July 15, 2025 #1 Local News, Forum, Information and Event Source for Venice Beach, California.

LAPD Warns Rideshare Drivers of Passenger Bank Scam

Passengers stealing banking info from drivers’ phones, police say 

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is alerting rideshare drivers of a scam being used to steal from bank accounts while “borrowing” the driver’s phone.

According to the LAPD, on October 24, 2022, a victim, a rideshare driver, responded to the suspect’s request for a ride in the Hollywood area. 

“After the suspect entered the victim’s vehicle, the suspect then claimed he needed to change his ride destination and asked to borrow the victim’s cellular phone. When the suspect obtained the victim’s phone, he accessed the victim’s bank application and transferred money into his own account. The suspect then erased the driver’s bank application, canceled the ride, returned the phone to the victim and exited the vehicle,” the LAPD said. 

On November 28, 2022, a similar crime occurred in the City of El Monte and is currently being investigated by the El Monte Police Department.

“The Los Angeles Police Department would like to remind rideshare drivers to always maintain control of their cellular phone and should consider a stranger’s motivation when requesting to use or borrow their cellular phone,” the LAPD said. 

Anyone who may have been the victim of a crime, is encouraged to contract their local police department to file a police report.

in Crime, News
Related Posts

Santa Monica Man Arrested for Allegedly Exporting Electronics to Iran

July 15, 2025

July 15, 2025

Ostovari, identified as the CEO of a Tehran-based engineering firm, allegedly orchestrated the scheme since 2018  A 66-year-old Santa Monica...

California Hits Two-Thirds Clean Energy Milestone

July 15, 2025

July 15, 2025

This year, clean energy has powered the state for an average of seven hours daily, with over 90% of days...

Venice Beach to Host First Medal at 2028 Olympics

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

Venice Beach, known for its vibrant boardwalk, will kick off the 844 ticketed events, hosting the triathlon along its coastline...

Venice Shorts Commentary: VNC Meetings Should Stay at Westminster Elementary

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

“Given the fact this location has always made sense in terms of size, location and convenience, will you risk losing...

Santa Monica Assault Suspect Faces Multiple Charges, Authorities Seek Additional Victims

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

Marbra allegedly assaulted a 52-year-old woman on the Strand in Santa Monica, facing a felony count of assault with intent...

Veterans Tech Group to Launch Los Angeles Chapter with Networking Event

July 14, 2025

July 14, 2025

Founded in San Francisco, VetsInTech operates 20 chapters nationwide and claims more than 60,000 veterans VetsInTech, a national nonprofit that...

Venice Shorts: Longtime Neighborhood Advocate Marc Saltzberg Passes

July 13, 2025

July 13, 2025

Saltzberg supported cultural efforts like the creation of a Venice museum housed in a historic trolley car—advocating for a Pacific...

Newly Built Mar Vista Home with Spa and Plunge Pool Offered at $3.6M

July 13, 2025

July 13, 2025

The home’s powder room stands out with Roman Clay walls and a marble sink, while European oak floors, brass fixtures,...

County Health Leaders Decry Federal Policy Barring Undocumented from Programs

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

The officials argued the policy jeopardizes care for all residents, noting it could deter people—regardless of status—from seeking treatment  Leaders...

County Supervisors Move to Preserve Measure J Amid Charter Error

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

Measure J mandates that at least 10% of the county’s locally generated, unrestricted funds be allocated to community investments like...

Sen. Ben Allen Highlights Challenges, Economic Gains for LA28 Olympics

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

The remarks came during the first informational hearing of the Senate’s Special Committee on International Sporting Events State Sen. Ben...

Downtown Santa Monica CEO Andrew Thomas to Step Down

July 12, 2025

July 12, 2025

Thomas, who rejoined DTSM, Inc. in 2022, oversaw the introduction of a private security program, expanded homeless outreach, and boosted...

Sunday Concert to Honor Late Venice Musician Dale Henderson

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

Henderson was the former front man and guitarist of the Venice crossover thrash band Beowulf A concert honoring the late...

Weekly Yoga Sessions Offered at Venice Branch Library

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

Open to all skill levels, the sessions aim to guide attendees in balancing body, mind, and spirit The Venice Branch...

Mayor Bass Issues Directive to Protect Immigrant Communities

July 11, 2025

July 11, 2025

The order expands access to city resources for affected families and requests records from ICE, including details on arrests Mayor...