San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) and the local Crime Stoppers program have issued a public appeal for information about a fraud case that targeted a 75‑year‑old woman who was recovering from surgery at North Central Baptist Hospital on June 28. The victim, who was heavily medicated after her operation, received a phone call from an individual claiming to be an employee of Security Service Federal Credit Union (SSFCU).
How the scam unfolded
According to a police news release, the caller told the senior patient that her debit card had been compromised. The caller then arranged to meet her at the hospital, presenting a temporary debit card and requesting the victim’s original card and personal identification number (PIN). Believing the request to be legitimate, the woman handed over her card and PIN.
After leaving the hospital, the suspect used the stolen debit card at nearby ATMs and retail locations, causing what the release described as a “substantial financial loss” for the victim. SSFCU released a statement confirming the incident and emphasizing that the credit union never contacts customers in person to request card information, PINs, passwords, or remote‑access codes.
Law‑enforcement response and reward offer
SAPD investigators are treating the case as a serious financial exploitation of a senior citizen. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest. Tips can be submitted by calling 210‑224‑7867. To be eligible for the reward, callers must provide details that result in a successful prosecution.
The police department urges anyone who may have seen suspicious activity at ATMs or retail stores in the vicinity of the hospital between late June and early August to contact investigators. Additionally, SSFCU advises customers who suspect they are being targeted by similar scams to call the credit union directly at 1‑888‑415‑7878.
Preventing future scams
Both SAPD and SSFCU highlighted the growing sophistication of scammers who spoof caller ID and impersonate financial institutions. Residents are reminded that legitimate banks and credit unions will never ask for a debit card, PIN, account number, password, one‑time passcode, or remote‑access permission in person, over the phone, or via text.
Community members are encouraged to stay vigilant, especially when caring for elderly relatives who may be vulnerable after medical procedures. If a loved one receives an unexpected call requesting financial information, they should hang up and verify the request by contacting the institution directly using a known phone number.
Ongoing investigation
San Antonio Police have not released further details about the suspect’s identity or any arrests made to date. KSAT reached out to North Central Baptist Hospital for comment but had not received a response at the time of publication.
The investigation remains active, and authorities continue to seek leads from the public. Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stoppers tip line at 210‑224‑7867.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
