Consumer complaint received 2024-03-02
Product: Checking or savings account — Checking account
Issue: Managing an account — Deposits and withdrawals
Company: BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION (CA)

I have been a Bank of America customer since XXXX and I am writing to file a formal complaint against Bank of America regarding fraudulent activity, negligence, and the unjustified withholding of funds, resulting in significant financial loss, continued homelessness, and emotional distress. 

I am a victim of wire fraud perpetrated by my former friends _____________and ___________ ( names provided confidentially ) who manipulated me into accepting and withdrawing a wire transfer of {$24000.00} in XX/XX/XXXX. They falsely claimed an urgent need for funds to secure a down payment on a house, exploiting my trust and compassion. It was only today, when I tried to withdraw funds sent to me by my father to purchase a vehicle that I was made aware my account was being closed and investigated and had been in the closure process for over a year. 

Despite my diligence in monitoring my account, Bank of America failed to notify me of any allegations or investigations related to fraudulent activity for over a year. During this time, my account status remained negative, and I was not informed of the reasons for this negative status or given an opportunity to address any concerns or disputes. 

Furthermore, the {$8400.00} that Bank of America has locked up in my account was provided by my father to purchase a vehicle- which is essential for securing stable housing and employment opportunities. My family and I have been homeless for over a year and this money was a lifeline that was ripped out of our grasp. Despite being made aware of the urgent need for access to these funds, Bank of America has refused to release them, and refused to provide any timeframe of if or when the funds would be released ; exacerbating my already precarious situation and perpetuating the cycle of hardship and instability. 

I am filing this complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to request an investigation into the actions of Bank of America and to seek redress for the harm I have suffered now and in the future. Specifically, I request : XXXX. A thorough investigation into Bank of America 's failure to detect and prevent the fraudulent wire transfer and subsequent transactions initiated by and under the direction of _______ and _________, who took advantage of my good intentions by falsely claiming an urgent need for funds for a down payment on a home. In XX/XX/XXXX, these individuals exploited my good intentions and generosity, coercing me into accepting and withdrawing a fraudulent wire transfer of {$24000.00}. 

XXXX. Restitution for the financial losses I have incurred as a result of Bank of America 's negligence and the wire fraud scheme, including reimbursement for associated fees and charges. 

XXXX. Urgent release of the frozen funds ( which can be verifed as being sent by my father, who has sent me money the same way to the same account for years now ) to enable me to purchase a car so that I am able to secure stable housing and employment. 

XXXX. Compensation for the financial and emotional distress caused by Bank of America 's unjustified withholding of funds and failure to notify me of the status of my account. 

XXXX. Implementation of measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, including improved communication and support for customers experiencing financial hardship. 

I urge the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to prioritize this complaint and take immediate action to address my urgent needs. If there is any information that you need from me please reach out and I will gladly comply. 

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I trust that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will act swiftly to provide the relief and assistance I urgently require. 

Sincerely, XXXX XXXX XXXX