Overview

• The Verbraucherzentrale Berlin has observed an uptick in theft and fraud involving returned laptops and smartphones since mid-2025.
• Victims report that intercepted packages arrive at retailers containing worthless items instead of the originals.
• Some retailers are refusing refunds by claiming customers sent wrong or damaged goods, shifting proof onto buyers.
• Customers are advised to take photos or video when packaging returns and to enlist a witness during handoff.
• Filing a police report is recommended to document suspected thefts and strengthen refund claims in potential legal disputes.