“The gold scam” has appeared in the Paris region for several weeks. The police explain this strange practice and warn motorists.
After the “Irish scam”, the gendarmes are warning of a new practice which has been rampant for several weeks in Île-de-France. A second-in-command of the Departmental Road Safety Squadron of Seine-et-Marne (EDSR) explains the principle of the “gold scam” in the columns of the daily newspaper The Republic of Seine-et-Marne.
« [Les malfaiteurs] claim to be broken down and need money to refuel “, he warns. They then make the motorists who come to their aid believe that they have no money on them. They therefore suggest giving a piece of gold jewelry in exchange for the cash amount. Except that the jewelry is fake.
Sometimes scammers change registers and ask motorists for money so they can pay the toll. “ They can also put pressure on motorists to help them… », punctuates the commander.
How to act against the “gold scam?” »
Photo credit: namaki/ iStock
To avoid falling into the trap, the police urge drivers to exercise caution. They warn motorists not to stop, especially on the road, if they see a suspicious vehicle.
For the moment, the gendarmes have not received any complaints but rather reports mentioning a “ gray minivan registered abroad at the A5b/N104 access ramp in Évry ».
The police also remind you that in the event of a car breakdown, you must notify emergency services or a tow truck and not call motorists. As for the toll excuse, it is not valid. The commander specifies that highway companies can “ issue an acknowledgment of debt which commits the motorist to pay the amount later ».
Remember, scammers don’t need your money or your help.