Melrose Death Threat Scam: Police Warn Residents

MELROSE, MA — Police are warning of a scam involving an email in which someone threatens the recipient's life.

Chief Michael Lyle said "this version of a popular extortion scam involves an email being sent to a victim from a supposed hitman who threatens to kill the recipient if the person does not make a payment in the form of bitcoin." The email links to a way to pay and says the name of the person who ordered the hit on the recipient's life will be ordered when the money is paid.

The scams have been around for some time, often demanding money via Western union or pre-paid debit cards. "No legitimate organization or person will request payment in these forms," Lyle said.

Melrose Police said residents should:

• Never send money to an unknown address, link or person.
• Contact police if you receive a threatening email or phone call requesting payment.
• Beware of any unsolicited phone calls or emails from unfamiliar numbers or addresses.

Contact the Melrose Police Department at 781-665-1212 if you are unsure about a potential scam.