Key Facts
• June 26, 2025: Woman in Ōita City receives call from fake police officer.
• Caller claims her bank card was seized in a money laundering investigation.
• Victim directed to LINE app and shown fake police ID via video call.
• Fraudster alleges victim is a co-conspirator and demands financial proof of innocence.
• Victim transfers $10,000 in two transactions to a specified account.
• Suspicion arises after further cash demands; victim contacts police.
• Police confirm scam and warn against using messaging apps for official communication.
Summary
A woman in her 30s from Ōita City fell victim to a sophisticated scam involving fake police and prosecutor identities. On June 26, 2025, she received a call from a man claiming to be from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, alleging her bank card was linked to a money laundering case. The victim was directed to the LINE app, where a fake police ID was shown via video call. The fraudster accused her of being a co-conspirator and demanded $10,000 to prove her innocence. After transferring the money in two installments, she grew suspicious when further cash was requested. Upon consulting the police, the scam was uncovered. Authorities are investigating the case and cautioning the public that official personnel do not use messaging apps for communication.
