What is a pig butchering scam? An increasing number of Americans are falling victim to this scam; here's all you need to know
Illinois widow lost $1 million of her life savings in a pig butchering scam; learn how to recognize similar schemes. Erika DeMask believed that she had at last found love again, but over several months, she was duped out of her entire life savings in a pig butchering scam. These supposedly pig butchering scams are a particular kind of fraud where the con artist gradually wins over the victim's trust, fattening them up, so to speak, before making the ultimate move and taking all of their money. To establish trust, victims are frequently seduced into virtual relationships, as was the case with DeMask. Her husband had died many years ago, and she had just connected with a lovely man on the internet.
The woman from Lombard, Illinois, told ABC 7 Eyewitness News that he said that he loved her and also sent her a massive bouquet, and the FBI said afterwards that they were shocked he did that. However, the flowers were just a small part of a bigger scheme to con DeMask into giving up all of her life savings.
Also Read: This new photo shows Sasha Obama as the Queen of Street
The number of pig butchering scams is increasing. DeMask's online boyfriend purported to be employed at an oil rig. He told DeMask he needed $20,000 to fix a rig when he first asked for money. She sent $35,000 the second time, she told the reporters. Then, another $35,000 two weeks later. He mentioned receiving a $250,000 payment from his pastor. DeMask wire transferred and sent cashier's checks totaling over $1 million to the man. In fact, the man
