86-year-old woman loses 180,000 euros in phone scam in Greece

An 86-year-old woman residing in Kastri, Thesprotia, was defrauded of over 180,000 euros. A caller posing as an accountant contacted her, claiming that an urgent currency change was imminent. The perpetrator convinced the victim that she needed to exchange her existing banknotes for new ones due to a legal requirement. The scammers maintained phone contact with the woman for an extended period to ensure she followed their instructions. She was told to place all her cash into a bag and leave it in her yard to be collected by an authorized official. After following these instructions, an accomplice arrived at the house, retrieved the money, and fled the scene. The incident has been reported to the Greek police, who are currently conducting an investigation to identify and apprehend the suspects.