Lubińscy police officers received a report of an attempted extortion of money from an 80-year-old woman. A man called the senior citizen's landline and claimed to be her son. (The caller's voice was very similar to that of the elderly woman's son. What's more, during the conversation, the scammer sobbed in order to mislead his victim.)
The criminal invented a story about a road accident in which several people were injured, some seriously. He asked the woman to hand over PLN 20,000, which he allegedly had to give to the police to avoid going to prison.
The 80-year-old told him that she did not have that amount and would have to collect it.
Frightened and very upset, the senior citizen immediately called her son-in-law. He, in turn, called the 80-year-old's son. The real son immediately contacted his mother to reassure her.
Police:
As the story described above shows, criminals continue to try to scam older people, using various methods. They exploit emotions and put people under time pressure.
Let us remember: above all, we should remain cautious. If someone calls us claiming to be a loved one and mentions handing over money, we should not take any hasty action.
Do not tell anyone over the phone how much money we have at home or keep in our account. Do not withdraw all your savings from the bank or transfer them to any indicated account. Do not hand over money to any “messengers” sent by loved ones. Call someone in the family and ask for advice on what to do.
The officers appeal:
Younger family members should speak with seniors from time to time and warn them about this type of fraud.