A senior official of the stamp collectors’ umbrella organization was the victim of a lovescam scam after his wife’s death. In addition to his own savings, he completed well over half a million euros from the umbrella organization and clubs.
It’s a sad background that could soon land a passionate stamp collector in jail as well. The wife of Erwin H. (name changed) died last year, after which the elderly gentleman threw himself on social media and dating platforms in his pain. He must have met a woman there very quickly—or so he thought. In reality, he was caught by clever scammers.
Alleged legacy as a scam
It was about a false inheritance, which the crooks would have proved to H. with forged documents. He believed the statements of his alleged acquaintances and, in addition to using his savings, unfortunately also seized the small coffers of the clubs where he worked.
Umbrella association and two clubs affected
Specifically, these are the VÖPh, the Association of Austrian Philatelic Societies and two associations of stamp collectors known to the “Krone”. In both cases, he would have used his position as a cashier and diverted a total of more than 700,000 euros, sometimes with several transfers per day. However, it was not until February that someone realized his machinations and he was immediately relieved of his posts.
investigations are underway
The Vienna Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the ongoing investigations to “Krone” and suspected Erwin H. of embezzlement. However, it is said that more extensive research should first reveal the financial scope of the stamp collector’s machinations. The suspect is at large.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
