POL-DA: Höchst im Odenwald: Several fraudulent calls from criminals

09.10.2024 – 13:17

South Hesse Police Headquarters

Höchst (ots)

During this morning (October 9th), citizens of Höchst alerted the police and reported suspicious phone calls from criminals. They tried, among other things, to get hold of people’s belongings with shock calls or using fake police officers. According to current findings, no financial loss has occurred so far. It cannot currently be ruled out that the criminals are also trying to get their hands on loot in other cities and communities in the Odenwald district.

Among other things, the criminals deceive those they call over the phone into believing that the police have arrested a gang of thieves in the neighborhood. You would have found a list or photos of other break-in targets. The name or house of the person being called would also be on it. The fraudsters then demand the return of valuables in order to keep them safe from the burglars. In a so-called “shock call”, fraudsters pose on the phone as a relative (usually a daughter/son or grandson) or as a police officer or lawyer entrusted with a case and simulate an emergency situation. In both cases, they want to get the person they are calling to hand over money or valuables, such as expensive jewelry.

The police provide the following information and tips regarding such calls and other types of fraud:

Do not disclose any personal information or information about your living situation. Never provide information about valuables or assets. Police officers do not ask you about personal hiding places of money. The police do not seize cash or other valuables as a precaution. Do not allow yourself to be put under pressure at any time. End the conversation and call the local police or dial the police emergency number 110. Asking friends and family can also quickly expose the fraud.

Please send inquiries to:

South Hesse Police Headquarters
Press office
Klappacher Strasse 145
64285 Darmstadt
Sebastian Trapmann
Telephone: 06151 / 969 – 13200
Mobil: 0173 / 659 6516
Press office (central accessibility):
Telephone: 06151 / 969 – 13500
E-Mail: pressestelle.ppsh@polizei.hessen.de

Original content from: South Hesse Police Headquarters, transmitted by news aktuell