Target of fraudsters: Seniors in Braunschweig's Heidberg warned!

Target of fraudsters: Seniors in Braunschweig's Heidberg warned!

In the Heidberg district of Braunschweig there have been increasing reports of attempted fraud against older people in recent days. The police warn urgently and are looking for witnesses in order to prevent further possible crimes. There were two attempted scams on October 29th and 30th, 2025, in which a 92-year-old woman and a 91-year-old man were contacted.

The 92-year-old lady received a call from a scammer posing as an acquaintance and claiming that her friend had been involved in a fatal accident. In order to secure the “deposit” of 10,000 euros, a meeting was arranged to hand over the money. The old lady finally handed over 8,500 euros, but when she recognized the person collecting it, he immediately fled. Fortunately, there was no financial damage and police describe the perpetrator as a slim man, aged between 24 and 30, with curly, dark hair and around 1.65 m tall.

The fake policeman's ploy

Another incident occurred on October 30 when the 91-year-old received calls from two fake police officers. A man pretended to be a police officer, but the attempt failed because he could not produce an ID card. Here too, no financial damage was caused. The perpetrator description for this caller is as follows: He is about 35 years old, has dark hair and has a mustache.

The Braunschweig police are currently looking for witnesses who can provide information about the two fraudsters. Information can be given to the criminal investigation service on 0531/476-2516.

Seniors as a target group for fraudsters

These incidents are part of a worrying development because, according to an analysis by Federal Consumer Assistance Seniors are increasingly being targeted for fraudulent activities. Experts warn that older people are often at particular risk, as crime statistics in recent years clearly demonstrate.

The most recent fraud attempts in Braunschweig illustrate how important it is that older citizens are informed about such scams. The police and consumer organizations recommend that you always be suspicious when someone asks for money over the phone and that you never reveal personal or sensitive information.

Cases like these not only show the audacity of the perpetrators, but also the need to raise awareness among older people and give them practical tips on how they can protect themselves from such tricks.

For further information and support please contact Federal Consumer Assistance ready, which provides concrete contacts and offers of help for those affected.