Shock-call fraud in Austria: Vorarlberg police warn of bail demands
Fraudsters pose as government officials over the telephone and demand bail for allegedly arrested relatives. Vorarlberg police are warning elderly people in particular.
Fake court officers demand cash and jewellery at the door
As Google News AT — Crime (de) reports, the Vorarlberg regional police directorate is currently warning of a telephone fraud scheme in which unknown individuals claim that a close relative has caused a traffic accident and is therefore in custody.
To avert an alleged prison sentence, the perpetrators demand a high bail — and deliberately put pressure on the victims. Particularly insidious: the callers specifically ask about cash, jewellery and other valuables.
Subsequently, an alleged "court officer" appears directly at the door and collects the valuables. The police have directed their warning especially at elderly people, who are increasingly the target of this wave of calls.
How to protect yourself:
Anyone who receives such a call should provide no information whatsoever about money, jewellery or valuables. Police and courts do not request such information by telephone.
In the event of a suspicious call: hang up immediately. If unsure, the caller can be asked for their name, office and extension — and then contact the affected relative directly using a known number to verify the facts.
The police can also be reached via a known police station number or the emergency line.
The authorities are also appealing for elderly relatives, acquaintances and neighbours to be informed about the current fraud scheme.
Source: Google News AT — Crime (de)