Shock calls in Thuringia: Fraudsters captured millions by grandchildren!

Shock calls in Thuringia: Fraudsters captured millions by grandchildren!

Suhl, Deutschland - The fraud stitches do not end, and a particularly perfidious example is the variant of the "shock call". In Thuringia, tricksters captured over 4.9 million euros in 2023. The State Criminal Police Office reported that around 5,700 fraudulent calls were registered in 2023, while the number dropped to 3,449 in 2024. Despite the reduction in the calls, the fraudsters were able to obtain more money per call. It remains unclear why shock calls went back last year. A possible explanation could be a raid in Poland in which several European investigators were involved, which took place between November 27 and December 8, 2023. The police have strengthened their efforts to prevent and spread information and recently held an information event in Suhl.

What are "shock calls"? This fraud stitch is designed to pretend the victims that a nearby relative is in a life -threatening emergency situation. Here, the perpetrators frequently pretend as these relatives or even as police officers. They put the victims under an extreme time pressure and urge the called, urgently financial help. For example, they pretend that a family member has been involved in a traffic accident or has come into conflict with the law. A payment of up to 100,000 euros is often required to pay alleged deposits or compensation.

warning signals recognize

The callers take advantage of the victims' trust and make the impression that only a quick action requires help. They often switch on several people who alternate each other on the phone - this usually starts with a wine -making "family member" and ends with a caller who spends himself as a police officer or prosecutor. The combination of emotional pressure and fear of causing something bad should make the victims hand over money or valuables.

• The police recommend not to disclose sensitive information about money or valuables on the phone.
• In doubt, those affected should always call back with a known number in order to obtain certainty.
• It is important not to allow strangers to get into their own apartment.

particularly well to know: The police or other officials never request cash or valuables by telephone. The message is clear: don't let yourself be put under pressure, put on and search for help from the local police station. For those affected, there are helpful contact points, such as the "White Ring", which can be reached under number 116 006. Further valuable tips and information can also be found on the pages of police crime prevention.