Wave of Scams in Italy's Val Bormida Region: Phone Spoofing and Investment Fraud Cases

Overview of Cases

Carabinieri from the Carcare station have completed investigations into multiple fraud and theft incidents affecting the Val Bormida region in northwestern Italy's Savona Province over recent months. Several suspects have been identified and referred to prosecutors.

Documented Fraud Methods

Phone Spoofing Fraud

A retiree in Carcare received calls from individuals impersonating both bank operators and Carabinieri. The fraudsters claimed suspicious Amazon transactions needed to be blocked and convinced the victim to make three PostePay prepaid card transfers totaling €2,772.

Investment Fraud

A woman from Val Bormida was convinced to transfer €12,000 with promises of monthly returns that were never received.

E-commerce Fraud

A resident of Pallare purchased a wooden garden shed online for €550 but the seller never shipped the item after receiving payment.

Retail Theft

Cosmetics and household products valued at approximately €1,850 were stolen from a commercial establishment in Carcare.

Warning Signs to Recognize

Telephone Fraud Indicators:

• Legitimate bank officials and law enforcement never request money transfers or security codes via phone
• Pressure for immediate action is applied to bypass careful consideration
• Caller identity cannot be independently verified

Online Investment Fraud Indicators:

• Unrealistic return rates or guaranteed monthly income are promised
• Full payment is demanded before proper contracts or identity verification
• The business cannot be verified through official licensing databases

E-commerce Fraud Indicators:

• Full payment is required before delivery
• Seller identity information is incomplete or unverifiable
• No clear refund or return policies are provided

Prevention Steps

• For unsolicited calls, independently verify the caller by using official phone numbers
• Remember that banks and law enforcement will never request money or personal codes via telephone
• Before investing, verify business licenses through official financial regulatory bodies and review contracts carefully
• Use established e-commerce platforms, check seller ratings, and prefer payment methods with buyer protection
• When uncertain about a transaction, consult family members or trusted advisors before proceeding

Reporting Fraud

Reporting suspected fraud in Italy should be directed to your local Carabinieri station, police department, or municipal authorities.

All individuals mentioned in this report are presumed innocent until proven guilty through final judicial proceedings.