Remember to keep your distance: Even if the voice sounds familiar, refrain from immediate action. Technology allows scammers to imitate anyone.

Verify: Never call back the number the scammer called from. End the conversation and call your loved one (son, daughter, grandchild) at the number you have saved in your contacts and are sure of.

Create a „secret code”: Agree on a special „safety password” or a question concerning only your history with your family. In case of a suspicious phone call, ask the caller to provide it. No scammer will know it.

Remember: No police officer, prosecutor, or other person of public trust will EVER ask you over the phone to transfer money or provide account access details. Any such request is an alarming sign of a scam.