A quick and coordinated response by Chaverim Of Rockland saved an elderly Monsey couple from losing $51,000 Friday after they fell victim to a sophisticated Microsoft tech support scam that lasted for hours.
The ordeal began early Friday when a pop-up message appeared on the couple’s computer claiming it had been compromised. Moments later, scammers posing as Microsoft representatives contacted the couple and convinced them that criminals had used their computer to commit serious crimes. The callers falsely claimed federal authorities would arrest them unless they immediately followed their instructions.
For hours, the scammers manipulated and intimidated the couple, keeping them on the phone the entire time and ordering them not to hang up or speak with anyone else. Under immense pressure, the elderly couple drove to their bank and insisted on wiring $51,000 to an account controlled by the scammers.
Even after they returned home, the scammers continued trying to gain access to additional bank accounts and personal information through the compromised computer in an attempt to steal even more money.
Shortly before 5:00 p.m., the wife began to realize something didn’t seem right and contacted Chaverim Of Rockland.
Recognizing the urgency, Chaverim immediately dispatched one volunteer to the couple’s home while another rushed directly to the bank. In a race against the clock, the volunteer worked with bank employees to stop the wire transfer while it was still being processed, successfully saving the couple’s entire $51,000. At the same time, the volunteer at the home helped disconnect the scammers, secure the computer, and begin protecting the couple’s financial accounts from further compromise.
The Ramapo Police Department responded to the residence and took a report.
This incident is a stark reminder that Microsoft, Apple, the FTC, banks, and law enforcement agencies will never demand that you wire money, purchase gift cards, or threaten you with arrest over the phone or through a computer pop-up. If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up immediately and contact a trusted family member, your bank, local police, or Chaverim before taking any action
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