🛡️ Financial safety 3 min read

Financial safety: avoid scams and bad deals

Common red flags around housing deposits, recruiter contracts, fake bank emails and 'too cheap' insurance — and what to do if you're caught.

General guidance, not financial or legal advice.

Settli is an educational platform — independent, no commissions. Always confirm with the official sources linked below for your specific situation.

Common red flags

If you see any of these, pause and ask a trusted person.

  • Anyone asking for your DigiD password — banks and government never do
  • Cash-only rent deposits with no receipt
  • Recruiter contracts in a language you can't read, signed under pressure
  • Insurance much cheaper than market rates, with no insurer name
  • WhatsApp 'family in trouble' messages from new numbers

If something goes wrong

Report bank fraud immediately to your bank and to the police (aangifte). For exploitation at work, reach Inspectie SZW. None of this affects your residence.

Common questions

Will I get in trouble for reporting?

No. Dutch authorities protect victims of fraud and labour exploitation, regardless of nationality.

Official sources

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