Police alert over fake emergency operation scams in Soria
The National Police warn in Soria of scams targeting elderly people in which criminals pose as healthcare workers to request money and jewellery, claiming an urgent operation is needed.
Hospital emergency scam on the increase
The National Police have alerted Soria to a scam targeting elderly people in particular. According to tribunasoria.com, criminals pose as healthcare workers and demand money and jewellery, claiming that a son or daughter needs an urgent operation.
The deception, known as "hospital emergency", is a variant of the "false son in trouble" scam that usually begins with a call from a hidden or unknown number. During the conversation, the fraudsters assure the victim that a close relative has suffered a serious accident and that their life is in danger.
Psychological pressure as the main weapon
Once contact is established, criminals pressure the victim to immediately hand over cash, jewellery or other valuables, on the grounds that these will be used to pay for the medical intervention. The Police explain that psychological pressure is a key element: the perpetrators attempt to prolong the call as much as possible, create distress and prevent the victim from having time to think things through.
Through this strategy, they seek to prevent the elderly person from calling their son, another relative or someone they trust who might discover the deception. Once the victim accepts the demands, the criminals arrange for the money or jewellery to be collected, either at the person's own home or at another location previously agreed.
Police recommendations
The National Police recommend being wary of any unexpected call in which a serious emergency is reported and money is requested immediately. In such a situation, they advise remaining calm, ending the communication and contacting the supposedly affected family member directly or a person they trust.
The Police Station emphasises that no healthcare professional or medical centre in Spain requests money in cash, jewellery or precious metals by telephone as payment for an operation or medical treatment. Citizens can contact 091 immediately if they suspect a scam. If deception has already occurred, the recommendation is to report the matter as soon as possible.
Importance of prevention among the elderly
The Police stress the importance of family members and those close to the elderly informing them about these types of fraud, especially because criminals exploit situations of fear and urgency to reduce their victims' capacity to react. The General Directorate of Police develops the Greater Safety Plan for the Elderly, with talks at associations, day centres and care homes aimed at explaining the crimes that most frequently affect elderly people and offering guidelines to avoid them.
Source: Google News ES — Crime (es)