Police report surge in fake police scams, elderly primary target
Reports of scams involving individuals posing as police officers have skyrocketed in the Netherlands, with the police registering 8,329 incidents in 2024 — nearly 15 times the total reported in 2023. These scams have predominantly targeted elderly individuals, with organized groups employing sophisticated tactics to exploit victims' trust, authorities said.
“Scams by fake officers have exploded,” said Sybren van der Velden Walda, national project leader for High Impact Crimes at the Dutch police. “This is organized crime aimed entirely at people aged 70 and older.”
Last year, there were 1,600 confirmed victims of fake police scams, with nearly two in ten targets falling for the schemes, according to police data. A total of 357 suspects were arrested in 2024, marking a significant increase from the 126 arrests made in 2023.
The scams often begin with a phone call, where criminals claim to be police officers warning about imminent risks of burglary or other threats. They allege that suspects were arrested nearby with a list of potential targets, including the victim's address, and offer to "safeguard" valuable belongings.
The scammers leverage stolen personal data purchased online to gain the victim’s trust, often pretending to have spoken with family members. “They know a lot about the victims, which makes it easier to gain their trust. For example, they might say they’ve already talked to the person’s son or daughter,” Van der Velden Walda explained.
To appear legitimate, those sent to collect valuables often wear jackets resembling police uniforms, complete with reflective stripes and fake logos purchased online. “They exploit the respect and trust older people have for authority figures,” Van der Velden Walda said.
Recent warnings about fake police scams were issued in municipalities including Goor, Best-Oirschot, and Beilen. Police have identified patterns where criminal groups target one municipality at a time, with couriers — often minors as young as 14 — visiting multiple homes in a single evening.
During police raids, investigators uncovered entire call centers where scammers contacted potential victims. “This is calculated and ruthless,” said Van der Velden Walda.
The impact of these scams has been devastating for victims. One recent case involved an 83-year-old woman who had gathered her valuables into a bag at the scammer's request. “When the fake officer arrived, he said, ‘I see you’re still wearing a nice necklace and wedding ring. Hand those over as well.’ These criminals are utterly ruthless,” Van der Velden Walda said.
The scams have also had broader repercussions, as real police officers conducting neighborhood investigations are increasingly met with distrust. “Even though the logos they use aren’t identical to ours, they’re close enough to create confusion,” Van der Velden Walda said. “This type of crime not only harms the victims but also damages the good name of the police.”
The fight against fake police scams has become a top priority for Dutch authorities. Police are focusing on public awareness campaigns, media outreach, and community meetings to educate seniors about recognizing and avoiding scams. Tips include verifying police credentials and never handing over belongings to anyone claiming to be a police officer.
To enhance detection and arrests, the police have implemented a nationwide information-sharing system. This coordination has led to several arrests, including of couriers caught red-handed. “We’ve traced scams back to the call centers where the calls are made,” Van der Velden Walda said.
While many suspects arrested are low-level couriers, authorities aim to dismantle the organized networks behind the operations. “We are making important progress, but our ultimate goal is to take down the masterminds of these criminal enterprises,” he said.
Authorities urge victims and their families to report scams, emphasizing that every report helps build a clearer picture of criminal activity. “Many people feel ashamed for falling for these scams, but their reports are crucial,” Van der Velden Walda said.
The police have also called on family members to warn and support elderly relatives. They stress that genuine officers will never ask for valuables to be handed over. “If you get a suspicious call or someone comes to your door claiming to be the police, don’t hand over anything. Call 112 immediately,” said Van der Velden Walda.
Last year’s public awareness efforts have contributed to the rise in reported incidents, as more people feel empowered to come forward. “You’re a hero if you report it,” Van der Velden Walda said.
