Universiteit Leiden

nl en

Phone Scam Alert!

24 August 2022

The police has informed us that online scammers are targeting young people with an international background. If you receive a call from a so-called ‘government agency’, please hang up immediately. They may try to convince you that you are on an international warrant list, for instance, or that you have some outstanding fines. They may also know a lot of personal information about you, such as a social security number, which makes them sound credible. You will be asked to download a programme so that they can help you get off the so-called list. Do not download this programme or click on any links they  may send you. With this software, scammers can see your bank details and transfer money to another account without any notice.

This is a scam. Government agencies will never contact you by phone regarding such issues. Do not call any number they might give you either. 

What to do in this situation?

Hang up immediately. Even when in doubt. Look up the correct number and contact the agency to verify the call.

Have you experienced this?

Contact your bank immediately and report it to the police. Call 0900 8844 for an appointment or visit Politie.nl for more information.

Did cyber criminals successfully rob your bank account? Always report the crime: https://www.politie.nl/en/topics/report-a-crime.html.

For more information about phone scams: https://www.politie.nl/onderwerpen/telefonische-oplichting.html
 

This website uses cookies.  More information.