Telephone fraud in Wallerfing: 78-year-old lost over 10,000 euros!

Telephone fraud in Wallerfing: 78-year-old lost over 10,000 euros!

In the small community of Wallerfing in the Deggendorf district, a frightening scam comes to light. On July 15, 2025, a 78-year-old woman fell victim to a telephone scammer posing as a prosecutor. This perfidious trick was aimed at putting emotional pressure on the woman and stealing mid-five-figure cash. The caller stated that her granddaughter was involved in a fatal accident and requested bail to allegedly avoid detention. This bold scam is not new, but falls into the long list of fraud strategies that often target older people.

It is a sad reality that seniors often fall victim to such scams. According to the consumer advice center, fraudsters particularly target the trustworthiness and inexperience of older people. The so-called grandchild trick, in which fraudsters pose as relatives, is particularly widespread. The same applies here: Fraudsters rely on emotional pressure to get money quickly. The woman in Wallerfing fell for this scam and handed the money over to a male collector between 12:45 and 1:15 p.m., who then fled on foot, the Bavarian police described in a current press release.

The scam of the fake police officers

But that is only one facet of the problem. Telephone scammers often pose as police officers or investigators in order to steal money or confidential information. These scammers often call from unknown or suppressed numbers and attempt to obtain money or data through intimidation or the promise of “security.” Important note: Real police officers will never ask for valuables over the phone. If you suspect attempted fraud, you should hang up immediately and contact the local police. The perpetrators are under pressure to force cooperative behavior - another sign of fraudulent intent.

The police are therefore asking for information from witnesses who observed suspicious people or vehicles in Wallerfing at the specified time. Taxi drivers who may have transported suspicious people to or from Wallerfing are particularly encouraged to come forward. The investigation has already been taken over by the Lower Bavaria Criminal Police Inspectorate.

Fraud protection measures

So what can we do to protect ourselves and our loved ones from such fraudulent schemes? The consumer advice center advises you to be skeptical, especially when it comes to unexpected calls or offers. It is advisable to talk to friends or family members if you are unsure. Do not allow yourself to be pressured and do not close deals at the front door. In addition, bank details should be handled with care and, if in doubt, the police or bank should always be informed.

Ultimately, it is crucial that we stay vigilant together and look out for one another. The scammers may appear professional, but with a good sense of caution, each of us can do our part to help older people around us. Bavaria Police reports that... Consumer advice center informs that… Stay mobile explains how...