Shawna Perdue, a 75-year-old Wichita senior, recently became the latest victim of a sophisticated scam targeting older adults. It all began with a deceptive text message sent to her iPhone, alerting her to a supposed issue with her Apple ID. The message claimed that unauthorized purchases had been made using her account and provided a phone number to call if she did not recognize the transactions. Already feeling concerned and fearing that her personal accounts had been compromised, Shawna dialed the number, unknowingly initiating a series of heartbreaking events that would drastically affect her life.
From there, the fraudsters’ plot unfolded—layer upon layer of manipulation and deceit. The person who answered the phone, posing as an “Apple security officer,” sounded professional and convincing, leveraging the trust people often place in large, tech-savvy companies like Apple. Shawna was guided to believe that hackers had infiltrated her Apple ID and, if she didn’t take action quickly, they would gain access to all her financial accounts.
Panicking, Shawna followed their instructions. With each step, the scammer provided seemingly logical explanations designed to erase any doubts she might have had. He assured her that by transferring money to a “secure” account, she would outsmart the hackers and safeguard her savings. In the heat of the moment, Shawna agreed, hopeful that following these steps would protect her finances.
As the interactions stretched over several agonizing hours, Shawna was tricked into sending thousands of dollars—a significant portion of her hard-earned savings. Driven by fear and a sense of urgency, Shawna trusted the “Apple representative” and made transfers, not realizing she was willingly handing over her funds to a criminal network.
Unfortunately, by the time she realized something was wrong, it was far too late. Her bank could not reverse the transactions, and the money—just over ,500—was gone. Once the truth set in, Shawna was left in shock, not just over the financial loss, but also from the betrayal she felt after being tricked so thoroughly. Like so many victims of such well-orchestrated scams, her trust in people and systems that she believed were there to protect her was shattered.
The emotional toll of this scam would leave even the most resilient person feeling vulnerable and violated. For Shawna, it sparked feelings of guilt, embarrassment, and self-blame. Her ability to recognize the signs of danger had been overwhelmed by the professionalism and urgency of the impersonators—something even seasoned tech users might struggle to resist in the heat of the moment.
Eventually, Shawna contacted her local police department and the Federal Trade Commission to report the crime, hoping something could still be done. However, the reality of such cases is often sobering—recovering lost funds after they’ve been transferred to scammers is, in most instances, next to impossible. Even though legal authorities are often responsive, dealing with international scammers operating behind layers of online anonymity makes justice difficult to achieve.
The story of Shawna Perdue is not an isolated case; these kinds of scams have been on the rise, particularly as scammers continue to refine their tactics and target the populations most vulnerable to them. Even with information about the numerous ongoing fraud attempts, it’s shocking how quickly such well-organized criminals can manipulate people into losing vast amounts of money. Her experience illustrates how easily anyone, irrespective of age, can fall prey to these heartless schemes if caught off guard.
The scam that Shawna Perdue fell victim to wasn’t just the work of amateur criminals—it was a well-thought-out, highly orchestrated attack designed to exploit the victim’s vulnerabilities. The impersonator had an air of professionalism that immediately made Shawna feel like she was speaking with a qualified representative. One of the main tactics used by these scammers is leveraging fear and urgency, which psychologists have noted can impair sound decision-making. Once fear sets in, victims tend to focus on immediate solutions without giving themselves time to identify the red flags.
They used this to their advantage by mimicking official Apple support communications. Scammers like the ones that targeted Shawna often employ phone number spoofing, making the call appear to come from a legitimate Apple support line. This is a common manipulation technique that uses technology to disguise the true identity of the caller and tricks victims into thinking the request is authentic. In Shawna’s case, the number that appeared on her phone matched Apple’s customer support contact, creating an illusion that was hard to question.
Once Shawna was on the phone, the impersonator employed complex psychological manipulation. Often, scammers use formal language, making them sound like seasoned professionals who are well-versed in cybersecurity jargon. They piece together a narrative that makes the victim feel like they’re helping to prevent a crime, when in reality, they are falling into a trap. Phrases like “your account has been compromised,” or “you need to act fast to avoid financial disaster,” are red flags that the impersonators expertly weave into each conversation.
Another common scheme used by these fraudsters is creating layers of trust. In Shawna’s case, the scammers didn’t immediately ask her to transfer money. Instead, they built the narrative slowly; first, they asked for verification details like her Apple ID and personal identifying information. This paced approach is a deliberate tactic, as asking someone to take a small, seemingly harmless action (like confirming personal details) lowers their guard and primes them for larger requests in subsequent steps.
Throughout the call, the impersonators likely used what experts call “social engineering,” where they prey on emotions—panic being the most potent one in these scams. Their plot was woven so tightly that by the time they asked Shawna to transfer money into what they called a “secure” account, it seemed like the only logical step to prevent even greater financial loss. In truth, scammers depend on victims feeling overwhelmed and confused, bombarding them with information, which reduces their ability to think clearly and ask questions or seek external advice.
Pointing to sophisticated hacking threats is another weapon in the scammers’ arsenal. By hinting that Shawna was under an imminent cyber-attack—and that doing nothing would lead to the plundering of her bank accounts—they fostered a sense of helplessness in her. To someone unfamiliar with IT threats, this can feel terrifyingly real. Telling someone their money is at risk adds a layer of urgency that bypasses any skepticism they might otherwise have. Victims focus on dodging the looming danger rather than assessing whether the entire situation may be a hoax.
In Shawna’s experience, as in many others, the scammers escalated their requests. Once she made the first transfer, it became easier to convince her that additional steps were needed. This is another key tactic—foot-in-the-door psychology. Scammers know that once victims take a small action (such as providing their Apple ID or making a small payment), they are more likely to comply with larger requests later on. This is how Shawna was further manipulated into buying gift cards—a well-documented tactic often flagged in similar types of fraud.
The scammers even guided her through the steps of purchasing and sending gift card details, a technique that has persisted in many scams for years. No reputable company, including Apple, will ever ask for payment in gift cards, but the scammers framed it as a necessary precaution to prevent her from losing everything. They manipulate not just fear, but also trust, presenting themselves as more competent, more knowledgeable, and more in control of the situation than the victim ever could be.
Shawna’s experience sheds light on just how methodical and calculated these impersonators can be. From the spoofed phone number to the doppelgänger “customer support representative” fluent in tech lingo, the entire interaction was geared towards making her panic, comply, and ultimately lose more than money—she also lost her sense of security, confidence, and peace of mind.
As Shawna Perdue came to terms with losing over ,500 to the scam, the financial impact wasn’t the only thing that weighed heavily on her heart. For a senior living on a fixed income, money lost to fraud doesn’t just disappear quietly—it takes with it years of meticulous saving and careful budgeting. Those funds had been earmarked for essential living costs and future comfort, only to vanish in hours. Recovering that money would not be as simple as replenishing last month’s grocery budget; instead, it represented an irrecoverable dent in her life savings.
Seniors like Shawna, who have worked hard their whole lives to secure a comfortable retirement, often struggle to regain financial stability after falling victim to scams. When every dollar counts, a sudden loss of thousands can lead to a real and frightening threat to basic needs: utilities, medications, and day-to-day expenses. For those depending solely on Social Security or a limited pension, it feels like life itself is being ripped away piece by piece, adding a harsh reality to what might appear, on the surface, as “just” a monetary loss.
But the financial blow was only part of the devastation. The emotional and psychological impact is where the consequences truly become profound. Shawna’s sense of self-reliance, carefully cultivated over 75 years, was shattered in an instant. The trust she had placed in the world—trust in companies, in institutions, and in her own judgment—suddenly crumbled. Like so many before her, Shawna couldn’t help but feel embarrassed and humiliated. She questioned herself: How could I let this happen? How could I not see the signs?
This reaction is, unfortunately, all too common among victims of scams. Shame can be an overwhelming emotion, isolating victims and making it harder for them to speak up or seek help. No one wants to admit they’ve been tricked, and the scammers exploit this deeply ingrained fear of ridicule or judgment. In Shawna’s case, she confided in her daughter, but many victims feel too mortified to turn to loved ones, leaving them trapped in a vicious cycle of guilt and self-blame. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of victims withdrawing from social circles, avoiding their friends and family because they feel like “easy marks” or “foolish.”
Beyond embarrassment, there’s often an overwhelming sense of betrayal, particularly among the elderly. In Shawna’s case, she was manipulated using the very systems she trusted—trusted technology, customer service, and companies like Apple that she saw as pillars of safety and reliability. When those pillars are manipulated by criminals, it doesn’t just feel like a loss of money, but a loss of faith in the systems that are supposed to help protect us. It’s not uncommon for financial victims to lose confidence in answering the phone, opening an email, or even interacting with professionals—always fearing that, once again, someone may be trying to deceive them.
These emotional scars can take much longer to heal than any financial loss. Victims like Shawna are left feeling vulnerable, no longer trusting their own ability to spot tricks or protect themselves. The fear that someone will show up again—this time with even more sophisticated methods—can settle in like an unwelcome guest, making every notification, every phone call, seem like a potential threat.
For Shawna, the fallout went deeper than dollar signs. Her independence took a substantial hit, perhaps more painful than the financial blow itself. Known by her family and friends as a self-sufficient, resilient woman who prided herself on her savvy, she now felt dependent, fragile, and unsure. The very act of handling her finances, something she once did with confidence, now became a source of stress. Each online interaction was met with doubt, as the psychological wounds deepened and trust in technology eroded.
It was her daughter, Rhonda Chadwick, who saw her mother’s true emotional state more than anyone. On the surface, Shawna appeared upset, but beneath that lay a heart overwhelmed by guilt and warmth turned to cold uncertainty. “She’s mad, but mostly at herself,” Rhonda shared, expressing the difficulty of witnessing her once-strong mother crumble under the weight of this injustice. “It’s breaking my heart to see my strong, independent mom go through this.”
For Shawna, the path to recovery wasn’t clearly marked. She wasn’t just grappling with the practical implications of lost money or police reports; she was in the midst of an emotional reckoning, questioning her own instincts and capabilities. How do you begin to rebuild your inner confidence after someone dismantles your world like that? Although her family rallied around her, offering love, support, and financial help via a GoFundMe page to recover some of the stolen funds, the emotional damage would demand a different kind of healing.
It’s important to note that Shawna’s emotional wounds and bruised sense of independence aren’t unique. Many scam victims must endure the same psychological aftermath. Experts suggest that it’s not uncommon for victims to experience anxiety, depression, and even sleeplessness as they navigate this new world of heightened fear and loss of faith in people and institutions.
Emotional and financial recovery from scams isn’t always swift and sure. It requires patience, understanding, and support from those who care. In time, and with the backing of loved ones and generous donors, Shawna is slowly getting back to her feet—but her story serves as a powerful reminder that behind every dollar stolen lies a heart deeply hurt, trust betrayed, and the long, difficult journey back to wholeness.
Falling victim to a scam, especially one so well-executed, can be devastating, but it’s crucial to remember that there are ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from falling into a similar trap. These fraudsters are more sophisticated and organized than ever before, but that doesn’t mean they’re unstoppable. Arming yourself with the right knowledge and tools can make all the difference in detecting and avoiding these scams.
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the digital landscape safely and confidently:
- Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Communication: One of the most common entry points for scammers is the unsolicited phone call, text message, or email. If you receive a message out of the blue telling you there’s an issue with your Apple ID, bank account, or any other service, pause and consider whether you initiated the contact. Legitimate organizations rarely reach out this way. If in doubt, use an official website or number to verify the claim.
- Never Share Personal Information Over the Phone: A legitimate customer service representative will never ask for your password, Apple ID, or Social Security Number over the phone. If someone does, it should be an immediate red flag. Hang up, take a step back, and independently verify the contact.
- Be Wary of Payment Requests: Scammers often ask for payment via untraceable routes, such as wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate companies like Apple will never ask for payment in these forms. If someone suggests these methods as the only way to “secure your account” or “stop a hacker,” it’s almost certainly a scam.
- Take Time to Verify Urgent Demands: Scammers create a sense of urgency to trick victims into acting impulsively. Slow down. Take a moment to think before you agree to anything. Check in with a family member or friend to offer a second opinion. Many times, just a few minutes of reflection will prevent a serious mistake.
- Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enabling 2FA on your accounts creates an additional layer of security. Even if a scammer gains access to your username and password, they won’t be able to complete the login process without the second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone. This small step can prevent big problems.
- Research the Sender or Caller: If you’re uncertain about the legitimacy of a call, do not dial any numbers provided in the message. Instead, search for the official customer service line from the company’s website, then hang up and call that number. Additionally, be cautious of messages with poor grammar, misspellings, or odd-sounding requests—these are often signs of fraudulent activity.
Despite the prevalence of these scams, feelings of embarrassment and shame should never prevent you from taking action. Scammers rely on victims keeping quiet out of self-blame, which allows these fraudulent schemes to persist. Here’s what to do if you think you’ve been scammed:
- Call Your Financial Institution Immediately: If you’ve transferred funds or shared any financial information, reach out to your bank or credit card company as soon as possible. They may be able to freeze the transactions, issue new cards, or advise you on what steps to take next.
- Report the Scam: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your local police department. Even though this might not result in immediate action or fund recovery, your report contributes to a larger database of fraudulent activity, helping protect others in the future.
- Notify the Service Provider: If the scam involved impersonating a company like Apple, inform their customer service team so they can take additional steps to prevent other users from being targeted in a similar way. Apple, for example, has a dedicated page for reporting scams and fraud.
Lastly, remain aware that scammers continue to evolve their methods, and staying informed helps you stay one step ahead. Frequently review updates from organizations like the FTC or the National Council on Aging for trending scams and advice. The silver lining is that with vigilance and by spreading awareness, you not only protect yourself but also help safeguard vulnerable family members and friends.
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, or even fearful, in the wake of hearing about Shawna’s experience. But these steps can empower you and those you care about, arming everyone with the tools they need to stand strong against scammers. You’re not alone in this—you have the power to protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed, acting carefully, and seeking advice when needed.
In the face of Shawna Perdue’s devastating loss, her family, friends, and the broader Wichita community rallied together to show her that she wasn’t alone, providing comfort in both emotional support and practical assistance. If there’s one thing that such heartbreaking experiences reveal, it’s that community is essential in times of crisis. Unfortunately, recovering the stolen funds directly from the scammers was highly unlikely, leaving Shawna in a difficult financial position. But despite the bleak situation, hope came from unexpected places and people.
One of the most prominent efforts was an online fundraising campaign set up by Shawna’s daughter, Rhonda Chadwick. The family turned to GoFundMe, a popular platform that has been used in countless situations where victims needed financial support. The goal of the campaign was to help offset some of the financial damage Shawna had suffered. They set a modest goal of ,500—reflecting the amount her mother had lost—but the support Shawna received far exceeded just monetary contributions.
In the campaign, Rhonda shared her mother’s story, being honest not only about the financial loss but also about the emotional trauma Shawna had endured. Despite their initial hesitation—a natural concern in sharing such a personal and painful experience with the world—the response was overwhelmingly positive. Within a short amount of time, compassionate individuals from their local community and beyond began making donations, contributing whatever they could to help Shawna recover from the theft.
“You are definitely helping to restore my mom’s faith in people and restore her spiritual belief,” Rhonda wrote in an update on the GoFundMe page, expressing her deep gratitude. The family was moved not just by the financial assistance that began to pour in, but by the outpouring of love, support, and kind words from people who read Shawna’s story. For Shawna, it wasn’t just about the dollars and cents—it was the reassurance that, despite the deception and betrayal she felt, there were still good-hearted people who cared enough to help restore some of what had been taken from her, both tangibly and emotionally.
Community-based efforts like this represent something much larger than financial aid; they offer victims a pathway to emotional healing. Shawna had been incredibly shaken by the scam, but knowing that her community—whether immediate or through the broader digital network—was standing behind her provided her with a sense of safety and belonging that the scammers had attempted to strip away.
The donations Shawna received weren’t just financial recoveries either. Many strangers sent heartfelt messages offering encouragement and empathy. For someone who had felt isolated and ashamed, these words were a lifeline, reminding her that she wasn’t alone in her struggle. These messages showed Shawna that she had not been foolish, as she once believed, but was the victim of a manipulative, calculated attack that could have fooled even the most tech-literate among us. The warm outbursts of concern and understanding helped her break free from the emotional prison of self-blame.
In addition to the GoFundMe campaign, local community organizations and elderly support networks in Wichita began stepping up their efforts to raise awareness about scams targeting seniors. They used platforms like social media, newsletters, and local news stations to discuss the details of Shawna’s story, ensuring that other seniors—and their families—could learn from her unfortunate experience. These educational resources aimed to empower vulnerable populations, especially seniors, by teaching them how to recognize similar scams before falling victim themselves.
While Shawna’s financial situation had been directly addressed by the generosity of strangers, combating the deeper emotional impact would take time and support from her closest loved ones. Rhonda and her siblings encouraged their mother to speak openly about her experience, reassuring her that the blame lay solely with the scammers and not with herself. This focus on mental and emotional recovery was critical, as scam victims often carry long-lasting feelings of shame and vulnerability. Together, they focused on rebuilding not just Shawna’s sense of self-worth but also her ability to trust people and systems again.
For Shawna, this dark moment in her life became a confirmation of a larger truth: Community still thrives, even in the face of isolation and manipulation. The scam may have temporarily tainted her sense of trust, but it didn’t succeed in breaking her spirit or her community’s will to support her. In the end, she discovered that even after experiencing a devastating loss, a web of support—with roots both near and far—can help illuminate a path forward.
