Aransas Pass Veteran Warns After Bitcoin Scam Losses

Bassyonni

ago 60 minutes

Aransas Pass Veteran Warns After Bitcoin Scam Losses

An Aransas Pass veteran has issued a warning after losing a significant sum of money to a Bitcoin scam. Mike Williams, a resident of Aransas Pass for over 12 years, experienced a harrowing encounter involving a fake computer alert and a fraudulent support line.

Scam Details and Impact

Williams was targeted by scammers after a pop-up message claimed his computer had been hacked. Responding to a provided phone number, he spoke with a scammer who warned him about potential risks to his financial accounts. This urgent warning prompted Williams to act quickly.

The scammer convinced him to withdraw cash from his bank. He then made deposits into what he thought was a standard ATM, only to discover later that it was a Bitcoin machine operated by the scammer. On two occasions, he deposited hefty sums, even after a store employee warned him against it.

Realization and Reporting the Fraud

The following morning, Williams recognized something was amiss and attempted to reach the scammer by phone. After the call ended abruptly, he reported the scam to local authorities. Williams has also connected with AARP to consult a fraud specialist as he seeks to reopen his case.

Wider Context of Scams

Williams noted similarities between his experience and another incident involving an 80-year-old veteran in Florida. That case involved a man attempting to deposit tens of thousands of dollars into a Bitcoin ATM while conversing with scammers impersonating his bank. In both cases, scammers created a sense of urgency, making victims feel their bank accounts were compromised.

According to AARP, scams and fraud cost Americans a staggering $12.5 billion in 2024. This figure marks a record high, with older adults, particularly those in their 70s, reporting median losses of $1,000. Investment and cryptocurrency-related scams have emerged as some of the most harmful.

Advice for Seniors and Veterans

Williams hopes his story serves as a cautionary tale for others, particularly seniors and veterans. He emphasizes the importance of skepticism in financial matters. “You can’t be too careful,” he advises. “Don’t believe everything that you read on that computer or call numbers. Be very cautious.”