FAIK

Chapter 9Cognitive and Technical Defense Strategies: Tools for Protection

Whispers from the Static

91 Meadows Circle

“Grandma?” The connection was bad. The voice on the other end barely a whisper. But Mildred’s heart leaped in recognition. Her grandson. But something was wrong. He sounded scared.

“Isaac? What’s wrong, dear? Are you alright?”

“Grandma, I…I don’t know what to do. I’m in Mexico. I was going to meet up with some friends, but…but everything went bad. I got mugged. They took everything. My wallet. My passport. My phone. I managed to borrow a phone to call you. I’m scared, Grandma. I don’t know anyone here, and I…I don’t have any money to get home.”

Mildred’s mind spun. Isaac…all alone in a foreign country. In danger. “It’s going to be okay, dear. We’ll figure this out. What do you need?”

“I’m hoping you can wire me some money. I need enough for food and hotel until I can get a new passport. I’ve got to cover transportation. I’m hungry and scared. I…I’m sorry for even asking, but I don’t know what else to do. Can you wire me some money? I’ll pay you back as soon as I get back home.”

Before he finished talking, Mildred was at her computer, pulling up her bank’s website. A knock at the door startled her. It was her neighbor, Linda, stopping by for their usual afternoon tea.

“I think that’s Linda at the door for tea. I’ll be right back. I can wire some money within the next few minutes.”

“Grandma…um. …The person who loaned me their phone needs it back. I’ll text ...