CHICAGO, December 22, 2023 – Chicago police are alerting residents to a recent string of scams targeting people in the River North neighborhood, where individuals are being tricked into handing over their phones and accessing their digital wallets. The scams involve requests for donations or social media follows, and have escalated to the use of force in some instances.
Scammers Target River North Residents with Digital Wallet Heists
Police warn of a growing trend where suspects are using social engineering to steal money via Zelle and Apple Pay.
- Suspects are approaching individuals and requesting donations or social media “follows.”
- Victims are then coerced into handing over their phones, allowing the suspects to access financial apps.
- Force has been used in at least one reported incident,resulting in property theft.
- The incidents are concentrated in the 600 block of north Dearborn Street.
The Chicago Police Department reports that a group of three to eight suspects are approaching people and requesting either a donation or a “follow” on Instagram. Onc engaged,the suspects manipulate victims into providing access to their phones,later transferring funds to themselves using zelle or Apple Pay. This complex scheme preys on people’s willingness to help or engage online, quickly turning a seemingly harmless interaction into a financial loss.
Police indicate that if victims refuse to cooperate, the suspects have resorted to force. In one reported case, a victim was led to a group of suspects who then forcibly took their belongings. The department is urging residents to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially during late-night hours.
The reported incidents occurred on the following dates and times:
- Around 3 a.m. on December 13 on the 600 block of North Dearborn
- Around 3:30 a.m. on December 20 on the 600 block of North Dearborn
- Around 5 a.m. on December 20 on the 600 block of North Dearborn
- Around 3:30 a.m. on December 21 on the 600 block of North Dearborn
Suspects are described as Black men between the ages of 20 and 30, wearing dark clothing. The number of individuals involved in each incident varies from three to eight.
Why are these scams happening? Scammers are exploiting the convenience of digital payment apps and people’s natural inclination to be helpful. Who is being targeted? Residents of the River North neighborhood, particularly those out late at night. What is happening? Suspects are using social engineering to gain access to victims’ phones and steal money through Zelle and Apple Pay.How did it end? As of December 22, 2023, the scams are ongoing, and police are actively investigating. The department has increased patrols in the affected area and is urging residents to report any suspicious activity. Anyone with details is asked to contact police at 312-744-8263 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com, referencing case number P25-3-055.
