Alarm in Clausthal-Zellerfeld: Police warn of perfidious shock calls!

Alarm in Clausthal-Zellerfeld: Police warn of perfidious shock calls!

In the last few days, an increasing number of shock calls have been reported in Clausthal-Zellerfeld, causing fear among many citizens. In these fraudulent calls, the perpetrators pose as relatives and report alleged traffic accidents in which relatives were involved. The police in the Upper Harz have now officially warned the population and are giving clear protection instructions to stop the fraudsters. According to regionalheute.de, the people addressed were fortunately able to recognize the deception immediately, so there was no demand for money.

The Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) sees an increase in this fraud and warns against the machinations of fraudsters who not only appear as relatives, but also pose as officials of state institutions, such as the police or public prosecutor's office. This tactic aims to force the victim into a situation of distress so that he or she is suddenly willing to hand over large sums of money in cash. In many cases, callers suggest that a relative has caused a serious accident or is facing prison time, prompting bail or “compensation” payments. The BKA reports on claims that are often in the six-figure range.

How do these scams work?

The fraudsters often work in groups: a caller initially introduces himself as a family member, then the conversation is passed on to another caller who then pretends to be a police officer or public prosecutor. This tactic uses the moment of shock and puts pressure on victims to make decisions without being able to examine the situation. It is often discouraged to use the callback button to confirm the identity of callers. Instead, the experts recommend contacting relatives using numbers you already know.

Another perfidious ploy used by the perpetrators is to make claims that money and valuables in the bank safe deposit box are no longer safe and must be taken to the police immediately. Polizei-Beratung.de notes that in these cases it is also important to consult a person you trust or to contact the police.

Prevention measures and advice

Citizens are urged to call 110 immediately if they are unsure and to hang up if pressure is put on them. Care should be taken not to reveal any personal or financial information over the telephone and never to give money or valuables to unknown people. Calls of this type require quick action: If you receive a call like this, contact your local police station immediately.

Finally, the police recommend that those affected contact advice centers such as the “WEISSER RING” (telephone number 116 006) to receive support and further information. Don’t be intimidated by these scammers – your safety comes first!