:11:33) - Johnny and Mark Get Sentencing For Their Role In The Scheme
    • (01:12:42) - The GoFundMe Scam
    • (01:17:33) - GoFundMe, Other Crowdfunding Platforms Step Up Pol
    • (01:19:48) - GoFundMe: Better Policing After the Bobbitt Case
    • (01:20:43) - Did the GoFundMe Scam affect the industry?
    • (01:22:25) - GoFundMe's Policing After the Bobbitt Scam
    • (01:25:23) - Crowdfunding's Changes for Nonprofits
    • (01:26:21) - How has GoFundMe specifically tried to rebuild its image after being
    • (01:27:25) - The Viral Story Behind the Bobbit Scam
    • (01:30:12) - The 'Give to the Homeless' Campaign
    • (01:32:01) - The Media's Role in the Johnny Cash Scam
    • (01:33:20) - The Heartwarming Charity Scam
    • (01:38:11) - How to Spot Crowdfunding Scams
    • (01:40:33) - How to Spot a Scammer on Crowdfunding
    • (01:48:08) - Johnny Bobbit Case: The Viral Story
    • (01:50:57) - GoFundMe Scam: What's Learned From The
    • (01:52:32) - Behind The Scams: The Crowdfunding Scams
    • (01:54:43) - Behind the Scams: The Viral Campaigns
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    1 hr and 56 mins
  • EP15: Escobar Inc. Scam: Pablo Escobar’s Name, A Flamethrower, & Multi-Million Dollar Fraud

    EP15: Escobar Inc. Scam: Pablo Escobar’s Name, A Flamethrower, & Multi-Million Dollar Fraud
    Apr 9 2025
    A Deep Dive Into the Mind-Bending Scam That Used a Drug Lord’s Legacy to Fuel an International Fraud Operation Behind the Brand: The Wild World of Escobar Inc. In this jaw-dropping episode of Behind the Scams, hosts Nick and Sue expose one of the most audacious scams in recent memory—an international fraud ring that used the name and likeness of the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar to market fake products like flamethrowers, gold-covered smartphones, and even “physical cryptocurrency.” It’s the kind of case you truly have to hear to believe, with layers of deceit, big money, and global intrigue. The... Chapters
    • (00:00:00) - Behind The Scams
    • (00:01:12) - Behind the Scams: Escobar Inc. Fraud Case
    • (00:02:23) - Escobar Inc. Scammer Used Pablo Escobar's Fame
    • (00:09:07) - Bitcoin Fraudster Arrested in US
    • (00:10:23) - What Money Laundering Is (Explained)
    • (00:11:38) - Bizarre Escobar Cash Scam
    • (00:13:31) - Escobar Inc. Scam: The Samsung Fold Phone and More
    • (00:19:17) - How Olaf Gustafsson Got Away With Stealing Millions
    • (00:22:00) - How Cryptocurrency Helped In The Escobar Scam
    • (00:23:02) - Scammer Arrested in US for International Fraud
    • (00:25:13) - Decoding the Escobar, Inc. Scam
    • (00:26:51) - Scammer Targets Consumers With Online Scam
    • (00:28:24) - Behind The Scams
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    30 mins
  • EP 14: Romance, Lies & $6 Million Stolen: A Salt Lake City Based Scam Ring Exposed!

    EP 14: Romance, Lies & $6 Million Stolen: A Salt Lake City Based Scam Ring Exposed!
    Mar 30 2025
    In a shocking revelation that intertwines love, deception, and a staggering $6 million heist, a Salt Lake City-based scam ring has been exposed. This gripping tale unravels the intricate web of romance and lies that ensnared unsuspecting victims, leading them into a world of betrayal and financial ruin. As the investigation unfolds, the true extent of the scam comes to light, revealing the lengths to which the perpetrators went to exploit trust and affection. Join us as we delve into this captivating story of crime and intrigue that has left the community reeling and searching for answers.
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    28 mins
  • EP 13: Fake Love, Real Loss: The $250K Wedding/Romance Scam in Ukraine!

    EP 13: Fake Love, Real Loss: The $250K Wedding/Romance Scam in Ukraine!
    Mar 19 2025
    In this gripping episode, we delve into the heart-wrenching world of romance scams, focusing on a shocking $250,000 wedding scheme that unfolded in Ukraine. Discover the emotional turmoil faced by victims who believed they found true love, only to be ensnared in a web of deceit. Hear firsthand accounts of betrayal, heartbreak, and the relentless pursuit of justice. As we unravel the layers of this elaborate scam, you'll gain insight into the tactics used by con artists and learn how to protect yourself from falling prey to similar schemes. Don’t miss this eye-opening exploration of fake love and real loss!
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    30 mins
  • EP 12: Millennials Are the New Scam Targets! Here’s How They Get Fooled!

    EP 12: Millennials Are the New Scam Targets! Here’s How They Get Fooled!
    Mar 8 2025
    In today's digital age, Millennials find themselves increasingly targeted by sophisticated scams that exploit their online habits and trust. From phishing emails to social media fraud, these scams are evolving, making it crucial for young adults to stay informed and vigilant. In this episode, we delve into the tactics scammers use to deceive unsuspecting victims and share essential tips on how to recognize and avoid these traps. Don't let yourself become a statistic! Join us as we uncover the alarming trends and equip you with the knowledge to protect yourself and your finances from these cunning schemes.
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    19 mins
  • EP 11: Gold Grifter Scam EXPOSED: How Scammers Target Seniors & Investors

    EP 11: Gold Grifter Scam EXPOSED: How Scammers Target Seniors & Investors
    Mar 6 2025
    In a world where financial security is paramount, a new wave of deceit is sweeping across the nation, targeting our most vulnerable populations—seniors and unsuspecting investors. The "Gold Grifter Scam" has emerged as a cunning scheme that preys on the dreams of wealth and stability. But what exactly is this scam, and how can you protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim? Join us as we delve into the tactics used by these fraudsters, expose their methods, and arm you with the knowledge needed to safeguard your finances. Don’t let greed blind you—stay informed and stay safe!
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    21 mins
  • EP 10: Pig Butchering Scams EXPOSED: How Scammers Manipulate & Steal Millions!

    EP 10: Pig Butchering Scams EXPOSED: How Scammers Manipulate & Steal Millions!
    Feb 24 2025
    In the digital age, scams have evolved into sophisticated operations that can deceive even the most vigilant individuals. One of the most alarming trends is the rise of pig butchering scams, where scammers manipulate emotions and trust to steal millions from unsuspecting victims. In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the tactics used by these con artists, revealing how they exploit vulnerabilities and create elaborate schemes. Join us as we expose the dark world of pig butchering scams, equipping you with the knowledge to protect yourself and your finances from these cunning predators. Don’t miss out on this crucial information!
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    43 mins
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