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Bochum Residents Lose Millions in Online Investment Scams

Scammers are targeting Bochum residents with convincing online ads and fake news, leading to massive financial losses. Police warn of growing threat and urge caution.

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Bochum Residents Lose Millions in Online Investment Scams

Bochum residents have fallen victim to a series of online investment scams, resulting in significant financial losses. The city's police headquarters has warned of a growing threat from cyber trading fraud, with over 1.26 million euros lost since January 2024.

In one instance, an 82-year-old resident lost a staggering 555,000 euros to an online investment scam over 18 months. Meanwhile, a 71-year-old individual invested 280,000 euros in alleged cryptocurrencies after being deceived by a fake media report. Another victim, a 56-year-old from Witten, lost approximately 430,000 euros in fake stocks after being lured into an investment group via social media.

Scammers employ sophisticated tactics to trick their victims. They often use professionally designed online ads, fake press articles, or messaging services like messenger, misusing photos and videos of well-known personalities. Once they gain trust, they make personal or telephone contact, pretending to have high expertise and manipulating victims emotionally to steal their money. In some cases, scammers even demand fees or taxes once larger sums have been 'invested', which victims often pay willingly to secure supposed profits. Recently, victims are increasingly invited to or added to investment chat groups on messaging services, which are often pure scam platforms.

Bochum police urge residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly to protect themselves from financial losses in cyber trading fraud. It's crucial to remember that you can never be sure who you are dealing with online. Everyone is advised to be cautious, especially when approached with investment opportunities via social media or messaging services. If you suspect you've been targeted by a scam, contact the police immediately.

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