Chatham Co. woman scammed out of $76K, gave money to three different strangers in parking lots

CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - The Chatham County Police Department is investigating after a woman lost more than $76,000 to scammers.

According to police, the victim got a phone call on Friday from someone she did not know stating that her bank account had been compromised and that she needed to withdraw all of her money immediately.

Police said the victim then withdrew $32,500 from a Truist Bank branch on Wilmington Island and handed the cash to someone she had never met before in the parking lot.

She then traveled to a Truist Bank branch on E. DeRenne Avenue, withdrew $34,000, and gave the cash to a second person she did not know in the parking lot, according to Chatham County Police.

The woman then traveled to a third bank, the Truist Bank branch on Mall Boulevard, withdrew $10,000, and handed the cash to a third person she did not know in the parking lot.

She lost $76,500 in cash to the scammers.

The Chatham County Police Department said they receive reports nearly weekly of people who have lost large sums money to a scam that began with a phone call.

Tips to avoid being scammed, per CCPD:

• There are many different scam scenarios. Your best defense is to be skeptical of anyone who calls, texts, or emails you and tells you that there is an issue involving your finances or an issue that must be solved by making an immediate payment.
• Do not act or give any information until you have independently verified the claims.
• Do not give in to pressure, threats, or coercion.
• If you have been scammed, please report it to police and your financial institution.

Anyone who can provide information regarding this case is asked to contact police. Anonymous tips can be sent through the Chatham County Police Department app, or the Department’s online tip form found here.

You can also call Crime Stoppers at 912-234-2020, where tipsters are anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.