Warsaw rental scam steals nearly 350,000 zł
A rental scam cost a 62-year-old landlady nearly 350,000 zł after scammers used fake tenants and remote access to her accounts.
A 62-year-old woman from Puławy lost nearly 350,000 zł after falling victim to a rental scam. The fraudsters posed as a tenant and then impersonated bank staff to take control of her accounts.
How the fraud unfolded and fast losses
Scammers first contacted the woman about an apartment she listed in Warsaw. They offered to pay a deposit immediately. Consequently, the supposed tenant asked for bank details to make a transfer. The victim shared the information needed for a transfer. However, the payment never reached her account. In addition, the fraudster sent fake confirmation emails. Moreover, those messages contained links and instructions to “confirm” the transfer. The woman was away from home, and her husband used the computer to follow the instructions. He then gave a Visa security code when prompted. Therefore, the criminals gained further data to access accounts.
Why this rental scam succeeded
The attackers then switched tactics and called via WhatsApp. A woman claimed to represent the bank and warned of suspicious activity. She urged immediate steps to “secure” the funds. Consequently, the victim followed instructions to install AnyDesk. She did not realise that AnyDesk allows full remote control of devices. The criminals used the remote link to log into online banking. They initiated several transfers to unknown accounts. Ultimately, the family lost close to 350,000 zł. At first, the couple tried to cancel the payments. However, they could not stop the transactions. They then reported the crime to the police.
What Polish authorities and banks say
Police and bank fraud teams warn about this pattern of crime. They stress that real bank staff never ask clients to install remote access apps. Moreover, banks never request full card details over the phone. In addition, staff will not ask customers to move money to so-called “safe” accounts. Therefore, the safest action is to hang up and call your bank on an official number. Also, report any suspicious payment to the police immediately. Remember that in Poland you can call emergency services at 112. Banks often have fraud hotlines for immediate help.
For expats, tenancy and payment customs may differ from your home country. For example, landlords often ask for deposits and ID. However, legitimate tenants will agree to a viewing and a signed contract. Consequently, avoid wiring money to unknown accounts or sharing full card numbers. In addition, use secure payment platforms and document every transaction. If scammers contact you, save their messages and forward them to your bank.
The case shows how social engineering, time pressure, and fear combine to trick victims. Moreover, fraudsters adapt fast and use everyday tools like WhatsApp and remote apps. Therefore, vigilance remains the best defence. Contact your bank directly through official channels if you suspect fraud. Also, consider freezing cards and requesting transaction reversals if possible.
Local police continue to investigate the incident. They reiterate basic safety rules and urge people to spread the warnings. Consequently, sharing this advice may prevent similar crimes.
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