NCIS Warns Sailors About Financial Scam Targeting Institutions

The Navy Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is issuing a strong warning to service members across the Tri-Base area about a sophisticated loan scam targeting financial institutions primarily serving military personnel.

This scam has affected service members in North Florida, Kings Bay, Mayport, and Jacksonville, with many suffering significant financial losses.

The scam typically unfolds in public areas where scammers, often in pairs or groups, approach victims on foot or in vehicles. They ask for the location of the nearest financial institution or inquire if the victim banks with a specific institution. Once the victim confirms, they are asked to meet at the financial institution. At this point, the scammer requests to use the victim’s phone for various reasons, such as claiming they misplaced their debit card or are locked out of their account. To further deceive the victim, the scammer often offers a bribe for their assistance.

NCIS has outlined several precautionary measures for service members:

• Never give your phone to another person.
• Do not offer financial transaction assistance to individuals approaching you in a parking lot.
• Avoid unlocking your phone or financial accounts in the presence of unfamiliar persons, as this provides an opportunity for fraud.

It is important to note that most financial institutions will not reimburse stolen funds if the victim voluntarily provided their phone or unlocked their banking app.

If a service member feels threatened or pressured to provide their phone, they should immediately leave the area and contact local police by calling 911.

Victims or those targeted by the scam should take immediate action by reporting to their local police department, NCIS, and their command if they are military personnel. They should also notify their bank. Reports can be submitted to NCIS via the NCIS Tips mobile app or on the NCIS website.