In an increasingly connected world, cybercriminals are redoubling their ingenuity to deceive Internet users. Today, we'd like to draw your attention to a scam that has been reported to us several times recently, targeting subscribers to the De Lijn transport network.
The scam scenario
Imagine yourself, quietly checking your e-mail, when you come across a message apparently sent by De Lijn (but it could also be STIB in Brussels or TEC in Wallonia), the operator of your usual transport network. The content of the message is alarming: your season ticket (MOBIBB card) is blocked and you need to take urgent action. Otherwise, you risk losing access to your season ticket for good (see sample view below).
Do not click!
If you receive such an e-mail, please remain calm and, above all, do not click on any links! This is a phishing attempt to steal your personal data and potentially your bank details.
How to recognise fraud
- Unjustified urgency : Real transport operators will never threaten to block your subscription without notice.
- Suspicious e-mail address: Check the sender's address carefully. It will not match the official De Lijn/ address.
- Suspicious links: Move your mouse over the links without clicking. The URL displayed will not correspond to the official De Lijn site.
What should you do if you receive this e-mail?
- Don't panic and don't click on any links.
- Delete the e-mail immediately.
- If you have any doubts about the status of your subscription, contact De Lijn directly via their official channels (website, telephone number on your subscription card).
- Report the scam via suspicious@safeonweb.be and, if necessary, to De Lijn.
Did you click on a suspicious link?
- If you did click, don't fill in the fields any further and abort any interaction.
- NEVER give out personal codes.
- If you have passed on a password that you also use in other places, change it immediately.
Have you been ripped off?
- From the moment you lose money or are extorted, we recommend you file a police report. You file a report with the local police in your place of residence.
- Contact your bank and/or Card Stop on 078 170 170 if you have passed on bank details, money disappears from your bank account or you have transferred money to a scammer. That way, any fraudulent transactions can be blocked.
