Emergencies in Germany range from theft and scams to harassment or threats. This guide explains how to react, what evidence to collect, when police will open a case, and the legal framework behind different offenses.
Evidence You MUST Keep
German police rely almost entirely on documentation. Without evidence, most cases cannot move forward.
Important evidence includes:
• Chat logs
• IBAN, phone numbers, emails
• Payment screenshots
• Photos or videos
• Witness information
• Time/place of incident
• Suspect description
When Police Will Open a Case (Ermittlungsverfahren)
• Fraud & Online Scams — StGB §263
Includes fake rental listings, advance-payment fraud, phishing, job scams.
• Threats & Stalking — StGB §241 / §238
Repeated harassment, intimidation, or someone following you.
• Sexual Harassment & Assault — StGB §184i / §177
Always taken seriously; immediate investigation.
• Assault or Property Damage — StGB §223 / §303
Police must open a case.
What Police Actually Do After You Report
Depending on case type, police may:
• Log your evidence
• Identify the suspect via IBAN/phone
• Issue warnings
• Freeze suspicious accounts
• Check CCTV footage
• Start criminal proceedings
Realistic outcomes depend on the quality of your evidence.
How to File a Police Report Properly
You can report through:
1.Dial 110
For harassment, threats, theft, suspicious individuals.
2.Dial 112
For life-threatening emergencies.
3.Online report (Online-Anzeige)
Search: Online Anzeige + your Bundesland
4.In-person at the police station
Best for complex cases or stolen documents.
What Evidence Is Most Useful (Ranked)
1.Clear video
2.Written admissions
3.Screenshots + IBAN
4.Witnesses
5.Audio recordings
6.Scene photos
7.Verbal description
Safety Tips
Public transport & night tips:
• Stay in bright areas
• Sit near others
• Keep valuables secure
• Share live location with friends
Rental scam tips:
• Never pay before viewing
• Avoid Western Union / Paysafecard
• Beware foreign IBANs and “I am abroad” excuses
Harassment tips:
Say: “Bitte Abstand halten.”
Do Police Help International Students?
Yes. You can say:
“Can I speak in English?”
Most officers will switch immediately.
Summary
German police take scams, threats, violence, and harassment seriously — but evidence determines whether a case proceeds.
Knowing how to document incidents and when to call 110 or file an online report helps protect you.