Identity Theft in Finance: What to Do if You’re a Victim in Belgium
As Belgian consumers, it’s essential to be aware of the rising threat of identity theft in the finance sector. The European Consumer Centre (ECC) Belgium has issued guidelines on what to do if you’ve been a victim of identity theft in finance.
Lost or Stolen Bank Card?
If your bank card is lost or stolen, act quickly! Contact CardStop at 078 170 170 to block any further transactions. Additionally:
- Notify your bank as soon as possible
- Contest any unauthorized transactions within 13 months of the event
- Be aware that failure to report promptly may result in liability for up to €50 in disputed transactions
Abused Bank Account?
If your bank account has been debited without your consent, report it immediately to your bank. To recover lost funds:
- Contest fraudulent transactions within 13 months of the event
- Your bank is required to repay the disputed amount and any interest incurred
Error in Payment Instruction
If you’ve made a payment error (e.g., incorrect account number or beneficiary name), correct the mistake promptly. If the transaction has already been completed, recover the funds from the recipient. Your bank may assist by contacting the recipient’s bank, but be prepared to pay for this service.
Non-Delivery of Online Purchase
If you’ve made an online purchase with a credit card and haven’t received your item or the seller has gone bankrupt:
- You’re protected under the charge-back procedure
- Complete your card issuer’s transaction dispute form within three months of the transaction to claim your money back
- For Visa or MasterCard, visit www.mijnkaart.be or www.macarte.be
- American Express users should submit their claim directly on the issuer’s website
Staying Vigilant
The ECC Belgium advises consumers to stay vigilant and report any suspicious transactions promptly to minimize financial losses. By following these guidelines, Belgian consumers can protect themselves against identity theft in finance and recover their lost funds.
Remember: prompt action is key! Report any incidents quickly and take steps to prevent future occurrences. Stay informed and protected from the growing threat of identity theft in Belgium’s finance sector.