Wausau Detectives See a 100% in Fraud Cases Compared to Last Year

Friday, April 3rd, 2026 -- 2:01 PM

Fraud is now the #1 case type investigated by Wausau detectives, up 100% from last year.

That trend is continuing into 2026, and the losses are staggering. In just the first few months of this year, the Department is seeing victims, especially those over 65, lose tens of thousands and, in some cases, hundreds of thousands of dollars. Phishing attempts aren’t rare, they’re constant. And they’re hitting us all.

• They show up as a pop-up warning on your computer.
• They come through emails that look legitimate, warning your account has been compromised.
• A text message urging you to act quickly.
• Or a phone call that sounds real, even claiming to be law enforcement.

From there, the pressure starts. You’re told your money is at risk, or tied to criminal activity, and you need to act fast to “protect” it. Victims are being directed to move money, buy gift cards, convert funds to Bitcoin, or even hand cash to someone in person.

Let’s be clear: that is fraud. No legitimate business or law enforcement agency will ever ask you to move money, pay with cryptocurrency or gift cards, or avoid arrest by making a payment. If you get a call like this, hang up.

If you see a message like this, don’t engage. Take a moment, verify it through a trusted source, and talk to someone you trust before taking action. If it feels urgent, secretive, or just doesn’t sit right, it’s a scam. Let’s look out for each other, especially those most vulnerable in our community.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.