An elderly couple living in Chicago said thousands of dollars were suddenly stolen from their U.S. bank account. That was just the beginning of the banking industry’s nightmare.
It all started when the Zaragozas, who have been married for 70 years, mailed a check for $62 to Nicol Gas Co. to pay the bill, CBS Chicago reported. report.
But by the time the check reached the bank, the $62 had somehow changed to $4,200 and the gas company was no longer the payee.
The Zaragozas were victims of a “check laundering” scam.
Check laundering is when bad actors obtain someone else’s checks and falsify the amount and payee’s name. Chemicals such as nail polish remover, bleach, and thinner are typically used to wash away the original ink.
The money stolen from the couple was earmarked for future funeral expenses.
Diana, 88, says:
“We tried to make sure we had money to bury him when the time came.”
After the incident, the Zaragozas went through a frustrating five-month ordeal with U.S. Bank, filling out various forms and jumping through hoops, but all to no avail.
In a letter to the bank, the couple wrote:
“We have provided all the requested information. We are all exhausted and would appreciate your help.”
It was only after they told their story to CBS Chicago that U.S. Bank decided to work productively with the Zaragozas.
Within 24 hours of contacting the bank, the elderly couple suddenly received their entire money back, according to news outlets.
Diana said the experience made her “feel like a criminal” and made her question U.S. Bank’s security protocols.
“Why didn’t they ask that person all the questions they’re asking us now?”
The Zaragozas have now given up on physical checks and say they will pay all their bills online from now on.
Never miss a beat – Subscribe to get email alerts delivered straight to your inbox
Check price action
follow me twitter, Facebook and telegram
Surf the Daily Hoddle Mix
 
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed on The Daily Hodl do not constitute investment advice. Investors should perform due diligence before making high-risk investments in Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, or digital assets. Please note that transfers and transactions are made at your own risk and any losses you may incur are your responsibility. The Daily Hodl does not recommend buying or selling any cryptocurrencies or digital assets. The Daily Hodl is also not an investment advisor. Please note that The Daily Hodl participates in affiliate marketing.
Generated image: Mid Journey
