Recognising warning signs and checking a provider

Look beyond a professional appearance

A convincing website, familiar logo or well-presented document is not proof that an organisation is authorised. Check the organisation independently and compare the name, website and contact details with official records.

Verify the exact identity

The AFM advises checking whether a provider holds a relevant licence and whether warnings have been issued. A similar company name or a copied registration number is not enough: check that the details relate to the actual provider contacting you.

Pause when instructions change

Unexpected new payment recipients, pressure to make another deposit or requests for remote access warrant further checking. The AFM has warned about fraudulent investment providers using remote-desktop software.

Be cautious about recovery offers

If someone contacts you claiming to have recovered funds, independently verify their identity and authority. Do not disclose a wallet seed phrase or approve a payment just because an email or website displays an official-looking logo.

Keep questions factual

Record what you were told and what you can verify. Warning signs deserve attention but do not, on their own, establish that a particular person has committed fraud.

Further reading: AFM: genuine or fake? and AFM warning on fraudulent investment providers (Dutch).