In Thessaloniki, Greece, the local police have raised the alarm over a significant surge in scams targeting elderly individuals. According to data from the General Police Directorate of Thessaloniki, instances of fraud attempts against seniors nearly doubled in 2025 compared to the previous year, with completed scams also seeing a 38% increase. In concrete numbers, there were 583 reported fraud cases in 2024, which soared to 803 in 2025, along with an increase in attempted fraud cases from 51 to 100.

The rise in elder fraud has concerned local authorities, prompting increased attention towards protective measures for vulnerable groups. While the number of solved cases also increased, from 116 in 2024 to 182 in 2025, the frequency of arrests remained low, with only three individuals taken into custody in 2025 compared to two in the previous year. A police representative noted that many fraud cases are reported late, complicating the identification and apprehension of suspects and hindering quicker responses by law enforcement.

This alarming trend in thefts points to a pressing need for greater awareness and preventive actions aimed at protecting the elderly population in Thessaloniki. As these scams continue to evolve, there is an urgent call for collaborative efforts between community organizations and law enforcement to enhance public education, encouraging senior citizens to report suspicious activity promptly and thereby mitigate risks associated with these deceitful practices.