We received a nice example of an attempted inheritance fraud email this week (example below).
Inheritance fraud is a common form of scam where criminals try to trick you with a story about an unexpected inheritance. Here's how to recognise this scam, what to do if you receive such a message, and how to take action if you are a victim.
What is inheritance fraud?
In inheritance fraud, you receive a message (a letter, an e-mail or via social media) in which someone claims that you have received a large inheritance from an unknown relative or a deceased wealthy person. The sender may pose as a notary, bank employee or a person claiming to be incurably ill. To receive the money, they ask you to contact them. They then try to find out your personal details, or ask you to pay administrative fees.
How do you recognise inheritance fraud?
- The message is unexpected: You get a message about an inheritance from a stranger when you are not expecting it at all.
- Time pressure: They often say you have to act quickly to receive the inheritance.
- Personal details or payments requested: They ask you for identity details or an advance payment.
- Bad language: The messages often contain language and spelling mistakes or unnatural wording.
What should you do if you get such a message?
- Do not respond: Never give personal details or money.
- Report the sender: mark the message as unwanted, spam or phishing and block the sender.
- Forward the message to suspicious@safeonweb.be
What should you do if you have been victimised?
- Money transferred?
- Contact your bank immediately and ask them to block the payment. Also report it to the police.
- If you paid by credit card, fill in a dispute form on mijnkaart.be to report an unauthorised payment transaction through your credit card.
- Identity details revealed?
- If you have passed on your credit or bank card details, notify Card Stop immediately on 078 170 170 to block your cards.
- More information: https://safeonweb.be/nl/actueel/mijn-gegevens-zijn-gestolen-wat-nu
