Phishing through social media is a method used to steal personal information. Scammers use several methods: they pose as a family member or friend whose account has been hacked and ask for personal information, or they publish fraudulent social media messages offering or promising you something, but require you to enter personal data first.

Never respond to messages asking for your personal information, bank card PIN, or online banking password via phone, email, or the internet. Such messages are always fraudulent.

On the website of the FPS Economy, you can find an overview of the different types of scams, with advice on how to distinguish genuine offers from fraudulent ones, as well as the best ways to respond.

Lost money or shared your bank details with scammers?

1. If you have shared your credit or bank card details, notify Card Stop immediately at 078 170 170 (+32 78 170 170 from abroad) to block your cards.
2. Contact your bank immediately so that the payment(s) and, if necessary, your bank account can be blocked.
3. If money has actually been stolen from your account, file a report with the local police.
4. Forward the suspicious message (email or text message) to suspect@safeonweb.be to block the URL of the suspicious website to prevent further victims.
5. If you paid by credit card, fill in a dispute form on macarte.be to report an unauthorised payment transaction via your credit card.

If money has been taken from your account without your consent, you may request a refund from your bank in case of phishing. This refund is subject to certain conditions.