NAB branch manager San Keerthipala discovered a customer was being scammed into withdrawing $9,000 and being sent threatening text messages. (Source: NAB/Getty)
A Perth banker has saved an elderly man from losing thousands of dollars after he was threatened by scammers. While some Aussies have complained about being questioned when withdrawing cash at the bank, there can be legitimate reasons for the added precautions.
San Keerthipala knew something was off when a NAB customer in his 80s walked into his Booragoon branch and requested to withdraw $9,000. There were a few things that raised red flags for him.
“When I asked what the money was for, he insisted it was to pay for a broken window, but the amount didn’t add up,” Keerthipala said.
“When his story quickly changed to paying a friend, I invited him for a private chat and asked a few more questions.”
RELATED
Once they were in private, the customer soon revealed he had been receiving threatening text messages, and he wasn’t sure who they were coming from.
“He opened up and showed me a stream of text messages telling him to go to the bank and take out $9,000,” Keerthipala said.
“They told him it was his ‘right’ to take the money, instructing him to be rude to anyone questioning him about it.
“They even claimed to be waiting in the carpark for him to hand over the cash.”
Keerthipala said the customer was relieved when he stopped the $9,000 withdrawal. He also arranged for security to escort the man back to his car to make sure he got back home safely.
“It’s a good day at work when you can help save a customer from losing their money, let alone, almost ten grand. We ask these questions to protect people’s money,” Keerthipala said.
Do you have a story to share? Contact tamika.seeto@yahooinc.com
Scammers can threaten people so they will pay them money. In some cases, they may pretend to be from trusted organisations and claim you need to pay money to stop something bad from happening, like arrest, deportation or even physical harm.
Scamwatch has urged people not to respond to threatening texts or emails. If you do, the scammers will likely escalate their intimidation and attempts to get your money.
NAB has advised customers to stop and ask questions before moving money, and not to click any links or share banking details with anyone.
“Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank immediately,” the major bank said.