#CryptoScamSurge warns residents about an alarming increase in cryptocurrency scams that have already cost local victims over $60,000 in recent weeks.

In a community alert issued on Tuesday, the police reported that scammers use fake calls, emails, pop-up messages on computers, and even text messages to convince residents that they are being investigated or that their finances are in danger. The scammers then instruct their victims to withdraw cash and deposit it into cryptocurrency ATMs as a way to "protect" their money or "cooperate with the authorities."

"The scammers are professionals at what they do," the department wrote. "These machines allow them to transfer money instantly, often to accounts abroad where we cannot recover it."

The police stated that once the money is deposited into the ATM and converted to cryptocurrency, it is immediately transferred overseas, often leaving authorities with no way to recover the funds.

Hang up on suspicious or high-pressure calls, even if the caller claims to be from a police or government agency.

Ignore payment demands in text messages or emails.

Never scan QR codes or send cryptocurrency to unknown individuals.

Pause and verify the source by contacting local authorities directly.