23 Fraud Cases: Fake Apartment Broker in Vienna Exposed

The Vienna State Criminal Police Office has solved an extensive fraud case. According to the police, officers were able to prove 23 cases of fraudulent apartment brokerage. A 37-year-old Turkish national is suspected of having deceived apartment seekers over a longer period.

Initially Actually Helped People Find Apartments

Between the end of 2024 and October 2025, the man is said to have initially actually helped in the brokerage of apartments. Within a certain circle of people, his supposed success rate spread – a relationship of trust developed. In some cases, he is said to have even refunded money in the event of conflicts, which further reinforced the impression of seriousness.

Pretended to be a Student to the Cooperative

According to investigations, the suspect subsequently obtained apartment plans from a cooperative by posing as an architecture student. He used these documents to support his deception.

According to investigators, the fraudster received the demanded commissions either in cash or had them transferred to accounts opened under the name "Johannes Berg." He told his victims that this person was an employee of the housing cooperative.

Serial Fraudster Was Already Known to Authorities

As early as 2023, the police had become aware of the same man due to similar offenses. At that time, 27 cases of fraud with damages of around 50,000 euros were proven. In the current proceedings, the documented damage amounts to about 110,000 euros.

During his interrogation, the suspect confessed, according to the police. He cited an existing gambling addiction as his motive. The Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office ordered his admission to a correctional facility.

(Red)

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