Police in Mid- and West Zealand are warning Danish motorists about fake roadside assistance scams that have already tricked several stranded drivers out of large sums of money.
Scammers pose as roadside assistance workers
Several Danish drivers have recently been deceived by people pretending to be from legitimate roadside assistance services. The fraudsters seem to have located stranded motorists before the real emergency help arrived and demanded large cash payments for towing and transport.
Mid- and West Zealand Police have charged three individuals, aged between 23 and 37, in connection with the cases. Despite the arrests, the fraudulent operation appears to continue, and investigators are asking the public for help to understand how the scammers gain access to information about stranded vehicles.
How the scam works
According to the police, in several cases the scam involves the impostors either spotting broken-down vehicles themselves or contacting an insurance company pretending to represent the motorist. They allegedly cancel the official transport and take over the job instead.
From what investigators have seen, the scammers can identify the insurance provider from a car’s license plate. That allows them to call the relevant company, manipulate the system, and trick both drivers and insurers.
In three of the five known cases, victims had booked roadside assistance through fake websites designed to look like Danish companies such as Tryg or Topdanmark. Believing they were dealing with their own insurer, drivers unknowingly handed over personal and payment details – and, in some cases, even their vehicles.
Fake websites and stolen cars
The deception often begins when stressed motorists search for roadside help online. Scammers have set up nearly identical web pages that mirror legitimate service providers. Those fake platforms collect information from desperate drivers, who later receive a call from the criminals offering quick “help” at inflated prices.
In one case, a victim was pushed to sign a written contract on-site. That document was later used to demand more money under threat. In another case, the fake rescue crew towed the victim’s vehicle away and refused to release it until about 30,000 Danish kroner were paid.
Police eventually located the vehicle and recovered it for the rightful owner. The three suspects were arrested, but the investigation remains open. Authorities suspect that more incidents may not yet have been reported.
Authorities urge caution
Mid- and West Zealand Police now warn all drivers to stay cautious when stranded on the road. Anyone who suspects a scam or notices unusual behavior should contact the police immediately.
Drivers are also advised to double-check communication from roadside services. Genuine companies will rarely demand large cash payments on the spot. It is best to contact one’s own insurer directly using official numbers found in policy documents or through trustworthy sources such as the company’s verified website.
Learning how to choose reliable coverage, including roadside support, can also prevent unexpected problems. Foreigners moving to Denmark or renting a car can explore car insurance options that include certified roadside assistance.
Given that similar scams have appeared across parts of Europe, Danish authorities fear this trend could spread if drivers are not alert. Many of the fake helpers seem well-prepared, arriving in vehicles with professional-looking logos and uniforms.
Practical safety steps for motorists
Motorists are urged to stay calm after a breakdown, wait inside the car if it is safe, and quickly confirm the identity of any roadside help that shows up. Asking for company identification and calling the insurer before handing over car keys can make a big difference.
Because of these rising scams, several local police districts are now considering information campaigns for both Danish citizens and visitors. Cooperation with national insurers will be crucial to stopping copycat operations.
Ultimately, the case is a reminder that even well-organized systems can be exploited by criminals who understand how digital habits and trust work in emergency moments. Being patient and careful could save not only money but also prevent further stress after an already difficult roadside incident.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Danish Insurance Reminder: Protect Your Kids This School Year
The Danish Dream: Best Car Insurance in Denmark for Foreigners
TV2: Falsk autohjælp snyder bilister
