Parking lots, typically used for quick stops to grab groceries and run errands, have quietly become a hunting ground for a new and aggressive scam. Authorities in Charleston warn that criminals are targeting shoppers in grocery store parking lots using a deceptive scheme that can quickly drain thousands of dollars from victims’ bank accounts.
The Deceptive Approach and Emotional Manipulation
The scam often begins when suspects, working in small groups, approach shoppers as they return to their vehicles. Victims are greeted with a heartbreaking story—such as a medical emergency or a funeral—that creates emotional pressure and prompts sympathy. The scammers present the victim with a seemingly innocent request for a small donation, making the victim feel compelled to help.
The Digital Payment Trap and Financial Loss
Once the victim offers cash, the scammers decline and claim they can only accept digital payments. They use a handheld card reader to process the payment, but the amount charged is often far higher than expected. Victims have reported losing thousands of dollars in a single transaction, often without realizing the full extent of the loss until it’s too late. Investigators believe these scammers rely on speed, confusion, and the busy nature of parking lots to pressure victims into making hasty decisions.
