Man Abducted in Chicago’s Old Town, Forced to Transfer Money via ATM and Banking App

A 25-year-old man was abducted in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood over the weekend and coerced into withdrawing cash from an ATM and transferring funds through a banking app, according to police reports.

Incident Overview

The victim was walking near the intersection of North Avenue and Wells Street late Saturday night when two men approached him. They allegedly forced him into a vehicle at gunpoint and drove him to a nearby ATM, compelling him to withdraw cash. Subsequently, they demanded that he transfer additional funds via a mobile banking application. After the transactions, the assailants released the victim unharmed. Police are investigating the incident and reviewing surveillance footage from the area.

Community Response

The Old Town community has expressed concern over the brazen nature of the crime. Local residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially during late-night hours, and to report any suspicious activity to authorities.

Safety Recommendations

• Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night.

• Use Well-Lit Routes: Stick to well-lit and populated areas whenever possible.

• Secure Personal Devices: Ensure that mobile banking apps are protected with strong passwords and biometric authentication.

• Report Suspicious Activity: Contact local law enforcement if you notice any unusual behavior.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to the Chicago Police Department.