Have you been getting daily voicemails from “Evelyn from underwriting” saying your file is nearly approved and you just need to verify a few things? Or maybe a newer variation from “Evelyn from Lemming, West Coast Branch”? If so, you’re not alone.
These calls aren’t genuine. They’re part of a growing advance fee loan scam that’s been circulating across the U.S. The scam promises guaranteed loans, but once you call back, you’ll be pressured into paying an upfront “processing” fee or “insurance deposit.” Once the money is sent, the scammers disappear.
This guide will take you through every detail of the scam: how it works, what to look for, what to do if you’ve already paid, and how to protect yourself and others.
Scam Overview
The Evelyn from Underwriting Scam is a textbook example of an advance fee loan scam, but with a scripted twist. Instead of presenting as “Rachel from Premier Financial” or “a hardship relief department,” scammers here adopt the persona of “Evelyn from underwriting.”
The use of the term “underwriting” is deliberate. In legitimate financial institutions, underwriting is the process by which a lender evaluates your creditworthiness before approving a loan or insurance policy. By referencing underwriting, scammers borrow credibility and make the call sound professional.
The Typical Script
A common voicemail goes something like this:
“Hi there. This is Evelyn from underwriting. I’m reaching out about a time-sensitive personal matter. Your file has been reviewed and is nearly approved. We’re just waiting on a few final steps to verify some details. Please get back to us to wrap this up.”
Sometimes the message begins with a dramatic throat-clearing sound to make it seem more human and spontaneous. This quirk has been reported across multiple calls, showing it’s part of a scripted recording rather than a live message.
Why It Works
The scam exploits confusion around underwriting. Most people know underwriting has something to do with loans or insurance, but not the details. Hearing that “your file has been reviewed and is nearly approved” sounds official, even if you never applied for a loan.
Scammers also use urgency and personalization:
- “Time-sensitive” suggests you need to act quickly.
- “Your file” makes it sound like they already have your information.
- “Nearly approved” creates a sense of progress and makes you more likely to follow through.
Common Numbers Used in the Scam
The scam relies heavily on spoofed numbers, which can change daily. Victims have reported calls from numbers across multiple states, often switching locations to avoid detection. Some of the most common callback numbers linked to this scam include:
- 888-919-4305
- 877-580-1825
- 959 area codes (Hartford, Connecticut)
- Numbers from Indiana, California, and other states
In each case, the scammer may give you a toll-free “888” or “877” number to return the call. Online searches for these numbers usually reveal complaints that they are tied to telemarketing scams or fraudulent loan offers.
The Evolution of the Scam
Interestingly, the script has changed slightly over time. Early voicemails were simple, with “Evelyn from underwriting” saying your file was nearly approved. Newer versions add regional branches or made-up company names, such as “Evelyn from Lemming, West Coast Branch.” This tactic is designed to make the scam seem more structured and legitimate.
Victim Reports
Across consumer forums and scam reporting sites, countless individuals describe receiving the exact same voicemail. One victim wrote:
“The message is always the same recording, of a woman saying ‘Hi there. This is Evelyn from underwriting. Your file has been reviewed and is nearly approved.’ The number changes every time, but the callback is always an 888 line. Definitely a scam.”
Another reported:
“I’ve gotten these voicemails for weeks. They say I’m nearly approved for something I never applied for. The spoofed number last time showed up as being in Hartford, Connecticut. Total scam.”
These testimonials reveal the scale and consistency of the scam.
Why It’s Dangerous
The Evelyn scam is dangerous for three key reasons:
- It targets financially vulnerable people who may be desperate for loans.
- It exploits confusion around underwriting, a technical financial process.
- It uses spoofed numbers, making it difficult to trace or block effectively.
Together, these factors make the scam highly effective and widespread.
How the Scam Works
Now that we understand the scam’s premise, let’s look closely at how it unfolds.
Step 1: The Voicemail
The process begins with a pre-recorded voicemail, usually identical in wording. Evelyn introduces herself, references underwriting, and claims your file is nearly approved. The voicemail may include throat-clearing or other staged human-like quirks to trick you into thinking it’s not automated.
Step 2: Building Urgency
The voicemail emphasizes urgency by calling the matter “time-sensitive” and urging you to call back quickly. This reduces the chance that you’ll pause to research or reflect.
Step 3: Callback Numbers
If you decide to return the call, you’ll likely dial an 888 or 877 toll-free number. Scammers use these because they are easy to obtain and make them appear more professional. The originating number that left the voicemail is usually spoofed and unrelated.
Step 4: The Live Agent
When you call back, you’ll be connected to a live person who continues the deception. They may:
- Reiterate that your file has been reviewed.
- Claim underwriting has approved a loan for you.
- Say they just need to verify some details before releasing the funds.
At this stage, the scammer’s goal is to gain your trust.
Step 5: The Loan Pitch
Once they sense you are hooked, the scammer presents the supposed loan. They may say you are approved for $20,000, $40,000, or even $75,000. The large amount is intentional—it makes the scam more enticing.
Step 6: The Catch — Upfront Fees
After presenting the loan, the scammer explains that you must pay a fee before receiving funds. This fee may be described as:
- Processing costs
- Insurance coverage
- Loan origination fee
- Administrative expense
The amount typically ranges from $200 to $600. They may even claim the fee is refundable.
Step 7: Payment Methods
You’ll be asked to send money through untraceable channels like:
- Gift cards (Amazon, iTunes, Google Play)
- Cash App
- Zelle
- Wire transfers
- Cryptocurrency
Once you pay, the scammer disappears.
Step 8: Secondary Targeting
Some victims report that after paying once, they receive follow-up calls claiming there was an issue with the transfer and that additional fees are required. This repeat targeting squeezes more money from victims.
Step 9: Long-Term Consequences
In addition to losing money, victims may have also provided personal details (name, address, Social Security number, or bank information). This can lead to identity theft, credit fraud, and ongoing harassment from scammers.
What to Do if You’ve Fallen Victim
If you’ve already responded to “Evelyn from underwriting,” don’t panic—but act fast. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Stop Communication
Do not call back or engage further. Scammers will try to pressure you into paying more.
2. Report the Scam
File complaints with:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker: BBB.org/ScamTracker
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): ConsumerFinance.gov
- Your State Attorney General: Search “[State] report fraud.”
- Local police department (especially if you lost money).
3. Contact Your Bank or Payment Service
- If you paid through Zelle, Cash App, or Venmo, report the fraud immediately. Some services may help if flagged quickly.
- For wire transfers, notify your bank.
- If you paid with gift cards, contact the issuer (Amazon, Apple, Google) with the card details.
4. Protect Your Identity
If you gave personal information:
- Place a fraud alert with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
- Consider a credit freeze.
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
- Sign up for identity theft protection services if needed.
5. Share Your Experience
Scams thrive in silence. Warn family, friends, and online communities to reduce the spread.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Evelyn From Underwriting Loan Scam
What is the Evelyn from Underwriting Loan Scam?
The Evelyn from Underwriting Loan Scam is a type of advance fee loan scam. Victims receive repeated voicemails from a woman claiming to be “Evelyn from underwriting.” The messages say your “file has been reviewed and is nearly approved” and urge you to call back quickly. Once you do, a fake agent pressures you into paying upfront fees (processing, insurance, or administrative costs) before receiving a supposed loan. After you pay, the scammers disappear and no loan ever arrives.
Why does the voicemail mention “underwriting”?
Scammers use the word underwriting because it sounds official and technical. In real finance, underwriting is the process banks use to decide whether to approve a loan or insurance policy. By referencing underwriting, the scammers add a false sense of credibility and trick people into thinking the message is legitimate. In reality, no legitimate underwriting department will cold-call you out of the blue claiming your file is “nearly approved.”
What phone numbers are linked to the Evelyn from Underwriting scam?
Reports show the scam uses many different numbers, including spoofed local numbers. However, some callback numbers frequently reported include:
- 888-919-4305
- 877-580-1825
- Numbers with 959 area codes (Hartford, CT)
- Various rotating numbers from Indiana, California, and other states
Scammers often spoof caller IDs, making the calls appear local or familiar. Always be cautious if the voicemail references “Evelyn from underwriting.”
How does the Evelyn loan scam work step by step?
- Voicemail arrives: A recorded message from “Evelyn from underwriting” says your file is nearly approved.
- Urgency is applied: Words like “time-sensitive” push you to act quickly.
- Callback number provided: Usually an 888 or 877 number.
- Live agent answers: They sound professional and claim you qualify for a large loan.
- Loan details pitched: They might say you’re approved for $20,000, $40,000, or even $75,000.
- Upfront fee demanded: You must pay “processing” or “insurance” fees first.
- Untraceable payment requested: Through Zelle, Cash App, gift cards, or wire transfers.
- Scammers vanish: After payment, the promised loan never arrives.
Is Evelyn from Underwriting a real person?
No. “Evelyn from underwriting” is a fictional persona used in robocalls. The voice is pre-recorded, and in most cases, it’s played to thousands of numbers daily. Scammers may add quirks like fake throat-clearing in the recording to make it sound more human, but there is no real Evelyn or legitimate underwriting department behind the calls.
Why do scammers ask for upfront fees before giving loans?
This is the hallmark of an advance fee loan scam. Legitimate lenders never require payment before releasing funds. Fees, if any, are deducted from the loan itself or clearly disclosed in contracts. Scammers demand upfront money because once you pay, they can disappear instantly, leaving you with no way to recover the funds.
What should I do if I got a voicemail from Evelyn from underwriting?
- Do not call back.
- Block the number on your phone.
- Report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the BBB Scam Tracker.
- Consider using call-blocking apps like Truecaller or Hiya.
- Warn friends and family—especially those under financial stress—so they don’t fall for it.
What if I already paid the upfront fee?
If you’ve already sent money:
- Contact your bank or payment service immediately. For Zelle, Cash App, or wire transfers, act quickly.
- Report the fraud to the FTC, CFPB, and your state’s Attorney General.
- If you used gift cards, contact the issuer (Amazon, Apple, Google) right away with card numbers.
- Monitor your credit if you provided personal details—consider a fraud alert or credit freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
- File a police report if money was lost. This creates a paper trail and may help with recovery efforts.
Can scammers target me again if I responded once?
Yes. Victims often report receiving multiple follow-up calls after engaging once. Scammers may sell your information to other fraud groups, leading to even more fake offers. This is why it’s important to cut off all communication and never send additional payments, no matter what excuses they give.
How can I protect myself from loan scams like this?
- Rule #1: Never pay upfront fees for a loan.
- Do not trust caller ID—numbers can be spoofed.
- Research the lender online before engaging.
- Use call-blocking services to reduce spam calls.
- Rely on licensed lenders only. Check with your state’s financial regulatory agency to verify legitimacy.
Where should I report the Evelyn from Underwriting scam?
You can report the scam to multiple organizations:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): consumerfinance.gov
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) Scam Tracker: bbb.org/scamtracker
- State Attorney General’s Office
- Local law enforcement (especially if money was lost)
Reporting helps authorities track scam patterns and warn others.
Is this scam widespread in the U.S.?
Yes. The Evelyn from Underwriting Scam is part of a larger wave of advance fee loan scams that target thousands of Americans every week. The FTC receives thousands of reports annually, with millions lost to fake loan schemes. The repetition of identical voicemails across different states shows that this is a coordinated, large-scale operation.
The Bottom Line
The Evelyn from Underwriting Loan Scam is a dangerous variation of the advance fee loan scam. Using professional-sounding terms like “underwriting” and repeated scripted voicemails, scammers lure victims into paying upfront fees for loans that never exist.
If you receive a voicemail from “Evelyn,” do not respond. Block the number, report the scam, and protect your accounts. Legitimate lenders will never demand fees upfront, and they certainly won’t cold-call strangers with pre-approval offers.
