April 19, 12.43, Scam, Strängnäs

An elderly woman reports that she has been a victim of a telephone scam.

The scammer has pretended to be calling from the police. They have called via a messaging service and even displayed the logo of the Police Authority in the phone, all in an attempt to create a credible impression.

The scammers have said that someone has ordered items in her name and offered to connect her to her bank to stop the transaction. However, she is not connected to her bank but to an accomplice who is able to get her to log in with her bank ID, allowing them to steal money from her accounts.

The police have previously warned about this method of operation and want to do so again. The scammers are very skilled and sophisticated. 

Police tips – how to protect yourself from scams

Hang up the phone. A scammer who calls can, for example, say they are calling from the bank or from an authority. It also occurs that they say they are a relative who needs help making a payment. End the call if you are unsure who is calling.
 
Do not click on links. Do not open links in SMS or emails that you do not trust. If you are unsure; search for the contact information of the sender via their official website and contact them that way.

Do not log in. Never log in with BankID if someone calls and asks you to do so. Do not leave out codes from your bank card or credit card either.

Do not let strangers into your home. Close the door if you think it looks suspicious and if you feel uneasy. The police never go to someone's home to pick up bank and/or credit cards or other valuable items. The same applies to serious companies and other organizations.

Do not give out anything. For example, identification, bank cards, codes or valuable items.
Contact the police. In the event of ongoing crime, call 112. If the crime is not ongoing, you should call 114 14.

Talk to older relatives and acquaintances about scams and the police's advice. Being mentally prepared before receiving a call or SMS is an important factor in not being deceived. It is also important to talk about the crimes to reduce shame and guilt that victims may feel if they are deceived.

Check which security solutions the bank has as an option. If, for example, they have double signing or time delay for larger transactions. Choose that in that case.