The police are currently increasingly registering fraudulent acts on social networks. This primarily affects people who want to sell items via a marketplace within the social network.

Supposedly interested potential buyers declare that they will have the goods picked up from the provider themselves using a parcel company. Under this pretext, the fraudsters ask for the provider's address and email address. After submitting this data, the provider receives an email, apparently from a shipping company, asking them to take out transport insurance. This should cost 100 euros and be paid using a prepaid card.

The provider allegedly receives the advance payment back after the purchase has been completed. If the provider does not respond to the requested payment, the alleged prospective buyers build up more and more pressure. They send further emails stating that if payment is not made, the shipping company will initiate legal proceedings against the provider. There is a threat of a five-figure fine or a prison sentence.

The police point out again:

  • do not provide any personal information about yourself,
  • do not allow yourself to be pushed or put under pressure,
  • do not respond to such emails or initiate any payments.

If you become a victim of such fraud, contact a police station, even if you have not suffered any financial damage, as attempted fraud is also a punishable offense.

Source: Gotha State Police Inspectorate


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