08-03-2025
Suspect arrested after Apple Valley senior turns tables on would-be scammer
A 75-year-old Apple Valley man scammed a would-be scammer when he arranged to have the alleged con man greeted by deputies this week, authorities said.
The series of events started with a "pop-up" advertisement that appeared on the victim's computer on Thursday, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.
"The pop-up ad told him he had been scammed and directed him to call a phone number for help," sheriff's officials said in a written statement. "The victim dialed the number and was informed his information was compromised. The victim was instructed to withdraw $35,000 and meet an agent who would collect the funds to fix the problem."
The intended victim recognized the scam and reported it to the sheriff's department about 2:40 p.m.
Officials said the victim arranged to have the suspect pick up the money at his home in the Jess Ranch neighborhood of Apple Valley.
"Deputies with Apple Valley Police Department arrived to assist at the victim's residence," the statement said. "Shortly after, the suspect arrived at the residence to collect the $35,000 cash."
Alex Yu, 29, of San Francisco was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of attempted fraud, jail records show.
He was released on bond Friday morning pending legal proceedings.
Sheriff's officials reminded residents to be wary of online scams.
"Thousands of Americans are scammed everyday by criminals playing on the emotions of people," the statement said. "Banks and government agencies will not ask you to withdraw large amounts of money and meet with agents."
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Anyone who has experienced a similar fraud attempted was encouraged to contact Deputy R. Grissom of the Apple Valley Sheriff's Station at (760) 240-7400, or Sheriff's Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Information may also be provided anonymously to the We-Tip hotline at (800) 782-7463.
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Apple Valley senior turns tables on would-be scammer, suspect arrested
