TROY, Mich. – It’s proof that anyone can be a target, as Help Me Hank worked to help two priests who were hit by a bank spoofing scam.
The spoofing scam has wiped out many Metro Detroit bank accounts and continues to grow.
On Monday (Sept. 30), two priests, one of whom is battling multiple sclerosis, shared what happened to them when scammers gained access to their accounts.
The CEO of Michigan First Credit Union issued an important warning.
Father Charles and his husband, Father Harry, were out more than $8,000 as money scammers took it right from their Members First Credit Union bank accounts.
“I think there were eight withdrawals of a thousand a piece, a $300 withdrawal,” said Father Harry Posner Jr.
It was too late once they realized they were victims of this spoofing scam.
“We have entrusted our funds to your home in the last 11 years,” said Father Charles Blanchard. “Where is your protection in that process?”
The scam has affected many banks and customers, with MFCU the latest victim.
“It’s devastating,” said Michigan First Credit Union CEO Jennifer Borowy. “It’s heartbreaking as people worked really hard for their money.”
Borowy says an investigation is underway, and resources are in place to protect customers. The MFCU also needs customers to be on alert.
“You can no longer trust caller I.D., so we are telling customers not to answer the phone if you don’t know who is calling you,” Borowy said. “And if they’re really important, just let them leave a voicemail because then you can call the number that you know and trust back.”
As for Blanchard and Posner Jr., they remain hopeful that the MFCU will work with them.
“I’m thankful for you (Help Me Hank) being here to hear our story,” Blanchard said.
Watch the full video of Michigan First Credit Union CEO addressing spoofing scams below:
