Karlsruhe warns of fraudulent pest control scams

The city of Karlsruhe is warning residents about fraudulent pest control services targeting homeowners during the summer wasp and hornet season. Scammers are using dubious websites to advertise services in the area, often promising 24-hour emergency assistance and free travel to lure victims.

According to city officials, these fraudulent operators often use fear tactics over the phone, claiming a dangerous situation exists—frequently misidentifying species to justify immediate action. In one documented case, a company worker misidentified highly protected European hornets as invasive Asian hornets, illegally destroyed the nest, and subsequently issued a four-digit invoice demanding immediate payment.

Authorities remind citizens that different species are subject to different legal protections. While Asian hornets are invasive and can be removed by professionals, wasps are under general species protection, and European hornets are strictly protected. Disturbing or killing European hornet nests without written permission is illegal.