Beware of traps
Scammers have many ways of ripping off their victims. Often the scam is carried out over the internet, but it can also be done by post or telephone. It is common for many criminals to claim to be based abroad.
We have listed some of the most common scams reported by consumers.
Fake airline hotlines
Flight cancelled, luggage problem? Beware of fake websites and phone numbers. These are scammers who just want your money.
Credit fraud
Fraudsters lure people on social media with loans at low interest rates. Those who take up the offer have to pay a fee in advance via Western Union. Then you don't hear anything more from the crooks and the money is gone.
Phone sex trap
In dubious letters and text messages, consumers are asked to pay for phone sex. The scammers are companies from the Czech Republic, such as Tework or Allround.
Tips against subscription traps on the internet
It can happen that dubious companies lure you into a subscription trap on the internet. We give current examples and explain how those affected can defend themselves against demands for payment.
Triangular fraud
On second-hand online platforms like Vinted, fraudsters steal your money and your data. How does the "Zalando scam" work and how can you defend yourself?
Dark Patterns
Dark patterns: Many websites, apps, social media and search engines use technical means to get us to click, buy, subscribe and reveal personal information. How can you spot and avoid these manipulation techniques? We provide the answers.
Investment fraud with dubious trading platforms
Scammers lure their customers into the trap of dubious investment products and high profit promises. Those highly speculative investments usually end in a total financial loss for the fraud victims.
Rental fraud
Fraudulent landlords often claim to be abroad. They will ask you to pay a deposit in advance and promise to send you the keys.
Supposed inheritance
A letter or fax announces an inheritance worth millions. Before the money is paid out, administrative fees and other absurd demands are made.
Online trade fraud: False helpers
Online trading: Supposed regulators, arbitrators and lawyers give investors hope of getting their lost money back. Beware! Only more losses are threatening.
Dubious streaming portals
Numerous consumers are being lured into subscription traps with a nasty rip-off scam. We explain the tricks of the scammers and show how you can protect yourself from the rip-off.
Subscription Trap: Aliaz Cooperation
We receive numerous complaints regarding the "Aliaz Cooperation SIA" that operates several online shops. Free samples are advertised in social media. However, consumers are caught in a subscription trap.
Debt collection fraud
Criminals first lure you into a subscription trap and then use dubious debt collection agencies and reminders to build up massive pressure and collect money. You should not ignore debt collection letters, but always check their seriousness.
Contracts with minors
People under the age of 18 only have limited legal capacity. We explain what contracts minors can enter into and what the pocket money clause is in Germany.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Innovation Council and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.