by InTrieste
Interviews: deputy inspector, Paolo Bandi; Trieste councilor for safety, Caterina De Gavardo
Local authorities on Friday released the results of a recent public information campaign aimed at helping residents recognize and report scams, as the city responds to growing concerns about fraud targeting vulnerable citizens.
The initiative, titled “#SosTruffe — Recognize. Prevent. Report.,” was launched by the Trieste Municipal Police with financial support from the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region. Conducted between Sept. 2 and 22, the effort sought to warn the public about traditional door-to-door schemes as well as increasingly common online cons.
The region contributed €40,000 to support the project as part of broader investments in integrated public safety programs for local municipalities.
At a press conference, city officials and police leaders outlined the campaign’s scope and effects. Caterina de Gavardo, the city councillor responsible for public safety, described the project as a “step forward” in local anti-fraud efforts, saying it represented a more coordinated and comprehensive communication model than in previous years.
While the Municipal Police have long worked on fraud prevention, Ms. de Gavardo said the campaign marked “a qualitative leap,” adding that it reached residents through local traditional media, digital channels and targeted public events. In recent months, police also used their “Agente Gianna” Facebook page to distribute informational materials and hosted outreach events in city districts and during major public gatherings such as the Barcolana sailing regatta.
Since the start of the initiative, officials reported a rise in citizen inquiries, tips, and crime reports tied to fraud, phishing, and other scams — averaging four formal complaints per month. Authorities say the increase may reflect greater public awareness and trust.
The head of the city’s institutional communications office, Vittorio Sgueglia Della Marra, praised local media for amplifying the message and emphasized continued cooperation with news outlets and civic partners. “The campaign will continue on municipal channels,” he said, noting that its expansion will depend on future funding availability.
Police Commander Walter Milocchi emphasized the evolving sophistication of fraud attempts, calling such schemes “non-violent but highly insidious crimes.” He noted that many perpetrators operate professionally and sometimes come from outside the region.
Recent reports in Trieste most frequently involve three categories: individuals posing as law-enforcement officers or bank managers; scams claiming a relative has been involved in a non-existent accident; and online fraud, including fraudulent insurance offers and deceptive e-commerce practices.
Authorities said the campaign will remain active in coming months, with continued emphasis on informing older residents and other vulnerable groups.
“Talking about these schemes is essential,” Commander Milocchi said. “Prevention and awareness are our strongest tools.”
