On February 13, Bolesławiec police received numerous reports concerning attempted “grandchild” scams. The scammers targeted residents of the Osiecznica municipality.

How do the perpetrators operate?

The perpetrators’ modus operandi is similar. – First, they make a phone call, pretending to be a family member, most often a grandchild. They explain the changed voice by claiming to be ill or make the older person feel guilty for not recognizing them – explains junior aspirant Bartłomiej Sobczyszyn from the District Police Headquarters in Bolesławiec. – They ask to borrow a large sum of money. Usually, the money is supposedly needed to cover damage caused by a road accident, pay for an important operation, buy a car or take advantage of a holiday offer at a promotional price.

He adds: – Scammers are ruthless—they skillfully manipulate the conversation to obtain as much information as possible and exploit older people.

The “fake officer” often gives a made-up name and even a badge number, and asks the victim not to end the call. The spokesperson says: – Scammers put their victims under time pressure. They do not give them a moment to think or verify information about the caller. They convince older people that their money is urgently needed. Immediately after the money is handed over, contact is cut off and the criminals disappear with all the victim’s savings.

How can you avoid becoming a victim of scammers?

  • Above all, remain cautious—if someone calls pretending to be a family member and asks for money, do not take any hasty action.
  • Do not tell anyone over the phone how much money you have at home or keep in your account. Do not withdraw all your savings from the bank.
  • Call a family member and ask whether the person who requested your help really needs it. Remember that no one will blame you for acting sensibly. Do not give in to the time pressure imposed by scammers.

What should you remember?

The police:

  • In particular, remember that police officers NEVER provide information about their investigations by telephone! They also never ask you to hand money over to an unknown person.
  • If someone tries to scam you by pretending to be a police officer over the phone, end the call! Do not engage in conversation with the scammer. If you do not know how to respond, tell someone close to you about the suspicious call.

The police conclude:

We appeal especially to younger people: inform your parents and grandparents that there are people who may try to exploit their kindness. Tell them how to behave if someone calls asking to borrow a large amount of money. Draw the attention of older people to the danger, especially those you know live alone.

Simple caution can protect them from losing savings accumulated over many years.