Irvine police are alerting residents about a phone-spoofing scam after an 80-year-old man was deceived into withdrawing $25,000 and handing it over to a stranger in a parking lot.
The incident began with a text message, purportedly from Apple, alerting the man to a suspicious Apple Pay charge and urging him to call a provided number.
Upon calling, the victim was informed that his identity had been stolen and used to purchase illegal drugs and firearms. His son, who wishes to remain anonymous due to concerns over compromised personal data, stated that the experience has left his father feeling distrustful and paranoid. “Just lack of trust right now, and a little bit of paranoia,” he said…