Wilmington Police Officer Thwarts $10,000 Cryptocurrency Scam Targeting Elderly Resident
A 90-year-old woman in Wilmington, North Carolina, was nearly defrauded of $10,000 by a cryptocurrency scammer. A police officer intervened at a bitcoin kiosk, preventing the scam and reuniting with the woman nearly a month later.
Portland, OR, August 22, 2026 —
A Wilmington Police Department officer prevented a significant financial loss for a 90-year-old resident who was targeted by a cryptocurrency scam. The incident occurred when the woman was attempting to send $10,000 to a scammer via a bitcoin kiosk.
The officer’s timely intervention at the bitcoin kiosk stopped the fraudulent transaction in progress. Details regarding the specific cryptocurrency and the platform used were not immediately available. The scammer’s identity was also not provided.
The police department reported that the officer later reunited with the woman, nearly a month after the incident, to check on her well-being and offer further assistance. The amount the woman was nearly defrauded of was $10,000.
Cryptocurrency scams continue to be a concern, often targeting vulnerable populations, including the elderly. These scams can involve impersonation, false investment opportunities, or other fraudulent schemes designed to trick victims into sending money or sharing sensitive information.
Authorities advise individuals to be cautious of unsolicited offers or requests for money, especially those involving cryptocurrencies or wire transfers. If you suspect a scam, it is recommended to report it to local law enforcement.
Story summarized from the original created by Rachel Holley, Gray News staff on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
