90-year-old reunites with officer who kept her from losing nearly $10,000 to crypto scam

How it works

The scammer sent a text message to the victim. They convinced her to withdraw nearly $10,000 in cash, claiming she needed to buy cryptocurrency. The victim was on her way to a gas station ATM when police intervened.

Red flags to watch for

• Text message urging you to buy cryptocurrency immediately
• Scammer pressures you to withdraw cash from an ATM
• You are asked to move money to a crypto wallet or account
• Sense of urgency; the scammer says you must act right now
• Caller may claim to represent a financial institution or authority

What to do

Do not respond to unsolicited texts asking you to buy cryptocurrency or wire money. If you receive such a message, hang up, delete it, and call your bank using the number on your bank card. If you are already at an ATM or about to withdraw cash for an online stranger, stop. Talk to a trusted family member or a police officer before sending any money.