By Judge Lisa Lowe, Knoxville

Unfortunately, we’re surrounded by scams these days. Some of the top scams are:

• AI-powered deepfake voice scams, where scammers use AI to clone loved one’s voices or authority figures, creating urgent, high-pressure fake scenarios.
• E-Z pass/toll text phishing, where text messages claim unpaid tolls, directing users to fake sites to steal credit card details.
• Imposter bank scams, where criminals pose as bank employees, tech support, or family members to steal funds.
• Investment and crypto fraud, or investing schemes with the promise of unrealistic returns often involving cryptocurrency.
• Online shopping/package scams, involving fake websites for goods or phishing messages about delivery problems.

Now, scams have expanded to the court system. In Colorado, scammers falsely identify themselves and target injured workers, contacting them by phone, email, or video call. The scammers tell the employees that they had to pay money to receive workers’ compensation benefits or to settle their claims.

Remain vigilant, and remember:

• The Court of Workers’ Compensation Claims/Bureau of Workers’ Compensation will not ask for money to release workers’ compensation benefits. NEVER pay up front for benefits or settlements.
• The Court/Bureau will never ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
• Be skeptical of any payment requests and contact the Bureau directly before sending any payment.
• If you believe a scammer has contacted you—whether it’s about your workers’ compensation claim or something else—report it ASAP to the Office of the Tennessee Attorney General.

Stay safe, friends.