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Berlin’s elderly face rising fraud as scammers pose as officials and workers

Con artists are preying on the city’s older residents with alarming tactics. How can vulnerable Berliners protect themselves from these calculated deceptions?

Graffiti is on the train. These are cables. Background there are houses with windows.
Graffiti is on the train. These are cables. Background there are houses with windows.

Berlin’s elderly face rising fraud as scammers pose as officials and workers

Berlin police have warned of a growing wave of fraud and theft targeting elderly residents. Scammers are tricking their way into homes by posing as tradespeople or officials, then stealing cash and valuables. Authorities report a sharp increase in such crimes across the city.

The fraudsters often pretend to be repair workers, claiming urgent fixes are needed. Others impersonate police officers, saying they are investigating a break-in nearby. Once inside, they search for money and high-value items while distracting the victim.

The rise in deception-based thefts has put elderly Berliners at higher risk. Police continue to urge caution and verification before opening doors to unknown individuals. Residents are reminded to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour immediately.

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