Westlake Police warn of mass scam emails threatening to release internet habits, demanding payment via Bitcoin

WESTLAKE, Ohio (WOIO) -Westlake Police is warning residents of an increase in scam emails attempting to blackmail people and demanding payment.

Westlake Police said these scammers usually send emails that say they have been monitoring your online activities and to prevent the scammer from releasing your internet habits, you must send them money via Bitcoin or gift cards.

According to the post on Facebook by the Westlake Police Department, the emails may seem personalized as the scammer may already have your name, address and phone number, all of which is available online.

The subject line of the email may even be your name or a photo of your house may be attached, Westlake Police said.

These are mass emailed scams, Westlake Police said, and they currently have no intel to know if the scammers are local or even in the U.S.

Westlake Police urges residents to not pay debts or bills in Bitcoin or gift cards.

If you do get a suspicious-looking email, pop up or text message, call Westlake Police before giving out money.

Westlake Police also shared they will host a public scam/fraud presentation on Sunday at 10 a.m. at the Westlake Community Service auditorium.be hosting