Hillsborough Police Warn Of Unsettling Email Scam

HILLSBOROUGH, CA — Authorities in Hillsborough are warning of an unsettling online scam after neighbors reported it circulating in the community. Police shared an edited copy of a suspicious email one resident received, which investigators said included personal details and photos of their home.

The scammer implies they have found compromising information on the receiver, like browsing history, and claims they installed malware that can access their devices, cameras and other technology. The e-mail goes on to extort the reader by demanding payment via Bitcoin to keep them from sharing sensitive photos, videos and information with personal contacts.

Police said anyone who receives a similar suspicious email should immediately delete the message, avoid opening it or engaging with the sender, and never transmit payments of any kind.