Local Woman Scammed Out of Thousands: What You Need to Know
Criminals are increasingly targeting the most vulnerable members of our communities, including a senior citizen from Berea who recently fell victim to a scam that cost her tens of thousands of dollars—money she simply cannot afford to lose.
“I reacted without thinking,” said Debbie Carpenter. She received a pop-up message on her computer claiming to be from Microsoft, instructing her to call an 877 number immediately.
Upon calling, Carpenter was connected to a scammer who took control of her laptop. “He guided me through a series of key presses, saying we were moving to the next step,” Carpenter explained.
As the scam unfolded, another individual involved in the scheme called her, claiming her money was in jeopardy and urging her to drive to the bank. “He had everything planned out. He said, ‘Here’s the bank; stop here,’” Carpenter recounted.
Throughout her journey to a PNC Bank location in Middleburg Heights, the scammer remained on the line, directing her actions. An alert bank employee even questioned Carpenter about the large amount of cash she was withdrawing. Feeling cornered, she concocted a story, saying she needed cash for home improvements, as it would result in a discount.
Carpenter visited two PNC locations, withdrawing nearly $20,000 in total. Following the scammer’s instructions, she stopped at a gas station to use a Bitcoin ATM. “I lost my mind and started feeding cash into the machine,” she admitted, failing to notice the on-screen warnings that Bitcoin ATM companies often display.
In a bid to expose the scam, the News 5 Investigators called the same 877 number Carpenter had dialed. When asked if they were with Microsoft, the caller confirmed and attempted to record the investigators’ names. When pressed about their fraudulent activities, the scammer abruptly hung up.
Repeated calls revealed the same scam each time.
John Steiger, Director of the East-Central Region of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), highlighted that imposter scams and the misuse of Bitcoin ATMs are currently the FTC’s biggest complaint category. He emphasized crucial advice: never call the number provided in a pop-up message. “Turn off your computer and take a moment to think. There’s no need to rush into resolving anything,” Steiger advised.
In addition to losing $20,000, Carpenter is also responsible for caring for her daughter, who faces significant medical challenges. “She is my world. She really is my everything,” Carpenter said, standing by her daughter in a wheelchair.
Despite the heartache, Carpenter finds strength in her faith. “When you’re in the valley, being pruned in the cold, dark, and scary moments… that’s where God does His work,” she reflected.
Carpenter has been connected with the FTC and the Bitcoin ATM company for further assistance. However, Steiger indicated that the likelihood of recovering her lost funds is slim. He urged everyone to report scam calls so FTC investigators can track broader criminal networks.
To report a scam, visit ReportFraud.FTC.Gov or call 877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).
