A 79-year-old man from Rotenburg fell victim to the so-called nephew trick on Monday evening.
Rotenburg – According to police reports, strangers texted him posing as his niece. The relatives cell phone would be faulty, which is why they use a new number. In the message, the scammers also asked the man to conduct further correspondence via the WhatsApp messaging service.
The scammers then explained to him that the alleged relative had to make an urgent transfer, but due to her new mobile phone she did not currently have access to his online banking. The Rotenburger believed the information provided by the scammers and transferred a large four-digit amount to two accounts he did not know about.
The East Hessian Police Headquarters warns urgently in this context:
– Never hand over or transfer money or valuables to persons or accounts unknown to you! Be especially skeptical if you need to make an instant transfer.
– Be wary if someone doesn’t introduce themselves by name on the phone or by messenger or pretends to be an acquaintance/relative, bank employee or police officer or judiciary person you don’t recognize as such!
– Don’t automatically save supposedly “new” phone numbers from contacts. First try to contact people on the “old” phone numbers you know!
– Just hang up the phone and cut social contacts as soon as your interlocutor asks you for money!
– Call your relatives on the number you know or the police on 110!
Trick fraud is multifaceted! The authors adapt their approach to the fears of potential victims, thus influencing their highly personal area of life. Consequences such as withdrawal from society and a sense of shame provide scammers with a platform. Talk openly about what happened, anyone can become a victim. Well-informed people are not so easily disturbed and can correctly assess the corresponding situations.
Don’t be afraid to call the police if you suspect fraud.
Information about the scam can be found on the website senioren-sind-auf-zack.de
jce
