Salina Post
Salina man became a victim of fraud, losing over $25,000 after clicking on a fraudulent pop-up through his computer.
According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Thursday, a 76-year old male reported that last week he received a fraudulent pop-up on his computer. The pop-up indicated his computer had "contracted a virus" and that he needed to call Microsoft, as a phone number was provided.
The man then contacted the number and connected with an individual, who stated he needed to send money via Bitcoin to solve the issue. He also received a call from someone claiming to be from the "fraud department" of his bank. The scammer instructed him to send a total of $15,700 in bitcoin.
Furthermore, the man went to a convenient store in town and purchased the full amount in bitcoin. He then sent the amount to the scammer and was advised to send an additional $9,590, which he sent.
The scammer told the man not to connect with local law enforcement or his bank, as this was an "ongoing investigation."
Afterwards, the scammer told the man send $24,300 through a Wells Fargo wire transfer. The man attempted to do so, but was denied access as the transfer was flagged as fraud.
This is when the man contacted SPD.
However, according to SPD the victim is currently out $25,290.
SPD wants to advise community members when on computers or using social media be very careful. DO NOT click on pop ups.
If you are having issues with your computer, take it to a reputable technician or someone you trust. Also, DO NOT send money to someone you have never met online. If you are told to purchase gift cards or send money through Bitcoin DO NOT send it without speaking with a trusted relative, your bank, or law enforcement, it is going to be a scam. Once gift card numbers or account numbers are provided the money becomes nearly impossible to recover. Anytime a subject keeps adding additional “fees” or advises you not to tell anyone, not to tell your bank, or not to involve law enforcement, it is a scam.