The Utah Fraudcast

The Utah Department of Commerce

Regulatory Insights and Consumer Tips

Formerly called the Scamalot Fraudcast. New name, but just as dedicated to helping Utahns stay safe from fraud and scams.

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S2 · E6
Monday · 30 min
Panicking and Losing Big: How Cybercriminals Bypass Our Logic and Inside Crypto-Driven Fraud
On our season two finale of the Utah Fraudcast, we sit down with one of the world's leading minds in cybercrime intelligence, Gary Warner, a co-founder of the non-profit Intelligence for Good, to peel back the layers of modern digital fraud. While Utah has a long history of traditional financial crimes such as affinity fraud and multi-level marketing traps, the threat landscape has undergone a massive shift. Today's bad actors aren't pitchmen on stages in Salt Lake City; they are highly organized, keyboard-driven syndicates operating behind encrypted networks and offshore cryptocurrency rails to strip everyday citizens of their life savings. Gary shares his decades of intelligence experience to expose the psychological playbooks behind these multi-billion dollar operations, breaks down the three primary "on-ramps" of crypto investment scams, and introduces a groundbreaking university initiative that is actively hitting scammers where it hurts. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Will McFarland and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links mentioned in the episode: Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): https://www.ic3.gov/ Intelligence for Good: https://www.intelligenceforgood.org/ Utah Department of Commerce: www.commerce.utah.gov. Utah Division of Securities: https://commerce.utah.gov/securities/ Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman: https://www.amazon.com/Thinking-Fast-Slow-Daniel-Kahneman/dp/0374533555
S2 · E5
August 31 · 30 min
Reckoning and Recovery: Alpha Influence Sentencing and Restitution (Part 3)
In the final installment of our series on the Alpha Influence Ponzi scheme, we examine the rise and devastating fall of Jeremiah Joseph Evans, known online as "The Bull." Evans built a $20 million empire by promising investors fully managed Amazon storefronts, but instead used the funds to finance a white Lamborghini and a luxurious lifestyle. We are joined by Liz Blaylock, Chief of Enforcement of the Utah Division of Securities, as we go inside the Salt Lake City courtroom for his standing-room-only sentencing hearing and discuss the hard reality of recovering funds for over 500 victims across the country. Evans, who once boasted he was "the king" above the law, ultimately faced a reckoning that underscored the true cost of affinity fraud. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Will McFarland and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Utah Department of Commerce: www.commerce.utah.gov Utah Division of Securities: https://commerce.utah.gov/securities/ Utah White Collar Crime Registry: https://www.utfraud.com/
S2 · E4
August 17 · 31 min
Unraveling the Alpha Influence Ponzi Scheme (Part 2)
How do you dismantle a $21 million empire built on bravado and bad checks? In part two of this series, we go behind the scenes of the federal investigation into Jeremiah "The Bull" Evans. Cidne Orchard, Senior Enforcement Investigator with the Utah Division of Securities, joins us to reveal how forensic accounting and a complex paper trail exposed the Alpha Influence Ponzi scheme. We discuss the "done-for-you" Amazon pitch that led to a 96-month prison sentence and identify the red flags you need to know to protect your own investments. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Will McFarland and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Utah Department of Commerce: www.commerce.utah.gov. Utah Division of Securities: https://commerce.utah.gov/securities/ Broker Check: https://brokercheck.finra.org/ Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/ Upcoming in this series: Join us for part three as we wrap up this case and sit down with Liz Blaylock, Chief of Enforcement of the Utah Division of Securities, to discuss Jeremiah's 96-month prison sentence and what happens next for the "Bull".
S2 · E3
August 3 · 31 min
Muscles, Money, and a Mirage: The Fall of Jeremiah "The Bull" Evans and Alpha Influence (Part 1)
On this episode of the Utah Fraudcast, we explore the rise and fall of Jeremiah "The Bull" Evans and his "Alpha Influence" empire. Evans used a hyper-masculine social media persona to lure over 530 victims into a $21 million Ponzi scheme. Promising impossible 7% to 10% monthly returns on automated Amazon drop-shipping stores, Evans instead used the initial buy-ins to fund a lavish lifestyle of rented private jets, designer clothes, and luxury cars. Evans ultimately pleaded guilty to securities fraud and money laundering, resulting in an 8-year federal prison sentence and an order to pay $19.1 million in restitution. Upcoming in this Series: Part two features an interview with an investigator who worked on the case, and Part three will cover the sentencing and the challenges of recovering restitution for the victim. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Will McFarland and produced by Katie Scheuch. Sources for the Episode: Utah Department of Commerce: www.commerce.utah.gov. Utah Division of Securities: https://commerce.utah.gov/securities/ Deseret News article about Alpha Con: https://www.deseret.com/2022/2/22/22945829/perspective-how-a-beta-like-me-managed-to-get-kicked-out-of-alpha-con-business-conference/ Deseret News article about Alpha Influence fraud complaints: https://www.deseret.com/utah/2023/3/9/23579761/jeremiah-evans-the-bull-alphacon-business-complaints/ Jeremiah Evans pleads guilty: https://commerce.utah.gov/2025/01/23/news-release-alpha-influence-ringleader-admits-to-defrauding-investors-of-over-20m/. Sentencing press releases: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ut/alpha-influence-investment. https://commerce.utah.gov/2025/05/08/news-release-investment-scammer-sentenced-to-96-months-imprisonment-for-defrauding-alpha-influence-investors-of-over-20m/, https://commerce.utah.gov/2025/05/06/news-release-utah-county-man-sentenced-to-prison-for-affinity-fraud-scheme-that-scammed-over-5m-from-alpha-influence-investors/ Alpha Influence's Vimeo Account: https://vimeo.com/user152824328
S2 · E2
July 20 · 17 min
The Silent Threat: The Hidden Hazards of Natural Gas and How to Evacuate Safely
Show Notes: In this episode of the Utah Fraudcast, we sit down with a pipeline lead safety engineer for the Utah Division of Public Utilities to unpack the tragic November 2024 home explosion in South Jordan. He explains how an underground leak from an aging plastic gas main migrated into the home, silently "scrubbing" away the familiar rotten egg odor of natural gas along the way. We dive into the science of gas-to-air flammability and discuss actionable steps homeowners can take to protect their families. Tune in to learn why standard smoke and carbon monoxide alarms aren't enough, how certified methane detectors placed near your ceiling provide a vital early warning, and the essential safety protocols you must follow, like evacuating the house before dialing 911, if you ever suspect a natural gas leak. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Will McFarland and produced by Katie Scheuch. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Will McFarland and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: NTSB Investigation into the 2024 South Jordan Home Explosion: https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/Pages/PLD25FR001.aspx What to know about natural gas alarms:https://www.ntsb.gov/advocacy/safety-alerts/Pages/SA-098.aspx Utah Division of Public Utilities: dpu.utah.gov Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov, scams.utah.gov
S2 · E1
July 6 · 19 min
Defending Your Deed: Preventing Property Fraud in Utah
Show Notes: In this episode of the Utah Fraudcast, we are joined by Salt Lake County Recorder Rashelle Hobbs to discuss the essential role her office plays in protecting homeowners from property fraud. From predatory mail scams charging unnecessary fees to audacious real estate heists and deceptive title changes within a family's "circle of trust," property fraud is a very real and evolving threat. Hobbs explains how Utah residents can stay proactive by signing up for Property Watch, a free alert service that notifies subscribers via text or email whenever a document, such as a new lien, refinance, or deed transfer, is officially recorded on their property. Whether you are a prospective buyer or managing a family estate, tune in to learn why it is crucial to "trust, but verify" your property records and how to utilize the free public resources available at your local recorder's office. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Will McFarland and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Salt Lake County Recorder: https://www.saltlakecounty.gov/recorder/residents/property-watch/ Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov, scams.utah.gov
S1 · E11
February 16 · 20 min
Don't Pay to Stay Out of Jail: How to Spot Law Enforcement Impersonation Scams
In this episode of the Scamalot Fraudcast, we sit down with Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera to discuss government imposter scams. Sheriff Rivera explains how fraudsters impersonate deputies to exploit fear, why you should never try to "outsmart" a scammer on the phone, and the one thing law enforcement will never ask you to do. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: dcp.utah.gov https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you https://www.saltlakecounty.gov/sheriff/
S1 · E10
February 2 · 19 min
Closing the Loophole on the Illicit Massage Industry in Utah: How a New Law Protects Consumers, Legitimate Businesses, and Targets Human Trafficking
In this episode, the Scamalot Fraudcast explores a major new crackdown on human trafficking and illicit industries in Utah. Host Patrick Fitzgibbon speaks with Jeff Shumway from the Office of Professional Licensure Review to discuss HB278, the "Massage Therapy Amendments". They explain how this new law addresses a regulatory "blind spot" to protect consumers, support legitimate business owners, and empower law enforcement to shut down illicit operations. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Utah Division of Professional Licensing: dopl.utah.gov Utah Office of Professional Licensure Review: oplr.utah.gov Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov, scams.utah.gov
S1 · E9
January 19 · 27 min
Unmasking "Junk Fees" and Restoring Price Transparency
Have you ever booked a trip, bought concert tickets, or rented an apartment, only to find the final price was significantly higher than advertised? In this episode, we discuss the pervasive issue of "junk fees," those vague, hidden line items, such as "service charges" or "resort fees," that appear only at the checkout screen. We examine how deceptive pricing tactics influence consumer psychology, identify the industries where these fees are most prevalent, and discuss new legislative efforts in Utah aimed at leveling the playing field for honest businesses and protecting consumers. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Utah Division of Consumer Protection: dcp.utah.gov Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov, scams.utah.gov Junk Fees presentation: https://le.utah.gov/interim/2025/pdf/00002808.pdf HB 29:https://le.utah.gov/Session/2026/bills/static/HB0029.html
S1 · E8
January 5 · 17 min
Resolutions and Red Flags: Staying Scam-Free in 2026
As we kick off 2026, many of us are setting resolutions to find new jobs or improve our financial health. However, scammers are ready to exploit these goals. This episode explores how to safely stick to your resolutions by identifying red flags in employment and investment opportunities, as well as how Artificial Intelligence is transforming the fraud landscape. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Utah Division of Consumer Protection: dcp.utah.gov Utah Division of Securities: securities.utah.gov FINRA BrokerCheck: https://brokercheck.finra.org/ Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov, scams.utah.gov
S1 · E7
Dec 15, 2025 · 36 min
Renovation Red Flags: Construction Fraud, Job Abandonment, and Unlicensed Contractors
This episode discusses construction fraud, job abandonment, unlicensed contractors, and the importance of verifying professional licenses. It also discusses common contractor scams, red flags, and how to protect yourself from them. Learn about the importance of hiring licensed contractors, the role of the Utah Division of Professional Licensing, and how to report issues. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL): dopl.utah.gov 7 Steps to Hiring a Contractor Pamphlet: https://dopl.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/steps-to-hiring-a-contractor.pdf Construction Business Registry: https://dopl.utah.gov/construction-business-registry/ Standard Residential Construction Contract: https://dopl.utah.gov/contracting/construction-contract/ Residence Lien Recovery Fund: https://dopl.utah.gov/residence-lien-recovery-fund/ Verify a License: https://secure.utah.gov/llv/search/index.html Scams.utah.gov: scams.utah.gov Division of Consumer Protection: consumerprotection.utah.gov
S1 · E6
Dec 8, 2025 · 39 min
Fear, Excitement, and Love: How Scammers Use Emotions to Betray Seniors' Trust
Join us for a discussion about senior scams, a serious issue where individuals 80 and older lose more money than any other age group. This episode dives into common scam tactics, including fear-based, excitement-based, and romance-based impostor scams. Learn to recognize red flags and get tips on protecting yourself and your loved ones. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Action plumbing press release: https://blog.commerce.utah.gov/2025/01/16/utah-department-of-commerce-brings-legal-proceedings-against-action-plumbing-heating-air-and-electric-alleging-gross-misconduct-and-exploitation-of-seniors/ Verify a license: https://secure.utah.gov/llv/search/index.html DOPL: disciplinary newsletter: https://dopl.utah.gov/disciplinary-newsletters/ DCP file a complaint: https://db.dcp.utah.gov/complaints.html
#5
Dec 1, 2025 · 39 min
Too Good to Be True: High Returns, High Risk, and the Collapse of the Rust Rare Coin Ponzi Scheme
This episode of Scamalot Fraudcast discusses the case of Gaylen Rust and Rust Rare Coin, one of the largest Ponzi schemes in Utah history. We delve into the investigation of Rust's scheme, Rust's background, and the nature of the precious metals scheme. We also explain how Ponzi schemes work and how to spot red flags in potential investment opportunities. Since recording this episode, nearly $30 million in restitution has been distributed to the victims, with additional distributions expected as remaining disputed claims are resolved. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. Our guest this week is Elizabeth Blaylock, Chief Enforcement Manager at the Utah Division of Securities. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links mentioned in this episode: Verify a license: securities.utah.gov/licenses/verify-a-license/ Scam education: scams.utah.gov Utah Division of Securities: securities.utah.gov Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov
S1 · E4
Nov 26, 2025 · 31 min
'Tis the Season of Scamming: Protecting Yourself from Phishing, Fake Charities, and Gift Card Fraud
This episode discusses holiday scams with Katie Hass, Director of the Division of Consumer Protection. We break down the most common holiday scams to watch out for, including phishing scams disguised as shipping notifications, online shopping scams featuring fake stores and counterfeit goods, and charity and crowdfunding scams that capitalize on the season of giving. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Charity Navigator: https://www.charitynavigator.org Give.org: https://give.org/ Legal actions search: https://db.dcp.utah.gov/actions/index.html Utah Division of Consumer Protection: dcp.utah.gov Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov, scams.utah.gov
#3
Nov 17, 2025 · 32 min
The Rise of Artificial Intelligence: Scams, Voice Bots, and Protecting Your Data
This episode explores the evolving world of artificial intelligence and how malicious actors exploit it to deceive. It discusses the unsettling reality of AI scams, including deepfake videos, voice impersonations, and AI-generated phishing emails. Learn to identify red flags and protect yourself from these increasingly sophisticated threats. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Utah Department of Commerce: commerce.utah.gov Scams.utah.gov: scams.utah.gov Utah Division of Consumer Protection (DCP): dcp.utah.gov Utah Consumer Privacy Act: https://dcp.utah.gov/ucpa/
#2
Nov 10, 2025 · 31 min
Cryptocurrency: Understanding Digital Assets and Avoiding Scams
Show Notes: This episode explores the world of cryptocurrency scams with Robert Cummings, Director of the Division of Securities. We break down the basics of digital money, including how it's acquired, stored, and used, its inherent risks, such as its volatile value, why someone might choose to own cryptocurrency, how cryptocurrency is exploited for scams, common types of crypto scams, and why scammers favor using cryptocurrency. We also discuss the most common mistakes people make that lead to losing their crypto. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Division of Securities: securities.utah.gov File a complaint: https://securities.utah.gov/enforcement/file-a-complaint/ Verify a license: https://securities.utah.gov/licenses/verify-a-license/ FINRA broker check: https://brokercheck.finra.org/ scams.utah.gov
#1
Nov 3, 2025 · 33 min
Top 10 Frauds and Scams in Utah
Join us for a deep dive into Utah's most commonly reported scams and fraud for 2024. We'll explore crucial takeaways from the Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Sentinel Network, a free and public resource that tracks consumer reports about marketplace problems, including fraud and identity theft. Learn about the top scams affecting Utahns, the age groups most impacted, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Please note that the Department of Commerce, along with its divisions and offices, refrains from commenting on ongoing and current investigations. Statements are issued only after action is taken against a business or individual. This podcast is hosted by Patrick Fitzgibbon and produced by Katie Scheuch. Links Mentioned in the Episode: FTC Tableau: https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/TheBigViewAllSentinelReports/TopReports DCP Complaints: https://db.dcp.utah.gov/complaints.html Utah Lemon Law: https://dcp.utah.gov/education/car-purchases-and-repairs/ Business Opportunities: https://dcp.utah.gov/for-businesses/opportunities/ Report Identity Theft: https://www.identitytheft.gov/ Scams: https://scams.utah.gov/ SharkTank endorsements: https://abc.com/news/920582c3-2083-45bc-81c9-95e33c5a76e9/category/706923

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