Danger! Police warn of dangerous scams in Carinthia!

Danger! Police warn of dangerous scams in Carinthia!

In recent months, police have issued increased warnings about various scams that often target older people. A particularly perfidious form of fraud involves perpetrators calling and claiming that the child of the person being called has caused a serious traffic accident and is in custody. In order to release the child immediately, a high deposit is required, which should be handed over either in cash or in the form of valuables. These calls are often emotionally charged, such as crying voices or dramatic music, to create credibility. This information is provided by klick-kaernten.at.

Another scam involves fraudsters pretending to be criminal police officers to warn of alleged break-ins. In this context, victims are asked to hand over cash, jewelry or gold for “safekeeping.” Sometimes fake police officers even appear in person at the victims' home address, which makes the situation even more dangerous. The police recommend that you hang up immediately if you receive suspicious calls and contact relatives directly. If in doubt, you should call the emergency number 133. It is emphasized that real police never ask for money or valuables over the phone and that it is important to inform especially older family members about these forms of fraud.

Decrease in fraud crimes

At the national level, the development of fraud crime in Germany shows that the number of fraud crimes fell by 1.5 percent to 743,472 cases in 2024,as the BKA reports. This represents a decrease compared to 2023, and since 2010 the number of cases has actually fallen by over 224,000 (23.2 percent). However, these declines could be placed in a broader context, as 513,518 fraud cases were also registered last year in which the suspects were from abroad.

The police have found that goods and trade credit fraud as well as fuel fraud in particular have fallen by significant percentages. These developments point to increased prevention work, although reporting rates remain low in certain areas. In general, about 55.3 percent of all fraud crimes recorded in 2024 show an Internet connection, although this is a decrease compared to 2023.

Prevention and education

Given the ongoing threat of fraud, experts recognize the need for increased awareness efforts. The police have already begun to strengthen their cooperation internationally to combat phenomena such as call center fraud. The perpetrators are usually based in countries such as Turkey or Eastern Europe. The two main methods used in these fraud cases are the “grandchild trick” and the “shock call,” in which perpetrators pose as relatives or officials in order to obtain money or valuables.

Citizens are advised to be generally suspicious, especially when money is handed over quickly, and not to pass on valuables to strangers. In addition, you should always use your own telephone number to contact relatives or the police to ensure that no fraudulent activities are unknowingly supported.