ScamBusters: New scam steals $25 million from military consumers

Imposter scams are raking in millions from military consumers — $25 million was lost last year to be exact.

“They’re trying to steal from the people that defend their freedom every day,” said Bill Jordan, an Iraq war veteran living in Colorado.

After 15 months of serving in a war zone, he returned home.

“We survived for a reason,” he said.

Jordan now suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. Which is why a recent phone call really shook him.

“They try to scare you and unfortunately it does work.”

The caller claimed to be a unit commander with specific information from his deployment. He then demanded money, threatening the safety of his unit. Jordan didn’t buy it.

“They’re trying to steal from the people that defend their freedom every day,” he said.

Not everyone can see through this con. The Federal Trade Commission reports this type of imposter fraud cost military consumers more money than any other type of scam last year.

The data shows military members lose more money with this scam than civilians do. For example, the reported losses average nearly $700 per military member versus civilians who reported $500 per person.

“It’s amazing the depth of information they are actually able to get,” Jordan said.

Det. Jon Price, with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office explains military records are pretty accessible.

“Online you can find their units, what bases they were stationed at, and tours of duty,” said Price.

The Federal Trade Commission received more than 113,000 complaints of fraud from military members just last year.

Do you know of a scam? Email me at Stephanie.Sierra@KRDO.com.