Police Warn of Rising 'Shock Call' Scams Targeting Seniors in Germany

Fraudsters impersonate authorities to steal cash, with several cases reported this week; some victims thwarted attempts by contacting real police.

A senior in Lübeck-Kücknitz was tricked into handing over a five-figure sum after fraudsters claimed her daughter needed bail following a fatal accident.
In Speyer, a 77-year-old woman avoided a similar scam by verifying the story with her actual daughter before contacting the police.
A 94-year-old in Bobingen reported a fraudulent call to the real police after scammers falsely claimed her neighborhood had experienced burglaries.
Police emphasize they never collect cash or valuables to secure bail or as part of investigations, urging citizens to verify alarming claims independently.
Authorities are actively investigating these incidents and seeking public assistance with information, particularly in Lübeck-Kücknitz.