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On Point | Podcast
'I thought I was doing something good': The scam that took Judith Boivin's life savings
Apr 2, 2025
Judith Boivin shares her harrowing experience as a victim of a sophisticated financial scam that cost her life savings, believing she was aiding the FBI. Alongside Michelle Singletary, a Washington Post personal finance columnist who investigated the case, they discuss the emotional toll and societal stigma associated with being scammed. They delve into the manipulative tactics used by scammers, the psychological impact on victims, and offer practical tips to help others protect themselves from scams that are becoming alarmingly common.
42:18
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Quick takeaways
- Judith Boivin's experience underscores the psychological manipulation employed by scammers, illustrating how trust and urgency can lead victims to act against their better judgment.
- The podcast highlights the societal stigma surrounding scam victims and emphasizes the need for greater awareness and understanding of their situations to combat misconceptions.
Deep dives
Judith's Experience with Financial Scamming
Judith Wavin, a dedicated caregiver and retiree, experienced a shocking financial scam that resulted in losing nearly $600,000. After being contacted by someone impersonating an FBI agent, she was manipulated into believing that her Social Security number was involved in a serious criminal investigation and was requested to withdraw her funds. This scam involved intricate deception, including convincing her to conceal the money as she surrendered it at drop-off locations, believing she was assisting law enforcement. Judith's trust in the scammers was cultivated through repeated daily calls, making her feel involved in a noble cause to combat a drug crisis.
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