Acquisition fraud? Report it to the Fraud Helpdesk

Scammers have various tricks to trick you into signing a contract. For example:

• The business pretends you had a contact with them before. You are asked to check your company details and sign. Afterwards, it turns out that you have signed a contract. Or a recording is made of the telephone conversation showing that you have agreed to a contract.
• You agree to a free or almost free service over the phone. Afterwards, you get a large invoice.
• The business says that your details are already listed for free and that you can renew this for a fee. If you don't want to renew, you have to sign something. Afterwards, it turns out that you then signed a contract.
• The business calling or emailing you pretends to be a well-known organisation.

What to do in case of acquisition fraud

Do you think you are a victim of acquisition fraud?

• Do not pay the bill you receive and state in writing why you are not paying.
• Contact the Fraud Helpdesk (in Dutch). The Fraud Helpdesk can give you partnered advice on your situation. That way you will know what steps to take next.

Preventing acquisition fraud

Is your business a legal entity, such as a bv or nv? Then other businesses may approach you. You do not have to give your consent. If your legal structure is not a legal entity, for example a sole proprietorship or general partnership, a business should only call you with an offer if you have given permission. Or if you are or have already been a customer of that company.

Either way, it is wise to always pay attention if you receive calls or emails from a business you do not know or are not sure you know.

Read more about how to prevent acquisition fraud on KVK.nl.