Austin Woman Loses $25,000 in 'Sophisticated' Phishing Scheme; Blames Wells Fargo for Lack of Aid

Scammers posing as Wells Fargo fraud investigators convinced an Austin lady to withdraw and redeposit money over the course of two days, resulting in her losing $25,000. Consumer advocates say this type of scheme is becoming more complex and challenging to unravel.

Jody Fillpot received a text message on July 7 that appeared to indicate a suspicious Walmart purchase. Uncertain, she dialed the number on the back of her Wells Fargo card, reported no problems, and hung up. She claims that her phone rang around fifteen minutes later, and the caller ID displayed the same number as the bank's.

According to Fillpot, the caller recited her personal information, including her driver's license, Social Security number, and birthdate, and claimed to be a senior supervisor in Wells Fargo's internet fraud department. He informed her that the bank, in collaboration with the FBI, needed her assistance in "trapping" the crooks because her identity had been stolen.

With the caller still on the line, Fillpot followed the directions and took out $15,000 in cash from her Wells Fargo location. They instructed her to redeposit the money at a Chase bank. She claims that she went through the same procedure again for $10,000 the following day. The money had vanished when her partner checked the account later.

Fillpot's partner, Connie Adams, who is currently contesting the loss with Wells Fargo, stated, "We just do not understand—Wells Fargo could have done so much more to protect us and they didn't."

Wells Fargo stated in a press release that it investigates consumer complaints of fraud and scams. The bank said that it “thoroughly investigates the matter” and that it “deeply empathizes with individuals impacted by financial frauds."

Criminals are allegedly employing counterfeit caller ID, customized texts, and compelling scripts that mimic bank and law enforcement terminology, according to the Better Business Bureau. Jason Meza, senior head of communications for the BBB, warned that recovery is uncommon when victims are convinced to transfer their funds because the transaction appears legitimate.

Consumer advocates suggest some actions: Never believe caller ID; end the call and call your bank again using the number on the card or official website; stay away from links in unsolicited emails or texts; and keep in mind that neither the FBI nor banks will ask you to transfer money to "safe" accounts or take out cash.

Adams stated, "We want to let other people know that this is happening and prevent it from happening to someone else." To discuss trends with law enforcement, the BBB encourages victims to report incidents.