Elderly couple outsmarts scammers after handing over debit cards and PINs

A phone call from ‘bank staff’ led to a home visit—and a near-disaster. Their quick thinking saved everything before the fraudsters struck.

, and Administrator

2026 January 5 . 3:12 PM

1 min read

In this image there is a card and a money note in between the two hands. Both the persons on either... — In this image there is a card and a money note in between the two hands. Both the persons on either side are holding the card with there hands. In the background there are few people who are standing and watching.

Fraudsters Steal EC Cards - Seniors Foil Scam - Elderly couple outsmarts scammers after handing over debit cards and PINs

An elderly couple in Vellmar, Kassel district, narrowly avoided financial loss after falling victim to a sophisticated scam. Fraudsters posing as bank employees tricked them into handing over their debit cards and PINs.

The scammers first contacted the couple by phone, claiming to be bank staff investigating suspicious transactions. They convinced the victims to share their PINs under false pretences. Shortly after, a man arrived at their home, presenting a fake business card and collecting their debit cards.

The deception unravelled when the caller abruptly ended the conversation, and the man left with the cards. Realising they had been scammed, the couple immediately blocked their accounts and alerted the police. Their quick action prevented any money from being stolen. Authorities are now investigating the incident and appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The couple’s swift response stopped the fraudsters from accessing their funds. Police continue to search for those involved in the scam. No specific bank, such as PNC or US Bank, has been named in connection with the case.