Bank card phishing scams are on the rise in Belgium, warned the federal police and the Federation of the Belgian Financial Sector (Febelfin) on Tuesday.
This type of scam involves fraudsters posing as bank employees or police officers and going to people's doors to collect their bank cards.
They first call the victim and claim there is an issue with their bank card that needs to be replaced or that there are suspicious transactions.
They then visit the victim's home to collect the bank card and PIN code. They may also convince the victim to hand over other valuable items, such as cash or jewellery, assuring them these will be kept safe.
The federal police report that this phenomenon has been particularly observed in Liège, with around 15 incidents recorded since September. Commissioner Alexandre Carboni of the Seraing/Neupré police zone indicates that the phenomenon has intensified since November, with losses ranging from €7,000 to over €20,000 in this area.
Cases have also been reported in Flanders and Brussels, according to the police.
"Be on your guard and remember that a real bank employee will never come and ring your doorbell to get your bank card, PIN code or valuables," emphasised Febelfin.
The police added that no officer will be sent to collect bank cards. It emphasised that a genuine police officer will always be able to show identification and will wear a uniform or at least a badge.
If you become a victim of this fraud, you should block your bank card by calling Card Stop (078 170 170), inform your bank, and file a report with the police, advises Febelfin.
