Nearly $22K Lost In Scam; Second Attempt Stopped

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — A quick-thinking family member may have saved an elderly woman from losing tens of thousands of dollars in what Smithfield Police say is a growing scam targeting seniors.

The two incidents reported days apart to police followed nearly identical patterns, with callers posing as representatives from Wells Fargo.

In the first case, a 72-year-old Smithfield resident received a call March 26 claiming their bank account had been hacked. The caller instructed the victim to withdraw funds and transfer them to a “secure” account.

By the time the incident was reported March 30, the victim had already lost $21,870, and the money could not be recovered.

Just days later, an 83-year-old Smithfield woman received a similar call and began withdrawing $35,000. Before the transaction could be completed, a family member realized what was happening and stepped in.

Police say the cases may be connected and are urging families to talk with older relatives about scam tactics.

Officials recommend:

• Never trust unsolicited calls requesting money transfers
• Verify claims by calling your bank directly
• Slow down — scammers rely on panic and urgency
• Involve a trusted relative or friend before sending large amounts of money

Anyone targeted by a scam should report it immediately to law enforcement.