Authorities in Luxembourg have issued a renewed warning regarding the prevalence of "shock calls," emphasising the need for vigilance among the public.

These fraudulent calls exploit the emotions of victims by falsely claiming involvement of a family member in a serious accident. Perpetrators then demand immediate bail payment to secure the release of the purportedly detained family member.

The scam relies on coercive tactics, compelling victims to surrender valuables such as jewellery or cash under duress. Perpetrators often assume false identities, posing as police officers, employees of the public prosecutor's office, or close relatives. Additionally, sophisticated technology is used to manipulate caller identification and display fake phone numbers.

Individuals posing as court or police personnel then arrange to collect valuables or money directly from victims' homes or designated locations.

Authorities stress that such bail procedures are not standard practice in Luxembourg, and neither police nor officials from any other institutions solicit monetary payments in this manner.

The police are appealing to the public to inform elderly residents in particular about this scam.