Moving to a new country is challenging enough, so we don’t need to add getting scammed to our worries. We’ve compiled a list of key points to keep in mind for staying smart and avoiding scams in the Netherlands.
If you’re an expat or an international student, learning how not to get scammed is vital. Even though the Netherlands is considered a safe place, foreigners make easy prey for scammers.
That’s why it’s important to be mindful of certain things.
How to avoid getting burgled in the Netherlands
If you’re a student studying in the Netherlands, the chances of falling victim to burglary are quite high.
Unfortunately, student accommodations are very “social” places, where random people enter and exit throughout the day. Sometimes these random people are burglars.
One way to ensure you stay safe is by having a key and a working lock for your room. Whenever you go out, hide your most valuable possessions in a secret spot.
If you see an unfamiliar face walking around the hallway, have a small chit-chat to see if there’s anything suspicious about them (if they’re actually burglars, best-case scenario, you’ll spook them out).
And if you want to be extra safe, you can always ask your landlord to install an anti-burglary strip.
How to avoid bicycle theft in the Netherlands
Believe it or not, this is the most common form of crime in the Netherlands.
Everyone who has lived in this country has gone through the heartbreak of having their bicycle stolen at least once.
No matter how many locks you put on your bike, this is inevitable.
READ MORE | Guide to buying your first bicycle in the Netherlands (from a veteran international)
However, there are always steps you can take to reduce the risk of this happening. 👇
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Make sure you invest in both a high-quality D-lock and a sturdy chain lock.
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Make sure to attach both your frame and your wheel to a bicycle rack.
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Park your fiets at designated bike parking whenever you can — most have cameras.
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Check if your bike has an identification code, usually known as the “frame number” and take a photo of it. That way, if it gets stolen, you can provide that number to the police so that they know it’s yours if they find it.
Let op! The police only deal with bicycle thefts if the bike costs more than €200. Sad, but true.
Shady bicycles
Picture this.
You’re still recovering from the heartbreak of having your last bike stolen. Suddenly, a homeless man offers you this amazing bicycle for a super low price. It’s as if the universe has seen your sorrow and offered a solution to your problem.
But not too fast! If the bike is great but too cheap, chances are it was stolen.
Do not buy it! If you do, you might be charged with peddling stolen goods. You will not only get a fine, but you will also end up with a criminal record.
Who wants to be in trouble for a bike you didn’t even steal yourself?
But if you still want to consider the sketchy dude’s offer, first check if the product is registered as stolen on Stopheling.nl.
How to avoid a housing fraud scam in the Netherlands
Unfortunately, the Netherlands is currently experiencing a shortage of student housing.
This has resulted in loads of students desperately searching for a place to live, ready to chase any lead they can find — and that’s exactly when scammers swoop in.
If you see a post about an amazing room in a perfect location but also at a very low price, chances are it’s a scam.
Most of the time, students are asked to pay the deposit ahead of time and never get the key to that amazing room.
This scenario happens way too often, but rest assured! There are clear red flags you can look out for, and always expect the worst when it comes to the Dutch housing market. 👀
How to avoid an identity fraud scam in the Netherlands
Always be mindful of sharing your personal information with people. It’s a crazy world out there.
READ MORE | Registration in the Netherlands: the complete guide for 2026
Often, scammers in the Netherlands will ask you for a copy of your ID, passport, or driving license so that they can commit identity fraud. This allows them to open accounts or buy things in your name.
In the chance that you do need to send your personal information to someone, never send them your BSN (burgerservicenummer, meaning your citizen service number).
If you’re unsure what kind of documentation actually matters in the Netherlands, there is a checklist of important documents you must have with you as a resident.
How to avoid an internet, gas and electricity scam
Once you’ve moved to the Netherlands, your landlord often already has internet, gas, and electricity sorted out for you.
READ MORE | Utilities in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide to gas, electricity, and water
However, in some cases, you have to choose your provider for either one or the other.
This is when some sketchy companies may start approaching you, offering you better prices than the more “popular” providers.
Unfortunately, many expats fall prey to these scams, ending up with utility bills worth thousands of euros. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you do your research before signing up with any company.
Just remember the age-old saying: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Have you ever fallen prey to any of these scams? Tell us in the comments below!
Hi there! Nice article! Could you perhaps share a list of non-scammer gas/electricity/water/etc. companies? I think it would help a lot of people.
Kind regards!
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