larnaca scam — An elderly woman in Larnaca fell victim to a phone scam on Wednesday, losing valuable gold jewellery and personal items to fraudsters impersonating government and utility officials.
- larnaca scam — An elderly woman in Larnaca fell victim to a phone scam on Wednesday, losing valuable gold jewellery and personal items to fraudsters impersonating government and utility officials.
The incident occurred around 12:30 PM when the woman received a call from an unknown female who claimed that the government was offering free domestic assistants for elderly individuals. The caller, who used a persuasive tone, requested personal information to help with an application form.
After the initial conversation, the woman was transferred to a male accomplice claiming to be a representative of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus. He alarmingly informed her that her house had a leak that could potentially lead to a fire.
Under the guise of urgency, the imposter instructed the woman to gather her money and gold items for safety. While still on the phone, she followed the instructions and placed her jewellery and other valuables into a basket on her balcony. The scammer then told her to go back inside and turn off the main electrical circuit.
Upon returning to the balcony, the woman discovered that her basket filled with jewellery had been stolen. Witnesses reported seeing an unknown male fleeing the vicinity on foot, although his direction remains unclear.
Kofinou Police Station is actively investigating the incident, with authorities urging the community to remain vigilant against such scams. Police have reminded residents to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a government official or utility representative before sharing any personal information or valuables.
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