Lawyer Overwhelmed with Inquiries Following WTKR’s Investigation into Navy Federal Parking Lot Scheme
Norfolk Attorney Champions Victims of Parking Lot Scam Affecting Navy Federal Customers
In Norfolk, Virginia, local attorney Gary Byler is stepping up to assist victims of a significant scam that has reportedly impacted over 30 individuals, leaving them liable for unauthorized loans. The ongoing investigation, led by federal prosecutors, has labeled this fraud as the “parking lot scam,” a scheme that targets Navy Federal Credit Union customers.
Unraveling the “Parking Lot Scam”
The scam is executed when suspects approach unsuspecting individuals, asking to borrow their phones. They then secretly exploit the owner’s mobile banking app to apply for and transfer funds from personal loans. Multiple methods have been identified, indicating that various tactics are being employed to siphon funds from victims’ accounts.
Growing List of Victims Seek Legal Support
Attorney Gary Byler was compelled to act after a WTKR News 3 investigation brought attention to the victims’ plight, describing the situation as “flabbergasting.” Byler, now representing these Navy Federal customers pro bono, has been inundated with calls from a diverse demographic, spanning coastal Virginia, Florida, Kentucky, Northern Virginia, and California. “The pattern is always the same—an obvious fraud,” Byler reported.
Real-Life Impact: Victims Speak Out
One of the first victims, Travis Minson, recounted his experience in Virginia Beach near the Lynnhaven Mall. A seemingly kind gesture to assist a stranger with his phone led to a $7,000 fraudulent loan taken out in his name. Despite promptly reporting the fraud—complete with incorrect employment details—Minson was left frustrated by the lack of action from the authorities and the credit union.
- Police Involvement: Minson filed a police report, but was informed that Navy Federal was already aware of the scam.
- Identity Verification: The fraudulent loan application lacked essential verification steps, leading Minson’s father to declare the situation a grievous error that should not fall on victims’ shoulders.
Community Warns of Increasing Scam Incidences
Victims and community advocates, like Byler, continue to raise awareness, sharing heart-wrenching stories, including one involving a disabled veteran and another concerning the manipulation of a deceased individual’s phone. These narratives underline the urgent need for robust security measures and increased public awareness.
Emegypt’s Continued Coverage and Navy Federal’s Response
Navy Federal Credit Union has expressed deep concern over the schemes, committing to work with law enforcement to address these fraudulent activities. The credit union advises members to exercise heightened caution, treating their banking apps with the same security as physical wallets. Members are encouraged to enable features like biometric authentication on platforms such as Venmo and Cash App to prevent unauthorized access.
Inquiries by Emegypt have prompted assurances from Navy Federal that they only hold members financially accountable for transactions with evidence of authorization. Each case undergoes individual scrutiny, with outcomes varying based on available evidence and legal processes.
Ongoing Legal Battle for Scam Victims
Attorney Byler is thoroughly engaged in contacting Navy Federal on behalf of his clients, working tirelessly towards loan forgiveness for the affected victims. He remains resolute, stating, “It’s an ongoing process. We’re gonna know more by the end of the week, and it will probably take months to reach a proper resolution. Our office will not walk away from this just because it’s difficult.”
Victims of similar scams are urged to reach out to Byler’s office to seek assistance in battling these fraudulent activities. Byler continues to advocate for justice, ensuring that victims like Travis Minson do not remain burdened with debts incurred through deceit.
