Hackers Take $56K from North Carolina Boys and Girls Club

(TNS) — An internet hacker almost cost the Boys and Girls Club more than $56,000, according to reports from the Shelby Police Department.

Recently the Boys and Girls Club in Cleveland County noticed funds were missing from its bank account.

The money, which is used to keep the doors open to a place that helps look after children in the community, was being funneled to different credit companies, banks and even phone services. There were 11 checks made out to a person in Oklahoma, according to the police report.

Investigators believe the breach may have occurred after a Boys and Girls Club employee's email was compromised.

In all, the hackers were able to make off with $56,359 before it was stopped.

Jack Weller , president of the Boys and Girls Club Cleveland County, was unable to provide much information but did say that even though the money was taken it would not impact the Shelby-based club due to their bank's coverage plan.

The club is a hub in the community for boys and girls to have a safe environment after school and during the summer months. The club serves more than 400 local children and their families each year.

Police are still investigating the breach.

(c)2020 Gaston Gazette, Gastonia, N.C. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.