Behind this seemingly simple request lies one of the oldest and still successful methods of theft.
The paper trick
The distraction trick is as simple as it is ingenious. You open the door, a friendly face asks for a small favor. While you helpfully search around your apartment for a piece of paper and pen or fetch a glass of water, the "visitor" - or an accomplice - quickly gains access to your home. The loot? The cell phone, the wallet, whatever is at hand.
The goal: Our willingness to help
It hits us where we least expect it. Right on your own doorstep, in our safe haven. There is also another aspect that makes the paper trick so successful: our natural willingness to help others. Older citizens in particular often become victims because they cannot or do not want to assess the situation correctly.
How to protect yourself
Our advice: Never let strangers into your apartment, no matter how helpful you generally are. Here you don't have to prove it and risk your own safety.
If someone asks for a piece of paper, pen or water, bring what they want to the door, but never leave the front door unattended or open.
The conclusion: caution prevails
It's natural and human to want to help. But these days it is important to be vigilant and careful even on your own doorstep. The paper trick is just one of many ways our good nature can be used against us. Stay vigilant, protect yourself and your loved ones!
Would you like to find out more about such tricks and scams and always be up to date? Sign up for the Mimikama newsletter and discover the Mimikama media education offering . It's time to be well informed and safe!
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )

