A retired gardener in San Francisco has reportedly fallen victim to online fraud for a second time after losing approximately ₹4.7 crore in a cryptocurrency investment scam involving fraudsters posing as women.
Adan Look was initially targeted by a woman identifying herself as Annie, whom he met on Facebook in May. The two later communicated on WhatsApp, where she claimed to be a Japanese microchip salesperson from a wealthy family who had earned millions through cryptocurrency investments. She allegedly persuaded Look to transfer money by promising financial gains and a future together in Hawaii.
Look sent money to bank accounts in Malaysia and Vietnam and transferred $300,000 to a purported kitchen renovation company. The fraud came to light when he attempted to withdraw an alleged $6 million balance but was asked to pay another $25,000.
His son, Jonathan, alerted the FBI, local police, the US Secret Service, banks and Adult Protective Services, but Look reportedly continued trusting the woman.
Months later, Look became involved with another woman, identified as Vicky, who claimed to be an Army combat medic stationed in Kuwait. She allegedly requested an iPhone, an iPad and money for her mother’s medical treatment.
Bank of America blocked three attempted $2,000 wire transfers to a person described as a diplomat. Look subsequently sent $1,000 through Zelle and another $1,000 in Apple gift cards. When Vicky allegedly demanded $45,000 to secure her discharge from the military, Look considered taking a mortgage on his home.
Further evidence emerged when a local florist confirmed that flowers supposedly sent by Vicky had been ordered using a stolen credit card.
According to ABC7 News, Look remains in contact with another woman he believes is genuine. His son has continued alerting financial institutions and retailers to prevent further losses.
The case highlights the dangers of pig butchering scams, in which fraudsters build emotional relationships with victims before exploiting their trust for financial gain. Family members may face difficulties intervening when an adult victim refuses assistance.
