Eastern Macedonia and Thrace police nssue Easter fraud warning

The Regional Police Directorate of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace has urged citizens to remain vigilant during the Easter holiday period, warning of an increased risk of fraud attempts.

In a public advisory, authorities highlighted that scammers often rely on psychological pressure and deception to target victims, particularly during festive periods when people may be more vulnerable. The police outlined common tactics used by fraudsters and provided guidance on how to avoid falling victim.

Citizens are advised to ignore strangers who approach them claiming to be acquaintances of relatives or friends and to refrain from allowing unknown individuals into their homes, regardless of the pretext used. Particular caution is recommended in cases of phone calls or visits alleging an urgent medical emergency involving a family member.

Authorities stress the importance of verifying such claims independently by contacting relatives directly using personal phone numbers, rather than relying on information provided by unknown callers.

The public is also warned against trusting individuals posing as professionals—such as accountants, insurance agents, or public officials—who claim to offer financial benefits or tax refunds. Accompanying strangers to ATMs for transactions or withdrawals should be strictly avoided.

Additionally, citizens are encouraged to be wary of suspicious sales offers, whether from street vendors or questionable online advertisements, and to safeguard their banking details by avoiding entry into forms or links from unverified sources.

Police emphasize that public services and hospitals never send representatives to private homes to collect cash payments.

Finally, citizens are urged to note any identifying features of suspects or their vehicles and to promptly inform the police, even in cases of attempted fraud.

Authorities reiterate that public awareness and timely reporting are key to preventing such crimes.