Cases also reported in Münstertal, Hinterzarten or Schliengen
Fraudsters in Freiburg and the surrounding area are apparently using a new scam. They spy on the secret numbers of people who withdraw cash from ATMs. The perpetrators then steal the bank cards and withdraw large amounts of money. More than 20 cases had been reported by September. Since October, the fraudsters have also been striking outside of Freiburg – for example in Münstertal, Hinterzarten or Schliengen.
The police call the new phenomenon shoulder surfing, in which perpetrators distract their victims and spy over their shoulders as they enter their PIN. Law enforcement officers report that the perpetrators often proceeded through a division of labor. A second perpetrator stole the bank card during the withdrawal process as soon as it came out of the machine.
The police therefore advise:
- Don’t let a seemingly helpful or needy stranger lure you away from the machine or distract you.
- Keep an eye on your credit card and your money at all times.
- If necessary, cancel the withdrawal process if something seems suspicious.
- Use the ATM at another time if you notice suspicious people in the ATM area.
- Contact the police at any time via the police emergency number 110.
- Discuss the topic with your family members.
- If you lose your credit card, block it immediately using the central service number: 116116.
(br)
