Operation Shamrock Blog
What You Need to Know about the Scams Stealing Billions
A pig butchering scam consists of three stages: finding victims online, talking with them to build trust, and then getting them to invest large amounts of money in fraudulent schemes.
Police Officer Helps Stop Scams in Real Time
Officer shares how educating local businesses has helped him stop scams in real time, saving victims from financial crimes.
Erin West to Deliver SANS Security Awareness Keynote
Erin West will speak on August 14, uncovering how sophisticated scams run by global criminal networks exploit victims and how they’re part of a larger international threat.
Support for Louisiana Virtual Currency Kiosk Regulation
During a legislative session, Louisiana State Senator Beth Mizell quoted a letter from Operation Shamrock in the discussion on virtual currency kiosk regulation (HB483).
Supporting the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
Operation Shamrock delegates are participating in United Nations working groups focused on transnational organized crime.
The Emotional Toll of Pig-Butchering Scams
Victims of pig butchering scams often experience long-term emotional stress, leading to isolation and physical symptoms.
Efforts to Restore IRS Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction
We support reinstating the tax deduction for crime victims — a return to foundational principles in the federal tax code.
Law Enforcement Impersonators: Cindy’s Story
Scammers posing as Europol officers create fear and urgency in potential victims.
Support Tax Relief for Victims of Crime and Scams
You can help support the reintroduction of the bipartisan Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act.
Operation Shamrock’s Erin West to Speak at MRMC 2025
Erin’s presentation, “Scams Are Crushing Us — How Do We Fight Back?” focuses on the threats posed by the scam industry.
Job Offer Scam: Arthur’s Story
A retiree is faced with physical problems and returning to the workforce as a result of a job scam.
Investment Scam: Carol & Ralph’s Story
“They were relentless.” Scammers steal more than $4 million from an elderly victim.
How to Get Over Being Scammed: Video Series
It’s not just about money. A licensed therapist has published a video series to help address feelings of victimization.
National Scam Survivor Day
May 8 is a day to recognize the journeys of scam victims and encourage them to reach out for support.
Fraudulent Online School: Eric’s Story
A young man enrolls in an online school he found on social media, only to have scammers steal his money and self-confidence.
IRS Tax Guidance for Scam Victims
A new memo from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service provides information on tax deductions for scam theft losses.
Five Steps to Take if You’re a Scam Victim
It’s natural to feel victimized. But now is the time to be your best advocate. Here are five concrete steps you can take.
Pig Butchering: Roger’s Story
“It feels like a nightmare I can’t wake out of. When this thing comes up, he just starts growling and turns into a different person.”
What Is Pig Butchering? How Do They Do It?
In pig butchering, scammers follow a specific process that uses social engineering, psychological manipulation, and investment fraud.
Fake Facebook Support: Sandra’s Story
“I was weaponized against myself.” The scammers told Sandra she could be prosecuted if she didn’t work with them.