Netherlands Scams: Online, Banking & Investment Fraud Guide
Common scams in the Netherlands and how to report to the politie, Fraudehelpdesk, and your bank.
Emergency number: 112 — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
The Netherlands experiences high rates of online fraud including helpdesk fraud (helpdeskfraude), bank impersonation, marketplace scams, and investment fraud. The Dutch police (politie.nl) accept online fraud reports and the Fraudehelpdesk provides specialist anti-fraud guidance and referral services. Investment scams can be reported to the AFM (financial markets regulator). Dutch banks have implemented anti-fraud measures including a dedicated banking app 'kill switch', and contacting your bank within minutes of discovering a fraudulent transfer is the most important first step.
Common scams
- Helpdesk fraud (helpdeskfraude) — fake bank or tech support calls seeking remote access
- Phishing and smishing impersonating banks or Belastingdienst (tax authority)
- Marketplace (Marktplaats) non-delivery and overpayment scams
- Investment and crypto fraud
Tourist-specific scams
- Overcharging or unmetered taxis in Amsterdam
- Ticket scams for events and attractions
- Pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas
Online shopping scams
- Fake online shops and classified listings
- Parcel-fee smishing impersonating PostNL
- Account takeover via phishing
Job scams
- Task scams via messaging apps
- Fake job offers requiring upfront document or visa fees
Romance scams
- Dating-app romance leading to cryptocurrency investment grooming
Investment scams
- Clone broker and fake trading platforms
- Crypto and 'AI bot' investment schemes
How to report a scam here
- Contact your bank immediately using the number on your card or app
- Report online fraud to the police at politie.nl
- Contact the Fraudehelpdesk on 088-7867372 for guidance and referral
- Check investment firms with the AFM at afm.nl
Local reporting & protection links
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
Contact your bank immediately — Dutch banks can freeze or attempt to recall fraudulent transfers most effectively in the first few minutes. Never share your banking credentials, DigiD, or SMS codes with an unsolicited caller — no legitimate bank requests this.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
What is helpdeskfraude?
Helpdeskfraude (helpdesk fraud) involves scammers impersonating bank or tech support, calling victims and persuading them to install remote-access software. The scammer then accesses banking apps and transfers money. Hang up and call your bank on a number you know is genuine.
Where do I report online fraud in the Netherlands?
File a report with the police at politie.nl. The Fraudehelpdesk (fraudehelpdesk.nl) can advise on whether to report and refer you to the correct authority. For investment fraud, contact the AFM.
Is DigiD ever requested by phone?
No. The Dutch DigiD digital identity service will never call you and ask you to share your credentials or access codes. Any such request is a scam.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance