Fraud trial in Osnabrück: Six young men cheat over 330,000 euros!

Fraud trial in Osnabrück: Six young men cheat over 330,000 euros!

A sensational trial began in the Osnabrück regional court today, Monday, December 8, 2025. Six young men aged 16 to 23 are on trial accused of 44 counts of gang and commercial fraud. Prosecutors see the group as a clear case of organized crime carried out via text messages beginning with “Hello Mom” or “Hello Dad.” This so-called grandchild trick caused a stir in several cities, including Meppen and Munich, and caused immense damage amounting to over 330,000 euros.

The defendants' approach was particularly perfidious: they posed as bank employees or police officers and created fictitious emergency situations in order to manipulate their victims and get their money. A 16-year-old defendant is also facing charges of predatory extortion after he is said to have taken cash in Meppen in May 2025 - under threat of violence.

Victims spread all over Germany

The extent of the fraud cases extends across a wide geographical spectrum: those affected come from cities such as Essen-Bottrop, Berlin and Munich. It is not surprising that the public prosecutor's office hardly invited any other people to the start of the trial, as these appear to be systematically planned crimes.

This type of fraud is particularly popular during the Christmas season, when many people are willing to donate and their willingness to help may tempt them to fall for the fraudsters. However, the topic of fraud and blackmail is not only current in Germany, but also affects many Austrians, as the 2025 security study shows. Experience with crime is particularly widespread in retail, with 86% of Austrian retailers reporting that they have already been victims of crime - a warning sign for many.

Cybercrime in focus

Online fraud has developed rapidly in recent years, and the Consumer Center warns of the dangers of digital blackmail. This can happen to anyone and often happens unexpectedly, be it via email or messenger services. The threats range from the publication of intimate images to alleged evidence of crimes. In such cases, it is advisable to keep a cool head and assess the situation calmly. An emergency check can help those affected to correctly classify the threat and plan the next steps.

The 2025 security study illustrates the prevalence of cybercrime. Over 64% of domestic online shops have already been damaged by online fraud - and the most common forms of attack are phishing and malware. This shows that protecting your own data and dealing responsibly with online transactions are more important than ever.

The trial in Osnabrück will take some time and the verdict is still pending. The proceedings against the defendants could also provide further insights into the dimensions of this fraud. It remains exciting to see how this case will develop and what lessons society can learn from it.

For more information about the current debate about fraud and digital blackmail, I recommend the details on NDR, as well as helpful tips for prevention Consumer advice center. Those too Security study 2025 provides interesting insights into the development of crime in retail.