Elderly woman victim of scam
CORFU. They stole jewellery worth 2,000 euros, as well as 550 euros in cash.
Corfu Crime Investigation Unit is investigating a case of fraud in which scammers managed to obtain jewellery and money.
An unidentified perpetrator called an unsuspecting elderly woman, pretending to be a doctor. He falsely claimed that a relative of hers had been involved in a car accident and requested a sum of money to perform immediate surgery. The victim was convinced by the perpetrator's claims and shortly thereafter met with an unknown woman near her home. She handed over jewellery valued at 2,000 euros and a cash sum of 550 euros.
To prevent and avoid incidents of fraud by scammers, the Ionian Islands Regional Police advise:
- Be particularly cautious when unknown individuals call you and try to convince you to give them money, claiming that a relative of yours has caused a road accident.
- In such cases, always try to contact your relative yourself to verify the claims being made.
- Use your own phone and take the initiative to make the call. Do not agree to speak with someone whom the unknown caller has introduced.
- Avoid following suggestions to meet (appointments, etc.) for the same reasons.
- Always state that you will not provide any money under any circumstances.
- Inform your close family members, as well as your broader family, friends, and social circle, especially elderly individuals, and advise them to avoid falling victim to such scams.
- Try to remember the characteristics of the perpetrators if you come into contact with them, as well as details about the vehicles they use (license plate, make, colour, etc.), to assist law enforcement authorities.
- Always keep contact numbers handy for emergency situations (Police, Fire Department, Hospitals, close relatives, etc.).
We urge citizens, organisations and social services to inform elderly individuals to remain cautious and, in every case, even in an attempted scam, to immediately contact the Police by dialing the three-digit number "100."
For more tips on avoiding fraud, visit the official website of the Hellenic Police (www.hellenicpolice.gr) under the "Citizen's Guide" section and the Cybercrime Division (https://cyberalert.gr).
VASSILIS PANTAZOPOULOS
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