Phone scam: Couple loses 330,000 euros over supposedly sick daughter

An elderly couple in Bayreuth, Germany, fell victim to a sophisticated phone scam, losing a staggering 330,000 euros. The incident highlights the persistent threat of "shock call" fraud targeting vulnerable individuals.

Unknown perpetrators contacted the couple by phone, impersonating their daughter. They fabricated a story claiming the daughter was gravely ill and required immediate, specialized medication obtainable only from abroad. The scammers preyed on the parents' concern and desire to help their child in distress.

Convinced by the fabricated emergency, the couple complied with the scammers' demands. They handed over a substantial sum of money, totaling around 330,000 euros, to an unidentified courier. This courier was acting on behalf of the fraudsters, collecting the payment under false pretenses.

The criminal police are now seeking witnesses and appealing for information to aid their investigation into this elaborate fraud. The case serves as a stark reminder of the tactics employed by criminals to exploit familial bonds for financial gain.