EPISODE 11: MORE ABOUT SCAMS: THE BILLIONS-OF-DOLLARS PROBLEM
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Scams and fraud are becoming more sophisticated every year, impacting people of all ages and backgrounds. In this episode, Judy and Jess welcome a very special guest, Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, to discuss the growing threat of scams and the challenges of fighting fraud in today's technology-driven world. Russ shares insights from his work, practical advice for protecting yourself, and why awareness remains one of the most powerful tools we have.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
⚠️ Scam Targets: Fraud impacts every generation
🎯 Common Scams: Romance, lottery, tech support schemes
📞 Verify Calls: Use trusted contact information
🔐 Report Fast: Quick action improves recovery odds
🌍 Big Business: Scam operations mimic corporations
RUSS FERGUSON
Russ Ferguson is the presidentially appointed United States Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, confirmed by the United States Senate on December 18, 2025. He was nominated by President Donald Trump and sworn into office on Christmas Eve by the Honorable Frank D. Whitney, Senior United States District Judge.
Prior to his confirmation, Mr. Ferguson served as interim U.S. Attorney beginning in March 2025 and was later unanimously appointed by the federal judges of the district in June 2025. In his role, he serves as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the Western District, overseeing nearly 100 prosecutors and staff across 32 counties, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Mr. Ferguson brings more than 16 years of legal experience to the position. He began his career as a federal prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, where he tried 28 cases to verdict. He later became a partner at Womble Bond Dickinson, where he led the firm’s complex litigation group and handled high-profile civil, criminal, and international arbitration matters.
In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Ferguson has been active in professional and community leadership. He has served with the Mecklenburg County Bar, earned recognition for pro bono service, and been named to honors such as Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America. He has also served on nonprofit and civic boards, including NourishUp and Keep Charlotte Beautiful.
Mr. Ferguson earned his undergraduate degree from Duke University and his law degree and Master of Laws from Georgetown University Law Center. Following law school, he clerked for the Honorable Frank D. Whitney in the Western District of North Carolina.
LINKS:
Learn more about Russ HERE