Greifswald couple loses over 75,000 euros: This is how online fraud works!

Greifswald couple loses over 75,000 euros: This is how online fraud works!

In a tranquil place like Greifswald, you can quickly believe that you are safe from fraud. But now a couple from the port city have become victims of a perfidious online fraud, some of which was carried out via WhatsApp groups. Loud Picture The couple suffered financial damage of over 75,000 euros. The fraudsters had promised them attractive stock investments and lucrative returns; they were supposed to keep an eye on the supposed investments using a special financial app. However, the couple's account became increasingly debited, with amounts of money flowing into foreign accounts on a weekly basis - without any withdrawals ever taking place.

The criminal police have already initiated investigations into suspected fraud and are warning of the emergence of such online scams. The perpetrators are increasingly acting professionally and posing as financial experts with significant contacts in crypto exchanges or financial companies. These schemes are increasingly using social media and messenger services to reach unsuspecting victims.

The scammers are creative

A clear example shows how the principle works. Victims are invited to WhatsApp groups of up to 80 people, where a supposed “financial expert” with titles like “Dr.” or “Professor” presented. After initial extremely promising tips, people are quickly urged to make larger investments, often in crypto or stocks. Money then flows into other people's accounts or ends up in fake crypto wallets. According to the Dortmund police, savings can quickly be lost because the platforms are usually not genuine and no payouts take place. The victims' profits are only apparent. How dortmund.polizei.nrw reports, the fraudsters push their offers via trading seminars on social media and also use chatbots and artificial intelligence.

This makes it all the more important to find out about the dangers of online trading and financial transactions. Experts recommend never sending money to strangers or giving out personal information to supposed financial professionals. Signs of fraud often include things like pushing people to make quick decisions or using fake platforms.

Caution is advised

The police and consumer advice centers provide helpful tips on how to protect yourself from such fraudsters. Before making any money transfers online, you should check who you are dealing with and, if in doubt, avoid investing. In many cases, those affected have lost large amounts of money after just calling the supposed advisors. An example from case law shows that banks are partly liable for damages caused if fraudsters act by providing false facts. The Test.de draws attention to the fact that in several cases banks have been ordered to pay damages because the fraudsters pretended to be trustworthy, which often resulted in heavy losses for the victims.

The current events in Greifswald clearly show that the danger of online fraud is becoming more and more present. So be well informed and remain skeptical – it can happen to anyone!