Walmart offers a convenient money transfer service, allowing customers to send money nationwide. However, this system was exploited by fraudsters who used various tactics to steal money. This article details how these scams worked and the measures taken to combat them.
How the Walmart Money Transfer Scam Worked
Initially, scammers used “spoofing” to make their calls appear as if they were coming from legitimate sources like Walmart’s Home Office, NCR, or MoneyGram. They would then request “system test” money transfers, falsely claiming they would be canceled later. These transfers were never canceled, enabling the scammers to collect the funds.
When Walmart identified this tactic and implemented measures to cancel fraudulent transfers, the scammers adapted their approach. They recruited Walmart employees to assist in overriding the canceled transactions. These employees would process refunds for flagged transactions, effectively releasing the funds to the scammers.
Inside the Operation: Employees Aiding the Scam
Two Walmart employees, Michelle Denise Gilyard and Vitnelson Saint Fleur, were allegedly paid per transaction to facilitate these fraudulent refunds. Gilyard, working at a North Miami Beach store, processed 130 transactions totaling over $283,000. Saint Fleur, employed at a Palm Springs store, processed 36 transactions amounting to nearly $80,000. They reportedly received $200 to $300 in cash for each fraudulent refund they processed.
Arrests and Charges
Four individuals, Emmanuel Alexis, Jahson Rayon Linton, Michelle Denise Gilyard, and Vitnelson Saint Fleur, were arrested and charged in connection with this scheme. Charges included Organized Scheme to Defraud, Conspiracy to Commit an Organized Scheme to Defraud, and Grand Theft. This collaborative effort between the Miami-Dade Police Department and Walmart’s Global Investigations Branch led to the unraveling of the complex operation.
Protecting Yourself When Sending Money via Walmart
While this specific scam was addressed, it highlights the importance of vigilance when using money transfer services. Always be wary of unsolicited requests or calls claiming to be from official sources. Verify any requests for transfers directly with Walmart through official channels and never share personal or financial information with unverified individuals. Report any suspicious activity to Walmart or law enforcement immediately.
Walmart’s money transfer service remains a convenient option for sending money, but awareness of potential scams is crucial for protecting yourself from fraud. Staying informed and reporting suspicious activity are essential steps in maintaining the security of your finances.
