Between June 18 and 25, people posing as Neuchâtel police officers contacted several elderly people living in the canton. Two of them handed over sums of money as well as bank cards to the crooks, who convinced them to hand them over under the pretext of checks. In addition to the money stolen from the victims, bank withdrawals were made by the perpetrators.
This Monday, June 25, in collaboration with the Geneva cantonal police, a person was arrested in possession of the money given by the victims. A criminal investigation was opened by the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the investigation entrusted to the judicial police.
Seniors are specifically targeted by scammers. The Neuchâtel police remind you that under no circumstances should you give bank cards and their data, or any other valuables, to strangers. Fake agents tell stories that may vary, but the scenario always includes a home visit to secure money or valuables.
Do not fall into the trap! The police will never secure your valuables, collect money on your doorstep or ask you to provide access codes to your bank account. Under no circumstances would police officers ask people to hand over valuables for inspection purposes. Likewise, no banking establishment would act in this way.
