Fraudsters in Klaus: Police uncover emergency situation as a hoax!

Fraudsters in Klaus: Police uncover emergency situation as a hoax!

On May 14, 2025, an incident occurred in Klaus, in the Klauser Forest area, in which two Romanian citizens, 17 and 20 years old, tried to extort money from plainclothes police officers under the pretext of an emergency situation. Loud vol.at The men stopped the police officers with wild gesticulations and claimed that their vehicle had an empty tank and that they had no cash for the return trip to Munich.

However, during a check by the civil patrol of the Bregenz State Transport Department, it quickly became clear that the men's statements were not true. The officers found cash on the two people and discovered that the tank of their vehicle was full. The supposed emergency situation was exposed as a fraud, whereupon the men were temporarily arrested and transferred to the police station. Further investigations are now intended to clarify the background, while the Feldkirch public prosecutor's office has already filed a complaint.

Fraud protection program

The police are using this incident to warn of increased fraud attempts of this type and recommend that the population be vigilant. This is in line with other current security concerns highlighted in the Home Office and Trade Association's 2021 security study. This study, as reported in the report by bmi.gv.at described shows that almost two thirds of all online retailers in Austria were victims of online fraud in 2021.

A total of 46,179 cybercrime offenses were reported in Austria last year, of which 22,440 cases of internet fraud were recorded. The numbers are particularly alarming when it comes to larger companies, 78% of which reported being affected. The particular diversity of fraud types, ranging from identity fraud to cyber attacks, requires comprehensive prevention measures on the part of retailers and consumers.

Education and prevention

The police and various institutions are working to increase awareness of security-related issues and take concrete measures against attempted fraud. In online trading, which grew by 17% in 2021, it is particularly important to pay attention to criteria that can indicate fraud. Consumer tips such as not trusting exceptionally cheap offers or checking reviews were highlighted as necessary steps.

In addition, 76% of retailers will consider reporting to the police in the event of damage for security reasons. Raising awareness about safe payment methods and the need for identity verification are other effective measures to reduce fraud. The current events in Klaus show how important such education and prevention strategies are to protect the public from fraudulent activities.