Fake Banker Scams Surge in Fribourg Canton—Over 750 Cases Reported Since January 2026

Fake banker scams are surging in Fribourg canton, Switzerland, with approximately 750 reports since early 2026 and 130 successful cases. The total damage exceeds 800,000 Swiss francs. Scammers impersonate bank employees, convincing elderly victims to cut their bank cards and hand over the chip for fraudulent withdrawals.

Overview of the Scam

Police in Fribourg canton, Switzerland, are warning of a surge in "fake banker" scams since early 2026. Of approximately 750 reports received since January, 130 have resulted in actual theft, averaging nearly one successful fraud every two days. Total losses exceed 800,000 Swiss francs in cash, plus tens of thousands of francs in jewelry and valuables.

How the Scam Works

The typical scam follows this pattern:

Initial Contact: Victims receive a message claiming to be from their bank, alerting them to a suspicious debit or transaction.
The Phone Call: Victims are instructed to call a number provided in the message. When they do, a "bank employee" answers and claims to help secure their assets.
Card Manipulation: The fraudster instructs the victim to cut their bank card into pieces and remove the chip, claiming this is necessary to prevent fraud.
Extraction: A person arrives at the victim's home to collect the cut card or chip. The scammers then use these to make fraudulent withdrawals.

Recent cases have targeted victims aged 56 to 89, resulting in losses exceeding 90,000 Swiss francs.

Warning Signs

Red Flags to Watch For

Unsolicited Requests: Legitimate banks do not proactively contact customers asking them to verify information or modify their cards.
Card Destruction: No bank will ever ask you to cut, break, or disassemble your card. This is an absolute warning sign.
In-Person Pickup: Bank staff or representatives do not visit homes to collect card parts.
Pressure and Secrecy: Scammers create urgency and insist you tell no one about the transaction.

Prevention Tips

Verify Independently: If you receive a suspicious message or call, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your bank card or statement.
Never Damage Your Card: Your bank will never ask you to modify or destroy your card. If asked, it is a scam.
Protect Your Card: Never hand over your card, PIN, or any card components to strangers, even if they claim to be bank employees.
Report Immediately: If you receive a suspicious call or message, contact local police without delay.

Where to Report

Fribourg Cantonal Police: For reporting suspected or experienced fraud
Your Bank's Fraud Department: If unauthorized transactions occur
Swiss Fraud Hotline: For general advice and reporting (www.ncpc.ch)