FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, September 11th, 2025
CONTACT: Jordan Robinson, Public Safety PIO 208-846-7360 or [email protected]
Meridian Police Warn Residents of Disturbing Scam Letters Demanding Cryptocurrency
Meridian, Idaho — The Meridian Police Department is warning the community about a disturbing scam circulating across the country that has recently surfaced in our area.
Residents have reported receiving physical letters in the mail that include printed images of child sexual abuse material. The letters claim the recipient’s computer has been hacked and demand payment in cryptocurrency within a short timeframe of around 36 hours. The letters include alarming language such as “YOU’VE BEEN HACKED” and “we are not playing games,” and reference hacking tools like “Pegasus” and “Cobalt Strike.”
Scammers have gone so far as to list names of family or friends of the intended victim, making the threats appear more credible.
What to do if you receive one of these letters:
• Do not read through it further.
• Do not throw it away—keep the letter in its entirety.
• Do not respond or send any money.
• Contact your local police department immediately to report it.
At this time, the sender is unknown, but the letters appear to be mailed from Canada.
This scam is designed to frighten people into paying money out of fear. If you receive one of these letters, do not engage with the sender. Save the letter and call law enforcement right away.
If you believe you have been targeted, please contact the Meridian Police Department through Ada County Dispatch at 208-377-6790.
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The Meridian Police Department’s mission is to provide the highest quality service in partnership with the community to preserve and protect life and property through education, prevention and enforcement. The department has 151 police officers, and 46 non-sworn staff dedicated to making Meridian a great place to live, work and raise a family
