In recent times, Monaco has witnessed a troubling surge in fraudulent telephone activities, prompting the National Council to urge the government to implement robust measures to combat this pervasive issue.
Escalation of Fraudulent Calls
Over one span of just 48 hours, more than 1,500 scam calls were reported, targeting over 600 Monegasque telephone lines. These calls often originate from foreign numbers, with perpetrators posing as law enforcement officers, Monaco Telecom liaisons or legal representatives. Their modus operandi includes in the past informing victims, particularly the elderly, that a family member has been involved in a severe traffic accident, subsequently requesting substantial sums of money or valuables to assist the alleged relative. The scams evolve in terms of creativity to defraud.
Government and Law Enforcement Response
In light of these developments, the Monegasque authorities have intensified efforts to safeguard residents. The Police Department in the past has issued advisories urging recipients of such calls to:
• Ignore the call
• Refrain from complying with the caller’s requests
• Block the telephone number
• Contact the Police Department at 93.15.30.15
These measures aimed to prevent potential victims from falling prey to these malicious schemes. The criminals have not ceased to target Monaco.
National Council’s Advocacy
Responding to the escalating situation, the National Council has called upon the government to implement stringent measures against these abusive telephone practices, including spam voicemails, or text messages encouraging people to call back a premium-rate number.Thomas Brezzo, President of the National Council, emphasized the urgency, stating that beyond the significant inconvenience, individuals are at risk of being ensnared by fraudulent offers that are misaligned with Monaco’s context. He highlighted the necessity for comprehensive measures to address this widespread issue affecting the entire population.
Protective Measures and Public Awareness
To bolster defenses against such scams, residents are advised to exercise heightened vigilance. This includes being wary of unsolicited communications, refraining from sharing personal or financial information over the phone, and promptly reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement. Public awareness campaigns are also essential to educate vulnerable groups, particularly minors and the elderly, about recognizing and avoiding potential scams.
The concerted efforts of Monaco’s government and its citizens are crucial in countering the rise of fraudulent telephone activities, ensuring the safety and security of all residents in the Principality.
