Scam alert. MWC file photo.
MERRILL, WI (WSAU) — Another Lincoln County resident reported a near-miss when scammers tried to drain their bank accounts last week.
Sheriff’s officials say a man in the Town of Bradley allowed the scammers access to the family’s computer after they claimed they could speed it up for around $200. The scammer then sent the victim altered screenshots that showed their bank accounts had been cleared out.
Scammers then demanded gift cards in exchange for returning some of the money and a promise to not take any more. After he left to go to the bank, his wife called the Sheriff’s department who then contacted the couple’s banks to lock the accounts.
When the man arrived at the bank, he was met by officers and bank officials who assured him the accounts were safe and nothing was taken.
An 80-year-old Tomahawk man wasn’t as lucky, losing over $3,000 after someone claiming to be from the Social Security Office asking the main to verify his SSN.
The victim gave the caller his number, and the caller then demanded 3,500 in Wal-Mart gift cards and threatened the man with jail time if he didn’t comply.
The man purchased the cards and turned the numbers over to the caller. Officials believe the money is likely lost and cannot be returned. The call originated from number 213-529-9367.
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