The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is alerting the public to a real estate scam, which convinced a victim they were investing in property with Jason Momoa. 

The DCCA said in a release there has been “a recent wave of real estate investor scams.” Scammers are sending deceptive letters, claiming to be government entities and providing individuals and businesses with false market assessments to convince them to spend money on non-existent investments. 

One recent letter tricked its victim by claiming to be from a fake government entity, “Hawaii Real Estate Department and Agencies,” and included a forged signature from DCCA Director Nadine Ando. It also used letterhead with the state of Hawaii seal, without authorization, and featured the logo of a fake real estate investment company, “Welfare Estate,” which said it offers investment opportunities, but the properties don’t exist. 

On top of all this, the letter led the victim to believe they were investing in real estate alongside Momoa, the "Aquaman" star, which would result in immediate and large financial returns.

“It has come to my attention that scammers are using my name to promote fake real estate opportunities,” Momoa said in the news release. “I want to assure everyone that I am not associated with these schemes and have no partnership with any real estate firms. Please remain cautious and verify any offers you receive. Stay informed and look out for one another.”

According to the DCCA, a legitimate real estate investment business will never ask individuals to immediately pay in cash or require payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency. These payment methods should be red flags. DCCA also encourages individuals to resist pressure to act quickly and instead verify the legitimacy of the business.

DCCA is investigating the recent letter and notes impersonating a state agency or public servant is a serious criminal offense that will be prosecuted. Unfortunately, DCCA said these scams are becoming increasingly common.