A fake bank caller nearly convinced CBS journalist Matt Gutman to withdraw all money from one account. Learn warning signs and steps that can protect your savings from similar scams.
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What Happened?
The caller knew personal details about him and his account. She claimed criminals were trying to withdraw his money.
She then told Gutman to visit a Bank of America branch and withdraw everything from one account. She also warned him not to explain the situation to bank employees.
Gutman began following the instructions but stopped when the request no longer made sense. Bank employees and Los Angeles police helped him avoid losing his money.
The experience shows how criminals can use personal information to make a fake bank call feel real. Your details may already appear in data breaches without your knowledge.
Checking for leaked information can help you understand which details criminals may know and where you need stronger protection.
Futureproof monitors your data for leaks 24/7 and helps you reduce scam risks with simple, clear steps.
Who Was Targeted and What Information Did the Caller Use?
The caller targeted Gutman, a 48-year-old journalist who has previously reported on scams.
She appeared to know enough about his identity and banking relationship to sound believable. However, the source of those details remains unknown.
USA TODAY did not report a data breach connected to the call. It also did not say Gutman shared passwords or verification codes.
Personal details can make a fake call feel real, even when the caller has no connection to your bank.
Criminals may collect information from social media, public sources, or earlier data breaches. No source has been confirmed in Gutman’s case. That means your information could already appear in an unrelated breach without your knowledge.
How the Fake Bank Phone Scam Nearly Worked
The caller used bank impersonation, meaning she pretended to represent a trusted financial institution.
The FBI calls phone-based phishing “vishing.” It uses convincing calls to pressure you into sharing information or taking a risky financial action.
First, the caller built trust with a professional title, a badge number, and personal details.
Next, she created urgency by claiming Gutman’s money was already under attack.
Then, she isolated him from people who could challenge the story. She said bank workers might be part of the fraud.
Finally, she asked him to turn money in his account into portable cash.
Bank of America warns about a similar pattern. Fake bank employees may claim an inside job and tell customers to withdraw cash.
The bank also warns that scammers may coach customers to lie about why they are moving money.
At Futureproof, Kevin explains digital safety in simple words, with clear tips and zero fluff. He holds a degree in information technology and studies fraud trends to keep his tips up-to-date.
In his free time, Kevin plays with his cat, enjoys board-game nights, and hunts for New York’s best cinnamon rolls.
