Help My Dad Rebuild After a Life-Altering Scam

Hi, my name is Kathy Nguyen, and I’m creating this GoFundMe on behalf of my dad, Hiep Nguyen.

My dad is turning 65 this year. He is a hard working immigrant from Vietnam who came to the United States to build a better life for our family. As a welder, he has spent decades working night shifts, 6 to 7 days a week, 12+ hours a day to support us. Because of his sacrifices, I became a first-generation college graduate. He has also been saving for retirement, hoping to support his elderly mother and his younger brother who lives with disabilities.

Everything changed in December 2024.

My dad received an official letter from the IRS warning of possible identity theft. Shortly after, he began receiving frequent calls that he believed were from U.S. government agencies. The callers claimed his identity had been stolen and was being used overseas to launder money and send illegal goods. They told him that in order to clear his name, he needed to send money to cover legal fees. Thinking it was connected to the official IRS letter and the fact that they knew all of his personal information, he didn’t realize that it was a scam.

The scam was shockingly sophisticated. The group used fake government documents, telephone spoofing to disguise their numbers, and even AI-generated videos of officials to make their claims seem legitimate. They called him as often as three times a day, applying constant pressure and fear. Terrified, confused, and believing his freedom and safety were in jeopardy, my dad complied out of desperation. Over the course of five agonizing months, he sent away his entire life savings including his 401(k). I didn’t realize what had happened until this past May when he was finally able to muster up enough courage to tell me. He was heartbroken and ashamed to ask for help.

My family and I are now trying to help him get back on his feet. This GoFundMe is to support my dad in covering basic living expenses, medical care, and immediate needs.

Despite everything, my dad continues to work long hours to make ends meet. He has lost not only his savings but also a piece of his hope and peace of mind.

If you are able to contribute, no matter the amount, or share this campaign, it would mean the world to our family. We want to remind my dad that he is not alone and that kindness and community can still prevail, even in the darkest of moments.

Thank you so much for reading and for your support.