Avoiding getting scammed in the Netherlands

Although the Netherlands is considered a safe country for expats, there are always those looking to make a few illegal bucks by scamming, burglary and fraud.

Due to unfamiliarity with the country and a lack of awareness caused by language difficulties, expats are occasionally victims of low-life criminals. Mindfulness is the key to avoiding being caught by local crooks, especially if you’re a student living in university accommodation. Student accommodation is the one place in the Netherlands with a high crime rate, mostly caused by petty thieves pretending to have a right to be on the campus. Most of those who enter and leave every day are genuine, but a few are burglars looking for easy pickings.

The easiest way to avoid losing your possessions is to have a working lock fitted and keep the key on you at all times. If you’re going out, hiding your valuables is advisable and, should you see a stranger wandering about, engaging him in conversation should determine what he’s doing as well as putting him off if he’s up to no good. If you’re really nervous about burglary, having an anti-theft strip fitted is the best idea.

Unfortunately, bicycle thefts are common in the Netherlands, with fitting an expensive, secure lock to your bike the only way to save it from being stolen. Fixing both ends of your bike to a bicycle rack or other solid object before leaving it on the street is also a working deterrent to thieves, and parking in designated bike areas is sensible as most have security cameras fitted. Checking whether your bike has an ID code and photographing it or even just writing it down will help you get it back should police find it. One thing to remember is that local police only investigate thefts of bikes costing over 200 euros.

If you’re offered a decidedly upscale bike for a minimal amount of cash, refuse the deal as it’s almost certain the bike has been stolen, leaving you with a conviction for fencing stolen property if you’re caught. A fine and criminal record are no fun in the Netherlands. Private rental student housing is another area where fraud is relatively common, due mainly to the shortage of student digs across the entire country. If you find a room in a perfect location which is also in perfect condition and rents for a low price, walking away is the best idea. Scams include taking deposits before the keys are given over and disappearing with the cash, and ID fraud has also been linked to accommodation scams. The rule is easy, never, ever, give copies of your passport, ID card or driving license to anyone, no matter what they promise.