A new wave of telephone scams targeting mainly elderly residents has been reported in northern Greece, with fraudsters using carefully planned stories to obtain large sums of money and valuable items.
Authorities recorded two new cases within the last 24 hours in Serres and Halkidiki, while another case reported in Pella last month has been solved. The total losses from the latest incidents exceed €100,000.
Victims in Serres and Halkidiki
According to police, in Serres, a scammer contacted a 71-year-old man pretending to be an official from Greece’s financial crime authorities. Claiming that he needed to record valuable items in the victim’s possession, the caller, with the help of an accomplice, managed to obtain €80,000 in cash and jewelry worth around €15,000.
A similar method was used in Neos Marmaras, Halkidiki, where a fraudster contacted a 74-year-old woman pretending to be her accountant.
Using the excuse of recording personal valuables, the scammer convinced her to hand over jewelry worth €10,000 and a gold coin.
Police solve fraud case in Pella
Meanwhile, police officers from the Almopia Police Department solved a telephone scam that took place last month in the Pella area.
A case file has been opened against a 39-year-old man. According to the Greek Police (ELAS), an accomplice contacted an 82-year-old man, pretending to be his accountant and claiming that previous years’ receipts were incomplete.
The scammer told the victim that immediate action was needed to avoid a fine and arranged for a collaborator to collect €5,000. The elderly man handed over the money, which authorities believe was received by the 39-year-old suspect who was later identified.
The investigation continues to identify the alleged accomplice and determine whether those involved may be linked to other similar cases.
Police advice to citizens
Following the incidents, the Regional Police Directorate of Central Macedonia urged citizens to remain cautious and avoid trusting unknown callers who claim to hold official or professional roles.
Authorities advise citizens:
- Not to reveal whether they keep money, jewelry or other valuables at home.
- Not to follow instructions from callers who pressure them to hand over items or money.
- To verify claims by contacting their real accountant, relatives or relevant authorities using a different phone device, as scammers may remain connected on the original call.
- To immediately inform police, even if an attempted scam was unsuccessful.
