Attention, scammers on the phone: This is how you can protect yourself in the Wetterau district!

Attention, scammers on the phone: This is how you can protect yourself in the Wetterau district!

In the last few days there have been increasing reports of telephone fraud attempts in the Wetterau district. Since late Monday afternoon, July 14, 2025, several citizens from Florstadt have alerted the police. The fraudsters posed as police officers and tried to tell the people they called about an alleged break-in in their neighborhood. Wetterau.news reports that a similar scam was also used in Ober-Mörlen. Here a made-up story was used about a serious traffic accident in which a close relative was allegedly involved. Fortunately, all affected people saw through the fraudulent intentions and acted correctly.

The police strongly advise you not to reveal any information about your personal assets over the phone. Urgency chatter from scammers should be ignored. Callers have no right to request information about amounts of money or financial situations. The police will never ask for payment or pressure people. If uncertainties arise, it is always advisable to contact a confidant or the police directly - for example via the emergency number 110. Talking to neighbors can also be helpful in drawing attention to the scams.

Victims of fraud attempts

With the rise in fraud cases, it is important to take the victims' perspective seriously. Victims of phone scams often face not only financial losses, but also feelings of shame and blame. According to that Saxon police report Many of those affected feel insecure and often do not take their own experiences seriously. This not only complicates the emotional consequences, but also the willingness to report the crime. In fact, this pressure can lead to a lack of valuable information for the investigating authorities.

A research project by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) has taken up the topic of “Access to justice for victims of online fraud”. It shows how important it is to develop options for help for those affected. Around a quarter of the population in Germany has already been a victim of internet crime. Fraud is the most common form. The variety and complexity of the fraud schemes are enormous - from goods fraud to online banking fraud to attempted fraud on dating platforms. Institute for Human Rights points out that many of those affected not only have to deal with the consequences of fraud, but also with the challenge of making their voices heard.

Tips and hints

The police and consumer advocates agree: Raising awareness is the key to protecting against fraud. Relatives and friends should be informed so that we can take joint action against attempted fraud. It is important to talk about experiences in a familiar setting in order to counteract the silence that plagues many of those affected.

Protective measures are essential. Under no circumstances should money or valuables be handed over to unknown people. If you feel unsettled on the phone, you should end the conversation immediately and seek advice from relatives or the nearest police station. The police will certainly be able to help, and reporting such scams is crucial to preventing other people from having similar experiences.