New scam targets seniors in Warsaw

30 March 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

The ZUS scam targets seniors in Warsaw, tricking them into handing over cash or valuables. Learn how to spot and stop it.

A new ZUS scam is sweeping Warsaw, leaving seniors without life savings. Police and the Social Insurance Institution warn that impersonation calls rose sharply in recent weeks.

Table of Contents

ZUS scam in Warsaw

The fraud follows a short and persuasive script. First, a caller claims to be from the national post office and says a ZUS letter arrived. Consequently, the senior expects paperwork. Then the caller asks for the home address. Moreover, a second call soon follows. This time someone identifies as a police officer. The “officer” explains that criminals intercepted client data. Therefore the victim must “secure” assets immediately. In addition, the fake officer asks about cash and jewellery locations. The questions sound official. However they aim to move money and valuables out of the home fast.

How the scam plays out and recent cases

In one Warsaw case, an 89-year-old woman packed jewellery and threw the bag out a window. The caller promised the items would return. Instead, thieves vanished. Moreover, in Pruszcz Gdański fraudsters stole over 200,000 PLN after posing as ZUS staff and a doctor. Police continue the investigations. ZUS spokesman Karol Poznański says fraudsters sharpen both technical and psychological tricks daily. Therefore the institution works closely with police and cyber units to fight the trend.

When a ZUS official can visit you

ZUS staff visit homes only in two narrow cases. First, an inspector can check correct use of sick leave (L4). Second, inspectors can audit people running a business. Both visits follow prior notice. In addition, inspectors must show a named authorisation and an ID card. ZUS never calls unsolicited to ask for bank details. Also ZUS never sends couriers to collect cash or valuables.

Practical advice: what a real official will never ask

Never tell a caller how much cash you keep at home. Never describe where you store jewellery. Never give bank account numbers or online banking passwords. In addition, do not follow instructions to give cash to a courier. If a caller insists on instant action, hang up. Then call ZUS yourself on the official number 22 560 16 00. Use the number from zus.pl. Furthermore, report suspicious calls to the police on 112. Finally, tell family members about the scheme. One agreed rule can stop a scam.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: In Poland ZUS means the Social Insurance Institution and PUE stands for the online ZUS account. PESEL is a national ID number. Therefore officials rarely call first. In addition, emergency services use 112. If you live here with older relatives, explain the exact scam steps. Then set a simple rule: hang up and call a trusted family member. This small habit prevents many losses.

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