San Fernando de Henares lanza campaña contra robos y estafas a personas mayores

The San Fernando de Henares City Council has launched an important information campaign aimed at preventing thefts and scams, especially targeting the elderly population. This initiative is carried out in collaboration with the Local Police and the Citizen Participation Department of the National Police.

«We are developing and promoting, in coordination with the National Police station of Coslada-San Fernando, a campaign to keep our elders informed about the main scams or frauds they may encounter.»

The campaign includes a variety of posters in printed and digital formats, intended for dissemination on social networks. Additionally, a series of educational videos will be recorded and published, featuring agents from both police forces, along with the collaboration of the Elderly Participation Board.

Among the criminal practices that are warned about is the well-known ‘friendly hug’, a criminal modality where perpetrators approach victims in public places. They are usually women who pretend to know the victim and, while greeting them warmly, take advantage to steal jewelry and other valuable items.

Likewise, there is a warning about fake home visits. This scam is based on identity theft, where individuals pretend to be gas inspectors or representatives of public entities to deceive the elderly and gain access to their homes, stealing everything they can once inside.

More and more residents of San Fernando have experienced or witnessed these types of scams, which have become more common. In response to this situation, the National Police has shared key recommendations on how to identify these scammers:

1. The fake hug or friendly hug: The best advice is to be wary of unrecognized people who try to remind you that they already know you. «They will always try to deceive you,» warn from the police environment.
2. Unexpected visits. In the case of a fake inspector, it is essential not to open the door without first confirming with the company they claim to come from. Additionally, it is also important to be cautious with scheduled inspectors; it is always advisable to call back to confirm if it is indeed an official visit.

This campaign aims not only to inform but also to empower our elders so they can enjoy their day-to-day lives with greater security and peace of mind.