The man received a phone call on Friday, May 23, around 4:45 PM from a man claiming to be calling on behalf of the bank. The fraudster told the man that money would be taken from his account. He had to provide his PIN codes so that they could be changed over the phone. The cards would be picked up the next day by an officer. After the man provided his PIN codes over the phone to change them, he became suspicious and called the police.

On Saturday, May 24, the man was called again by the fake bank employee with the message that the police officer was on the way. While the man is still on the phone with the fake bank employee, his doorbell rings. The victim received a verification code from the fake bank employee that he could ask the police officer. When the codes match, the man opens the door, allowing the real police officers to arrest him.

Beware of con tricks
Con tricks are excuses that fraudsters use to try to rob people of their money, valuables, jewelry, handbags, or bank cards. The fraudsters often appear trustworthy. They come to the door, call, or approach you on the street. They might say they are from the bank, from home care, that they are coming to take a meter reading, or ask if their child can use your toilet. Click here for more information about this form of crime.

Important warning
The police want to warn again about the practices of fraudsters. They pose as fake bank employees or fake officers and try to steal from people. 

Excuse
If you receive an unexpected call from someone claiming to be from the bank or fraud helpdesk, be very careful if:

• You are asked to transfer your money to a so-called safe account because there is a supposed digital threat or fraud.
• You are asked to log into your banking environment or to provide your login details and/or PIN.
• The so-called bank employee wants to send someone to you to collect your bank card and/or valuables to secure them.

What should you do?

• Hang up and call your bank at the number you know. Dont know that number? Always look up the phone number via your own paper records or through your online banking app.
• Check if your bank actually called you.
• Never provide your login details or PIN. In case of suspicious activities, the bank will block your account; you should never transfer money to a safe account.
• Do not give anyone your bank card, even if it is being cut in half.
• Notify the police. If someone comes to your door, call 112 immediately. In other cases, call the police at 0900-8844.