On this page, the NRW police therefore continuously inform those affected - both refugees and helpers - about current forms of crime. If you have already been a victim: Report it to a police station or online via the Online Police. In emergencies, dial emergency number 110.
Female refugees from Ukraine as potential victims of "human trafficking"
In principle, North Rhine-Westphalia is not a priority target area for human trafficking cases involving people of Ukrainian nationality. However, it is always true that people fleeing war and crisis zones are particularly at risk of experiencing violence and/or being exploited. This particular risk also remains in the European host country, and therefore also in NRW. A lack of information about their own legal situation can increase the risk.
The most important information for refugees and helpers can be found here:
- Information from the police for refugees from Ukraine
- Flyer of the nationwide coordination group against human trafficking (KOK e. V.)
Phishing attempts
The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and the LKA NRW warn of fraudulent emails in connection with the war in Ukraine:
It can be assumed that further variants will follow. You can find out how to protect yourself against phishing emails and websites on the website of the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik (BSI).
Disseminating fake news
It can be assumed that certain groups of people are taking advantage of the current situation to spread uncertainty and/or support certain political movements by deliberately spreading falsehoods (so-called fake news). False reports not only stir up fears among the population, but also fuel the questionable trend towards hoarding, for example. One problem is the immense spread of content - without any verified truth content. It is important to break the trend of forwarding fake news. You can find important tips for your safety on the website of Police Crime Prevention.