Record number of reports of fraudulent online advertisements last year | Inland

In 2019 and 2020, the number of false advertising reports remained relatively constant, with 182 and 155 reports, respectively. But in 2021 there were five times more. For this year, data is only available up to April 2022, but those figures are also remarkably higher than in 2020.

The loot that the fraudsters took with the false advertisements in 2021 has increased: 8.6 million euros. That is almost four times more than in 2020. According to Dierick, however, the total financial damage is much higher because many reporters do not report the loss and only a minority report it.

Because reports of other forms of internet fraud remain stable or even decrease, according to the CD&V MP, some of the criminal activities are shifting to false advertisements. “The fraud is constantly adapting with new techniques and methods. The spike in false ad reports shows that. Our government, police and public prosecutors must proactively focus on this,” says Dierick.

The FPS Economy has already taken several steps in the fight against false advertisements, through online communication, via social media and an awareness campaign. Furthermore, the Minister of Economy Pierre-Yves Dermagne (PS) indicates that the Economic Inspectorate is actively collaborating with the police and the public prosecutor’s office to tackle the problem.

Leen Dierick previously submitted a resolution to tackle internet fraud in a more targeted way. For example, she advocates an emergency line, which potential victims can call at any time to have their bank account frozen in case of suspected fraud. The resolution also aims to raise awareness about the rights of victims and the dangers of internet fraudsters. The resolution is currently pending in the House Economics Committee, which is awaiting advice to continue the discussion.