Attention, seniors! Police warn of dangerous phone fraudsters!

Attention, seniors! Police warn of dangerous phone fraudsters!

Lienz, Österreich - The police warn of a current wave of fraud in the Lienz district. Fraudsters are on the phone as police officers, criminal officers or prosecutors and are targeting the elderly. This stitch often includes that the callers claim that a relative is involved in a serious accident and demand a high deposit to avoid a prison sentence. A considerable time pressure is often built up and personal money transfer is agreed. The Tyrol State Police Directorate has therefore urged to show vigilance and also warn relatives in order to protect possible victims. [Dolomitenstadt] reports that there are numerous variations of this fraud.

The fraudsters not only use phones to reach their victims, but also implement psychological tricks to gain the trust of the elderly. This is a common approach that is not new. According to [nursing assistant seniors], such fraud stitches, such as the best-known grandchildren trick or shock calls, are designed to bring older people around their money. Here, callers are as close to people or authorities to steal high sums of money.

How does the fraud stitch work?

A common tactic of these fraudsters is to make the victim to say "yes" on the phone. As a rule, you ask questions such as "Listen me?" And then use the forced "yes" to use it in subsequent conversations against those affected. A few days after the phone call, they will receive unexpected invoices or contract documents that indicate an alleged consent to a contract. Those affected should be aware that they do not have to meet such bills, but should actively act against illegal claims, the [consumer center].

tips for prevention

Seniors in particular should be sensitized to these information offers. One of the best protective measures against this attempted fraud is to suspect distrust of unknown callers and not to make any decisions under pressure. Important actions also include noting details such as names of the caller, date, time, time and content. In this way, those affected, for example, can ask their relatives or bank employees for advice and, if necessary, inform the police, as it recommends [nursing assistant seniors].

In addition, no sensitive information such as IBAN or credit card numbers should be revealed on the phone. Even with suspicious invoices or deeds, it is advisable to contact the bank directly. Consumer advice centers also offer support for unauthorized claims and are available with helpful tips to be prepared for unpleasant telephone calls.

In an age in which digital media are increasingly being used, it is essential to prevent fraud to clarify seniors about common fraud stitches and to sensitize them. A social responsibility for support and education in this regard is therefore of great importance.