A police officer in White Settlement, Texas, successfully thwarted a scam involving a Chase Bank impersonator who had tricked an elderly woman into withdrawing $40,000 and depositing it into a Bitcoin ATM.
On June 19, the White Settlement Police Department (WSPD) reported the intervention. A concerned citizen alerted the police after overhearing an elderly woman engaged in a suspicious phone conversation while depositing large sums of cash into a Bitcoin ATM.
Police Officer Stops Bitcoin ATM Scam
The WSPD detailed how the scammer threatened the victim with arrest if she did not transfer the funds, a common tactic in “pig butchering” scams. The caller ID displayed “Chase Bank,” convincing the victim that she was speaking to a legitimate bank employee.
The scammer arranged for a ride service to take the woman to a local Chase Bank, where she withdrew the money. They then directed her to a convenience store with a Bitcoin ATM to deposit the funds.
Dashcam footage released by the WSPD shows an officer intercepting the situation. Despite the scammer’s continued efforts to convince the victim to complete the transaction, the officer intervened just in time.
While the police managed to prevent further loss, the woman had already deposited $23,900 into the Bitcoin ATM. Authorities are now collaborating with government officials to recover the funds and return them to the victim.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action in preventing financial scams, particularly those targeting vulnerable individuals.
Summary Review: This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action in preventing financial scams, especially those targeting vulnerable individuals. The intervention by the White Settlement Police Department not only prevented further financial loss but also underscored the need for community awareness and prompt reporting of suspicious activities. Authorities continue to work on recovering the stolen funds and emphasize the critical role of public awareness in combating such scams.
Disclaimer: Remember that nothing in this article and everything under the responsibility of Web30 News should be interpreted as financial advice. The information provided is for entertainment and educational purposes only. Investing in cryptocurrency involves inherent risks and potential investors should be aware that capital is at risk and returns are never guaranteed. It is imperative that you conduct thorough research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decision.
