Miami Woman Scammed by Fake Rickey Smiley

0:00From the streets of Birmingham to the world, this is Birmingham News Today. A Miami woman named Denise Kinsler says she lost $1,200 to a scammer pretending to be radio host Ricky Smiley on social media. She thought she was booking the real Smiley for a father's day event through her nonprofit. Instead, the fake account tricked her into sending money via cashapp for a supposed trip to meet him. Kinsler had asked if the account was legit and got a reassuring video that looked like Smiley in the studio. After a few days of chatting, she sent the cash, hoping for big breaks, like paid off student loans and business debt. One payment seemed to clear her loan temporarily, but it bounced back the next day. She turned to her local radio station for help during Smiley's visit to Miami, expecting real support. But Kinsler felt led down, like her time and money got wasted again. Now she's dealing with tight finances while caring for her elderly husband. The real Ricky Smiley told reporters, he feels terrible for victims like her.

1:01He says impersonators have targeted him before, with fans sending cash and thinking they get personal text, or prayers from him daily. Smiley urges everyone to use common sense and check with text savvy folks, like grandkids, before sending money online. Kinsler reported it to Miami police, but recovering cashapp funds looks tough. Support for this episode comes from our sponsor, see the description. Sully Pillow is a pillow with built-in headphones. Lay back, press play, and disappear into what you are listening to. S-O-L-I-SullyPillow.com