Police warn public to guard against fraudsters targeting older people
Lithuanian law enforcement has warned the public about increased fraudster activity, with elderly people often becoming targets. Fraudsters use various methods, ranging from telephone calls to visits to residents' homes.
Police warn public to guard against fraudsters targeting older people
Lithuanian officials have issued an urgent warning to the public – fraudsters are increasingly targeting the most vulnerable people, especially older citizens. Law enforcement has identified five main criminal methods used to extract personal information or financial resources.
The first method involves telephone calls. Criminals typically speak in Russian and impersonate representatives of medical institutions, energy companies, mobile phone operators, financial institutions or even the police. Using fabricated pretexts, they attempt to obtain login credentials for online banking, credit card numbers or cash.
The second method involves direct visits to elderly people's homes. Posing as employees of the Tax Inspectorate, fraudsters demand citizens "declare their cash on hand". In other cases, they present themselves as municipal officials or electricity network specialists, claiming to have come to inspect meters, and in this way misappropriate residents' savings.
The third method is investment fraud. People are drawn into allegedly highly profitable projects. Trusting the promises, victims take out loans, provide access to their bank accounts or grant access to cryptocurrency wallets.
The fourth method is online fraud. Users are persuaded to pay a deposit for goods or services that do not actually exist.
The fifth method involves malicious links sent via text messages, email or social media. Clicking on such links users are prompted to enter credit card information or login details, after which money disappears from accounts.
Law enforcement emphasises that knowledge and vigilance are the best protection. Members of the public are urged not to disclose passwords and PIN codes to anyone, not to open suspicious messages, and not to let strangers into their homes. If suspicions arise, it is worth discussing the situation with family members. If fraud is suspected or someone has already become a victim, they should call the emergency helpline 112.
Source: Diena.lt
Source: Google News LT — Crime (lt)