Beware: "Relative in Accident" scam hits Moldova
A concerning trend has emerged in Moldova, where approximately 250 individuals have fallen victim to a sophisticated scam known as the "relative involved in an accident" scheme since the beginning of the year.
This alarming wave of fraud has resulted in estimated losses of 36 million lei. While law enforcement officials initially believed the scam to be easily detectable, the reality is far more complex. Perpetrators employ manipulative tactics, including the use of artificial intelligence to mimic the voices of loved ones in distress, to deceive their victims.
Recently, two instances of this scam were reported in Cimișlia, where victims were coerced into relinquishing substantial sums of money. One victim, an 81-year-old resident of Cimișlia, received a distressing call while at work. The caller claimed her daughter had been involved in a severe car accident, requiring immediate surgery and funds to suppress legal repercussions. To further convince the victim, the perpetrators utilised AI technology to simulate her daughter's voice, pleading for financial assistance.
"They informed my mother that I was involved in an accident and urgently needed help," explained Oxana Gorbatiuc, the victim's daughter. "Initially sceptical, my mother was ultimately swayed when they allowed her to speak with what she believed to be me. She heard my voice, pleading for money to cover urgent medical expenses and legal complications stemming from the alleged accident. The scammers instructed her to remain on the line, effectively isolating her from external contact. They even contacted my child, preventing him from reaching me."
According to Ms. Gorbatiuc, her mother remained in contact with the scammers for approximately three hours. During this period, a courier arrived to collect a significant sum of money. A second courier was dispatched, but Ms. Gorbatiuc returned home before he could make contact. She managed to confine the individual within her apartment, but he ultimately escaped through the balcony.
"I allowed the courier inside, secured the door, and demanded the return of the funds," recounted Ms. Gorbatiuc. "He pleaded with me to unlock the door. I went to retrieve my mobile phone to contact the police, as the landline was rendered unusable by the ongoing call. While I was contacting authorities, he noticed the balcony was accessible and used it as an escape route."
Another resident of Cimișlia, 86-year-old Claudia Calinici, also fell prey to this scheme. The perpetrators informed her that her daughter had struck a pregnant woman with her vehicle, resulting in the loss of the unborn child. They claimed her daughter faced imprisonment and demanded money to secure her release.
"I insisted that my daughter was incapable of such an act," stated Ms. Calinici. "When I inquired about her whereabouts, they claimed she was in custody. I informed them of my intention to contact the police, but they dissuaded me, claiming it would be futile. They then allowed me to speak with someone impersonating my daughter, who tearfully begged for my help to avoid imprisonment. Following their instructions, I proceeded towards the stadium, but hesitated due to the presence of bystanders. Fortunately, my neighbour's security camera captured the entire encounter."
Cimișlia Police report five instances of this scam within the district since the beginning of the year, resulting in the apprehension of three individuals.
"Through diligent investigation, Cimișlia Police have successfully uncovered these fraudulent activities," stated Oleg Chira, Chief of the Cimișlia Police Inspectorate. "Regrettably, only the couriers involved have been apprehended thus far. The financial losses in the three most recent cases are substantial, amounting to thousands of euros. We are actively pursuing further investigative measures to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in this criminal network."
Authorities strongly urge the public to exercise caution and refrain from disclosing personal information over the phone. In the event of a suspicious call, individuals are advised to terminate the conversation immediately and contact emergency services by dialling 112.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
