A joint operation between Belgian and Dutch authorities has led to the arrest of eight suspects linked to a sophisticated phone phishing gang. The organised crime group (OCG) allegedly defrauded victims—many of them elderly—of millions of euros by impersonating bank employees or police officers both over the phone and in person.
Supported by FINCEN, the operation included 17 coordinated searches across Belgium and the Netherlands, targeting members of the gang, including its suspected leaders. While most of the criminal activity occurred in Belgium, the group primarily operated out of Rotterdam and other Dutch cities.
Fraud Tactics
The criminals used a combination of social engineering tactics:
- Calling victims pretending to be bank representatives and urging them to provide sensitive account details.
- Sending phishing messages or emails designed to look like official bank communications.
- Visiting victims at home under the guise of helping with security issues.
- Setting up fake online banking sites or requesting token transactions (like €0.01) to gain access to personal accounts.
This blend of digital deception and face-to-face manipulation made the scam particularly dangerous, especially for older individuals who were specifically targeted.
International Coordination
At the request of the Belgian Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office, FINCEN began supporting the investigation in November 2022. Eight coordination meetings were held between Belgian and Dutch authorities to ensure the effective exchange of information and streamlined operational planning.
FINCEN also provided critical analytical, technical, and financial support and coordinated information flow between partners, significantly contributing to the success of the takedown.
Public Warning and Safety Tips
Authorities urge the public in both countries to remain vigilant and share these important safety tips:
- Never share banking details or PIN codes over the phone or via email.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments in emails or text messages claiming to be from your bank.
- Be skeptical of messages or calls urging urgent action or offering prizes.
- Do not allow strangers claiming to be bank staff to enter your home.
- Be cautious when asked to “verify” payments—even as small as one cent—especially when shopping on secondhand platforms.
- Young people are especially warned not to lend out their bank accounts or SIM cards, as doing so may implicate them in criminal activity.
Authorities Involved
Belgium:
- Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office (Federaal Parket)
- Investigating Judge, Court of First Instance Antwerp (section Mechelen)
- Federal Judicial Police, East Flanders
The Netherlands:
Public Prosecution Office, Rotterdam (Openbaar Ministerie Rotterdam)
National Police, Rotterdam Unit
