Fraudsters are becoming increasingly brazen. They ring the doorbell, call or even talk to you in the street. They tell their victims the most fantastic stories in order to get money or information. Recently, there has also been an increase in unwanted sales calls.

Here are a few basic rules to help you avoid becoming a victim of scammers.


On the phone

Always get the caller's name, phone number and possibly company name so that you can call back.

Do not give out any information to strangers calling you. Do not give names of relatives and never give your bank details.

In the case of unwanted telemarketers, ask the caller to delete their name from the file so that you will not be harassed again in the future.

Some people find it hard to say no on the phone, especially when a slick talker on the other end is trying to sell something. If you are one of these people, take the phone receiver away from your ear. Once you can no longer hear the voice, it's easier to just hang up.

At the front door

Do not let strangers into your home, especially if you are alone. A righteous person understands this scepticism and does not push.

If the visitor pretends to be a policeman, be sure to ask to see his ID, the badge alone should not be enough. If you are still not convinced, call the police on 110 and ask for the legitimacy of the "policeman".

On the road

If you are asked for money, never open your wallet so that the other person can see the contents.

Never go to the bank with a stranger.

Do not believe everything you are told. The perpetrators are inventive and know what makes their victims soft.

General

Do not keep large amounts of cash in the house.

Deposit valuables in a safe deposit box when you are away from home for a longer period of time.

Never give out your credit card number in an email.

Don't let yourself be pressured, be a little suspicious.