The 'fake accident' scams have surged in Portugal, with GNR registering 30 complaints in the first half of 2026. The accumulated damage already amounts to around 72,000 euros, a value that approaches the total registered during the entire previous year.
The elderly are the preferred targets of this type of crime, being identified as particularly vulnerable to the strategies used by the scammers. The criminals resort to simulating road collisions and then proceed to immediately extort the victims to steal their banking data.
The authorities warn of the need for vigilance on the part of the population, especially of the most vulnerable groups, in order to avoid falling into this type of fraudulent scheme that has been increasing significantly.
