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Kreuztal Resident Scammed: Paid €4K for Heating Oil That Never Arrived

Don't let the cold season leave you out in the cold. Police warn of online heating oil scams, with a Kreuztal resident the latest victim.

There is a stove and some item is being cooked in a vessel on the stove.
There is a stove and some item is being cooked in a vessel on the stove.

Kreuztal Resident Scammed: Paid €4K for Heating Oil That Never Arrived

As the heating season begins, police caution consumers about online fraud targeting energy consumers. A Kreuztal resident has fallen victim, paying a substantial sum for heating oil that never arrived.

The man, who wishes to remain unnamed, ordered heating oil online. Despite paying a four-digit euro amount, he never received his delivery. He later discovered the supplier's phone number was unresponsive. This is the second such report the Kreispolizeibehörde has received in a week, with investigations ongoing.

Police advise consumers to be wary of particularly cheap deals online and to scrutinize website addresses carefully. They recommend avoiding full advance payments and using secure payment methods. Fraudulent operators are exploiting the internet to commit crimes, with the consumer advice center offering tips on spotting fake shops online and providing a fake shop finder.

The Kreuztal police urge caution when shopping online, especially for essentials like heating oil. If you suspect you've been a victim of fraud, report it to the police. Both ongoing investigations serve as reminders to stay vigilant and protect your energy consumers.

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