Living alone and undergoing cancer treatment, an elderly Patelco Credit Union member fell victim to a spoofing scam. When she came into the branch in May, a Patelco employee helped her dispute the fraudulent transactions and recover her funds. To protect her going forward, we restricted her online banking and set her up with Call-24 for safer account access.
Given her age and the nature of the scam, the employee submitted an APS report without the member’s knowledge. The member later returned to the branch and shared that Adult Protective Services had conducted a wellness check. Although they didn’t disclose who submitted the report, she was deeply grateful someone cared enough to look out for her.
Thanks to that visit, she’s now receiving VA resources to help with transportation to her treatments — relieving her reliance on neighbors. We never want to see members fall for scams, but this situation shows how reporting can lead to meaningful support beyond financial recovery.
This story was submitted by Jennifer Mink, Director of Member Experience & Financial Wellbeing, Patelco Credit Union.
