Identity fraud: someone acting in your name

A scammer has been able to get hold of your identity data. For example, via an online advertisement or using a ‘phishing mail’. They use that data to pretend to be you. This is identity fraud. Check what you can do to prevent it.

Examples of identity fraud

In the examples below, the scammer can use your personal data. They get away with it, and you are left to pay.

    Online shopping without paying Taking out a (telephone) subscription Opening bank accounts Applying for credit cards Staying in a hotel Renting a house Hiring a car or taking a test drive Conducting matters with the authorities

How does the scammer obtain your data?

Criminals constantly devise new tricks to get hold of your data. Check out a few examples below.

    From your home, purse, mailbox, computer or mobile phone. You are persuaded to share data, via phishing emails, online advertisements or during a deceptive chat on the phone or at the door. In some cases, they ask you to send a copy of a valid proof of identity. The scammer finds your data in, for example, poorly protected administrations, in the trash or via the internet and social media.

How to prevent your identity from being stolen

Don’t trust strangers

Don’t fall for deceptive chats on the phone or at the door and be alert to online ads and emails that require you to click on links. If you are not sure if a message has actually been sent by us, you can always call us first.

Be careful with your proof of ID

Never give your ID or a copy of it to people or parties you do not know or trust.

Change your passwords regularly

Change passwords for your accounts regularly. Use strong and different passwords. A strong password is long and consists of a combination of lower-case letters and numbers, upper-case letters and special punctuation marks. It can also be a short sentence.

Secure your mailbox

Prevent anyone from taking mail out of your mailbox. This ensures that personal mail such as a new debit card in your name, letters from the Tax and Customs Administration, payslips, annual statements or insurance documents are delivered safely.

Secure your digital accounts

Secure your digital accounts such as DigiD, iDIN or social media with two-step authentication: you will then receive an additional check by text message or create the code you need using an app. A scammer can’t set anything in motion without your phone, tablet or computer.

Are you a victim of identity fraud?

Report identity fraud directly to us.