Police Department of Taichung City Government-News-Debt-Stricken Woman Duped by Fake “Debt Consolidation” Scheme Nearly Loses NT$500,000; Police and Bank Intervene in Time to Prevent Loss

A 40-year-old woman surnamed Chen in Taichung City, under heavy debt pressure, fell victim to a fraudulent scheme operated by scammers posing as a so-called “debt consolidation company.” Misled by their claims, she first paid NT$83,780 in so-called “interest fees” using her credit card. She was then instructed to withdraw NT$504,000 in cash from a bank as a “security deposit.” Fortunately, alert bank staff detected irregularities, promptly notified the police, and successfully prevented the fraud, safeguarding the woman’s hard-earned savings.
On August 20, 2025, the Second Precinct of the Taichung City Police Department received a report from a bank teller who suspected that a customer might have fallen victim to fraud. The precinct immediately dispatched Sergeant Hung Chi-Chou and Officer Tai Tzu-Cheng from the Liren Police Station to investigate. They discovered that earlier in August, Ms. Chen had received a phone call from an individual claiming to represent a “debt consolidation company.” The caller falsely promised to help her consolidate her debts and relieve financial pressure, but first demanded that she pay an “interest fee” by credit card. Without suspicion, Ms. Chen followed their instructions and paid over NT$80,000. The scammers then further instructed her to withdraw more than NT$500,000 in cash as a “security deposit” and deliver it to a designated location. When Ms. Chen recently visited the bank to make the withdrawal, attentive staff inquired about the purpose of the transaction. Only then did she reveal the true reason for the withdrawal. Recognizing the suspicious circumstances, the bank staff promptly notified the police. Officers quickly arrived at the scene and confirmed that it was a typical case of “fraudulent debt consolidation.” They successfully dissuaded Ms. Chen, preventing a major financial loss. Ms. Chen later expressed heartfelt gratitude to both the police officers and the bank personnel for their vigilance and assistance.
The public is reminded that fraud rings often operate under the guise of “loan processing” or “debt consolidation,” luring victims into making advance payments such as “service fees, interest, or security deposits.” Such demands are clear warning signs of fraud. The public is urged not to trust unsolicited calls, nor to disclose personal information or make advance payments. In case of doubt, please call the 165 Anti-Fraud Hotline or consult your local police precinct to safeguard your financial security.