Sheriff's department warns of bitcoin blackmail scam

FALLBROOK – The San Diego County Sheriff's Department wants people to be aware of a new scam involving the digital currency known as bitcoin.

Potential victims receive a letter in the mail with the scammer threatening to release embarrassing information for public humiliation if the victim does not pay up using bitcoin. The blackmailer also includes instructions on how to buy bitcoin, as well a unique bitcoin wallet to send the money, which makes it harder to trace.

Anyone who receives this kind of letter, be advised; it is a scam. Do not send money, do not respond to it and please share this...