Authorities warn of scam targeting Indian, Pakistani, Nepali, and other immigrant families
FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas - Investigators say con-artists are targeting Indian, Pakistani and other immigrant families with a cruel scam.
The victims are told they owe tax money or fines to the U.S. government and would be deported unless they pay immediately.
A Fort Bend County woman lost her life's savings when she was tricked into withdrawing thousands of dollars and purchasing money cards. The scammers then convinced her to give them the codes, allowing them to swindle her money.
"Of course we feel like a victim," said Anup Parike, who's mother lost $30,000 in the scam.
She was told she owed tax money and unless she paid immediately, she would be sent back to India. She was also ordered not to tell relatives because "they would get into trouble, too."
"Our American immigrants are being targeted because of their lack of knowledge of the laws," said Sgt. David Schultz of the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office. "Once you lose your money, you can be rest assured, it's gone."
Investigators said they've seen more than a dozen cases just like this in the area, but the scam is nationwide.
Parike not only wants to warn other families, he wants retailers and banks to be aware of the scam as well.
"It should set off a huge flag that someone is coming in and just casually handing over thousands of dollars," said Parike. "I would hate to see this happen to anybody else."
