A complex case of identity theft has surfaced, involving a San Francisco man whose identity was stolen to secure a $52,000 loan from the online bank SoFi. The funds were then lost in a cryptocurrency scam. ABC 7 News’s investigative team uncovered details after receiving an anonymous package containing evidence of the crime.
The victim’s brother, Rudi Yanto, later confessed to impersonating him to invest in a high-risk cryptocurrency scheme, only for the funds to be lost to scammers. Although Yanto admitted to the fraud, SoFi holds the victim liable for the loan, leading to ongoing legal and financial struggles for the victim.
Key Points:
- Identity Theft and Fraud: The victim’s brother, Rudi Yanto, used his identity to secure a $52,000 loan with SoFi, intending to invest in a cryptocurrency scheme.
- Anonymous Tip and Evidence: ABC 7 News received a package from Manila, supposedly from “Killian,” containing the victim’s personal documents and an explanation of the fraud.
- Victim's Shock and Response: The victim was alarmed upon learning of the theft and took protective measures, including closing bank accounts and filing complaints with authorities.
- SoFi’s Role and Response: Despite Yanto’s confession, SoFi maintains that the victim is responsible for repaying the loan, citing evidence from their verification process.
- Failed Cryptocurrency Investment: Yanto lost the entire loan amount to a cryptocurrency scam, arranged through contacts met on a Telegram group.
- Debt Transfer Complications: Without notifying the victim, SoFi sold the loan to a third-party debt buyer, complicating his efforts to dispute the debt.
- Legal Action: The victim, now working with an attorney, continues to contest the debt, aiming to clear his name and raise awareness about identity theft risks.
Read full article at ibtimes.co.uk
