Scams can occur both offline and online, and anyone can fall victim. There are traditional forms, such as street scams and doorstep fraud, but also more modern methods like phishing and social media scams. In this magazine, we’ll cover several types to help you stay informed and prepared — so that scammers won’t stand a chance with you.
Phishing
Phishing is a common form of fraud in which scammers send fake emails or messages that appear to come from banks or other official institutions. They typically ask for your login credentials or payment information, often through a link to a fake website. If you enter your details, the scammers can take over and misuse your accounts. Always be cautious with messages requesting personal information—especially if they create a sense of urgency. Always verify such requests through the official website.
WhatsApp and SMS fraud
In this scam, a fraudster pretends to be a friend or family member with a “new” phone number. They’ll usually send a message saying they’re in trouble and urgently need money. A payment request often follows. If you receive such a message, don’t transfer money right away. Call the person using the number you know and speak to them directly. Be wary of excuses like “I can’t talk right now.” Also verify the account number – does it match their usual one?
Protect your social media by adjusting privacy settings so only trusted contacts can see your information. This reduces the risk of scammers misusing your details.
Sales fraud
Fraud is increasingly common on online marketplaces. Scammers may pose as sellers and send fake payment links. Once payment is made, the product never arrives. In some cases, money is transferred to accounts of young people acting as “money mules” – individuals who allow their bank accounts to be used in exchange for compensation. This is illegal and can lead to a criminal record.
Always be cautious when buying online. Only use trusted platforms and verify sellers before making any payments. Fraud is also increasingly common on online marketplaces. Scammers pose as sellers and try to trick you with fake payment requests. This can result in money being transferred, while the package you paid for never arrives. Criminals often have the money transferred to the bank accounts of young people who make their accounts available for this purpose. These youths are known as “money mules” and are used by scammers to receive illegal payments. In exchange, they are usually offered a fee. This is a serious form of fraud and can lead to these young people ending up with a criminal record. Never allow money to be transferred to your account for someone else. Always be alert when making online purchases and check whether the seller is trustworthy before making any payment.
Handling
Handling involves buying, owning, or selling stolen goods – and it’s a criminal offense. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Think of unusually cheap bikes, phones, or cars. To check if an item is stolen, visit www.stopheling.nl or use the Stopheling app.
Distraction Scams
Distraction scams involve trickery used by con artists to deceive people and steal their money or valuables. These scammers often appear trustworthy, making it easy for them to gain the victim’s confidence. They may show up unexpectedly at the door or approach people on the street with a convincing story. Once they have earned the victim’s trust, they often steal cash, jewelry, or other valuable items.
In some cases, scammers may even use threats or violence to intimidate their victims. They might pose as repair workers, bank employees, or home care staff. For example, they may claim to be from the bank conducting an inspection, or from the municipality performing a home check. While the victim is distracted, an accomplice may quietly slip inside to steal belongings.
It’s important to always be cautious and never let someone into your home without being absolutely sure the situation is safe. If something feels off, trust your instincts and contact the police immediately. Suspicious situations should be reported by calling 112.
Fake police officers
Increasingly, the police are receiving reports of criminals posing as police officers. They may contact you by phone and then drop by your home to surreptitiously obtain valuable property or sensitive information.
Fake police officers are difficult to spot as they often use convincing methods to appear credible. For example, they may call from a number that looks like an official police number or be dressed in what looks like a police uniform. However, they often try to instil fear or urgency, for example by claiming that your property is in danger or that you need to take immediate action. Pay attention to the following signs:
- The caller asks for sensitive information such as bank details or valuables.
- The person at the door does not show a valid police ID.
Bank helpdesk fraud
A common type of scam is bank helpdesk fraud. In this case, fraudsters pretend to be employees of your bank and try to gain your trust in various ways—often by exploiting human traits such as curiosity, trust, or fear. Their goal is to obtain your confidential information.
A well-known example is when scammers call you, claiming there’s suspicious activity on your account and that you need to transfer your money to a “safe vault account.” They pressure you to act quickly and don’t give you time to think it through. In some cases, the scammers may even come to your home, offering to collect your bank card or other valuables under the pretense of keeping them safe.
4 rules to remember
Elderly people are especially vulnerable to this type (or these types) of fraud.
That’s why we’ve compiled a number of tips to help prevent scams such as distraction thefts, fake police officers, and bank help desk fraud — particularly aimed at helping parents, grandparents, older family members, acquaintances, and neighbors. Talk about these issues together to help make your loved ones more resilient against fraud.
- Police officers always wear a full uniform with equipment:
Explain that they should always ask for identification if someone claims to be a police officer. Real officers can always show an official police ID card with a name, employee number, and photo. In addition, officers must always wear a full uniform, including radios and authorized equipment around their waist. - Scammers are pushy and want to act quickly:
Tell them how scammers operate. They often pretend to be police officers or bank employees who are coming to collect valuable items. They are pushy and try to create a sense of urgency. - Do not open the door for strangers or let them in:
Even if your (grand)parents have already given out some information, it’s important not to open the door. - Bank employees and police officers will NEVER ask for PIN codes or valuable items:
Emphasize that they should never give out their PIN code or hand over valuables — not even to someone claiming to be from the bank or police. They will NEVER ask for PIN codes or valuable belongings.