These 5 New Scams Now Surging in Montana, FBI Reports

BUTTE, MT - Montana might be known for its safety and good-doer citizens, but it’s not immune to the rise in scams that are sweeping across the country.

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The FBI has issued warnings about several fraud schemes that are particularly affecting Montanans this year. From tech-savvy hackers to old-fashioned fraud, here are the top five scams you need to watch out for in Big Sky Country.

5. Cryptocurrency Scams

Cryptocurrency is hot right now, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe from scammers.

In Montana, particularly in areas like Missoula and Bozeman, people have reported being duped by fraudulent cryptocurrency investment platforms. Victims are promised high returns for their investment, only to lose all their money.

Some scammers even pose as financial advisors to lure you into a fake platform. Always research your investments thoroughly and avoid unsolicited offers, especially in the fast-evolving world of digital currency.

4. Romance Scams

The wide-open spaces and towns of Montana can sometimes make us feel isolated, and scammers are taking advantage of lonely hearts through online dating platforms.

The FBI reports an uptick in romance scams targeting Montanans, with many of these schemes originating from social media and dating apps. Scammers build a relationship, gain your trust, and eventually request financial assistance.

These scams have left victims heartbroken and out thousands of dollars.

3. Real Estate / Rental Fraud

Montana’s booming real estate market, driven by out-of-state buyers and high demand, has become fertile ground for real estate fraud.

Scammers are taking advantage of this by posting fake rental properties or offering too-good-to-be-true deals on homes for sale. Many victims from all across the Treasure State have been left without a home and out of pocket after wiring deposits to a "landlord" or "seller" who turns out to be a fraudster.

Be sure to verify listings and never wire money to someone you haven’t met in person.

2. Tech Support Scams

In the increasingly connected world we live in, tech support scams are on the rise, and Montana is no exception.

Scammers pose as representatives from big-name companies like Microsoft or Apple, claiming your device has been compromised. They then request remote access to your computer or ask for personal information.

This scam has been hitting Montanans hard, especially older residents in towns like Butte and Havre, where victims have lost money trying to protect their devices from non-existent threats.

1. Impersonation Scams

One of the most alarming scams currently on the rise in Montana involves impersonation where fraudsters pose as government officials, law enforcement, or utility workers.

These scammers contact victims, typically by phone or—in the scarier cases—knocking on your door, threatening legal action or service cutoffs unless immediate payment is made. Recently, there’s been a spike in calls to residents across the state, with scammers posing as the IRS or local police.

Always verify who you're speaking to before giving out any personal information.

Remember:

Scammers are getting more sophisticated, but with the right precautions, you can avoid falling into their traps. Stay alert, and spread the word to help protect your neighbors!