Elderly Woman Loses 135,990 PLN in Krasnystaw Scam

26 May 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A Krasnystaw investment scam cost a 63-year-old woman 135,990 PLN after fraudsters posed as financial advisers.

A 63-year-old woman from the Krasnystaw district lost 135,990 PLN after falling for a Krasnystaw investment scam that used fake advisers and remote access apps. Moreover, police warn that fraudsters now use well-known company names and personalised pressure to win trust.

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How the fraud unfolded

The victim saw an online ad about investing in InPost shares. Consequently, the ad used the company owner’s image to look credible. In addition, she left her contact details. Soon a caller claimed to be an investment adviser. Therefore she made an initial payment after promises of quick gains. Then a supposed financial analyst took over. He gave step-by-step instructions. The woman opened a new bank account. She also installed apps that allowed remote access to her phone. However, these apps let criminals control her device. As a result, she made many transfers and cash payments. Moreover, she took bank loans to meet new demands. The scammers said they had to “unlock funds,” buy a “license,” or clear withdrawal fees. Consequently, the total loss reached 135,990 PLN.

Krasnystaw investment scam: tactics and red flags

Fraudsters now combine social engineering and tech tools. For example, they impersonate analysts and advisers. They also fake logos and public figures to add legitimacy. In addition, they pressure victims with tight deadlines. Therefore victims often act quickly and without advice. Moreover, the demand to install remote-access apps remains a major red flag. However, older adults remain especially vulnerable. They often trust a friendly voice on the phone. Consequently, criminals use confidence to extract documents and banking data.

Police advice and immediate steps

Local police reminded residents to be cautious with easy profit offers. They urge people not to install remote-control software. In addition, do not give banking logins to strangers. If you suspect fraud, contact your bank immediately. Moreover, report the crime to the police. Police will advise on freezing accounts where possible. Therefore acting quickly can sometimes reduce losses.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you are an expat, remember that Polish institutions use a national ID number called PESEL for many services. In addition, social insurance comes from ZUS (Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych) and the public health fund is NFZ (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia). Moreover, a traffic fine is called a “mandat.” Therefore never give PESEL, bank credentials, or documents to unknown callers. If scammers ask for remote access, refuse and contact your bank. Also, consider asking for help from a Polish-speaking friend or translator before signing or transferring large sums.

Police and consumer advocates stress education and verification. Moreover, financial firms rarely cold-call clients asking for credentials. Therefore always check the official website or call known hotlines. In addition, consult with a trusted adviser before investing. However, if you already lost money, keep records of calls and payments. Consequently this information helps police or your bank.

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