Don't get scammed: rentals, fake links and unfair deals

Most people you'll meet are honest — but newcomers are vulnerable to scams, especially around housing. Stay sharp.

Common traps

• Rental cons: a "landlord" abroad asks for a deposit before any viewing. Never pay before you've seen the place and signed a real contract.
• Fake bank/government messages: texts or emails with urgent links. Banks, the Belastingdienst and DigiD never ask for passwords or codes this way.
• Paid "help" for things that are actually free (like applying for allowances).
• Unfair work contracts — get unclear terms checked before signing.

Tip: When in doubt, slow down. A genuine offer survives a day's pause and a second opinion; a scam relies on urgency.