- A Co Down pensioner lost more than £250,000 after investing in a fake crypto scheme.
- Police said the woman first sent a small amount before criminals pressured her for larger payments.
- PSNI urged families to speak with loved ones about online fraud and report suspicious activity.
A woman in her 70s from Newry has lost more than £250,000 after falling victim to a crypto investment scam, according to the Police Service of Northern Ireland. Police said the woman believed she was investing in a cryptocurrency scheme advertised online.
Notably, the case has prompted a fresh warning from PSNI, which urged families to watch for signs that older relatives or vulnerable people may be targeted by fraudsters. Police said scammers can appear convincing and often use pressure to force victims into quick decisions.
Pensioner Loses Life Savings
PSNI said it received a report on Thursday, May 21, that a Newry woman had been defrauded after engaging with what she believed was a legitimate crypto investment platform.
Detective Inspector Moffett, from the Serious Crime Branch, said the woman initially sent a relatively small amount. However, the criminals later convinced her to send larger sums on several occasions by claiming she needed to pay more to recover her original investment.
The scam then moved beyond persuasion. Police said the woman unknowingly downloaded malware under the criminals’ instructions. That allowed them to gain control of her electronic devices and, investigators believe, transfer further money from her account.
According to police, the investigation so far indicates that the woman lost more than £250,000. The amount represents life savings taken through a scheme that combined fake investment claims, pressure tactics, and remote device access.
Related: FBI Seizes 127,000 Bitcoin in Global Scam Network Bust
PSNI Warns Families
Superintendent Joanne Gibson, Chair of the Scamwise Partnership, said taking time to stop and check financial activity can make a major difference. She also asked families to speak with relatives about fraud to help protect them from criminals.
According to Gibson, fraud can cause wide harm beyond the immediate financial loss. She said criminals use different scenarios to appear genuine and described fraudsters as “master manipulators.”
Police said families should report concerns if they believe someone is being exploited. Reports can be made to the PSNI through the non-emergency number 101.
Additionally, anyone receiving unsolicited calls, emails, letters, or messages should avoid rushing into payments or sharing personal details. Genuine callers should allow time for checks, while suspicious requests should be verified through trusted sources.
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Victims Urged to Report Fraud Quickly
PSNI urged anyone who suspects fraudulent financial activity to contact their bank at the earliest opportunity. Fast reporting can help banks take action before more money leaves an account.
Victims can also report fraud to police online through the PSNI reporting service or by calling 101. Reports can also be made through Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Meanwhile, suspected fraudulent texts can be forwarded to 7726. Police also directed the public to ScamwiseNI advice through nidirect for further information on spotting and avoiding scams.
The latest case shows how online crypto scams can move from fake investment promises to direct account access when malware is involved. PSNI said it will use available resources to protect individuals and communities from fraud and exploitation.
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