It's happening more and more—people are getting calls or visits from criminals who pretend to be police officers. These scammers are after your money, and they're becoming increasingly sophisticated. While they often target older adults, they'll try this trick on anyone.
Here's what they're doing
You might receive a phone call from someone who sounds official and claims to be from the police. They'll tell you something scary, such as 'Your bank account has been compromised' or 'We need to secure your money right away'. Sometimes, they will even show up at your front door wearing fake police uniforms, hoping that you will trust them enough to hand over your bank card, tell them your PIN or give them cash.
But here's the thing: real police officers will never ask you for your banking details, PIN or cash. If someone does, they're lying!
How to keep yourself safe
- Trust your instincts if something feels off. These criminals want you to panic and act quickly, before you have time to think things through.
- Remember this golden rule: never give out your PIN or banking information to anyone who contacts you, even if they claim to be from the police or your bank.
- Never hand over your bank cards or cash to anyone who comes to your door, no matter how official they seem.
- If someone calls claiming to be the police, just hang up. Then call your local police station directly using a number that you have found yourself, not one that they provide.
If you think someone has tried to scam you
- Call the police immediately using their official number, not the number given to you by the caller.
- If you have accidentally shared any banking information, contact your bank immediately.
- Remember that real police officers are there to protect you and your money, not take it from you. Stay alert and don't let these criminals catch you off guard.
More info on the Belgian Federal Police website
