Barbara Kearns of Mountain Home, an 87-year-old mother and grandmother, recently became the target of a sophisticated scam that cost her tens of thousands of dollars.

The incident began on February 28, 2025, when Kearns, following her usual routine of checking emails and playing solitaire on her computer, encountered a sudden and alarming disruption. A vivid red screen appeared, accompanied by blaring sirens and an unsettling message instructing her to call what appeared to be Microsoft’s customer support.

Unnerved by the noise and apparent urgency, Kearns complied, believing the message to be legitimate. She dialed the provided phone number and was connected to a man who claimed to be associated with a Microsoft technician. The caller convinced her that the issue required immediate attention and gained remote access to her computer under the guise of diagnosing the problem.

The scam escalated over the following days. Kearns was persuaded to withdraw $33,000 from her bank account on March 7. According to instructions from her contact, who identified himself as "Chann," she spread the cash on a table, photographed it along with her driver’s license, and then packaged the money as directed.

Kearns was told to expect a visit from a supposed Federal Reserve officer who would retrieve the funds from her home. However, when the officer failed to appear, Kearns was provided with an excuse—a forgotten phone charger delayed the individual’s trip between St. Louis and Mountain Home.

Despite the growing inconsistencies, Kearns was reassured daily by Chann that her funds were safe and secured at the Federal Reserve in St. Louis. She was told she would soon receive official documentation confirming the authenticity of the process.

Authorities frequently warn residents to be wary of unsolicited alerts on their computer screens and calls from individuals claiming to represent reputable companies or institutions. Scammers often use fear and urgency to compel victims into compliance. Anyone receiving similar messages or requests is urged to refrain from following the instructions provided and to contact law enforcement immediately.

Kearns’s story is a reminder of the increasing prevalence of such schemes targeting vulnerable individuals in Arkansas communities.