Alert Response to Fake Police Officers in Maassluis

Gebied: Maassluis

A group of fake police officers was active on Thursday afternoon in Maassluis. The police received fourteen reports from people who said they were called by fake officers. In thirteen cases, the fake officers were stopped by alert citizens who said no and ended the call. Unfortunately, one victim was deceived. An 84-year-old woman was cunningly pressured and scammed by these criminals. The police are investigating and urge anyone who has been called or victimized to come forward.

The 84-year-old victim was forced to put jewelry in a box and hand it over at the door. A scammer dressed in police clothing stood outside. This man also took a debit card and cash from the home. Shortly after, hundreds of euros were withdrawn using the debit card.

The police deployed extensively throughout the afternoon and evening in hopes of catching the perpetrators in the act. Unfortunately, no immediate arrests were made. The police have collected CCTV footage and are speaking with witnesses. They also encourage anyone who has been called by these fake officers to get in touch. Contact can be made via the methods below.

The police are also pleased with the alert responses from potential victims. They recognized the phenomenon and reacted correctly: by ending the call and calling the police, or by keeping the call open—without sharing personal details—and calling the police from another phone. The police and partners are intensively working to raise awareness.

Methods of fake officers
Fake officers use various methods. One method is to first call a victim. They often have personal information such as names and account numbers, which they use to gain trust. Then these criminals scare the victims and often put them under pressure. For example, they may claim there has been a burglary nearby and fear new break-ins. They say an ‘officer’ can secure their valuables. If the victim accepts this ‘offer,’ someone immediately comes to the door, presenting a fake police ID as an investigator. Sometimes they wear something resembling a police uniform.

Report suspicious situations immediately
Be extra alert and report suspicious situations right away. Please also share the prevention tips below with your parents, grandparents, or others you know may be vulnerable to these criminals.

Is it a fake officer, or is it okay? Check by calling 112.
The police never ask for your PIN code or inquire whether you have valuables at home.
The police do not come by to photograph valuables or collect debit cards, cash, or valuables.
The police must always show a valid police identification card. You can ask to see it if someone is at your door claiming to be police. The key feature of the ID is the hologram. When you move the card, you see alternating police logos or the word ‘politie’.
Phone – if you have a scammer on the phone, do not give any information about PIN codes or valuables and then call 0900-8844.
If someone you do not trust is at your door, call 112 immediately. The police can then catch the scammer in the act.
Lower your PIN limit from, for example, 1000 euros to 300 euros.

Always report
Have you become a victim? You are not the only one. Always report it, even attempts by fake officers. Keep the phone numbers the fake officers called you from and share these with the police. The more information the police have, the faster these fake officers can be stopped.