Woman in Mazovia Loses PLN 185,000 to Online Scam

5 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A 57-year-old Mazovia resident lost PLN 185,000 to an online romance scam. Police in Żyrardów County investigate; learn how to stay safe.

A 57-year-old woman from Mazovia lost PLN 185,000 to an online romance scam. Consequently, police in Żyrardów County started an investigation into cross-border transfers.

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How the online romance scam unfolded

The case began on a dating site in August. Moreover, the perpetrator posed as a successful entrepreneur working abroad. He sent daily messages and used rapid compliments to build trust. Therefore, the victim felt emotionally connected within weeks. Then he introduced a business story in Turkey and asked for cash to buy equipment. She believed the plan and followed his requests. Consequently, she took several loans and cash advances. She visited banks and lenders from September to November. In addition, every transfer went to accounts the scammer named. The woman later realised inconsistencies. However, by then the total loss reached PLN 185,000.

Psychological tricks and why they work

Scammers use tried techniques from social engineering. For example, they deploy so-called “love bombing” to create fast attachment. Moreover, they collect personal facts to personalise lies. They isolate victims from family and friends. Therefore, victims avoid outside advice. In addition, the rule of commitment and consistency traps people. Once someone makes one payment, they fear admitting error. Consequently, they make larger transfers later.

Police action and cross-border hurdles

Officers from the Żyrardów district collected messages and bank numbers. Moreover, investigators seek IP addresses and transfer traces. However, criminals often operate abroad. They use intermediary accounts and crypto exchanges. Therefore, the money moves quickly to Africa, Asia, or the Middle East. Banks sometimes freeze linked accounts. Yet recovery remains difficult. In addition, criminals rarely stay in one country, so extradition poses delays. The police advise quick reporting to improve chances to block funds.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live in Poland, inform yourself about local systems. For example, PESEL is the national ID number. ZUS handles pensions and social security. NFZ funds public healthcare. A “mandat” means a fine from police or city services. Therefore, protect your PESEL and bank details. Moreover, banks often ask for PESEL when they open accounts or approve credit. If someone asks you to borrow money or take a loan for them, refuse and talk to your bank. In addition, contact your embassy if you feel unsafe. Finally, call 112 for immediate help and report cybercrime to your local police station.

The story matters for expats too. Many foreigners use Polish dating apps. Therefore, they may trust profiles that seem locally credible. However, scammers adapt stories to local rules. For instance, they may claim issues with Polish bureaucracy or business needs. Moreover, they exploit lack of local knowledge about banks and identity numbers. Consequently, any request for money should raise alarm. Remember to demand live video calls and to run reverse image searches. In addition, consult trusted friends before any financial step.

To reduce risk, never share full ID numbers, bank credentials, or photos of documents. Moreover, if you spot suspicious activity, save messages and payment receipts. Therefore, report the case quickly to police. Quick action helps freeze accounts and protects other potential victims.

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