Promised Earnings from Stocks, Gold, and Oil: 57-Year-Old Loses 275 Euros
The scammer posed as an investment broker and, after an initial payout of 50 euros, disappeared with the rest of the money.
The scammer posed as an investment broker and, after an initial payout of 50 euros, disappeared with the rest of the money.
Police officers from the Virovitica Police Station received a criminal complaint against an unknown perpetrator suspected of computer fraud. The victim, a 57-year-old man, fell for a fake investment advertisement and lost 275 euros.
According to the report, everything began in May 2026 when the man came across an online advertisement offering financial investment in stocks, gold, and oil. After he responded, an unknown broker contacted him.
At the urging of this individual, the 57-year-old transferred 275 euros as initial capital via a mobile app. To gain his trust, the scammer paid out 50 euros to his account after a withdrawal request.
The agent then misrepresented facts and offered further investments with promises of guaranteed returns. Since the victim had no more money, he declined additional payments. Since then, the alleged earnings have not been paid out, and the fake broker stopped responding.
The case was reported to the police, who are now conducting a criminal investigation. A special report will be submitted to the competent state attorney's office, the Virovitica-Podravina Police Department announced.
The police also issued several tips for citizens to avoid becoming victims of such fraud. Above all, one should approach online advertisements and links that promise quick, easy, and guaranteed earnings with suspicion.
Special caution is advised when investing in stocks, gold, oil, or cryptocurrencies, especially if unknown individuals urge urgent payments after initial contact. Citizens should not share personal and financial information, as well as bank card details, with unknown persons or through suspicious platforms.
Before any investment, it is important to verify the credibility of the platform and investment brokers. If fraud is suspected, one should immediately contact the competent police station.
