The most common method is the so-called screen method. What does it involve? Most often, two thieves pose as, for example, waterworks employees. One thief distracts the victim, shielding the other with a kind of “screen,” such as by pretending to repair an installation or check meters. When one of them goes with an unsuspecting resident to the bathroom or kitchen to check the water pressure in connection with an installation failure, the other scammer searches the apartment for hidden cash or valuables. There may also be only one scammer, but the method of operation is similar.
Another Wrocław resident fell victim to this type of fraud. At the end of last week, a man posing as an administration employee knocked on her door. After entering the 69-year-old woman’s apartment, the scammer took advantage of a moment of inattention and stole nearly PLN 40,000 and a mobile phone.
Police officers are carrying out activities aimed at apprehending the person responsible for these acts. However, in this case, prevention and avoiding crime are most important. Therefore, we remind you: do not let strangers into your home!
To avoid becoming a victim of fraud, remember to follow a few rules
Above all, always do the following before opening the door:
- look through the peephole or window to see who has come to visit,
- if you do not know the visitor, ask the purpose of their visit, fasten the security chain (if you decide to open the door), and ask them to show an identity document, official ID or identification card. An honest person will not be discouraged by such caution,
- if in doubt, arrange another date, first checking with the estate administration or another appropriate institution whether the person knocking on the door is genuine (if the person claims to represent the administration or another appropriate institution).
Report every attempted fraud to the Police without fail. If there are elderly or solitary people in our family, talk to them and warn them about this type of threat.
