Helpdesk Fraud Government
I was called 4 days back by a scammer posed as a government official - Justice Department stating that my BSN has been linked to multiple criminal activities.
I believed in this due to really unfortunate events - The same day I bought a Dutch number to fill in my application form for VOG. And the same day 4 hours earlier I submitted my application to the 'gemeente' and was told that I will get a letter from the justice department.
After reading through the troubles people have gone through, I feel fortunate that I did not lose a lot of money. However, I am now scared that this will reflect on my VOG and will get me into trouble with my Belgium work permit.
I shared this with one of my best friends and got scolded for responding in this manner, although her reaction hurt me deeply, what hurts me more is that I have no confidence now, I question my intelligence and ability to judge.
I do not want to compare countries, but I realized trouble can come your way in any manner, be it if you reside in a third world country or a in a developed one.
2 Reacties
I was so overwhelmed by shock I couldn't think straight .... I could not breathe hardly and was having a panic attack. Warning bells were ringing but I was not listening.
I even told him how many bank accounts I have and my total worth which is quite considerable. Still I went along with it as he quoted Articles and Sections of the Law to me and that my entire assets would be confiscated and frozen or both. By this time, I was almost hysterical he then said "I want to help you" and finally finally I realised it was a scam.
Believe me it can happen to anyone, no matter what!
My partner's reaction was it was my own stupid fault and I should have known better and hung up.
You have no need to question your intelligence, these abhorrent criminals know exactly which buttons to press.
I feel dreadful actually the same as you ... it will pass and we have hopefully learned something.
There is Karma they will get their come upance.
Take care and a deep breath