November 14, 16:27, Fraud, Västra Götaland County
Cases of fraud continue to occur, in which perpetrators call and claim that you have rented a car that has not been returned.
Police in the West region have recently received a large number of fraud reports involving the “rental car” modus operandi. We continue to see new cases, mainly in Gothenburg. But they can also occur in other places in the region.
The fraudsters call their victims, preferably older people, and claim that the person rented a car that was not returned. When the victim denies having rented a car, the caller transfers the call to the “police” or the “bank”. They then try to persuade the victim to log in with their BankID or hand over other sensitive banking information.
So-called physical vishing also occurs, in which a fake police officer is sent to the victim’s home address to collect bank cards and/or valuables. The fraudsters may, for example, claim that this is necessary for the “police” investigation, or to protect the victim from an anticipated theft.
Police advice, how to protect yourself from fraud
Do not log in. Never log in with BankID at the request of someone who contacts you. Do not give out personal details, codes or card details either.
Hang up. A fraudster who calls may say they are calling from a bank, a government agency or a company. They may also claim to be a relative who needs help making a payment. End the call if you are unsure who is calling.
Do not let strangers in. Close the door at the slightest doubt. The police and other reputable organisations or companies never come to someone’s home to collect gold, bank cards or other valuables.
Contact the police.
Talk to older relatives and acquaintances about fraud and the police’s advice. Being mentally prepared before you receive a call or a text message is an important factor in avoiding being deceived. It is also important to talk about these crimes to reduce the shame and guilt that victims may feel if they are deceived.
Find out which security solutions your bank offers as optional extras. For example, whether they offer double signing or a time delay for larger transactions. If so, choose these options.
If you receive a call. Contact the police. For an ongoing crime, call 112. If the crime is not ongoing, call 114 14. Read more about how you can protect yourself at polisen.se.