Karlsruhe warns of fraudulent pest control scams

The city of Karlsruhe has issued a warning regarding fraudulent pest control services targeting homeowners. Scammers are reportedly using dubious websites to offer 24-hour emergency services and free travel to lure unsuspecting residents.

According to local authorities, these fraudulent companies often use high-pressure tactics to incite fear, claiming that nests belong to the invasive Asian hornet to justify immediate action. In one documented instance, a company misidentified highly protected European hornets as Asian hornets, killed the nest illegally, and subsequently issued a four-figure invoice demanding immediate payment.

Authorities remind citizens that different species are subject to varying legal protections. While Asian hornets can be removed by professionals, wasps are under general species protection, and European hornets are strictly protected, requiring written permission before any nest can be disturbed or relocated.