From the Mountain Home Police:
Since January 4, 2025, the Mountain Home Police Department has received five reports of residents losing thousands to scams. Despite ongoing local and national warnings, these scams continue—and it’s time we ask why. Is the message not reaching the right people? Are we too confident it won’t happen to us?
We need to start real conversations—at churches, Senior Centers, and with neighbors, especially those facing loneliness. If someone mentions a “friend” they’ve only interacted with online, through text, or over the phone—but never met in person—ask questions. Don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement.
We may not always recover the money or catch the scammer, but we can help stop it before it goes further. Let’s work together to protect our community.
Below are five brief summaries of recent scam reports.
- Federal Agent Gift Card Scam
On 04/14/25, a woman reported losing $9,500 after being threatened with federal charges by a scammer posing as a federal agent. She was instructed to buy and send gift card codes. - Publishers Clearing House Scam
On 04/12/25, a man sent $500 via prepaid debit cards to someone claiming he’d won a prize. The scammer continued to request more money afterward. - Tech Support Gift Card Scam
On 03/10/25, a man responded to a fake computer alert claiming his account was at risk. He bought $5,000 in Home Depot gift cards and sent the codes to the scammer. - Bitcoin/Gift Card Scam Attempt
On 02/05/25, a woman was told her personal info had been stolen and was directed to a Bitcoin machine. She stopped before sending money but was later locked out of her bank and had fraudulent credit accounts opened in her name. - Romance/Investment Scam
On 01/04/25, a woman sold her house and sent $110,000 via Bitcoin to a man she’d only spoken to by phone over two years. He claimed he was helping her buy a new home, then disappeared.
