Warning: New scam by fake police officers threatens seniors!

Warning: New scam by fake police officers threatens seniors!

The Hanover police are currently seriously concerned about the well-being of older citizens: A new scam involving fake police officers is making the rounds. The fraudsters are particularly professional and use telephone calls to gain the trust of their victims. Loud NDR They claim that the injured parties are themselves being investigated for serious crimes. In order to escape an international arrest warrant, the victims are supposed to pay money. This perfidious scam can last for weeks. In a recent case, a 69-year-old from Sehnde became a victim of these fraud attempts.

Particularly perfidious: The perpetrators place cakes and flowers in front of their victims' doors to appear as “friendly neighbors” before they start the scam. In the end, the elderly woman is supposed to hand over massive amounts of money to an alleged police officer. The police have already arrested a 23-year-old man in Oldenburg in this context; He is suspected of being part of a group of perpetrators who actively harass older people.

How the fraudsters operate

In many cases, fraudsters use modern technology to create the appearance of authenticity. They sometimes even display fake police ID cards and use police emergency numbers or local numbers so that victims believe they are actually speaking to authorities. The perpetrators often want the injured parties to hand over their valuables to other unknown people who also pose as police officers - a tricky scam, according to Police advice is widespread.

The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) shows a more than 50 percent increase in cyber fraud against older people for 2023. Fraudsters are increasingly concentrating on online banking and using phishing attacks to obtain sensitive data from seniors. This presents a major challenge as many older people often have to struggle to acquire the necessary online banking skills, making them particularly vulnerable.

This is how seniors can protect themselves

The police strongly recommend: Do not let strangers into your apartment and ask all official persons to show an ID card. If in doubt, it is advisable to contact the authority directly using the known telephone number. It is important not to reveal any financial details on the phone and to simply hang up if pressure is felt. If you have uneasy feelings in such a situation, you should definitely get help from neighbors or friends.

In addition, door-to-door scammers posing as craftsmen or businessmen are also active in the region. They often try to sell overpriced products or services. Seniors should react forcefully to intrusive visitors and not sign for supposed gifts. If you make the right preparations and stay vigilant, you can better protect yourself against these monsters.

Raising awareness about such scams is very important as it can have a massive impact on seniors' sense of security. The Police Crime Prevention Program (ProPK) offers comprehensive information and support. The brochure “Living Safely: Guide for Older People and the Young at Heart” with helpful tips is also available. Stay informed, stay vigilant and help strengthen our older generation's sense of security.