Today on The Protectors Podcast, Mike and Mark explore the unique challenges and proactive measures taken by the US Postal Inspection Service to safeguard the joyous spirit of Christmas. Postal Inspectors across the country work hard to protect your mail, but with deliveries to more than 100 million addresses, the Inspection Service can't do it alone. US Postal Inspector and National Public Information Officer Michael Martel joins us today to shed light on the precautions in place to ensure mail and shipping safety during the festive season, and what you can do to make certain your holiday deliveries arrive safe and sound this season. Listen and enjoy as we equip you with practical tips and strategies for protecting yourself against holiday mail scams and shipping fraud so that you can enjoy a worry-free festive season!_______________________________United States Postal Service Contact Number: 877-876-2455United States Postal Inspection Service Website: https://www.uspis.gov/United States Postal Inspection Service Website Holiday: https://www.uspis.gov/holiday-2023Safety Tips from Today's Show: The United States Postal Service (USPS) WILL NEVER send you a text message unless you have signed up for text alerts with your local postal service.The USPS WILL NOT call you about an unclaimed package.If you receive a piece of mail claiming to be from the U.S. Postal Service, check the return address to confirm that it is legitimate.Pay attention to the language used in emails, text messages, and mail. Something casually written is likely NOT from the U.S. Postal Service.Delete all emails and text messages that you believe to be fraudulent. DO NOT click on any links or respond in any way!_______________________________IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

As we deck the halls and dash through malls, the holiday hustle could make us easy prey for scammers. In this must-listen episode of The Protectors Podcast, hosts Mike and Mark join forces with Scott Warren, a seasoned investigator from the Oak Brook Police Department, to spotlight the hidden traps of holiday shopping frauds and scams. Scott brings years of battling retail fraud to the table, sharing crucial know-how to keep you and your gifts safe and your season joyful. GUEST CONTACT INFO:Scott Warren LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-warren-746a698a/Oak Brook Police Acting Supervisor (Investigations) Scott Warren: swarren@oak-brook.orgOak Brook Police Chief Brian Strockis: bstrockis@oak-brook.orgOak Brook Police Deputy Chief Reid Foltyniewicz: rfoltyniewicz@oak-brook.orgOak Brook Police Deputy Chief Mark King: mpking@oak-brook.orgOak Brook Police Sgt Jason Wood: jwood@oak-brook.org_______________________________S.T.O.P.S: Slow down and scan your surroundingsT: Take note of people or things that seem out of place or oddO: Observe the behavior of those around youP: Preserve your personal space and privacy_______________________________IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Ladies and gentlemen, fraud fighters and curious minds alike, The Protectors is celebrating its two-year anniversary of entering the podcast arena!In today's episode of IAFCI Presents The Protectors Podcast, our listeners get to take a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how the IAFCI and The Protectors embarked on this incredible journey to educate investigators and the public about the dangers of fraud, financial and cybercriminal activity. Our podcast has become the epicenter for learning about the methods and tactics that fraudsters use to commit these heinous crimes.Ever wondered what goes on behind the microphones, the research, and the interviews? In this episode, Mike, Mark, and producer Doug Taylor let you in on the secrets, the funny mishaps, and the aha moments that bring our podcast to life. From in-depth interviews with experts to uncovering the latest scams making waves in the digital world, The Protectors Podcast and the IAFCI are here to empower the public through knowledge, education, and awareness.  ________________________________IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.comMODIFIED MEDIA CONTACT INFO:Doug Taylor, Executive Producer - Modified MediaPhone: 215-315-3148

In the 1990's everyone remembers the McDonald's promotions and rewards programs. Buy some food, and maybe you will become a millionaire. Well, a former police officer working as a vendor for McDonald's saw an opportunity to rig the contest and line his pockets with a portion of the winnings over 12 years.However, a tip from an informant led to its unraveling, and a team of dedicated FBI agents, led by Special Agent Chris Graham (Ret.), took down the ring of fraudsters and sent eight people to prison.The McMillions fraud and investigation were chronicled in a six-part HBO documentary about how $24 million was stolen from the McDonald's Monopoly game and how Graham and his team dismantled the fraud.On today's episode of The Protectors Podcast, Mike and Mark welcome Chris Graham, who headed the investigation. Throughout his illustrious 26-year career, Chris held various critical roles, but his tenure as the lead agent in the McDonald's Monopoly Game Fraud case made him "famous."Join us as we peel back the layers of this incredible story, exploring the highs and lows of a two-year-long investigation and the dedicated agent at the heart of it all.GUEST CONTACT INFO:Chris Graham LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-graham-446ab939/Other Chris Graham Links:  https://jerriwilliams.com/episode-200-chris-graham-mcdonalds-monopoly-scam/_________________________________IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

In a world where our lives are increasingly intertwined with the digital realm, the battle to protect our identities has never been more critical. Identity theft is not just a crime; it's a relentless predator lurking in the shadows of our cyber lives, waiting to pounce on the unsuspecting. It preys on your personal information, financial security, and peace of mind.Today on The Protectors Podcast, Mike and Mark delve into the chilling reality of identity theft and why it has become one of the most serious and pervasive crimes of our time. But today's show is not just about revealing the horrors of identity theft; it's about empowerment. We'll equip you with tools, strategies, and insider knowledge from a surprise guest caller to fortify your defenses.Whether you're a cybersecurity enthusiast, a concerned citizen, or someone who has experienced this fraud firsthand, join us today as we peel back the layers, unmask the truth about identity theft, and empower you to take control of your digital identity.   Federal Trade Commission Website: https://www.ftc.gov/Identity Theft Affected 40 Million U.S. Adults in 2022 Totaling $43 Billion in Losses IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

In the darkest hours of crisis and chaos, they are the unsung heroes who rush toward danger when everyone else is fleeing from it. First responders - the valiant men and women comprising our law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency personnel - stand on the front lines of society, ready to sacrifice their own safety to protect ours. First responder suicide and mental health concerns are topics that are seldom spoken about. The individuals who dedicate their lives to preserving ours are, tragically, taking their own lives at an alarming rate. We know this episode will help those who are struggling and also give a better understanding to the public of what these men and women face daily.Today on The Protectors Podcast, Mark and guest co-host April DeValkenaere welcome the founder of Resilient Heroes, Liz Pol. Liz created Resilient Heroes to present members of Law Enforcement with Psycho-education of Trauma and Police Suicide. As a current police officer of 19 years, she understands the adversities of the job, including the psychological, emotional, and physiological challenges experienced by members of law enforcement. Today's podcast isn't just about acknowledging the problem; it's about discovering the solutions, dispelling the stigma, and ensuring that every first responder knows they are not alone. It's about spotlighting the resources available to help them heal, cope, and thrive. It's time we honor their sacrifice by extending the compassionate hand of support, standing side by side with those who stand for us, and forging a path toward a brighter, more resilient future for our heroes.GUEST CONTACT INFO:Resilient Heroes Website: https://www.resilient-heroes.com/Liz Pol LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/resilientheroes/Liz Pol Twitter: https://twitter.com/LizRH2022_______________________________IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

According to the Commission on the Theft of American Intellectual Property, the theft of trade secrets costs the U.S. between $180 billion and $540 billion annually. And with advanced technology and the Internet, stealing intellectual property has become easier than ever before. Intellectual Property, or IP, can be movies, music, content on the web, software, patents, and more.Today's episode of The Protectors Podcast is brought to you from the 2023 CCROC Conference in Chicago, IL. Mike and Mark sit down with Attorney Angelo Mazza. Angelo is an expert in the field of Intellectual Property Theft, with over three decades of experience battling the ever-evolving challenges that artists, inventors, and creators face. As a legal expert, lecturer, and advocate, Angelo has been at the forefront of protecting intellectual property rights, ensuring that the creative minds behind innovations and artistic works receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.Whether you're an aspiring artist, a tech entrepreneur, or simply curious about the evolving landscape of intellectual property, our podcast will provide you with the knowledge and insights to navigate this intricate terrain.GUEST CONTACT INFO:Angelo Mazza Email: AEPMazza@Gibney.comGibney Website: https://www.gibney.com/----------------------------------IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Welcome to the 50th episode of The Protectors Podcast. Today's episode features special guest - news anchor, narrator, producer, and author Bill Kurtis. This legendary journalist's credits include hits such as Cold Case Files, American Justice, and American Greed, to name a few. Host Mark Solomon, and sitting in for co-host Mike Carroll, April DeValkenaere, take listeners on a compelling adventure recounting Kurtis's journey from his early days to becoming an internationally known TV personality.In this special 50th episode, Bill shares his thoughts on the fraud and financial crime crisis plaguing the United States and the world. Bill also discusses what he calls the four "Crimes of the Century." This podcast promises to be as entertaining as it is enlightening, so sit back, relax, and let the Maestro himself take you through this very special 50th episode of The Protectors Podcast.IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Criminals use every bit of technology to their advantage. You can no longer trust who is calling, sending a text, or an email. You just never know who is at the other end. And you can wind up losing everything.Welcome to today's episode of The Protectors Podcast. In this episode, we're joined by a special guest, Christian, a brave college student who has experienced firsthand the devastating impact of a banking scam. Christian courageously shares his personal story, taking us through the harrowing journey of being targeted by a cunning phone call scam that appeared to be from his banking institution. The fraud left him bewildered, vulnerable, and potentially penniless. His story is a call to our younger Americans, as to others, that getting educated about fraud is critical in the world we live in. Fortunately, Christian reacted quickly, and with some help from the Protectors Podcast, IAFCI, law enforcement, and bank investigators, this story has a rare happy ending. Christian wanted to "pay it forward," so others know what to do when they are targeted by imposters.  IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Insurance fraud, a hidden but significant menace, greatly impacts the U.S. economy and your wallet. As fraud cases rise, they inflict severe losses on insurers, inevitably leading to higher premiums for honest policyholders like you. To tackle this issue effectively, a strategic collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement, and insurance companies is essential for protecting our economy and the citizens.In today's episode of The Protectors Podcast, our hosts Mike and Mark are joined by Steve Bodge, a seasoned expert from Nationwide Insurance with over three decades of experience. Steve peels back the curtain on the world of insurance fraud, illuminating different types of scams, such as staged accidents and fraudulent medical claims. He will also share the broader implications of these deceptive practices on insurers, policyholders, and our economy. Whether you're an insurance professional, a vigilant citizen, or simply curious about financial crimes, this episode will offer crucial insights and emphasize the role we all play in curbing insurance fraud.GUEST CONTACT INFO:Steve Bodge Business Cell: 304-482-2223Steve Bodge Email: bodges@nationwide.comSteve Bodge Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-bodge-cfe-cfci-ciafp-cifi-scla-5a402017------------------------------IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

For anyone who has owned a pet, you know the bond and emotional attachment that instantly occurs when you welcome them into your family. Online fraudsters also know this and lure you in with your heart, a few pictures, and your wallet. Unscrupulous individuals, social media postings, and fraudulent websites have taken advantage of people's desires to own a new pet.On today's episode of The Protectors, Mike and Mark welcome Steve Baker, a former Director of the Federal Trade Commission in the Midwest. Steve served with the Better Business Bureau as International Investigation Specialist and is the author of the Baker Fraud Report, a newsletter on consumer fraud that goes out worldwide once a week. Additionally, on the podcast, two victims of online pet fraud scams speak out and share how they were targeted. They chose to come forward to help prevent others from becoming victims. It is essential for prospective pet owners to be vigilant, informed, and equipped with the knowledge to identify and avoid these fraudulent schemes. Heed the advice from today's show, and don't fall victim to these heartless schemes.GUEST CONTACT INFO:The Baker Fraud Report: https://bakerfraudreport.com/Links mentioned during the show:Pet Scams Website: https://petscams.com/---------------------------IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Don't trust that random text or direct message from a stranger - it might be the first step in a "Pig Butchering" scam. So named in reference to the practice of fattening a pig before slaughter, these scams often involve fraudsters contacting targets seemingly at random, then gaining trust before ultimately manipulating their targets into phony investments and disappearing with the funds.Today on The Protectors, Mike and Mark welcome Santa Clara County District Attorney Erin West to the show. Erin is proud to serve as prosecutor to REACT -- Santa Clara County's elite high-tech investigative force - focused on bringing down international SIM swappers, disrupting fraudulent call centers abroad, and now actively working to combat the romance investment scam known as pig butchering.Consumers must always remain alert for scams, especially as new financial products like Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies become popular. Sit back and enjoy today's show with open ears as Erin lays out everything you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming the next victim under the knife of the pig butcher scammer!GUEST CONTACT INFO:Erin West Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinnordbywest/Links mentioned during the show:Erin's Top 3 Safety Tips: "Caution" Caution with people you meet online Caution with people that are accelerating an online relationship too quickly Caution when financial decisions need to be made urgently------------------------------IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Samantha Josephson was a 21-year-old student at the University of South Carolina when she ordered an Uber and mistakenly entered a car she thought was her ride. The driver used childproof locks to prevent Samantha from leaving the vehicle, and was kidnapped and subsequently murdered.This horrific crime attracted national media attention and led to discussions about the dangers of ridesharing and the importance of ensuring that a rideshare car is being driven by a registered driver prior to entering.On today's episode of The Protectors, Mike and Mark speak with Samantha's father, Seymour Josephson. Seymour is on a mission to keep his daughter's memory alive by educating the public on the dangers facing rideshare users. Additionally, Seymour created the What's My Name Foundation. The Foundation aims to inform the public about rideshare safety and bring legislation to protect rideshare users and rideshare employees. Seymour speaks regularly at high schools and colleges to inform and educate students, administrators, and parents around the country. Please join us for this very special episode of The Protectors.  GUEST CONTACT INFO:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsmyname_org/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatsmyname.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/WHATSMYNAMESAMIWhat's My Name Foundation Website: https://www.whatsmyname.org/#whatsmyname#samistrongLinks mentioned during the show:Uber 4-Digit-PIN Instructions: https://www.uber.com/en-PL/blog/pin-number/____________________________IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Whether it’s fake booking websites, vacation rental scams, ticket fraud, or gas pump skimming, summer travel scams can quickly turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of these scams and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. Today, Mike and Mark welcome their producer Doug Taylor to the show, where they discuss some of the most common and dangerous types of fraud that occur during the summer months, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family. Today, we've also opened up a forum for some of our Facebook followers who share their top recommendations for staying safe while exploring new destinations this summer.Whether you're planning a road trip or heading overseas, today's episode of The Protectors has everything you need to know to stay one step ahead of scammers looking to take advantage of your vacation plans. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of Summertime Scams together!Links mentioned during the show:The Protectors Travel Tips:Bureau of Consular Affairs: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.htmlGas Pump Skimmer Reference Photos: https://www.ocalapost.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/skimmer5.jpghttps://www.kamloopsbcnow.com/files/files/images/skimmer%20compared.jpgAir Travel Safety Tips Recap:Keep your belongings in sight at all times.Use lockable, hard-case luggage.Secure your luggage with a TSA-approved lock.Avoid displaying expensive items.Don't put valuables in your checked luggage.Be wary of distractions and helpful strangers.Collect your checked luggage as quickly as possible.Consider using a luggage tracking device or service. AIR TAGS--------------------------IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

In today's digital age, online banking has become an essential part of our daily lives. With just a few clicks, we can access and manage our finances anytime and anywhere. However, with this convenience comes the risk of falling victim to online banking scams such as phishing, smishing, and vishing scams. As these types of cyber attacks become increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial for individuals to take necessary precautions in safeguarding themselves against such fraud.Today, Mike and Mark welcome John Bridge to The Protectors podcast. A retired criminal investigator, law enforcement trainer, and private sector speaker, John is now President of Government Security at Trust Stamp, a scale-up focusing on mitigating risk to identity data. John gives us detailed explanations of the newest online scams while also providing extremely useful information on protecting yourself from these devastating cybercrimes that take place every day!GUEST CONTACT INFO:John Bridge LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bridge/Trust Stamp: https://truststamp.ai/Links mentioned during the show:Impersonator Deepfake Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wm3squcz7Aw ------------------------------IAFCI CONTACT INFO:IAFCI Website: https://iafci.org/Phone: 916-939-5000Advertising Opportunities and Guest Appearance: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com

Almost half of the content of the Internet is located on the dark web. Though there are legitimate reasons for the dark web, most of its content is for the criminal element. From carding sites that will sell your account and personal identifying information to prostitution, murder for hire, human trafficking, and child pornography, the dark web is mostly a lawless place for the underworld to traffic its evil proceeds and services. And this illegal activity can be increasingly seen on the public Internet at an alarming rate. Social media sites have now become a common place for fraudsters and hackers.  Today on The Protectors, Mike and Mark welcome Robert Villanueva. Robert currently leads the Cyber Threat Intelligence Division of Q6 Cyber, a global cyber intelligence company that monitors a vast universe of online sites, marketplaces, communities, and forums where hackers, fraudsters, and cybercriminals operate and interact. Robert has an extensive background, including years with the U.S. Secret Service, and today he educates us on the unknown that is the Dark Web and how we can protect ourselves from harm as the cybercrime threat grows more severe throughout the world.GUEST CONTACT INFO:Q6 Cyber Company Website: www.q6cyber.comQ6 Cyber Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/q6-cyber/Q6 Cyber Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/Q6CyberRobert Villanueva LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-v-0b3a4413/Robert Villanueva Email: RV@q6cyber.com

The disappearance and unexplained death of romance scam victim Laura Kowal has our listeners perplexed as to what happened on August 7, 2020. The story is far from over. Laura's daughter returns to this 2-part podcast special to talk about the day her mother's body was found and many of the troubling circumstances behind the investigation of her mother's death. Was it suicide or something more sinister?  Also joining the podcast will be the two witnesses who discovered her body in the Mississippi River. And this was not their only discovery. Moments before, they encountered a different female body floating in the same waters. Their testimony has been unchanged throughout this investigation, and law enforcement is taking a second look into Laura's death. Someone may hold the key to this mystery and have crucial evidence to help resolve this case. Kelly also explains her reason for sharing this tragic story. Her mission is to find justice and to help prevent those who are in romance scams from becoming victims as well. Join Mark and Mike for the conclusion of The Life and Mysterious Death of Laura Kowal.  GUEST CONTACT INFO:Kelly Gowe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-gowe/Kelly Gowe Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly_gowe/If you have any information regarding this case, contact the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Department at (815) 777-2141.Kelly Gowe is the daughter of Laura Kowal, a romance scam victim who disappeared from her home in Galena, IL on August 7, 2020. Laura was tragically found dead on August 9, 2020 in the Mississippi River near Canton, MO nearly 4 hours away from her home. While this case is still under investigation, Kelly is now ready to share her mom’s story. Her goal is to provide awareness around this crime in order to help others from falling victim to this tragedy. She is also focused on educating, advocating, and providing hope to other victims and their families. Kelly is extremely hopeful that through advocating work and sharing intimate details of the case, it will one day bring this open investigation to a close, bringing justice to those involved in this horrific crime.

It's a call that no child ever wants to receive; For Kelly Gowe, it would be the call that changed her entire life and that of her family. On August 7, 2020, Kelly was notified by law enforcement that her Mother, Laura Kowal, was believed to be a victim of a romance/investment scheme which would later uncover that $1.5 million had been stolen from Laura by fraudsters.Laura Kowal disappeared that day and would never be seen alive again. Tragically, two days later, Laura's body was found floating in the Mississippi River. The fraud scheme and her unexplained death will leave listeners with more questions than answers. In part one of this two-part podcast, Mike and Mark welcome with a heavy heart, Kelly Gowe, as she shares one of the most tragic stories ever heard concerning the impact that a fraud scheme can have on a victim. Laura's life savings, but most importantly, her life was taken from her family and friends at the early age of 57.  Kelly will share this heartbreaking story with The Protectors podcast listeners and the public so she can educate others who might be tricked by fraudsters and family members who suspect their loved ones are being targeted. In part one of this story, Kelly will share some early warning signs of the scheme until her Mother's disappearance.  In part two, Kelly will return to the podcast to discuss the mysterious circumstances of her Mother's body being recovered in the Mississippi River and the suspicious circumstances surrounding the case that has law enforcement taking a second look into her death. It may just take one listener to help police uncover what happened to Laura Kowal.   This devastating incident brings to light the serious risks associated with fraud, in which people can not only lose their money but also their lives. We hope our listeners stand behind Kelly in her fight for answers, justice, and her mission to help others.GUEST CONTACT INFO:Kelly Gowe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-gowe/Kelly Gowe Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly_gowe/If you have any information regarding this case, contact the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Department at (815) 777-2141.Kelly Gowe is the daughter of Laura Kowal, a romance scam victim who disappeared from her home in Galena, IL on August 7, 2020. Laura was tragically found dead on August 9, 2020 in The Mississippi River near Canton, MO nearly 4 hours away from her home. While this case is still under investigation, Kelly is now ready to share her mom’s story. Her goal is to provide awareness around this crime in order to help others from falling victim to this tragedy. She is also focused on educating, advocating, and providing hope to other victims and their families. Kelly is extremely hopeful that through advocating work and sharing intimate details of the case, it will one day bring this open investigation to a close, bringing justice to those involved in this horrific crime.

Ransomware and sextortion scams are becoming increasingly common on social media sites. With the increasing prevalence of these cybercrimes in the digital world, we must equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge and tools to safeguard our online identities and devices. Joining us on this episode of The Protectors is our expert guest, Alain Filotto, who will share his insights and expertise on protecting ourselves from such attacks. Alain is a retired member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with 29 years of policing experience and has spent his last ten years as a court-recognized expert in computer and mobile forensics. Alain gives detailed explanations of some of the most widespread cyber crimes out there and what to be aware of as we surf the internet, shop online, and visit our favorite social media sites. So, please sit back, listen, and learn how to better protect ourselves and our families from these internet criminals.GUEST CONTACT INFO:Website: https://alphafoxforensics.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlphafoxForensicsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alphafox_forensics/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alain-filotto/

In today's society, there is often a debate between the rule of law and excessive punishment. Violent crimes and the physical safety of our citizens will always be the priority. But when law enforcement and prosecutors see trends that financial crimes are linked to more serious crimes, should we be doing more? Today, Mike and Mark welcome retired San Diego Prosecutor Paul Greenwood back to the podcast to address these very issues. In an era where we are seeing the lessening of non-violent crime sentences and consequences and offering no cash bail to non-violent criminal offenses, are we encouraging more to head down the wrong path? Is there a link between financial crimes and violent crimes? We'll let you decide.GUEST CONTACT INFO:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-greenwood-14841a5Twitter: https://twitter.com/pgreenddaThe Protectors: IAFCIProtectorspodcast@gmail.com