Deception involves inducing someone by deceit to hand over money or property. Fraud encompasses a wide range of deceptive practices aimed at financial gain.
Deception (art. 326 Sr)
Deception concerns the use of misleading methods to induce someone to hand over goods, provide services, or enter into obligations.
Methods of Deception
- The use of a false identity or position
- Deceptive tricks
- A web of lies
Penalty
Maximum penalty: 4 years' imprisonment or a fine of the 5th category
Types of Fraud
| Type of Fraud | Article | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Deception | 326 Sr | 4 years |
| Bottle of Wine Fraud | 326a Sr | 3 months |
| Insurance Fraud | 326 Sr | 4 years |
| Tax Fraud | AWR | 6 years |
| Benefit Fraud | Special laws | Varies |
| Forgery | 225 Sr | 6 years |
Online Fraud
Internet deception is a growing problem and is severely punished.
Examples of Internet Fraud
- Marketplace scam (no delivery after payment)
- Phishing (deceptive messages to steal data)
- Identity theft
- Cryptocurrency scams
- Romance fraud
Money Laundering (art. 420bis Sr)
Money laundering is the concealment of the illegal origin of money or assets.
Penalties
- Intentional money laundering: up to 6 years' imprisonment
- Repeated money laundering: up to 8 years' imprisonment
- Culpable money laundering: up to 2 years' imprisonment
Frequently Asked Questions about Fraud in Utrecht
How do I recognize an attempt at deception?
Watch out for offers that seem too good to be true, urgent requests for money or data, and unknown contacts. Be cautious with advance payments and always verify the authenticity of the sender. Do not share personal information via unsecured channels.
What to do if you are a victim of fraud?
Report it to the police, online or at the station. Gather evidence such as correspondence and payment details. Inform your bank to stop transactions and report the fraud to relevant authorities such as the Fraud Helpdesk.
What distinguishes deception from fraud?
Deception is a form of fraud in which someone is tricked into surrendering something of value (art. 326 Sr). Fraud is an umbrella term for financial deception, which also includes tax or insurance fraud, and may have broader targets.
How do I protect myself against phishing?
Be suspicious of unexpected messages requesting data. Carefully check senders and avoid suspicious links. Use complex passwords and secure your accounts with two-factor authentication.
What are the consequences of money laundering?
Money laundering can lead to a prison sentence of up to 6 years (or 8 years in case of repetition). In addition, it can cause financial and reputational damage and result in the blocking of bank accounts. It harms the integrity of the financial system.
Relevant Authorities in Utrecht
Court: District Court of Central Netherlands, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
Legal Assistance: Legal Counter Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55