Dating scams are a growing problem in the Netherlands, with thousands of victims each year losing money, personal data, and emotional well-being. According to the Fraudehelpdesk, reports of romance scams increased by 30% in 2023, with average losses of €8,500 per victim. If you have been targeted by a scammer on a dating site or app, it is crucial to report the crime to the Dutch police. Taking action not only helps you but also prevents others from falling victim. This guide explains exactly how to report a dating scam to the Dutch police, what evidence to collect, and what to expect during the process.
Recognising a Dating Scam: When to Report
Not every disappointing online date is a scam. A genuine scam involves deception for financial gain. Common signs include a person you have never met asking for money, gifts, or bank details. Scammers often create elaborate stories about emergencies, travel expenses, or medical bills. They may also use fake profiles stolen from real people. If you suspect you are being scammed, stop all communication immediately and start gathering evidence. For a detailed list of warning signs, read our article on red flags in communication.
If you have already sent money, do not be ashamed. Scammers are professional manipulators. Reporting the crime is the responsible step. The Dutch police take dating scams seriously, especially when large sums or identity theft are involved. Even if you only lost a small amount, your report can help build a case against the criminals.
Step 1: Gather All Evidence
Before filing a report, collect every piece of evidence you have. The police need concrete information to investigate. Save the following items:
- Screenshots of conversations – including profile messages, emails, and app chats. Ensure you capture the full conversation, including dates and times.
- Profile information – the scammer's username, profile pictures, and any personal details they shared. Use a reverse image search to check if the photos are stolen.
- Financial records – bank transfer receipts, PayPal transactions, gift card codes, or cryptocurrency wallet addresses. Note the exact amounts and dates.
- Communication metadata – email headers, phone numbers (including international prefixes), and IP addresses if available.
- Any other documents – fake IDs, plane tickets, or medical bills the scammer sent you.
Store all digital evidence in a secure folder. If you have physical items, keep them in a safe place. The more detailed your evidence, the stronger your case.
Step 2: File a Report with the Dutch Police
You can report a dating scam to the Dutch police in two ways: online or at a local police station. Both methods are valid, but online reporting is often faster for non-urgent cases.
Reporting Online via Politie.nl
The Dutch police website offers an online reporting form for fraud and cybercrime. Visit politie.nl and select the option for Fraude (fraud). You will need a DigiD or a verified account. The form guides you through:
- Personal details – your name, address, and contact information.
- Description of the scam – explain what happened, when it started, and how you were contacted.
- Suspect information – any details you have about the scammer, such as name, phone number, or bank account.
- Financial loss – the total amount lost and the method of payment.
- Upload evidence – you can attach files up to 20 MB total. If you have more, you may need to visit a station.
After submitting, you will receive a reference number. Keep this for your records. The police will review your report and may contact you for further information. Processing times vary, but you should receive a response within two weeks.
Reporting at a Local Police Station
If you prefer face-to-face contact or have a large amount of evidence, visit your local police station. Find the nearest station via the police contact page. Bring all your evidence on a USB stick or printed copies. During the appointment, an officer will take your statement and register the case. Ask for a copy of the report (aangifte) for your insurance or bank.
If you do not speak Dutch, you can request an interpreter. The police have access to translation services. Alternatively, bring a Dutch-speaking friend. The process is free of charge.
Step 3: Report to Other Authorities and Platforms
Reporting to the police is the primary step, but you should also notify other organisations that can help stop the scammer.
Fraudehelpdesk
The Fraudehelpdesk (Fraud Help Desk) is a Dutch foundation that provides advice and support for scam victims. You can report the scam via their website fraudehelpdesk.nl or call them at 088-786 7372 (Monday to Friday, 9:00-17:00). They can help you understand your rights and guide you on next steps.
Landelijke Eenheid (National Unit)
For large-scale or cross-border scams, the Landelijke Eenheid of the Dutch police has a specialised cybercrime team. Your local report may be escalated to them if the scam involves organised crime. You can also report directly via the cybercrime page.
Dating Platform
Report the scammer's profile to the dating site or app you used. Most platforms have a reporting function. Provide them with the profile ID and screenshots. They can ban the scammer and prevent them from targeting others. For more tips on safe dating, see our complete guide to safe adult dating in the Netherlands.
Bank and Payment Provider
If you transferred money, contact your bank immediately. They may be able to freeze the transaction or recover funds. For credit card payments, call your card issuer. For PayPal, report the transaction via the Resolution Centre. Act quickly – recovery is more likely within 24 hours.
What Happens After You Report?
After filing a report, the police will assess the case. Not all reports lead to a full investigation. The police prioritise cases with high financial loss, multiple victims, or evidence of organised crime. If your case is taken up, an officer may contact you for a follow-up interview. You can also check the status of your report online via the police portal using your reference number.
If the scammer is identified, the police may arrest them and bring charges. However, many scammers operate from abroad, making prosecution difficult. In such cases, your report may be forwarded to international partners like Europol or Interpol. Even if the scammer is never caught, your report contributes to crime statistics and helps law enforcement understand the scale of the problem.
Victims of dating scams often experience shame and anxiety. It is normal to feel betrayed. Consider seeking emotional support from friends, family, or a professional counsellor. The Slachtofferhulp Nederland (Victim Support Netherlands) offers free psychological assistance. Call them at 0900-0101 or visit slachtofferhulp.nl.
Preventing Future Scams: Stay Informed
Once you have reported the scam, take steps to protect yourself online. Change your passwords, enable two-factor authentication on your accounts, and monitor your bank statements. Educate yourself about common scams by reading our article on common dating scams in the Netherlands. Always be cautious when someone you have never met asks for money or personal information. Set boundaries early in any online relationship. And remember, genuine connections develop over time; they do not require immediate financial support.
If you are unsure about a person's identity, ask for a video call. Scammers often refuse. You can also use a reverse image search to check profile photos. For a step-by-step guide, see our article on how to reverse image search a catfish. And always discuss consent and boundaries before meeting in person.
Related Articles
- The Complete Guide to Safe Adult Dating in the Netherlands
- Common Dating Scams in the Netherlands
- Red Flags in Communication
- How to Reverse Image Search a Catfish
- Setting Boundaries Early in Online Dating