An 88-year-old woman from Manatee County lost over $27,000 in an “elaborate tech support scam,” according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
The scam began when the woman was deceived into believing that her computer had been used to authorize a transaction for child pornography and that she would face criminal charges if she didn’t pay.
Deputies said a message, appearing to be from Apple Support, popped up on her computer, warning of security threats. When the woman called the listed number, she was told she was under investigation and that her financial information was at risk.
Under the scammer’s instructions, she withdrew cash and delivered it in envelopes to a person waiting at the gate of her residential community.
“Fraudsters use this tactic to scare vulnerable victims into thinking they have a computer problem, then escalate the fear with threats of public humiliation and criminal prosecution to steal their money,” deputies explained in a news release.
Authorities urge residents to contact law enforcement immediately if they suspect a scam. The sheriff’s office advises keeping anti-virus and security software up to date, resisting pressure to act quickly, and never sharing information with unknown individuals.
If a scammer gains access to a device, it’s important to change all passwords immediately.