Previously unknown perpetrators repeatedly enticed a 64-year-old Austrian woman to make advance payments using cryptocurrency with promises of winnings. According to the police, the damage amounts to tens of thousands of euros.

Between September 2020 and April 2022, the unknown perpetrators contacted their victim by telephone several times.
Under the pretext of having won a competition, they enticed the woman to buy cryptocurrency vouchers and then give the top-up codes over the phone in order to make advance payments for the distribution of winnings.

The money was borrowed from family and friends

The fraudsters maintained constant contact, contacted the victim at regular intervals and repeatedly gave various excuses as to why the money could not be paid out. As a result, the victim was tricked into buying and passing on vouchers several times over the last two years. A small amount of the money was self-financed and some was borrowed from family members and acquaintances.

Prevention tips from the criminal police

– End such phone calls immediately and report them
– Protect your own identity.
All of the personal information you provide makes it easier for the perpetrator to carry out his plan. – The perpetrators influence their victims and unscrupulously exploit their good faith to get their money.
– Never transfer money and never pass on vouchers to strangers.
– Do not cash checks or forward letters or packages to strangers.
– Be wary of unbelievable offers or promises.
– Contact family members or friends if you suspect anything.
– Don’t be afraid to file a report.
– If you have already become a victim of such fraud, be sure to report it to the nearest police station.

Source: LPD Styria


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