Police in Leuven have issued a warning about recent fraud attempts targeting local residents. Scammers have been calling people, falsely claiming to be police officers and alleging that unauthorized withdrawals have been made from their bank accounts. This alarming trend came to light around 2025-06-27 00:30:00, prompting authorities to raise public awareness.
- Criminals impersonate police to scam victims
- Elderly man tricked with fake police visit
- Scammers steal hundreds via bank card fraud
- Neighbor blocks victim’s bank card promptly
- Police use cameras to identify suspects
- Authorities warn never to share bank details
One elderly man fell victim to this scam when a supposed officer visited his home, requesting his bank card and PIN to halt further theft. Despite a neighbor’s quick action to block the card, the criminals managed to withdraw several hundred euros before being stopped. How can Belgians protect themselves against such convincing fraud? What should you do if you receive a similar call?
These scams exploit trust and urgency, making it crucial to stay vigilant. Why do these fraudsters succeed? They use:
- Impersonation of trusted authorities like the police
- Pressure tactics to rush victims into handing over sensitive information
- Physical visits to reinforce their false claims
- Exploitation of elderly or vulnerable individuals
Understanding these tactics can help prevent future incidents and protect your finances.
As these scams evolve, it is essential for everyone in Belgium to remain alert and skeptical of unsolicited calls about banking issues. Always verify the caller’s identity and never share your card or PIN. Reporting suspicious activity helps protect the community and supports police efforts to catch criminals.
