"Spoke in Russian": Reports from the Lithuanian Police - Expensive Calls Costing Residents Dearly
Lithuania's police recorded multiple instances of phone scams where victims were contacted by individuals speaking Russian and fraudulently extracted large sums of money.
The Lithuanian Police have initiated investigations into a series of criminal activities involving phone scams that occurred in early February 2023. Victims, including a woman from Šalčininkai aged 48, were contacted by unidentified individuals who spoke Russian and presented themselves as bank employees and police officers. In one instance, the victim was defrauded of €15,100, while another reported a loss of €45,900 as a result of similar tactics, exploiting the trust of the elderly population.
This disturbing trend highlights the increasing prevalence of financial fraud targeting residents through sophisticated impersonation tactics. The police department has urged citizens to remain vigilant and cautious of unsolicited calls, especially from unknown parties claiming to represent reputable institutions. The rise of such scams raises concerns about community safety and the need for increased public awareness regarding potential threats.
Law enforcement has urged those affected to report incidents promptly, and investigations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators. The police's proactive response indicates a commitment to combating fraud and protecting citizens from economic exploitation. As these investigations unfold, it is essential for communities to share information and collaborate in order to mitigate the impact of these fraudulent activities.