The Federal Public Prosecutor's Office and the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium are warning of a scam in which the identity of His Majesty the King and his Chief of Staff is being misused to approach business leaders.
The victims are contacted via WhatsApp, email and telephone with the aim of extracting large sums of money. The messages appear very credible. Victims receive fake invitations to a fictitious gala dinner organised by the King Baudouin Foundation and are asked to sponsor an event.
Be cautious of phishing scams involving celebrities
Victims are being increasingly approached by supposed famous people: a news anchor, a minister or even the King. This happens by email, WhatsApp or via a fake advertisement. The aim is to gain your trust and then encourage you, for example, to make an investment to “get rich quickly”. Sometimes you receive a friend request and are asked to transfer money.
Always be on your guard if you are contacted unexpectedly
Recognise these warning signs in time:
- You receive an unexpected message or phone call from someone you know with a strange or unusual request.
- You do not recognise the telephone number or email address used to contact you.
- The sender emphasises confidentiality and asks for discretion.
- The request is urgent and compelling. You are pressured to act quickly.
- You are asked to transfer money to an account number you do not recognise.
If you have the slightest doubt:
- End the call or online conversation.
- Do not disclose any personal information.
- Do not transfer any money.
- Try to verify the information through other means.
Have you been scammed?
If you have lost money or been blackmailed, we recommend that you report this to the police. You can report this to your local police station.
Contact your bank and/or Card Stop on 078 170 170 if you have provided your bank details, money has disappeared from your bank account or you have transferred money to a fraudster. This will enable any fraudulent transactions to be blocked.
