If in doubt, call 113Police issue guidelines amid surge in officer impersonation scams

RTL Lëtzebuerg
adapted for RTL Today
Following several reported incidents, police are advising heightened vigilance against scammers who impersonate officers to steal personal data and property.
© Laurent Weber

The Luxembourg police have issued a public alert following several recent cases where scammers, impersonating police officers, have deceived victims into handing over valuables and sensitive account access.

According to police reports, the fraud typically begins with a message or call via WhatsApp or telephone. The scammer informs the target that they have fallen victim to cyber fraud and instructs them to click a link and enter their LuxTrust credentials, followed by accepting a LuxTrust request on their smartphone. This process grants the perpetrators initial access to the victim’s financial accounts.

Subsequently, the fake officer asks if the victim has valuables at home. Under the pretext of securing these items from the alleged cyber threat, the scammer arranges to visit the victim’s residence to collect them.

In response, police have issued a clear reminder that their officers never operate in this manner. They emphasise that all legitimate officers speak Luxembourgish, will always present official identification upon request, and will not pressure individuals into immediate action.

The public is advised not to yield to pressure and, if in any doubt, to immediately verify an officer’s identity by calling the police emergency number 113. Under no circumstances should personal data be shared with unsolicited callers.

Authorities also urge citizens to help protect vulnerable community members by informing and educating elderly relatives and neighbours about this specific scam.

The images below provide information on how to recognise real police officers:

Back to Top
CIM LOGO