A Mariano's grocery store employee in Illinois lost $73,000 after scammers posing as Chase Bank fraud investigators convinced him to transfer his savings into what they claimed was a safe account.
The caller told David Lipsky that his account had been compromised and that he would face FBI arrest if he did not move his funds immediately. Lipsky initially attempted to send $1,000 through Zelle, but Chase blocked the transfer. The scammers then instructed him to complete three branch transfers totaling $73,000.
When Lipsky later contacted Chase directly, the bank informed him the money could not be recovered. Approximately $24,000 was eventually returned to his account, but he remains without the remaining funds and says he needs the money to continue paying his mortgage.
Palatine police obtained nationwide arrest warrants for three suspects: Jose A. Luis Mateo, 35, Fredduar A. Escobar Bautista, 28, and Breider A. Iriarte Campomar, 35, charging them with theft by deception. Chase confirmed it recovered some of Lipsky's funds and stated it will continue working with law enforcement on the case.
Security experts recommend hanging up on unsolicited bank fraud calls and contacting your bank only through a number you independently verify. Anyone with information about the case can contact Palatine police at 847-359-9000.
