A Chicago couple, Drew and Leilani, had a frightening experience at the Target store near Division and Larabee on the city’s Near North Side. What started as a kind gesture turned into a costly scam attempt, leaving them shaken and teaching iPhone users an important lesson.
The couple told CBS News Chicago they were approached by two men at the store. The men claimed they were raising money for their younger brother’s funeral. Drew and Leilani decided to donate $20 to help.
“They wouldn’t take cash,” Leilani shared.
Drew, wanting to make things quick, used his Apple Pay on his phone to tap and pay. However, as soon as he looked at the payment confirmation, he realized something was terribly wrong.
“They took close to $5,000 instead of $20,” Drew said. Shocked and furious, he immediately took action.
Chase in the Parking Lot
Not willing to let the scammers get away, Drew turned and ran after them. The pursuit spilled into the parking garage, where things got physical. One of the scammers tried to drive away, but Drew jumped into the moving car in an attempt to stop them.
“As they accelerated, they started swerving into the lane of parked cars,” Drew recounted.
The situation turned dangerous when Drew was thrown from the car. He hit the pavement hard and slid across it until his body slammed into the back of a truck.
Scammers Escape, Money Refunded
Despite Drew’s brave effort, the scammers managed to get away. Thankfully, the couple’s bank refunded the stolen money after the incident.
Drew wasn’t as lucky when it came to his injuries. He suffered a fractured rib and a punctured lung during the struggle.
A Lesson for iPhone Users
This incident highlights the risks of digital payments and the importance of staying cautious when approached by strangers. Scammers often use emotional appeals to manipulate victims into acting quickly.
For anyone using Apple Pay or similar digital payment systems, always double-check the payment amount before tapping to confirm. If something feels off, trust your instincts and avoid proceeding with the transaction.
Drew and Leilani’s story is a reminder to stay vigilant, even when trying to do a good deed. While their courage is commendable, the best way to fight scammers is to prevent them from succeeding in the first place.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
