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09/16/2024

Dyslexia Center of Austin target of fraudulent check scam

Yahoo News

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Dyslexia Center of Austin (DCA) recently received a massive check from a donor, but the apparent act of charity was actually a cautionary tale.

“This is such a sophisticated scheme. And they are targeting non-profits,” said Kelly O’Mullan, DCA executive director.

The check seemed legitimate enough — it was for $95,000, and came from a supposed donor out of New York state.

‘We were blown away’

“We were blown away by the cashier’s check,” O’Mullan said. “This was the largest check we have ever received in our organization’s history.”

The man first contacted the non-profit through email saying he wanted to make a large contribution. The check was sent via FedEx and the group deposited the money.

“He followed up with a phone call where he tried to pull on our heartstrings about his son that had died recently who had struggled with dyslexia,” O’Mullan said.

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